Wine Cellar Construction

Westchester County. Known for its rolling hills, luxurious homes, and… a burgeoning wine scene? Absolutely. More and more homeowners are embracing the joys of wine collecting. But let’s be real, storing those precious bottles requires more than just a fridge. You need a custom wine cellar. And not just any cellar. You need one that’s as sophisticated as your Westchester lifestyle.

Why a Custom Wine Cellar?

Think of it as an investment, not just in your wine collection but in your home. A custom wine cellar adds value. It’s a statement piece. It’s a haven for your prized vintages. Plus, it ensures your wines age gracefully. We’re talking optimal temperature, humidity, and protection because nobody wants a spoiled Sauvignon Blanc.

But Westchester presents unique challenges. Older homes. Varying climates. Limited space. Don’t worry. At Custom Wine Cellars, we’ve been crafting exquisite wine cellars in Westchester for decades. We understand the nuances. We know the building codes. We transform challenges into opportunities.

Planning Your Wine Cellar Oasis

Ready to dive in? Let’s map out your dream cellar.

1. Take Stock

• How many bottles? Be realistic about your current collection. And its future growth. (We all have that “to-buy” list, right?)
• What kind of wine? Reds, whites, sparkling… each has its own storage needs.
• Budget? Custom wine cellars are an investment. But we work with you to create a masterpiece within your means. Need help with /wine-cellar-design/? We’ve got you covered.

2. Location, Location, Location

• Space: Basement? Under the stairs? Maybe a dedicated wine room? We’ll assess your options.
• Conditions: Temperature and humidity are crucial. Westchester’s climate can be tricky. We’ll ensure your cellar stays perfectly balanced. Our expertise in /wine-cellar-construction/ ensures this.

3. Design Dreams

• Style: Traditional? Modern? Something totally unique? We’ll match your home’s aesthetic – and your personal vision.
• Racking: Wood? Metal? So many choices. We’ll optimize for both capacity and visual appeal.
• Lighting: Showcase your collection with the perfect ambiance. (And no, those harsh fluorescents won’t do.)
• Climate Control: Cooling units, humidifiers… the works. We’ll keep your wines happy.

Feature	Description
Cooling Units	Self-contained, split, ducted – we’ll choose the best system for your cellar’s size and location.
Humidity Control	Humidifiers, dehumidifiers, vapor barriers – we’ll maintain the perfect humidity level to protect your corks (and your wine!).
Ventilation	Proper airflow prevents mold and mildew. Because nobody wants a musty-smelling cellar.

4. The Experts

Building a wine cellar is a complex process. That’s where we come in. Custom Wine Cellars has a team of experienced designers and builders. We handle everything from initial consultation to final installation.

“Custom Wine Cellars transformed our basement into a stunning wine cellar. Their attention to detail was incredible. We couldn’t be happier!” – John S., Scarsdale, NY

Building Your Wine Cellar: The Nitty Gritty

Okay, let’s get a little technical (but not too much, we promise).

• Insulation: Keeps that precious cool air in. And the Westchester heat out.
• Vapor Barriers: No moisture allowed. Say goodbye to mold and mildew.
• Doors: Glass? Solid? We’ll find the perfect fit for your style and needs.
• Flooring: Durable and beautiful. Think tile, stone, or even reclaimed wood.

Stocking and Managing Your Collection

You’ve got the cellar. Now what?

• Organization: By varietal? Region? Vintage? We’ll help you create a system that works. And makes finding that perfect bottle a breeze.
• Accessories: Hygrometers, thermometers, decanters… all the essentials.
• Maintenance: We’ll guide you on keeping your cellar in top shape. Because a little TLC goes a long way.

Showcasing Your Wine Cellar

Your wine cellar is an extension of your home. And your personality.

• Integration: We’ll seamlessly blend your cellar into your existing décor. Whether it’s a modern masterpiece or a rustic retreat.
• Tasting Area: Imagine a dedicated space for enjoying your collection with friends. Complete with comfortable seating and perfect lighting.
• Wine Events: Host tastings that will impress even the most discerning oenophile.

