Eilat Wines is a well-rooted culinary institution of wines that has been around for over 15 years, well known for its wine collection by producers from Israel and the world, acting as a beacon of the wine world in Israel's south-most city Eilat. The company’s existing program is a rare mix of wine distribution, wine workshops and culinary experiences, which brings in about 10,000 visitors per year. HQ Architects were set the task to envision and design the YA-INN concept; a wine hotel as an extension of the institution of Eilat Wines, a new space combining hospitality and wine appreciation, opening a window to the majestic routes of wine.
The project is located at the company’s existing premises, on the edge of the industrial zone in the city of Eilat. This offers the opportunity to set up the hotel in this specific location as part of the wider area regeneration, making this an alternative place to Eilat's beachfront area'. The true spirit of YA-INN lies in the fact that it is neither "like" nor "inspired", but it is the very true wine experience as this venue already operates as a wine distribution center and a culinary and culture wine space.
HQ’s design response is to create a building that is accessible to visitors and the locals alike, turning this local center into a national wine destination. The new design seeks to maintain a dialogue with the existing program that takes place in the premises, and preserve a part of its industrial heritage. The new design incorporates part of the existing ceiling and its structural elements. YA-INN consists of underground storage spaces, a generous ground floor public space where it will include a wine bar and entertainment activities, live music performances and wine display areas and lounge. The ground floor area is designed to be a social, open and transparent space, which aims to be inviting and welcoming to the public. The building will also feature two patios on the ground level, both with sky-wells of different heights, as it is comprised by two different volumes – one 2 storeys up from the ground floor and the other 6 floors up. YA-INN will incorporate 80 hotel rooms, a wine and music bar with wine display premises as well as the appropriate wine storage space.
