What began as a casual hobby between college friends, Zach Ward (Founder, COO) recalls when the brewing process evolved into a passion – and later into a business plan. Today, the OMNI taprooms thrive in two separate locations and serve both beer and wine enthusiasts alike.
CNH Architects took part in designing the community-centric gathering place located in Rosemount, MN, with a primary goal of making all feel welcome within the area. As its name suggests, the Latin word “omni” means “of all things” and reflects both the brewing of all things – as well as the all-encompassed humanitarian connection that grows from the craft.
With a winery that includes a tasting room, event space, outdoor patio, vineyard, and game space -people and pets can roam an open floorplan in a structure that rests in open land. A metal exterior was chosen to fit a farm-agricultural feel, with an overall aesthetic that respects the historic roots of an agronomical community.
The architectural design expands views outward with large window bays and opening doors – but also holds visual interest with the use of mixed materials, perforated panels, steel members, plane changes and cut-outs. The production area is intentionally transparent, inviting and educating the public into the experience that is winemaking. A prominent exterior logo greets and welcomes guests in. A future phase of landscaping will feature orchard trees, paths, vineyards, and other attractive elements that will further promote a free and wandering concept.
All in all, the OMNI Winery and Taproom pays homage to the city’s history while foretelling future expansion, making the project one that CNH Architects feel honored to have contributed to.
Architecture: CNH Architects
Owner: OMNI Brewing
Photography: Saari & Forrai Photography
Civil Engineering: Rehder & Associates
Landscape Architecture: HKGi
Structural Engineering: Tekton Engineers
General Contractor/Construction: Langer Construction
CRE: JBL Companies
Headquartered in Apple Valley, MN – CNH Architects, Ltd. is a creative, service-oriented firm that provides innovative design solutions for the commercial building and retail areas, public sector clients, vehicle facility projects, daycare and animal care facilities. CNH Architects has served clients in the Twin Cities and Upper Midwest since 1969.