“We were amazed by Custom Wine Cellars’ creativity. They designed a cellar that perfectly complements our home’s style. It’s truly a work of art!” – Maria L., Chappaqua, NY

Beyond the Basics

Want to take it up a notch?

• Smart Technology: Control your cellar’s climate from your phone. How cool is that?
• Security: Protect your investment with alarms and access control.
• Aging and Investment: We’ll help you understand the aging potential of your wines. And how to maximize your collection’s value.

Why Choose Custom Wine Cellars?

Custom Wine Cellars has been the trusted name in Westchester for bespoke wine cellars for over forty years. We’re not just builders. We’re passionate about wine. And we’re committed to creating cellars that exceed expectations.

What sets us apart?

• Experience: We’ve designed and built hundreds of wine cellars in Westchester. We know what works. And what doesn’t.
• Customization: Your cellar will be unique. Tailored to your needs, your style, and your budget.
• Craftsmanship: We use only the finest materials and meticulous construction techniques. Because your wine deserves the best.
• Customer Service: We’re with you every step of the way. From initial consultation to long-term support. And even the occasional /wine-cellar-repair/, should you ever need it.

“Custom Wine Cellars was a pleasure to work with from design to construction. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly cared about our project.” – David M., Rye, NY

Ready to create your dream wine cellar in Westchester? Contact Custom Wine Cellars today for a free consultation. Let’s raise a glass to your exquisite new space!

Wine cellars designed for compact or small spaces have become incredibly popular in recent years. A cabinet, pantry or merely the space under the stairs can be converted into a perfect location for storing wines. Wine rooms have become diversified over the years and are no longer stuck to the cellars or basements. One no longer needs these large spaces for constructing a proper wine cabinet complete with racks and insulation. A simple cabinet or a part of the wall can be segmented and converted into a wine storing cabinet.

One of the most important thing while constructing a wine cabinet in a small space is the immediate environment of the area. Wine doesn’t age well when kept in areas where temperature and humidity fluctuate. The most important considerations are those that go into keeping the wine appropriately preserved. The ideal temperature for wine storage is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  There are two ways of achieving these conditions- one is to invest in a wine refrigerator or a cooling system and the second is to identify a cool and dark spot in the house that is away from windows and exterior walls.

Once the location with ideal environmental conditions has been identified, the next step involves creating a space of storage and organization of the wines. The design should both be able to store the required number of wines and must look attractive enough to be inviting. Some of the various details to consider here are-

• Custom cabinets, wine racks or proper shelving.
• Having a wine glass caddy.
• Lounging measures such a bar table, stools, and armchairs for serving and tasting.
• Good lighting that serves as task lighting and creates a good ambiance.
• Some common bar-wares like corkscrews, decanters, wine glasses and other accessories.
• A small refrigerator for champagne and delicate aged wines.

 

Some ideas for wine cellars in compact spaces

There are lots of areas in a typical house that are perfect for a wine cabinet. Some of the various choices are mentioned below.

• Under the stairs

  The space underneath the staircase is a perfect spot for establishing a wine cabinet. It’s isolated and free from temperature fluctuations. Added to that there is always enough room to store a decent wine collection. All it takes is remodeling the space for storage and installing some inexpensive wire-grid racks, and a budget wine cellar is ready. Remodeling is required to keep the area free from humidity and large temperature fluctuations. One can also invest in a glass door and small lighting arrangements to make the cellar or cabinet even more appealing. Apart from racks one can also use steel-roads as peg boards and create a neat looking racking system that has a minimalistic appeal to it. The location under the stairs is all about utilizing the space in the best way possible.

• A closet or a pantry

  Closets and pantries are one of the most popular locations for wine cellars. They are well covered, separated from windows, doors and external walls and already have a space for a door. There is enough room for a large collection of wine, and space provides easy access to most racking options. A part of the drywall can be easily replaced with glass panes to make the wine collection visible from the outside.  Such closets and pantries are big enough to fit inadequate lighting and even a small wine table for serving and tasting.

