Traumstein – parametric wood construction in the Alps

The prime aspect of this master’s thesis is to point out an alternative non-standard design approach for sustainable buildings in the Alps. In a rather conservative construction field like alpine huts the key to success is through holistic innovation. This issue will be managed by the usage of parametric design methods.

Since building in the mountains is financially incredibly challenging, the level of prefabrication needs to be as high as possible. Therefore, the ultimate goal should be to produce as many building components as possible in the valley in perfectly conditioned industrial halls. Methods like regional production, a modular building concept, CAD (computer-aided design) to CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) technology as well as a minimal invasive foundation on site enables a coherent sustainable project. Also, the respectful treatment of nature is one of the main targets in this project. Sustainability needs to be thought through till the very last phase, which is the dismantling of the remaining structure and its recycling, upcycling, or disposal. This building concept intends a complete restoration of the original site, after the building’s lifecycle has ended. Furthermore, the MEP concept is mostly self-sufficient. Water collection and treatment, solar electricity and a complex waste management system occupy one-third of the building volume. The remaining two-thirds of the volume are used for gastronomic and touristic purposes.

There is nothing better than arriving on top of a mountain rewarding oneself with a fresh cold drink and a 360° panoramic view over a breathtaking landscape. Beside all the technicalities mentioned earlier, the building was designed to hold up to exactly this purpose. The biggest value of an alpine hut is its view of the landscape below. The circular shape offers all kinds of views, either indoors, where a futuristic wooden structure is giving shelter, or outdoors on top of the building.