architek[tour] tirol – guide to architecture in tyrol

As part of a renovation process, the lift stations for the Kapauns chairlift and the Wilde Krimml gondola lift, which lead to the Übergangsjoch, were also rebuilt. The guiding principle behind the design was to integrate the technically complex structures into the alpine landscape as sensitively as possible. From the two mountain stations, designed as pavilion-like structures, a steel staircase leads to the viewing platform "Die lange Bank” (The Long Bench), also designed by Snøhetta.

The 13-meter-high observation tower "Top of Alpbachtal” was built right next to the mountain station as part of the construction of the new Hornbahn 2000. The wooden structure, clad with handmade shingles, references Alpine architecture and houses a lounge area with informal seating that is open to the public at all times and free of charge. At the top, a 360-degree panoramic terrace invites visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

The company headquarters of the ASI Alpine School Innsbruck, located in the middle of a forest above Natters, was complemented by Snøhetta Studio Innsbruck with a new office building that reflects the company's philosophy and in particular the theme of "symbiosis between nature and man". The exterior appearance is defined by the wooden façade and a green climbing frame; inside, an open officescape was developed together with the employees.

With the Swarovski Manufaktur in Wattens, Snøhetta developed a hybrid location for production, creative collaboration and representation for the Tyrolean crystal manufacturer. A column-free hall with natural light through openings in the ceiling offers space for machines, robots and workbenches, but also for offices and meeting zones. A large open staircase, which also serves as a meeting point and arena, leads up to a wooden platform suspended from the ceiling, into which further offices and showrooms are integrated.

With the Path of Perspectives, Snøhetta has designed a circular trail on Innsbruck's Nordkette mountain range featuring ten architectural interventions made of Corten steel and larch wood, which direct the gaze and encourage visitors to pause and reflect. Elements such as a spectacular viewing platform protruding over the edge of the terrain, wooden platforms around the "Großer Stein” and an auditorium with steps blend into the alpine landscape, mark special places and serve as meeting points.

On the occasion of their 20-year existence, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds doubled in size in 2015, adding a new cabinet of wonder, an extensive park and several structural components. The entrance area, conceived as a "white forest” with its wide-jutting concrete roof supported by birch tree trunks and the design of the store, derived from a river landscape, originate from s_o_s architekten. On one hand, Snøhetta erected the well-lit, organically formed pavilion for the Daniels Café & Restaurant; on the other hand, the play tower encased with crystalline glass panels and the adventure playground that lies in front of it.