The Edes building embodies harmony in the process of creation, made possible through collaboration. As a holistic experience, Edes is a place where guests feel “the joy of expression,” moving effortlessly between its two distinct uses. Through architecture, interiors and branding, our designers created a unique building with its own identity — Edes — to house and harmoniously weave together an inspiring gallery and artist workshop — Cura Contemporary — and a boutique restaurant — Véra — immersing visitors in a world of creativity.
Rooted in its location, serving as a tie to the history and community of Morgan Hill, the building is named after the structure that first called this site home. Carrying the theme of contextual convergence, the gallery Cura, named from curate, has a strategically developed brand concept embracing “congruent imperfection” as its core identity. The restaurant, Véra, named for Véraison, reflects adaptability through its seasonal menu, locally sourced ingredients, and vibrant culinary presentations. The design and culinary offerings together celebrate the impact of inspiration and transformation.
The bold yet graceful architecture takes cues from its context in both the material selection of Mass Timber and its shape. Our architects carved from a simple rectangular envelope, subtracting from its mass in strategic cutouts that create light-filled interior volumes. The technique of subtractive volume gives generous glimpses to the interior from the sidewalk and grants views of the surrounding hills and El Toro Peak to guests inside. In the evening, these cutouts give the building a lantern-like glow while a screen of vertical battens shields the interior from the setting sun. The concrete foundation turns a floodplain requirement into an opportunity to make a statement, incorporating planters and banquettes into a structural plinth. The designers’ choices in the cutouts, plinth and massing draw guests into the building and then orient outward, emphasizing the connection between this place and its surroundings.
Honest, biophilic design exposes natural materials and honors massing and proportions. Punctuated by columns and strong, flexible beams the interior spaces subtly shift from expansive to intimate. By leaning heavily into change and flexibility, the interior design delivers an exceptional exhibition space that features a growing roster of new artists. Displays that wheel and rotate invite guests to interact with the space and the art. Converging and differentiating the gallery and wine bar, the interior designers use a wooden screen that reflects the movement seen in the slatted facade for a quiet permeability. Subtle yet distinct signage further differentiates the spaces. The interior walls showcase the natural tone of the wood creating a warm atmosphere and a reverse image of the charred exterior siding.
Edes is a sculptural structure that seamlessly integrates architecture, interiors and branding, with delicate interior wayfinding creating an ever-evolving environment that invites guests to embark on a resonant, sensory journey. From massing to menus, it is a gathering place; one of cultural convergence and aesthetic harmony that delights in its context as it encourages a growing artist community. Elegant, but humble at just two stories, Edes is a distinguished and welcoming place for people looking to experience the new and refined.