• Walkways and closed-corners

  Such spaces require a lot of remodeling and is best left to a wine cellar design professional. These areas need to be remodeled for proper insulation and humidity control. Added to that, the extra room that these locations provide is ideal for establishing a small tasting corner complete with tables and chairs. The lounging need not be too grand. A simple wooden table for pouring and a couple of armchairs are ample for these small designs.

The storing of wines and the creation of a good wine cabinet is a continuous and multi-faceted process. The number of wines and their size is a crucial factor that determines the design. Any space that is chosen for a wine cabinet comes with its own set of opportunities and limitations. The basement and huge cellars are usually established by wine enthusiasts who have their own breweries and vineyards for creating personal wines for others its all about utilizing that empty space in the house.  Two things should be kept in mind while converting a space into a wine cellar, temperature and humidity. Installing insulation and vapor barriers are the way to achieve the perfect conditions for establishing an improvised wine cabinet inside the house. A brief overview of vapor barriers and insulation is mentioned below.

• Insulation

  Without proper temperature control, wine does not age well at all. Effective cooling is a prerequisite for storing wines for long durations. Without adequate cooling, a wine can easily deteriorate and result in a loss of investment. The environment outside the cellar is typically warmer than the environment inside. To maintain this temperature difference and stop the warm air from affecting the cellar, proper insulation needed. Insulation can be provided by installing plastic sheets inside the spaces of walls, floors, ceilings and doors. These polymer sheets keep the outside warmer air from mixing with the inside of the cabinet of the cellar which is typically colder.

• Vapor barrier

  Vapor barriers typically go with any insulation. Wherever there is insulation, at the insulated boundary there will be a contact of hot and cold air. This can cause the creation and deposition of condensation within the structure of the walls, floors, and ceilings. This condensation can not only give rise to mold but also weaken the strength and integrity of the structure. Vapor barriers stop this condensation from accumulating and also maintain proper humidity within the storage space. All kinds of wine cellars require a vapor barrier irrespective of their design or location.

If you want a wine collection that matures as the winemaker intended, you need to build a cellar that enables it. The problem is that many wine connoisseurs don’t delve deeply enough into the insulation, technology, and construction essential in building a useful wine cellar. This could be because constructing a wine cellar appears overwhelming at first. But given the right insights and support, you can drive the construction of an envy-worthy wine cellar. All you have to do is consult an expert and do your due diligence early in the process to create a sound foundation.

This post delves into the process of building a wine cellar in the most organized and effective way possible. Are you prepared to receive precisely what you’re seeking? Let’s begin.

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The importance of building a wine cellar the right way

An effective wine cellar is instrumental in maximizing the aging potential of your wine collection.  For instance, if you acquire a nice Chateau blend that winemakers say will be drinkable for a decade, you may want to store this bottle such that it’s characters deepen over time. As such, you can’t store it just anywhere. You have to create a favorable environment. Proper wine storage requires the following conditions.

• 45 to 65 °F temperature to preserve flavor
• 50% to 80% humidity to keep corks moist and avoid mildew on the labels
• Sufficient ventilation to maintain a constant temperature if you’re not using an air conditioner
• Darkness to prevent UV rays from causing premature spoilage
• Horizontal storage to allow for most bottles in the least space and keeping corks moist

The main stages in building a wine cellar

There are nine major stages involved in making a wine cellar. Here they are listed in order, so you can get a sense of what is included in the process of building a wine cellar.

1. Choosing the location of the wine cellar
2. Installation of studs
3. Setting-up of refrigeration
4. Setting-up of insulation
5. Installation of an electrical outlet
6. Wall paint and decor
7. Flooring and ceiling
8. Setting-up a wine cellar door
9. Lighting

On completion of these ten stages, you can initiate a wine cellar revision to ensure that everything is working in order and according to your plan.

A step by step process of how to build a wine cellar

Let’s explore each of the stages mentioned above in depth.

1. Choosing the location of the wine cellar

   While you can select any position inside of your home, the position will determine the cost of maintaining the wine cellar. The ideal location should be the coolest and most humid part of your house, so it becomes easy to satisfy the temperature and humidity requirements.

