deluxe mountain chalets with fantastic view across an austrian valley, by viereck

set within the scenic mountain panorama of upper styria, austria, the ‘deluxe mountain chalets’ designed by austrian architectural practice viereck architekten serve as an extension to the numerously awarded high-end restaurant ‘wirtshaus steirereck’. the project aims to capture fantastic views across the valley — the chalets are placed on top of the mountain crest in order to provide 360 degrees views.

the main supporting structure consists of steel and point foundation

due to the existing forest along the crest, viereck’s concept was inspired by a bird’s nest and developed it into chalets which are floating above the landscape. each chalet provides parking lots, gently integrated into the existing landscape underneath the buildings.

the idea was to hide all mechanical and electrical systems and technical components of the buildings within the landscape and to elevate the buildings above the terrain which gives a floating experience to the residents. the main supporting structure consists of steel and point foundation while the superstructure is entirely built in timber and other natural materials to ensure sustainability.

‘in order to integrate the chalets into the landscape, the choice for extensive green roofs was obvious,’ says the design team. the façade and all window frames were manufactured with local larch wood, while the interior applications were recycled from parlors of old farmhouses.

conveniently accessible from the parking lot underneath the chalet, the entrance is set through a foyer into a spacious living room with dining area, small kitchen, and fireplace. fully glazed panorama windows serve as an extension of the living room, framing the surrounding nature and views and opening towards the terrace. the bedrooms, also equipped with panorama windows, are equipped with attached bathrooms with a bathtub and sauna for ultimate relaxation.

apart from using natural materials, the architects achieved a further benchmark in sustainability making use of geothermal energy. heat pumps deliver natural soil heat from 160 meters deep boreholes to the surface and serve into floor- and wall heating systems.

a beautiful place in nature to relax and enjoy

the interior applications were recycled from parlors of old farmhouses

fully glazed panorama windows serve as an extension of the living room

the bedroom is also equipped with panorama windows to get as much view as possible

in the sauna you can relax and enjoy the nature

view from the living area

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: maria erman | designboom