Modern Alpine Architecture
Architectural photography at dizzying heights.
With the Modern Alpine Architecture photo series, I set out to find man-made spaces that exhibit a perfect interplay of function, form, and structure. Architecture that blends thoughtfully into the impressive backdrop of the Alps allows us to marvel and develop an appreciation for our environment. The buildings defy the harsh conditions of the high mountains, giving us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of the Alps in safety. Each image in this project, which has been developed over several years, celebrates pioneering architecture surrounded by fragile nature.
Perceive. Appreciate. Preserve. Pass on.
For geographical classification, you will find an overview of projects already realized and projects still planned here.
Awards
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2021 - European Architecture Photography Prize
Recognition for the series: Modern Alpine Architecture
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2021 – Hasselblad Masters
Winner in the Architecture category for the series: Modern Alpine Architectures
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2021 - Fine Art Photography Awards
Nomination for the series: Modern Alpine Architecture
Kellerei Bozen
Designed by Tyrol's masters of winery architecture dell ‚agnolo kelderer Architekturbüro, the architectural masterpiece stands out in the South Tyrolean Alps. Particularly striking is the iconic, luminous cuboid and its special gravity-fed grape distribution system. The outer facade of the cuboid replicates the identity of the vine leaf.
A block of art.
Kellerei Kurtatsch
To photograph the new mountain-like dolomite facade of the sales room in connection with the existing architecture and the landscape to which it is bound, I had to employ a range of techniques to represent the mood and inviting atmosphere of the winery and the relationship between the building and its location. The challenging terrain and complex perspectives required my skills as a drone pilot for aerial photography. Photographing the winery itself during normal operating hours required patience, logistics, and sensitivity. Knowledge of lighting, visual hierarchy, and color was essential to create seductive images of the dark, atmospheric cellar.
A winery with remarkable architecture.
LUMEN Museum
The muse for artists in the mountains.
To photograph the new mountain-like dolomite facade of the sales room in connection with the existing architecture and the landscape to which it is bound, I had to employ a range of techniques to represent the mood and inviting atmosphere of the winery and the relationship between the building and its location. The challenging terrain and complex perspectives required my skills as a drone pilot for aerial photography. Photographing the winery itself during normal operating hours required patience, logistics, and sensitivity. Knowledge of lighting, visual hierarchy, and color was essential to create seductive images of the dark, atmospheric cellar.
Publications
Messner Mountain Museum Corones
An Architectural Wonder of the Alps.
Zaha Hadid's Messner Mountain Museum is the perfect example of alpine architecture. It combines fascinating architecture with breathtaking altitude. Along with my breathing mask, I brought my camera equipment to 2,300 meters above sea level to photograph this architectural wonder. The aim of the project was to capture the magical atmosphere of the project while hiding the burgeoning tourism. Quite a challenge, but I think the results speak for themselves.
Neue Schwarzsteinhütte
Architecture at the summit of the Alps.
The Neue Schwarzensteinhütte is a mountain refuge designed for an architectural competition held by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano. Towering at over 3,000 meters on the summit of the Alps, this project presented a genuine challenge for me.
Perspektivenweg
A new perspective on the Alps.
The Nordkette Innsbruck is a playground for mountaineers. Everywhere you turn, there's a slope for skiing, a rock for climbing, or a spot for flying down. As you glide upwards from Innsbruck through the fog on the funicular railway, a fascinating series of structures emerges from the surroundings. These blend seamlessly into the environment, were made from local resources, and are modeled after the shapes of the slope. Snøhetta's Perspective Path perfectly lives up to its name. It truly is a path of perspectives.
Restaurant Oberholz
Redefining comfort.
The Oberholz restaurant is designed as a modern interpretation of the classic South Tyrolean mountain hut. The interior focuses on a redesigned conventional "Stube" (parlor), which transitions into three individual guest rooms – or "pockets." This flowing, organic form and the masterful carpentry throughout the space create an intimate atmosphere where hikers and guests can feel enveloped in a calm, protective embrace. Each of the three side arms features a massive glass wall that offers views of the mountains.
Timmelsjoch Crosspoint
Multifunctional on a new level.
Timmelsjoch Crosspoint is a building with many functions. It is part of an Alpine toll station, a gondola station, a restaurant, and a mountain motorcycle museum. Architect Michael Brötz told me that all the functions of Crosspoint were both the greatest difficulty behind its design and its greatest strength.
Timmelsjoch Experience
On a museum tour over the high pass.
The Timmelsjoch Experience is a sculptural addition to my series on modern Alpine architecture. It is a collection of six museum-like sculptural stations that span the Timmelsjoch pass. The sculptures at the Timmelsjoch are iconic examples of Alpine architecture. Their fascinating connection to the mountainous environment is unparalleled. Each structure seems to be part of the terrain on which it is located. When arriving from Austria, you reach the sculptures piece by piece, starting at the Steg (jetty). Next, you reach the Smuggler, Transit, Pass Museum, Telescope, and finally the Granat (garnet) sculpture.
