FAQ
Questions worth asking before any cellar project
Straightforward answers about how we work, what we charge, and what to expect.
What does Cooper Private Cellars actually do?
We are a collection-led wine cellar design, specification, and project coordination firm for private collectors, luxury homeowners, and trade partners in Los Angeles. We define what gets built, source the right materials and systems, document the specification, and coordinate the licensed and insured trade professionals who execute. We are not a contractor, not an appliance reseller, and not a generic wine consultant.
What is a Private Cellar Assessment?
It is a paid first step — a structured evaluation of your space, your collection, your goals, and how you live with wine. We visit the site, review the conditions, and deliver a written summary of findings and recommendations. Collection first. Cellar second. Assessments begin at $750.
Do I need a cellar assessment before starting a project?
Yes. Every engagement begins with an assessment. It ensures we understand the full picture — the space, the home, the collection, and the client — before recommending anything. It protects your investment and gives the project a proper foundation.
How much does a cellar project cost?
Projects vary significantly depending on scope, materials, climate requirements, and the level of customization involved. A Private Cellar Assessment begins at $750. A Cellar Specification Package begins at $2,500. Project Coordination Retainers begin at $5,000. We are transparent about pricing from the start and scope every engagement carefully.
Do you build or install wine cellars directly?
Cooper Private Cellars provides wine-cellar advisory, specification, sourcing, documentation, and project coordination. Construction, electrical, HVAC/refrigeration, glass, millwork, insulation, vapor barrier, drainage, and installation work are performed by licensed and insured trade professionals.
Are you a WhisperKOOL dealer?
Yes. Cooper Private Cellars is a registered WhisperKOOL Distributor and can help source appropriate wine-cellar cooling systems as part of a broader cellar assessment, specification, and coordination process.
Do you work with Ultra Wine Racks?
Yes. Cooper Private Cellars can source Ultra Wine Racks solutions for racking, display, and cellar infrastructure as part of a complete cellar plan.
Who installs the cooling system?
Cooling-system installation, electrical work, refrigeration work, drainage, and related construction must be performed by qualified licensed professionals. Cooper Private Cellars coordinates with the project team to support proper planning, documentation, and handoff.
Do you warranty the cooling system?
Manufacturer warranties apply according to the manufacturer's published terms. Cooper Private Cellars provides warranty-registration guidance and project documentation but does not create, modify, or extend manufacturer warranties.
Do you sell wine?
Cooper Private Cellars provides collection advisory, curation, organization, and acquisition guidance. Wine purchases are handled through appropriate licensed retailers, wineries, or client-authorized channels.
Can you work with my architect or builder?
Absolutely. We regularly collaborate with architects, interior designers, general contractors, and custom builders. We integrate with your existing project team, providing cellar-specific specifications and coordinating directly with the relevant licensed trades during construction.
What areas do you serve?
We are based in Los Angeles and serve private clients throughout the greater Los Angeles area. For select projects, we are available to consult remotely or travel to other locations.
How long does a typical cellar project take?
Timelines depend on scope and complexity. An assessment can be completed within one to two weeks. A specification package typically takes three to six weeks. Full project coordination — from specification through installation and setup — can range from two to six months depending on the scale of the build.
What happens after the cellar is finished?
For clients who want continued support, we offer an Ongoing Cellar Concierge service — quarterly or ongoing assistance with collection refinement, replenishment, event preparation, gifting, and cellar evolution. The cellar is maintained at a professional level, quietly and consistently.
Ready to Begin?
Every project starts with a Private Cellar Assessment — a structured first step designed to bring clarity before expensive decisions are made.
Begin with a Private Cellar Assessment