“The strong point of the project? Its extraordinary location surrounded by vineyards, fruit trees and majestic mountains, a gentle landscape that instils a sense of peace only found in nature. We sought to recreate that sensation inside this building, with exclusive views and airy, light-filled spaces.” With these words, Stefan Ghetta, the visionary German architect behind the Archifaktur studio, summarises the interior design of the new Eco Suites Amaril, a complex of 14 suites and 10 apartments overlooking the Val Venosta in the South Tyrol, just outside the village of Castelbello named after the nearby castle.
The landscape served as the primary source of inspiration for the German team’s design choices, guiding each of their decisions and solutions.
The castle’s imposing crenellated walls form a striking backdrop to the panoramic view from the rooftop infinity pool, while the large windows look out onto the surrounding landscape with vineyards extending over the valley slopes.
Alongside its historical and natural surroundings, the property also boasts a one-thousand-square-metre garden, a green oasis surrounding the complex complete with relaxation areas and a second large pool.
The most successful aspect of the project is its focus on the landscape, its ability to seamlessly blend interior and exterior spaces and allow guests to feel fully immersed in the beauty of their surroundings.
This aim of carrying out a project focused entirely on the perception of the landscape has been achieved through spatial choices that reflect the harmony and beauty of the surrounding mountains.
In this approach, the selection of materials plays a pivotal role. Tasked with creating a project in harmony with the Alpine setting, the architect focused on “the authenticity and natural quality of the surface coverings, accentuated by indirect lighting that enhances their uniqueness.”
From this perspective, the use of ceramic surfaces became a strategic choice due to their sustainability and environmentally friendly properties. Porcelain stoneware proved to be an ideal choice for the outdoor areas, thanks to the available sizes and the colour inspired by local South Tyrolean stone. It also stands out for its excellent technical and design features, particularly its exceptional frost resistance. Florim’s Plimatech collection, chosen in the versatile Plimabeige colour, was used extensively in communal areas such as staircases, relaxation spaces, saunas and bathrooms.
The Sensi collection from Florim was selected for the suites due to its chromatic and tactile qualities that evoke an earthy sensation. The Nature Mood Tundra and Mountain Peak shades were used for the bathroom walls and shower areas.
Handcrafted workmanship, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, imbues the project with understated elegance, comfort and refined luxury – never ostentatious but perfectly aligned with the philosophy of the Archifaktur studio. The name of the practice reflects the architect’s intention to blend architecture and craftsmanship, design and artisanal skill, in a language that remains both authentic and familiar.
