Schmitten House by Steiner Architecture: Bold Alpine Chalet in Vienna

Bold Interpretation of Alpine Wooden Architecture

The Schmitten House by Steiner Architecture is a family chalet that reinterprets alpine traditions with a bold splash of color. Located in Zell am See, Austria, the annex to the historic hotel emphasizes its boldness through the RAL 3016 red paint on the wooden cladding, transforming the facade into a vibrant and playful deviation from the region's muted palette. The effect is both decisive and tender, with varying saturation adding depth and diversity to the wooden boards.

Impressive Annex Attached to Historic Hotel

The chalet directly adjoins the existing hotel, also managed by the family. While the hotel maintains its historical atmosphere, the annex stands out as a modern contrast, with double-height ceilings and extensive glazing that frames dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. Rather than imitating traditions, the design positions itself as a provocative reinterpretation of alpine architecture.

Vertical Space and Glass Transparency

Unlike the horizontal emphasis typical of alpine chalets, the Schmitten House highlights verticality through its high interior volume. Three sides of the annex are almost entirely covered with large glass panels, creating transparency and openness toward the mountain landscape. The painted wooden frames in RAL 3016 add rhythm, transforming the house into both a sanctuary and a bold statement.

Interior Atmosphere

The first floor houses the family living and dining areas, where polished concrete walls add strength and balance to the glass facade. Roller blinds extend throughout the height, offering privacy when needed and significantly altering the building's appearance.

The mezzanine level curves over the living area, where a small office is located. This elevated space dialogues with playful architectural accents such as the upside-down Diocletian window in the back and a circular staircase column, subtly incorporating historical references into modern design.

Program and Integration with the Hotel

While the annex contains the main public areas, bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen are located within the adjacent hotel building. This dual accommodation creates a multi-layered living environment: the historical part provides practical functions, while the new annex becomes a bright and luminous heart of the home.

Playful but Sophisticated Statement

The bold choice of color and form gives the Schmitten House its character in an alpine setting. The project challenges local traditions while maintaining sophistication through materials and craftsmanship. The result is a chalet that roots itself in tradition yet boldly embraces modernity.

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