Valerio Olgiati's atelier in Flims, Switzerland is a meditation on architectural tradition, blending into its rural surroundings while asserting a mysterious, sculptural presence that challenges the conventions of its environment.
Valerio Olgiati's atelier in Flims, Switzerland, embodies a masterful dialogue between the past and the present, between architectural tradition and modernity. Replacing an old barn within the protected village center, the three-story structure adheres strictly to the volume and form of its predecessor, as required by local regulations. However, the building's stark, black exterior and its precise, minimalist geometry present a striking contrast to its rural surroundings, imbuing it with an enigmatic, almost sculptural presence that stands out amidst the rustic landscape.
The architect's dual role as both creator and inhabitant of this space has led to an intriguing separation of functions across the building’s levels. The ground floor, open and airy, rests on slender pillars, creating a fluid transition between the garage and the garden while maintaining a sense of transparency. Above, a massive concrete slab provides the foundation for the atelier, an introspective space where the architect's vision is shaped. Below ground, a hidden world of archives and technical facilities underscores the building's complex functional requirements.
The building's blackened wood exterior, achieved through the meticulous application of oil, alcohol, and pigments, serves not just as a protective layer but as a defining aesthetic gesture. This choice of finish enhances the building's introverted character, creating a stark contrast between the dark, monolithic exterior and the dynamic interplay of light and views within. The result is a building that both blends into and subtly disrupts its environment, asserting its presence with a quiet yet profound confidence.
