Embedded in the Alpine context

Located at 1350 meters above sea level in Vals, South Tyrol, Viktoria’s House by Andreas Gruber Architects is defined by its rugged setting of steep slopes, meadows, and forested peaks. The surrounding built environment is modest, shaped by agriculture and marked by simple gabled structures. Drawing from this restrained vocabulary, the design translates the regional character into a sculptural yet grounded concrete form.

A compact spatial arrangement

The house is structured across three floors with a gable roof, accessed via a central staircase. The main living spaces, including the open-plan living room, primary bedroom, and guest amenities, are arranged on the first floor. Two additional bedrooms and a bathroom occupy the attic, which is visually connected to the living area below via a double-height void. The basement level accommodates garage, cellar, and technical functions, separating utility from living zones.

Material contrasts and continuity

Raw concrete dominates the facade, echoing the stone of the surrounding terrain, while warm larch wood windows soften the building’s austere appearance. This interplay continues inside, where both materials are used to maintain continuity and a natural tactile quality. The result is a deliberate contrast between resilience and comfort, anchoring the house to its alpine environment while offering a sense of shelter.

Framed light and views

Distinctive funnel-shaped recesses punctuate the facade, guiding daylight deep into the interior and forming sheltered outdoor niches. These incisions also act as apertures framing curated views of the surrounding landscape. The building’s compact geometry and distilled form reinforce its presence as a monolithic dwelling that responds to both the climate and the terrain.

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