ÖTZI PEAK, VIEWING PLATFORM IN SCHNALS VALLEY GLACIER, SOUTH TYROL
Site topography as matrix of an organic architecture
noa* network of architecture
There is something sublime about this place, right at the top of the Schnals Valley Glacier ridge, where Italy’s alpine landscape soars high above the reservoir below, and Austria is around the corner. In order to enable visitors planning a more extended stay, as well as day-seizing mountain nomads, to experience not only the breathtaking ride to the mountain station, but also to get to know the fascinating history of this alpine wonderland, noa* designed a unique architectural structure.
A viewing platform was developed based on a light structure made of corten steel, giving a modern touch that also blends in with the landscape. The design incorporates the pre-existing summit cross and the platform only touches the ground where there is a static necessity, creating a detached, almost floating construction. The platform follows the topography with a plateau grid placed on top of slender crossbeams, which are enveloped in vertical lamellas of Corten steel.