2. Studs installation

   Before stud installation, you have to seal the concrete in the walls. You also have to consider the vapor barrier during this step (discussed as part of step 4). As an alternative to the vapor barrier, you can choose to spray foam. Choose between the 2×4 and 2×6 construction. The 2×6 is typically to increase the insulation value and minimize energy consumption. Also, note that building a wine cellar needs a permit and for you to follow local, state, and national building codes.

   The studs installation stage also requires you to pay attention to soffits. When building a soffit to overcome ducting, piping, or other obstructions, remember to place the lighting within the soffit far enough, so it doesn’t interfere with racking depth, ducting depth, or crown molding. The best approach is to inquire about the final thickness of your racking (including crown molding), so you can account for the size of the light fixture ring as well.

3. Setting-up of refrigeration

   There are three parts to setting-up refrigeration for your wine cellar. You have to choose between a WineZone Air Handler and WineZone Ductless Split before installing a self-contained cooling unit. 

   Ducting will be necessary at this stage if you choose the WineZone Air Handler. The ducting will run to the air handler in a mechanical room, then to the condensation section. You will also have to consider the drain and electric lines at this point.

   If you choose the WineZone Ductless Split, you will have to run the line set from the ductless split to the condenser. This is where you will have to consider drain and electric lines.

   If the plan is to utilize a self-contained cooling unit, you will have to bore an adequately sized hole in the wall to support it. You will also have to account for an electrical outlet, a condenser unit, and a drain line.

4. Setting-up of insulation

   The two conventional methods for insulation of a wine cellar are to spray foam, or 6 mil vapor barrier and fiberglass batts. As mentioned previously, if you are considering a vapor barrier, you have to seal the concrete in the walls during studs installation itself. Spraying foam is expensive, but it will prevent punctures in your vapor barrier that may be caused by screws, running wire, plumbing, etc.

   When working with a six mil vapor barrier, you will not require foam. Just install the barrier on the back side of your studs before placing them into position. Ensure that you have an excess vapor barrier at the edges for overlapping of seams and tucking shut. Post-installation of the vapor barrier, you will need insulation in the stud and joist cavities. The most common one used is fiberglass.

5. Installation of an electrical outlet

   The best location for an electrical outlet in your wine cellar is at the corner where there are dead space and your racks come together. Ensure that you aren’t violating building codes when setting-up an electrical outlet. The outlet doesn’t have to be close to your high reveal racking; you can use long cords to bridge the gap.

6. Wall paint and decor

   It’s essential to choose humidity-resistant material when doing-up the walls and ceiling in your cellar. Typically, water-resistant drywall is used for the roofs. The drywall requires a good primer and water-based exterior color. As an alternative, you can work with tongue and groove material for the walls.

7. Flooring and ceiling

   Again, ensure that the flooring you choose can withstand high humidity. You could experiment with porcelain tiles, cork, or hardwood flooring for more stylish flooring. It’s recommended to leave ½” space around the flooring, so you allow for room expansion. As an alternative to tongue and groove for ceilings, you could explore a raised panel ceiling and soffit.

8. Setting-up a wine cellar door

   A wine cellar requires a particular kind of door. Ensure that you get an exterior grade door which is sealed on three sides with weather stripping material and the bottom with a door sweep and threshold. Avoid using an interior door. You could choose a glass door if it has a thermopane to prevent insulation and prevent condensation. Solid wooden doors are also worth considering.

9. Lighting

   It is recommended that you use thermally fused can lights or “IC rated can” lights. Using UV lights is not preferred as there are concerns as to the damages it can cause long-term. Otherwise, there aren’t many limitations for the lights you can use in a wine cellar.

More and more people find themselves becoming connoisseurs of good wine today. A lot of homes are undergoing remodeling for the addition of a wine cellar. These renovations are mainly done to create a separate wine cellar or cabinet where wine enthusiasts can safely store and age their collection of wines.

