noa* sites contemporary tyrolean ‘lake house völs’ among forests of northern italy

among the lush, forested mountain range surrounding northern italy’s völser weiher lake is situated the timber lake house völs by noa* (network of architecture). the idyllic, high altitude context is home to a scenic nature reserve that offers a space for year-round relaxation and leisure. in replacement of the derelict, preexisting structure, the italian architecture studio was commissioned by the municipality of völs to build a small, design-minded swimming hut with attached public changing rooms and facilities as a complement to the scenic tyrolean landscape.

all images by alex filz

with the design of its lake house, noa* maintains a discreet scale to best integrate the architecture within its natural surroundings. the complex is made up of two compact structures. the main building, with its classic saddle roof, contains a cafe and a semi-enclosed kitchen and serving space. this area extends into an open loggia and terrace, with sweeping views over the lake and a newly designed bathing area. linked by an open snack bar, a folding timber element, the second building is defined by a separate volume, dedicated to its public function. the two buildings together form a cohesive ensemble both functionally and architecturally.

noa* integrates traditional south tyrolean lace patterning into the flooring and vertical surfaces of its lake house völs. the motifs are pressed into the damp resin and quickly removed to create an irregular, three-dimensional effect. this 3D patterning add a visual interest and spontaneity in dialogue with its context. while the main building expresses a characteristic presence and is roughly equal in size to the original structure, noa* subdues the second building. the wooden frame construction, which connects the two facility buildings, acts as a support structure for climbing plants. within a few months, fast-growing jasmine will envelop the changing rooms in natural, green foliage. when viewed from the lake, the greenery will make the building disappear into its’ surroundings.

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project info:

project title: lake house völs

architecture: noa* (network of architecture)

location: fiè allo sciliar, south tyrol (italy)

program: recreational facility

completion: august 2019

photography: alex filz