Reviving a Forgotten Typology
The WET Barn Conversion transforms a traditional 19th-century Pfeilerstadel in Kärnten into a contemporary residence. Once common across Carinthia, these pillar barns evolved from earlier block and post-and-beam construction methods but are now largely obsolete. Many stand vacant or in disrepair. Spado Architects preserve the barn’s structure with minimal intervention, maintaining its historical presence while adapting it for new use.
A Subtle Interior Transformation
Rather than altering the barn’s identity, the architects insert a new, insulated living core within the existing framework. This “house within a house” concept retains the barn’s openness while making it suitable for year-round habitation. Original features like the natural stone base and timber posts remain visible, creating a layered spatial experience that respects both function and heritage.
Continuity in the Alpine Landscape
Situated in the Alpine region of Kärnten, the project highlights the value of rural architectural heritage. By restoring instead of replacing, it reinforces the idea that these agricultural buildings can find renewed relevance. The WET Barn Conversion offers a sustainable model for rural regeneration, bridging past and present in a way that enhances its surroundings.
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