Every wine enthusiast knows that their collection of excellent wines only keeps growing with time. While many try storing their wines in free spaces of kitchen drawers and empty cabinets, these are not ideal locations for storage and aging. Aging requires specific conditions of temperature and humidity that allows the wine to age properly without going bad. While installing a wine cellar at homes is becoming a prevalent practice, there are certain things to consider before going ahead with the remodeling. Mentioned below are some factors to consider before beginning the construction of a wine cellar or cabinet.   

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• Installing a conditioner in the cellar

  A wine cellar requires a specific kind of air-conditioner to maintain the humidity and temperature. A regular room air conditioner doesn’t work as they are unable to handle the continuous low temperatures and humidity levels required for storing wines. The ideal conditions for storing wines is 59 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% humidity. A special wine cellar conditioner can only maintain these conditions. A lot of people also go for separate insulation and vapor barriers that can establish these conditions. However, merely installing a wine cellar conditioner takes care of these environmental factors.

• Wine cellars don’t necessarily have to be underground

  The main reason for the construction of underground wine cellars is that they are isolated from the rest of the house where temperature and humidity fluctuations are high. However, wine cellars don’t always need to be underground. An isolated area in the home such an unused cabinet, drawer space or any room in the hallway works just fine. Care must be taken to see that the area chosen is not close to any windows as sunlight can cause the temperatures to rise beyond the recommended levels in the cellars. Additionally, if the wine cellar is located close to the guesting area, it is easier to fetch wines for tasting and display.

• Remove any significant appliances-

  The space that is chosen for wine cellars must be free of large appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators as these devices can alter the temperature in the region. Such instruments also take up room and reduce the aesthetic quality of the cellar. A wine cellar ideally must be inviting to look at and must only contain accessories dedicated to wine storage and tasting. 

• Insulating the cellar-

  In case, one is unable to install a wine cellar conditioner, the next best thing to do would be to insulate the cellar manually. There are lots of insulating materials available that can be used for this purpose. Insulating materials typically go within the walls, floors, ceilings, and doors of the cellar. This is one of the most important factors to consider while building the wine cellar. Any fluctuations in temperature can potentially ruin the wines and let the investments go to complete waste.

• Maintain proper humidity levels-

  After temperature, its humidity that decides the quality of aging in wines. Controlling humidity comes as a natural consequence of controlling temperature. The insulation cover comes in contact with both hot and cold air. This clash of two opposing temperatures creates condensation. This is bad not only for the wines but also for the walls where mold can grow.

  Additionally, condensation can weaken the integrity of the walls of the cellar. Installing a humidifier along with a wall-mounted hygrometer can be effective at maintaining the right humidity inside the cellar. Apart from this, one can also install various kinds of vapor barriers that stop humidity fluctuations from the rest of house-space from affecting the cellar.

• Choose the right space-

  Cellaring is an expensive process. The space that is chosen must be well planned. One must take into account the number of bottles one is planning to store and the addition of accessories such as tables and lounging accessories. Also, the space that is chosen must be sufficiently isolated from the rest of the house for maintaining the right conditions within the cellar. The cellar must not look partially empty as it reduces the aesthetic quality of the construction. The single most important parameter in deciding upon the size of the wine cellar is the number of bottles one plans to store in their collection. Racking and the types of racks are also another important factors.

• Racking the wines-

  There are a plethora of racking options available for wine storage. The design of the racks must be chosen carefully to complement the overall appearance of the cellar. Additionally, one can invest in large-scale stands that provide cataloging features for storage. Racks are the single most crucial factor that determines the aesthetics of the cellar. The cellar needs to look aesthetically pleasing. The aesthetic quality of a wine cellar is a direct representation of one’s passion for wines. Apart from racks, one can also invest in specific accessories such as glass holders, wine coolers and corkscrews among others. Having a fully stocked wine cellar that is pleasing to look at is the best way to celebrate one’s passion for wines.

