A Hotel Combining Tradition With Modern Design
- Words
- Paula Lou Riebschläger
In the village Kastelruth next to the Dolomities’ Seiser Alm, noa* gave the traditional hotel Valentinerhof a new finish.
“Communicating the values of the local tradition and the harmony with nature were decisive for the architectural concept”The new hotel extension is divided into two smaller spaces which form an arena oriented towards the southern valley, with a view of the Schlern Mountain. noa*’s approach was to mirror the contrast between the vast Bolzano basin and the impressive mountain nearby. To achieve a dialogue between both was an important aspect of the Valentinerhof renovation, as the panorama is one of its unique features.
The element of water was another key priority. The architects established a new comfortable wellness area where water is reflected not only in the spacious pool area, but also in the interior design and and the style of the building. Wooden elements found across the entire hotel underline the regional tradition. The inspiration behinde the facade came from local buildings in the neighborhood. Irregular wooden beams connect the hotel to the surrounding landscape.
The architects placed a focus on using room-high glass panels and wide terraces to give visitors the feeling of being part of the nature while relishing a luxurious hotel-stay. ‘Heutücher’ – large squares of 50 year-old linen – separate private terrace areas from one another. The suites are characterized by an almost square floor plan. They are all flooded with light, allowing guests to feel like they are sleeping outdoors. Each architectural and design element was conceived to follow a holistic design concept. “Communicating the values of local tradition and harmony with nature were decisive for the architectural concept”, said architect Stefan Rier about the project.
All images © Alex Filz