Ötztal Tourismus | obermoser + partner architekten zt gmbh

Design concept

The building is located in respectful distance from the existing buildings.

The amount of light, the visual relationship to the landscape, the generous voids between existing fabric and new volume have been thoughtfully planned.

In terms of height and volume, the building responds to its immediate surroundings by respectfully rising and falling in accordance with the given alignments, shaping its appearance and orientation in ideal relation to the site.

By dynamically leaning forward, the volume formally encloses the forecourt, clearly gaining a prominent role within the town square and symbolically bowing to the guests.

A homogeneous paving material for the forecourt and ground floor deliberately blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor, as an inviting gesture to the guests. The façade echoes this open attitude with a glazed front on the ground floor westside, lifting its wooden shell like an open mouth towards the square and the river.

The formal freedom of the square can be flexibly re-organized for different events, while indoor interactive exhibitions present the nearby natural environment and its unexplored potential.

The building's interiors are organized around a central distribution core, with an open staircase and a lift piercing the interior spaces. Underground parking is provided by the garage of the adjacent hotel.

On the upper floors, flexible distribution arrangements, floor-to-ceiling furniture and glass partitions clearly define work groups and thematic areas, that can be rearranged anytime. Constructive elements also enable free distribution and versatile solutions for any functional area, over any fruition period.

Particular feature on the top floor is a sloping roof generating generous indoor spaces, while an oversized glass frame creates an extraordinary interplay between the natural environment, the building and the users.

Structure

Our decision to use structural timber elements enabled short construction times, a clear sign of our commitment to nature. Materials could be produced locally and delivered quickly. Construction methods ensured an implementation of low energy standards and thus an energy-optimised building. The basement was built in waterproof reinforced concrete. The underground garage was designed for a maximum capacity, further implemented by an additional number of parking places.

 Materiality

Regional materials have been chosen with a clear reference to the surrounding landscape.

Skilful arrangements and combinations have given the building a modern, honest character with a strong reference to traditional craftsmanship.

The spacious ground floor, with its high-tech information point and a restrained linear design, reflects Ötztal Tourism’s forward-looking strategy.

The exterior cladding of pre-grey larch shingles, full-height wooden windows and open glass-façade on the ground floor create a distinctive overall image, outgrowing the surrounding buildings.