Roberto Zanini

advisor

Universita IUAV di Venezia

Italy

quality architecture that is born from the place, from the study of the site, the flows, the… more

I find the project conceptually strong and well-balanced, especially in how it seeks to breathe new life into the castle while preserving its historic identity. The integration of new functions—such as the gastronomy area, the wellness space in the repurposed greenhouse, and the transformation of the orangery into a café—demonstrates a sensitive approach to adaptive reuse.

In particular, I truly appreciate the use of wood within the architectural language. As a natural material, wood brings warmth and tactility to interior spaces, offering a counterbalance to the steel and reinforced concrete used in the structural framework. Moreover, the emphasis on manipulating light and shadow within the interior architecture creates a dynamic and immersive spatial experience. This interplay enriches the atmosphere of each space and brings a unique identity to different moments of the day—a quality that is often what distinguishes truly remarkable architecture.

Your design successfully aligns with this lineage of sensitive, experiential architecture. It not only respects the heritage of the site but also creates a strong narrative that future guests will likely remember for the emotional quality of the spaces.

This approach recalls the work of architects and studios such as:

Peter Zumthor, particularly in his Therme Vals, where the sensory experience of material, light, and shadow is at the heart of the design.

Sou Fujimoto’s House N, which explores the boundaries between inside and outside through filtered light and layered enclosures.

Herzog & de Meuron’s Hotel Castell, where contemporary interventions carefully coexist with historic elements, offering a luxurious yet context-sensitive experience.

Snøhetta’s Treehotel in Sweden, where natural materials and thoughtful spatial qualities create immersive hospitality environments.

John Pawson, known for his minimalist yet deeply atmospheric interiors, where light and material define the space.