noa* completes ötzi peak viweing deck which floats atop italian glacier

overlooking the distant mountain ranges of northern italy, the ötzi peak observation deck by noa* network of architecture is completed at an elevation of 3251 meters (10,660 feet). the team notes the sublime nature of the site, right at the top of the schnals valley glacier ridge, where italy’s impressive alpine landscape soars high above the reservoir below, with austria right around the corner. the viewing platform is developed based on a light structure made of corten steel, introducing a modern note that blends into the landscape. the design incorporates the preexisting summit cross, while the platform only touches the ground where there is a static necessity to suggest a detached, almost floating construction.

images by alex filz

noa* network of architecture designs its ötzi peak observation platform to follow the natural topography of the dramatic slope. a plateau grid is organized atop a network of slender crossbeams, which are enveloped in vertical lamellas of corten steel. the vertical elements, reaching parapet-height, trace these gentle curves in a rhythmic sequence. this array creates an hypnotic visual effect — an opening and closing of views that follows the movement of the viewer — an invitation to discover new perspectives time and again. this unique dynamic generates a fully immersive experience in which time stands still for a moment.

noa* network of architecture introduces its ötzi peak observation platform along the glacier hotel grawand. from this summit, visitors overlook the ‘snowfield of the similaun’ where the oldest and most famous glacier mummy in the world was found, known locally as the ‘iceman.’ a geometric funnel is cut into the undulating platform to direct the viewer’s gaze toward the place where the iceman was found. this viewing funnel is fabricated with corten steel which — like the vertical railing slats — turns dark brown, grey, and black as it yields to the elements and becomes one with its surroundings. the funnel terminates with a glass railing which, the team comments: ‘gives your thoughts flight in breathtaking suspense – it seems like you are walking on air.’