A wine cellar not only allows one to practice their passion for wines; it dramatically boosts the value of a home. This is especially true for high-end markets where buyers look for special features like cellars. The wine cellar can be a great selling point for a house as it adds an emotional factor and a touch of rustic charm to the entire space. A home with a wine cellar that is purchased by a buyer is never remodeled to transform the cellar into something else. Rather, the presence of a wine cellar induces enthusiasm for collecting wines into a neophyte.

Having a glass of wine with a meal of choice is one of the ideal ways of winding down after a long day’s work. Wine enthusiasts often store a variety of wines in their homes which are stored in kitchen closets and cabinets. This storage that is typically used for wines is neither a good choice for storing aged, delicate wines and nor is it the best utilization of space. Wine enthusiasts will sound find themselves running out of space with bottles after bottles of vintage brews piling up in their homes.

This calls for a sperate wine cabinet or wine cellar which has the right conditions for storing wine. While full-blown cellars complete with tasting rooms can be expensive to construct, thankfully there are a few budget options for creating wine cabinets with wine enthusiasts can try out. It is definitely possible to create your own wine cellar without spending too much on remodeling and professional cellar designers. Mentioned below are some tips for establishing a DIY wine cabinet or cellar in your home that works within a tight budget.

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• Identifying the perfect spot

  This requires a bit of out-of-the-box thinking. A walk-in closet which is not used for storing clothes is the perfect spot for creating a wine cabinet. An isolated corner or a walkway also works just fine. Before transforming these areas into a wine cabinet there are certain things to keep in mind. The first being space, which shouldn’t be close to any kind of window. As mentioned above, wine storage requires perfect temperature and humidity conditions. Sunlight from the window can raise the temperature inside the wine cabinet or cellar and ruin the process of aging. Any area in the house that is subjected to changes in temperature and humidity should be avoided. Added to this, the space that is chosen should have enough space for racking and the desired number of bottles. In case, the space chosen is close to a window then, various kinds of darkening or shading measures can be taken to block out the sunlight effectively. A simple fabric, cut down to the right size and glued to the window often works in such cases.

• Considering various insulation options

  The ideal temperature for storing wines is 59 degrees Fahrenheit. If the section of the house is not properly insulated then the temperature can be too high or too low which will result in the wines going bad. Hence, insulation is one of the most important factors that help in preserving the investment made in acquiring fine and expensive bottles. One doesn’t require a professional for insulating their wine cabinets. The hardware store has plenty of options for internal insulation such as bubble foils, reflective rolls, insulating mats and mineral wood panels that are effective in insulating a wine cellar. These options can be compared based on price and insulating effect before the purchase in order to accommodate them within the budget.

• Control the humidity

  After temperature, it’s humidity that plays a crucial role in wine preservation. The ideal humidity for storing wines is around 60%. One easy way to regulate humidity is by installing a hygrometer humidifier within the cellar. Humidity build-up can also significantly ruin the aging process. Fixing a hygrometer on the wall of the cellar is an effective way of keeping track of humidity in the room. Additionally, one can also add a room thermometer to monitor the temperature.

• The choice between making or buying racks

  Once the area has been figured out and the environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature have been brought under control, the next thing to figure out is the means of actually storing the bottles. Racks are the best way to securely stack wine bottles and keep them from touching the floor. There are lots of cheap shelves available online that come in various designs and sizes. Racks are also useful in cataloging as it allows for a systematic storing pattern. If you are not interested in investing in stands, you can also make them yourself. Some of the most commonly used items for making wine racks are old pallets, wooden crates, drawers from old dressers and any wooden slab. One only needs a few hardware tools and a couple of screws to turn these materials into unique and inventive win racks that can add its character to the wine cellar. This eliminates the need for buying separate racks and is a very budget-friendly option.

• Arranging for accessories

  One of the most popular accessories that are installed in wine cellars are wine coolers. There are scratch-and-dent or open box wine coolers available which are extremely budget friendly. Open box coolers are those that have been opened by a previous owner and have been returned for some reason. Scratch-and-dent wine coolers are those that show a bit of wear and tear and have also been returned by previous owners. Both of these options present decent wine coolers in working conditions. In the case of scratch-and-dent wine coolers the extent of denting and wearing can vary greatly. Hence it has to be chosen carefully. These options are an excellent way of incorporating a cooler into your wine cellar. Other accessories include tasting glasses, corkscrews and minimal seating arrangements all of which can be easily managed with a short budget. 

