Designing in the Redwoods: Our Tarwater Creek Winery Website Redesign
Recently, I was honored to be asked to redesign the website for Tarwater Creek Winery, a small, family-run vineyard tucked away in the redwoods of La Honda, California. This historic property sits deep in one of the most unique landscapes of the Bay Area — a place where coastal fog, mountain air, and old-growth redwoods all converge to create something truly special.
Arriving at Tarwater Creek
We, my son Shane and I, reached the property around 4 p.m., just as the sun was beginning to set. Fall comes early in La Honda, and by the time we stepped out of the car, the sky was already glowing with that deep autumn light. Rows of vines were shifting into gold and rust tones, and the oak and redwood trees around the property made the whole scene feel like something straight out of a storybook.
We spent some time walking the property, talking with the family, and taking photographs for the website. The owners’ two children, Kimmy’s kids, immediately ran out to greet us. They showed Shane their favorite trinkets, toys, and small vehicles, and of course introduced us to their very friendly dog who happily followed us around as we explored.
Design Inspiration in a Landscape Full of Story
Seeing Tarwater Creek in person helped us understand the winery’s identity — not just the wine, but the land, the history, and the people caring for it. The property sits along the Tarwater Creek Trail Loop and borders the misty, forested edges of Pescadero Creek Park. Their approach to winemaking feels connected to the environment: thoughtful, hands-on, and rooted in the Santa Cruz Mountains’ unique terroir.
All of that directly shaped our design direction: earthy colors, warm tones, natural textures, and photography that captures the honest beauty of the land.
Shane’s Perspective (Age 11)
When we got home, I asked Shane what he thought of the experience and what he wanted to contribute to the blog. Here are his words, unchanged:
“It was a very cool property with fields full of grapes. The two kids were so excited to show us all their trinkets and little vehicles. They even had a dog that followed us everywhere and was super friendly. I had a lot of fun taking pictures and exploring.”
As a parent — and as a designer — it was pretty special watching my son engage with the space, interact with the family, and help capture photos that now live on the official Tarwater Creek Winery website.
Bringing the Site to Life
After our visit, we used the photography, notes, and conversations from the day to redesign the site with the goals of:
Showcasing the beauty of the vineyard and surrounding parkland
Highlighting the family’s story and their connection to the land
Making the site modern, clean, and easy to navigate
Bringing warmth and personality into every page
The finished website reflects the balance between tradition and modern craftsmanship that defines Tarwater Creek Winery.
A Special Project for Both of Us
This project was more than just a website redesign — it was a chance for Shane and me to collaborate creatively, explore a stunning part of our local community, and meet a family whose passion for winemaking is deeply tied to the land they care for.
We’re grateful to have been invited into their story, and even more grateful to help tell that story through design.
