Mountain Retreat Mimics The Landscape Around It

Located in Austria, the Mountain View House overlooks the Alps and offers breathtaking views, becoming a marvelous family home. The residence was built in 2015 and is situated in a small village 800 meters above sea level, connected to the Kitzbuehel ski region.

Austrian mountain retreat surrounded by vegetation

It was a project by SoNo architects, a team of young Slovenian architects that focus on the study and research of the site and location while also testing new materials and construction methods. Their interpretation of modern architecture results in complex and unconventional designs that allow the building to be placed into the landscape as best as possible.

Austrian mountain retreat placed in landscape

A defining element of this project is the sable roof which has a playful design that mimics the shape of the nearby mountains and changes shape depending on the viewer’s standpoint.

Austrian mountain retreat gables roof mimics mountains
Austrian mountain retreat unconventional architecture

The space around the house forms a series of terraces, each with its own function. They include a sauna, a Jacuzzi area, a lounge space but also a garden and an orchard. They all follow the natural terrain allowing the house to naturally integrate into the surroundings.

Austrian mountain retreat exterior terraces
Austrian mountain retreat view from terrace

The house has a total of three levels. Its architecture follows the site’s steep slope and this results in a stepped design. The main entrance is on the middle floor, facing the street. The entry area leads into an open space with glass walls that expose panoramic views.

Austrian mountain retreat at night

A white staircase with bookshelves built into the support wall leads up to a small hallway and to the spaces on the upper level.

Austrian mountain retreat staircase and bookcase

The ground level is darker and has access to an exterior terrace. Nevertheless, it still offers beautiful views of the surroundings and the mountains. The wonderful thing about the house in general is that it’s hidden away from neighboring eyes but remains open to the landscape.

Austrian mountain retreat hallway

The basement area is a space reserved for friendly gatherings and other celebrations. It includes a wine cellar, a set of guest bedrooms and a fitness room. In addition, it has direct access to an outdoor terrace. A fireplace and a firewood storage niche give the space a particularly warm feel.

Austrian mountain retreat fireplace and wood storage

The interior design is modern and welcoming throughout the residence. The team of designers used natural colors and different combinations of materials revolving around wood and concrete to create a warm and pleasant ambiance.

Austrian mountain retreat living room sofa

Natural light plays an important role in the way the décor looks like and the way the users feels inside the house. The living area makes wonderful use of the full height windows and the views. Connected to the kitchen and dining area to the left and the sleeping area to the right, this space is at the heart of the house, setting the mood for all the other plans and rooms.

Austrian mountain retreat fitness room