Locally-acquired sanded concrete was used to give the near-dilapidated shelter a little more structure and stability without compromising the original design, and the building was left completely free of decoration save the incredible view. Most of the heat and cooking is sourced from firewood, while the electricity is delivered by a single solar panel at the back of the home. It’s impossible to not feel jealous of the family who gets to call this amazing place their second home!
+ Personeni Raffaele Schärer Architects
images courtesy of Tonatiuh Ambrosetti and Personeni Raffaele Schärer Architects.
[1]
If your idea of paradise includes sipping a cup of hot chocolate in front of the majestic Swiss Alps, then this tranquil renovated shelter is certain to fire up your happy thoughts. Located at 6,069 feet in the Herens district, what was once a shelter for livestock has been gently converted into a solar-powered family retreat. As part of a collective of similar shelters interspersed throughout these awe-inspiring mountains, the upgrade, by Personeni Raffaele Schärer Architects sustainably reinvents…
[2]
A simple livestock shelter has been converted into a tranquil retreat
[3]
One in a series of such shelters, this forms a part of Switzerland’s national heritage
[4]
So very little was done to change the original building
[5]
But it was left free of decoration
[6]
Locally sourced sanded concrete gives it more structure and stability
[7]
The only real decoration is the resplendant view
[8]
The interior is comfortable, but decidedly minimalist.
[9]
Most of the cooking and heat is fueled by wood
[10]
But the electricity is sourced from a single solar panel at the back of the property
[11]
We love cozy retreats that require very little intervention
[12]
This is a plan of the building, which stands 6,069 feet above sea level.