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Cascading Facade of Local Stone and Timber Integration in Mountain Hospitality Design

Cascading Facade of Local Stone and Timber Integration in Mountain Hospitality Design
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Constructed with a cascading facade of local stone and sustainably sourced timber, the design integrates into the mountainous landscape while providing a sophisticated retreat for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cascading design reflects local topography for seamless integration with the landscape.
02
Extensive use of locally sourced stone enhances durability and reduces environmental impact.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency while maintaining aesthetic warmth.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance and a modern rustic appearance.
05
Bespoke wellness facilities emphasize a connection to nature through outdoor spa integration.

### Project Overview

The Alpine Hotel & Spa is a comprehensive renovation of a structure originally established as a restaurant in 1968. This project aims to convert the site into a luxury mountain hotel and spa, incorporating modern hospitality features while maintaining sensitivity to the natural landscape. The design focuses on enhancing the guest experience through architectural strategies that promote comfort, accessibility, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Integration and Form

Central to the design is a commitment to harmonizing with the mountainous context. The building's cascading form is inspired by the natural topography, allowing it to blend into the landscape while offering expansive views. Varying elevations throughout the structure facilitate natural light and ventilation, creating a dynamic interior environment. The overall layout prioritizes functional movement patterns, with common areas, guest rooms, and wellness facilities thoughtfully arranged to enhance accessibility and user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A significant aspect of the architectural approach is the careful selection of materials that reflect both functional and aesthetic values.

- Local stone is prominently featured in the façade, contributing to the building's rugged appearance and ensuring durability against environmental elements essential for high-altitude conditions.
- The use of sustainably sourced wood throughout the interiors and exteriors introduces warmth and texture, creating a cozy atmosphere while reinforcing the project’s commitment to eco-friendliness.
- Extensive glazing creates unobstructed views, enhancing the connection between the interior spaces and the alpine environment, while also maximizing natural light to reduce artificial lighting requirements.
- Steel elements provide necessary structural integrity, especially where significant load-bearing is needed.

Incorporating innovative practices, the project utilizes geothermal heating and rainwater harvesting systems to minimize ecological impact, thus aligning with contemporary sustainability trends in architecture. Moreover, the design reflects the cultural significance of the region, incorporating traditional Alpine architectural elements with a modern interpretation, ultimately achieving a balance between heritage and luxury.

Unique features, such as cantilevered terraces and outdoor spa areas, are strategically designed to provide privacy while allowing guests to engage fully with the stunning natural surroundings.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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