Cohabitare
Perrier-Jouët Vineyards, 2024
Cohabitare marks the first collaboration between Perrier-Jouët and Formafantasma, an ecological installation designed to evolve over time within the House’s vineyards in the Champagne region. The project emerged from a rigorous two-year research phase involving international biodiversity experts, during which Formafantasma explored ways to foster dialogue between human and non-human species. This collaboration seeks to translate the principles of regenerative viticulture into an accessible and engaging experience for the public.
Formafantasma conducted an extensive study of the vineyards in the region to assess the impact of monoculture on biodiversity and identify the species for which specific interventions could be designed. Regenerative viticultural involves practices such as tilling the soil to encourage root growth and grassing over to enhance fertility and drainage, optimizing water retention. The inclusion of natural elements like bee hives, low walls, and trees also plays a crucial role in enriching biodiversity.
Formafantasma conducted an extensive study of the vineyards in the region to assess the impact of monoculture on biodiversity and identify the species for which specific interventions could be designed. Regenerative viticultural involves practices such as tilling the soil to encourage root growth and grassing over to enhance fertility and drainage, optimizing water retention. The inclusion of natural elements like bee hives, low walls, and trees also plays a crucial role in enriching biodiversity.
Perrier-Jouët’s commitment to sustainability began a decade ago with the decision to transition all its vineyards to regenerative viticulture by 2030. Cohabitare is designed as a hub for biodiversity and exchange, welcoming contributions from designers, researchers, students, regional stakeholders, and the general public.
The project includes three key architectural elements: the Biodiversity Island, the Assembly Grange, and the Observatory Tower. The Biodiversity Island, the first component unveiled to the public in September 2024, is a functional installation that supports birds, insects, bats, and plants. This 285-square-meter space has been reimagined with seventy-four terracotta posts handcrafted in France, their vibrant iron oxide glazes designed to attract various species. Indigenous plants within this protected area provide essential food for the animals, while the terracotta modules feature cavities and openings of varying sizes to accommodate insects. This installation reflects a deep sensitivity to biodiversity, keeping human presence at a respectful distance without entirely excluding it.
The project includes three key architectural elements: the Biodiversity Island, the Assembly Grange, and the Observatory Tower. The Biodiversity Island, the first component unveiled to the public in September 2024, is a functional installation that supports birds, insects, bats, and plants. This 285-square-meter space has been reimagined with seventy-four terracotta posts handcrafted in France, their vibrant iron oxide glazes designed to attract various species. Indigenous plants within this protected area provide essential food for the animals, while the terracotta modules feature cavities and openings of varying sizes to accommodate insects. This installation reflects a deep sensitivity to biodiversity, keeping human presence at a respectful distance without entirely excluding it.
To ensure the project’s ecological impact is meaningful and measurable, biodiversity within the Biodiversity Island will be monitored by a scientific committee in accordance with natural rhythms. The Assembly Grange, is a protective and human-focused structure designed to promote collaboration, learning, and community engagement. In contrast, the Observatory Tower serves as a biodiversity sanctuary. This vertical structure integrates nesting boxes for various species and allows local vegetation to grow freely within its confines, while also offering a space for ecological observation and study. Together, these elements form a cohesive vision of coexistence and mutual respect between humans and the natural environment
In September 2024 during the annual grape harvest, Perrier-Jouët celebrated the unveiling of Cohabitare's first component with the Banquet of Nature. Since Cohabitare is rooted in the Champagne region and cannot travel, the banquet aimed to convey its essence through a shared experience. Experts and guests discussed biodiversity and interconnectedness, with conversations moderated by design curator Libby Sellers. The banquet had two parts: a guided vineyard tour showcasing regenerative viticulture and the Biodiversity Island, followed by lunch discussions. Speakers included Libby Sellers, Cellar Master Séverine Frerson, Formafantasma, and eco-acoustic composer David Monacchi.
Formafantasma designed bespoke tableware and sound sculptures in collaboration with Monacchi, featuring vineyard sound recordings to celebrate biodiversity.
Monacchi's work will continue over the next three years to document the Biodiversity Island's evolving ecosystem.
Formafantasma designed bespoke tableware and sound sculptures in collaboration with Monacchi, featuring vineyard sound recordings to celebrate biodiversity.
Monacchi's work will continue over the next three years to document the Biodiversity Island's evolving ecosystem.
Cohabitare represents a unique opportunity to explore the interconnected lives of flora and fauna and to reflect on how design can move beyond inspiration drawn from nature to actively contribute to its well-being. By situating this exploration within the vineyards, the project highlights the potential of regenerative viticulture to enhance biodiversity and deepen our understanding of the natural world.