Now that these prerequisites of a wine cellar are met, the real task begins of planning the entire cellar. Aesthetics are big aspect of the planning process. The job is made easier by penning down the ideas that one has or even making a little diagram of the cellar or cabinet. Lighting is another important that goes a long way in deciding the overall ambiance of the wine cellar. There are lots of pocket-friendly options for illumination. One can even make their light-shades and install them into the cellar to create a unique atmosphere. Building a custom wine cellar takes patience, but the rewards are long-term and much enjoyable.

The first question that comes to mind while planning for a wine cellar is, how big does the cellar need to be. The cost of a wine cellar is heavily dependent on its size as well as the features that go into it. The size of the wine cellar depends on how many bottles one plans on storing. On an average, it takes around $40,000 to construct a wine cave or a cellar. While cabinets can cost as little as $500 to construct, the price of an entire cave can go up to $100,000. The cost of construction for a typical wine cellar ranges from $300 to $600 per square foot.

Some of the other factors that go into determining the price include various features such as refrigeration equipment, location, materials of construction, storage and racking facilities and many more. While the construction costs on wine cellars may seem high, the returns on such projects are also high. It not only increases the market value of a home but also helps in developing a passion for wine. Size is by far the most important factor that determines the cost of construction. Some of the additional factors which play an important role in determining the cost are mentioned below.

• Location and the size of the cellar.
• The overall design of the cellar.
• Wine storing capacity of the room.
• Refrigeration or cooling capabilities.
• Provision for racking and its materials.
• Temperature and humidity controls.
• Doors of the cellar.
• Lighting.
• Floors and walls of the room.

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Location of Wine Cellars

• Pull-up wine cellars

  One of the most popular forms of wine cellars are the underfloor cellars that can be pulled up for access. These usually contain a spiral staircase that leads to the cellar at the bottom. Most of these underground wine cellars range from $10,000 for a simple design to $55,000 for spacious custom builds.

• Basement cellars

  The basement is the most common location to establish a wine cellar. Basements are easy to transform into entire wine caves. However, typical basements require major remodeling before the construction of a wine cellar can begin. Depending upon the size of the basement and the extent of remodeling that is required, the cost can range from $10,000 to $25,000.

• Under-stairs wine cellars

  Another effective location for planning a wine cellar is the space underneath the staircase. However, there are certain issues with planning for an under-staircase cellar. These include fluctuating temperatures which might call for insulation and custom-made racks that can fit into the space under the stairs. These custom-made racks can cost between $500 to $2,500 for each rack.

• Walk-in closets

  Homes that have large cabinets or closets have the perfect opportunity of converting on them into a wine storage cabinet. While the space is pretty limited in these cases, the remodeling costs are much lower. The problem of sunlight and windows are automatically eliminated. However, one has to make provision for controlling temperature and humidity which might affect the stored wines.

• Crawl space wine storage

  The crawl space can be converted into a wine storage although it is not the best location to do so. This is primarily due to fluctuations in humidity. The location needs to be made airtight to preserve the wines in their pristine condition and the space will require major renovations. The price of insulating the crawl space ranges from $200 to $1,100.

Design of the Wine Cellar

A perfect wine cellar is not only about the perfect location and environment control but also design. A well-designed wine cellar adds to the beauty of the home and makes the wine cellar a location to be admired. If wine is one’s passion, then one will definitely want to make their wine cellars a beautiful location. There are multiple design options available for wine cellar that include storage space, racking options and separate areas for tasting. Some of the various design elements are mentioned below.

• Spiral cabinets

  These designs are usually used for underground or underfloor wine cellars and crawl spaces. A small spiral cabinet can cost around $1,000 whereas the larger versions with elaborate racking can go up to $55,000. The main factor to consider in spiral cellars is the opening. The underfloor cabinet needs to be able to hold the weight that will put on it.

