Snow avalanches are one of the most dangerous natural phenomena in high mountain areas. Rapidly moving masses of snow, ice and debris can cause enormous damage, posing a threat not only to climbers but also to infrastructure. They occur mainly as a result of heavy snowfall, rising temperatures or seismic vibrations. Over the centuries, avalanches have destroyed many shelters, settlements and roads, and one example of their destructive power is the Italian shelter Stettinerhütte, which was severely damaged by an avalanche in 2014 and required extensive reconstruction.
Stettinerhütte shelter – history and significance
Located at 2875 m above sea level, the Stettinerhütte hut is an important starting point for climbers exploring the highest peaks in South Tyrol. Its first version was built between 1895 and 1897, and subsequent modernisations adapted it to changing conditions and the needs of climbers. The last reconstruction took place in 1992, but in February 2014 the hut was destroyed by an avalanche. In response to this event, an international architectural competition was organised to select a design for a new building that would withstand future threats.
Concept and architectural inspiration for the chalet
The project, created by AREA ARCHITETTI ASSOCIATI studio Roberto Pauro and Andrea Fregoni, was based on three key assumptions. The building had to become a recognisable point in the landscape, symbolising safety and a cosy shelter. In addition, it had to fit harmoniously into its surroundings in terms of shape, materials and colour. A key element was also to ensure resistance to avalanches. To meet these requirements, the structure adopted irregular, dynamic forms inspired by the surrounding rocks. The shape refers to garnet crystals, a mineral characteristic of the region, and the red concrete used in the construction harmonises with the local rocks rich in iron oxides.
Photo by Samuel Holzner
High mountain chalet – construction challenges and techniques
Minimising the pressure of the avalanche on the building was a key challenge. In view of this, a ship’s prow-like mass was designed to reduce the resistance of the advancing snow. The foundations were made of reinforced concrete, reinforced with anchor rods to prevent the structure from shifting in the event of another avalanche. The external walls were formed from double precast reinforced concrete slabs with a monolithic concrete core and an insulation layer. Windows and entrances were protected with COR-TEN steel shutters, which close before the arrival of heavy rainfall. The transport of materials to the site was carried out by a special cable car and, in more difficult cases, helicopters were used, which also carried construction workers.
Spatial layout and functionality of the Stettinerhütte
The new chalet was designed to provide comfort for tourists and to fulfil functional functions even under extreme conditions. The ground floor houses the dining rooms (Stube), bar, storerooms, workshops and kitchen with facilities. The first floor is used for guest rooms and sanitary facilities, while the basement contains storage and technical rooms. The hostel can accommodate a maximum of 98 people at any one time, with 96 beds available, including staff beds.
A modern hostel – safety and aesthetics
The rebuilt Stettinerhütte shelter combines functionality, modern architecture and resistance to extreme mountain conditions. Thanks to its innovative design and the use of robust materials, it blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape while providing a solid shelter from the forces of nature. Its reconstruction after the destruction of 2014 introduced a new standard for this type of building.
Project name: Rifugio Petrarca_ Stettinerhütte
Design: AREA ARCHITETTI ASSOCIATI – Roberto Pauro – Andrea Fregoni
Year of construction: 2022
Photographs: Samuel Holzner and Paolo Tenaglia
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