Washington, DC
GrizForm Design Architects is bringing innovation to the forefront of wine retail design, redefining the wine shopping experience at Urban Grape’s new D.C. store.The concept revolves around simplifying the wine selection process and creating a dynamic, community-focused space. At the heart of the store is Urban Grape’s proprietary Progressive Scale, an intuitive system that organizes wines by body rather than varietal or region, making the wine-buying experience approachable for customers. GrizForm’s clean, minimalist aesthetic complements this system, eliminating distractions and encouraging customers to focus on their preferences rather than being overwhelmed by the selection.
The design also incorporates a strong community aspect, seamlessly integrating the retail space with an adjacent event area. This versatile environment, anchored by a custom walnut-tasting table, serves as a central hub for wine tastings, impromptu lectures, and knowledge sharing. With the addition of a small bar and audio-visual capabilities, the event area is designed to host wine events and educational sessions, further positioning Urban Grape as a destination for wine enthusiasts eager to learn and connect.
By blending a sleek, functional design with community engagement, GrizForm Design Architects created not just a retail store, but a prototype for future expansions that fosters a welcoming, educational environment. This thoughtful approach strengthens Urban Grape’s mission to demystify wine and cultivate a new generation of wine lovers.
Status: Built
Location: Washington, DC, US
Firm Role: Architect and Interior Designer
Additional Credits: TJ and Hadley Douglas (Owners)