Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026

Alpine vernacular

An overview of projects, products and exclusive articles about Alpine vernacular

News • News • 10 Jul 2023

The Swiss House is a novel reinterpretation of traditional Swiss architecture

The Swiss House is a new building project by Polish architectural practice BXB studio Bogusław Barnaś. A contemporary reading of vernacular architecture, design for the Swiss House was informed by centuries-old traditions, geography, climate, and context. Its plan reinterprets a regional building style known as the Gotthard House. Located in Unterschächen, Switzerland, this intriguing construction sits in harmony with the alpine landscape. BXB studio Bogusław Barnaś BXB studio Bogusław Barnaś The 1,050-square-meter (11,302-square-feet) Swiss House is a multifunctional building, with commercial space, apartments, co-working facilities, and tourism-related activities. Its design incorporates a covered bus stop, mountai... More

Project • By Hutz Architects • Private Houses

Woodcutter House

The Family house is located in the outskirts of Munich. It was built around 1930, the 160m² of living space was home to a lumberjack and his family of five. The house was largely restructured and renovated. MHA -Martino Hutz Architecture The ambition was to preserve the exterior appearance - with its character and the sense of belonging to the area where the site is located. The interior should be reminiscent of the house's history, while also satisfying all the demands modern residents would expect from a cozy, functional, and resource-saving home. MHA -Martino Hutz Architecture On the ground floor, three separate rooms were combined to create a spacious living and dining area. A new patio door allows sunlight to ente... More

News • News • 26 Jan 2023

Contemporary renovation of a mountain lodge by SBSA maintains vernacular links with the surrounding landscape

In northern Italy, Mountain Lodge S. Stefano by Sandri Barbara Smaniotto Andrea Architetti (SBSA) is a refurbishment project of a traditional tabià (formerly a stable and barn) and a much-loved mountain family home. The contemporary renovation maintains strong local agricultural links to the surrounding landscape.  SBSA Situated on a sloping site, the home is developed over three stories. The first level is partially underground and constructed with a mixture of stone and concrete; the second level, which accommodates the main entrance, is built with wooden pillars and beams—finally, the attic level cantilevers on all four sides.Maintaining the fragile balance and coherence between the vernacular tradition and co... More