The Bonobo Winery

A commercial winery that combines comfort, efficiency and production performance using BuildBlock ICF.

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Project Overview

The Bonobo Winery is a mixed-use commercial facility in Traverse City, Michigan constructed using BuildBlock Insulating Concrete Forms. Developed by local owners with a strong interest in sustainable building, the winery was designed to support both wine production and public engagement. The building accommodates production, barrel storage and bottling at lower level, with tasting, dining and event spaces above.

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Design and Site Challenges

The project introduced several technical and environmental requirements:

• Lower-level spaces required stable temperature and humidity for wine storage.
• The site is exposed to strong seasonal temperature swings and wind.
• Construction took place during extreme winter conditions.
• The building combined multiple structural systems within one design.

These conditions required a building solution that could deliver consistent performance without over-reliance on mechanical systems.

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BuildBlock ICF Solution

BuildBlock ICF was selected for areas where thermal stability and structural reliability were critical, particularly in the wine storage and production spaces.

Key benefits delivered by the system included:

• Consistent internal temperatures that support wine aging.
• Reduced heating and cooling demand in storage areas.
• Structural resilience during winter construction.
• Compatibility with other construction methods used on the project.

The barrel storage room, located along a west-facing exterior wall, benefits from the thermal mass and insulation provided by the ICF system.

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Use and Functional Layout

The winery operates across two primary levels:

• Lower level: Wine production, barrel storage, bottling and office spaces built using BuildBlock ICF to maintain controlled internal conditions.
• Upper level: Public-facing spaces including a tasting room, restaurant and event areas, designed to create a welcoming visitor experience.

The site grading was adjusted to improve drainage and to maximise views across the surrounding landscape.

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Performance Results

The completed facility delivers stable environmental conditions in production and storage areas throughout the year. Heating demand in the lower level remains low, even during winter, helping to protect wine quality and reduce energy use.

The use of insulating concrete forms also reduced construction waste and contributed to long-term durability and lower maintenance requirements.

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Impact and Final Outcome

The Bonobo Winery demonstrates how BuildBlock ICF can support commercial buildings where environmental control and operational performance are essential. The project shows that ICF construction can enhance production efficiency while creating comfortable, inviting spaces for visitors.

For the owners, the finished building supports consistent wine production and year-round use. For the project team, it stands as a practical example of how insulated concrete forms can be integrated into mixed-use commercial developments with lasting value.