The sloping green hills lead down to lake Zell in Central Austria. Tugged in the mountains is this small cottage that has been inhabited by the same family for several generations. As is tradition in this part of Europe, the ground floor is a robust, sparsely punctured masonry structure better suited to sloping terrains as well as to humidity, rain, snow and the very cold temperatures. The top is nevertheless graceful, light, colourful.
This heartfelt intervention takes pains to maintain the character of the historic home. Meticulously, materials, textures, shapes, colours and accesories are chosen to grace the original structure. Seemless and austere in-built closets multiply the shelf area of the house without compromising substantially the floor area.
Occasionally, a detail will be allowed to shine, an exception to the rule will be admitted. Colour accents in unexpected places will add warmth. The kitchen top in one area of the kitchen contrasts against a stainless steel top in another. Natural light will hit the bright yellow bar stools at certain times of day. The window wells were extended and lined with rough concrete to allow more air and light into the basement, but at the same time offering a stern counterpoint to the balmy interior.