• Tasting room

  Wine lovers often love having a tasting room in addition to their cellar. These rooms do not need any kind of insulation or temperature control. The main cost here depends on the materials for construction, remodeling and the finish one chooses. The cost of a tasting room ranges from $5,000 to $15,000.

• Walk-through cellars

  If the basement is not an option for establishing a wine cellar a walk-in cellar can be established in the hallway of the house. The costs of establishing a walk-in cellar is mainly dependent upon temperature and humidity control along with separate airtight doors on both the ends of the cellar. The part of the hallway being converted into a cellar needs to be completely insulated from the rest of the house.

• Custom cabinets

  Custom wine cabinets are perfect for small collections of wine and a cabinet or a closet can be easily remodeled to fit the requirements. Such cabinets are typically located in the kitchen, study or the living room. The number of bottles that can be stored in such customized cabinets depends on the size and design. The small cabinets that can hold around ten bottles cost $500 while larger designs with capacities of 200 bottles can cost more than $4,000. The main problem with such temperatures is controlling the temperature and humidity.

Refrigeration and cooling of the wines is an essential component of storage. These entail their own costs and there are various kinds of cooling methods available. Through-the-wall coolers cost between $1,000 to $3,500 and Split cooking is a bit more expensive with a price range between $5,000 to $15,000. There is also an option for ducted cooling whose price ranges from $3,000 to $10,000.

What is the average number of bottles you would suggest a wine cellar be built to hold?

A typical number would be for about 1,000 – 1,500 bottles. However, we’ve built cellars for as small as a few hundred bottles and as large as 10,000 bottles. It all depends upon the needs of the customer and their consumption and collecting habits.

What is a good starting point for someone who wants to build a beginner’s wine cellar?

First, assess your needs, capacity, budget, projected future consumption? Then, call a qualified wine cellar contractor who can review options with you and provide suggestions.

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How much space does the average 1,000-bottle wine cellar require?

The average space for this quantity would be approximately 8 by 10 feet.

What affects the cost of construction of a wine cellar?

Room preparation: insulation, vapor barrier, wall coverings, lighting, flooring. Temperature and humidity control. Racking: artistic vs. utilitarian design, as well as choice of woods, materials.

How can you structure the cost of a wine cellar to stay within a budget?

Adjust the cellar’s capacity, the design of the racking and cooling systems, the type of flooring, lighting, doors, moldings, etc.

What type of wine cellar cooling units do you suggest?

Most people choose a self-contained system such as “Whispercool” or “Breezeaire”. We also offer split and ducted systems for those with more demanding applications.

How long does it take to complete the average wine cellar?

From design to completion takes an average of 10-12 weeks, but actual construction time is usually between three and five days.

What is the most exotic wine cellar you have worked on?

We recently completed a project for an 8,000-bottle, four-room cellar that incorporated custom moldings, hidden cooling systems, ornate arches and pillars, custom doors, tumbled marble flooring as well as automated lighting and audio systems. We worked with the architect, builder and homeowner to incorporate the cellar into the overall design of the home.

What is your opinion on the self-contained wine cellar units?

The downside of these units is that they are not expandable and may only provide a temporary solution.

When would you suggest a self-contained wine cellar units over a wine cellar?

For customers with limited space, budget or smaller collections, a self-contained unit may be a good choice.

What is the average cost associated with the construction of a wine cellar?

Self-contained cooling units start at approximately $1,500. Exotic cooling systems may cost as much as $10,000 or more. Custom racking starts at about $4 per bottle and top quality custom jobs typically average $10-12 per bottle.

Room construction costs vary greatly depending upon existing conditions. In new construction or renovation of a house, use contractors already working on the site to build the basic cellar, and then have someone like Custom Wine Cellars add the racking, cooling system and finishing details. Artistic touches add expense. Recessed lighting and chandeliers, mosaic tiles and flooring, stucco and masonry work, custom-wood doors, stained glass, wrought iron, fiberglass and artwork all increase the cost for the project.