Espace B - Sales and conference area

Nestled in the heart of Fribourg, Espace B brings together a wine shop, bar and spaces for hire under one roof, complete with outdoor seating that’s worth the detour. The former Bourgeois home dates back to the 15th century and is typical of the old town with a stone façade, character that’s a touch austere, and crafted from molasse stone and ornate wrought iron.

While meeting a comprehensive range of event needs, Espace B is first and foremost home to organic wines from the Domaine de la Bourgeoisie cellar, no less. Right in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Lavaux region in Riex, Espace B playfully asserts its roots with a nod to its surrounds: “Fri-Bourg-en-Lavaux.”


Transformation and tasting

Bringing Espace B to life involved a major transformation, respecting the historical structure while upgrading it to modern standards of functionality and comfort. Hidden in a little nook that can’t be seen from the street, the entrance door was expanded and refined by a stone mason to improve usability and create a warm welcome. A lift was added to connect the two interior levels, ensuring accessibility for all, including those with reduced mobility. Technical elements were integrated into visible yet coherent ceiling structures, so as not to disturb the original architecture.


Aesthetic acoustics

By embracing the existing forms—vaulted cellars, deep door frames, and thick stone walls—we were able to introduce more light, significantly improve both wall and ceiling acoustics, reveal previously hidden spaces, and give a new lease of life to rooms that resound with the echo of times gone by.

While structural considerations were naturally key, the spirit of the space guided our aesthetic approach: oak, gold, and royal blue, wherever possible. A countertop was added to join the bar to the shop, creating a seamless flow and unifying the different areas with a subtle, natural presence. A central mirror framed by a luminous strip has been placed behind a zinc counter covered in ceramic tiles, offsetting the bar’s compact proportions and offering visual depth.

Along the walls, the slopes and curves of Lavaux’s contours unfurl. Painted directly on the walls, engraved into oak panels, or incorporated into acoustic wall coverings in the shop area, they express both artistry and utility. From individual wine bottle holders to shelves and the glass racks above the bar, every piece of furniture was designed by Atelier Nova. That includes the custom ironwork and bevelled tabletop edges, because we believe in meticulous craftsmanship. In a formerly unused space, an alcove was created to house a snug, precisely designed couch—perfect for intimate gatherings.

Welcome to Espace B.