A tranquil retreat in the Austrian Alps
Lechner & Lechner Architects have introduced a serene charred timber annexe named Quiet Retreat to an existing home in Salzkammergut, Austria. Nestled alongside the original structure, this minimalist space offers a refuge for contemplation and creativity.
Design inspired by captivating landscapes
Envisioned to be “open but never exposed,” the annexe embraces its natural surroundings with a stunning wall of foldable glass doors. These doors reveal breathtaking vistas of woodlands, rocky formations, and sprawling meadows leading to the distant Alps. “The landscape was really the starting point of the project,” explained studio partner Paul Lechner. The design harmoniously integrates with the existing rock to create a natural atrium,.
A multifunctional haven
Simplicity reigns inside Quiet Retreat. Free of fitted elements, the space is open to serve various functions, from creative work to playful activities. Small but intentional details, like climbing holds on one wall and an Alpine bell hanging from the ceiling, add character without defining its use. Large folding glass doors open up to a gravel patio shielded by the rocky landscape, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
For more innovative uses of timber in architecture, explore the panoramic sauna in the Italian Alps which blends natural materials with stunning views.
Traditional techniques meet modern needs in the charred timber annexe
Echoing traditional black Alpine barns, the annexe’s exterior is clad in charred timber using the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique. This method not only anchors the structure visually but also imparts a sense of time-worn natural grace. The interiors contrast this darkness with pale panels of oriented strand board (OSB), embracing a warm, inviting glow. “The contrast between the dark exterior and lighter interior became an important part of the character of the house,” noted Lechner. “Charring the timber allowed the building to feel more settled from day one.”
Architectural innovations in the Alps
Lechner & Lechner Architects’ Quiet Retreat is part of a broader trend of innovative designs in the Austrian Alps, joining projects like the renovated 17th-century lodge by Gerold and Katia Schneider. The photography by Julian Höck captures the understated elegance and mindful design philosophy of Quiet Retreat.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Quiet Retreat annexe in Austria?
The Quiet Retreat is a charred timber annexe introduced by Lechner & Lechner Architects in Salzkammergut, Austria. It is designed as a tranquil space for contemplation and creativity, nestled alongside an existing home.
How does the Quiet Retreat integrate with its surroundings?
The design features a wall of foldable glass doors that open to breathtaking vistas of woodlands, meadows, and the distant Alps. It harmoniously integrates with the existing rock to create a natural atrium.
What materials and techniques were used in the annexe?
The annexe’s exterior is clad in charred timber using the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique, while the interiors contrast this with pale panels of oriented strand board. This combination creates a distinctive character for the structure.