The refection of the South Tyrolean Dolomites is amazing!
Image courtesy of: Dezeen, photographed by: Oskar Da Riz
Architecture
Mirrored houses and allure
In 2014, Italian architect, Peter Pichler received an interesting request. The renounced architect was asked to design two adjoining guesthouses which would be available for short-term rentals. The client, who leaves nearby in a 1960’s farmhouse, wanted the maximum amount of privacy, both for themselves and for the renters, and for the structure to have the least amount of visual impact. Immediately, Pichler thought of incorporating mirrors!
The mirrors allow the houses to become completed imbedded in the urban landscape.
Image courtesy of: Dezeen, photographed by: Oskar Da Riz
In order to allow for compete visual separation, the block houses are slightly staggered. The twin holiday homes are built in a pictureous apple orchard; and even though the setting might seem old-fashioned, the homes are the furthest thing from antique. Besides the exterior which is extremely contemporary, the inside is filled to the rim with modern amenities.
The rentals were built to CasaClima sustainable design standards. The homes both feature triple-paned windows, wood construction, and high-performance insulation.
Image courtesy of: DesignBoom, photographed by: Oskar Da Riz
With separate balconies, as well as individual gardens and access paths, there’s complete privacy for the guests. To take advantage of the spectacular views, the interior is enclosed with floor to ceiling glass walls. The walls slide open so that the living quarters are completely connected with the outdoor terraces. The skylights are meant to be opened… they’re located above the bed and in the bathroom for illumination and ventilation.
In order to ensure that no migrating birds collide into the walls, the mirrored exterior surfaces are laminated in a UV coating.
The roof canopies shelter the terraces. Smooth profiles curve down to form a divider between the interesting shaped windows and the black aluminum-clad walls.
Image courtesy of: Dezeen, photographed by: Oskar da Riz
Peter Pichler wanted to take advantage of all the functions the mirrors can provide. In addition to serving as design objects, they are a big part of architectural projects and artist installations. The reflective, highly polished surfaces are often used creatively in architecture and are able to provide visual interest and depth.
Mirrors make the mind think more intensely, pragmatically, and creatively. These are all good things!
Called “The Archive”, it’s the ultimate place to spend a day… or a couple of overnights too!
Image courtesy of: The Cool List
All over the world, mirrored-clad structures are popping up. In Holland, an artist studio has emerged within a forest. The Amsterdam-based firm of Bureau LADA designed this functional space to blend in with the surroundings while providing the studio’s owner privacy and an area for creative inspiration.
The studio has an open courtyard with a beautiful garden; it’s surrounded by translucent walls which allow natural light to filter in. We envy this lucky artist!
