On our blog we have already talked about sustainable renovations and architecture and presented many exciting hotel projects. Today we would like to show you a very special building: The “Mi Chalet” in the Dolomites, designed and built by the visionary design architect Dr. Karl Heinz Castlunger.

Architecture, hospitality and nature

The family-owned Dolomit Boutique Hotel and the Dolomit Homes in South Tyrol were all built by Karl Heinz himself – with lots of love and passion. The Ladin architecture is a mirror of the region: it is marked by natural and local materials, especially wood. This can also be seen in the summer cottages of Karl Heinz, which are built from regional old wood.

Nevertheless, one of his works excels all his concepts in terms of sustainability: Mi Chalet. Since the completion of the design chalet in 2019 energetic efficiency and the deliberate application of natural materials minimize the impact on nature and is a model for energy-conscious architecture. For Karl Heinz the focus was the achievement of the highest climate house standard.

Ladin tradition meets modern design

The wooden building uses two different types of local wood, including the weather resistant larch for the exterior shingles and the spruce for any interior works. The house is insulated with wooden fibers, the plaster is made of clay and straw providing a pleasant interior climate in the dining room, and regulating the humidity and odors. Besides, Solar-Panels provide Mi Chalet and the other summer cottages of the Dolomit Homes & Hotel with hot water and avoid high CO2 issues.

The Chalet was designed as a two-person getaway but the 130 square meters can accommodate also a child. Enjoy beautiful sunsets through the big panorama window of the living room. The private terrace provides a grill and you might be able to harvest tomatoes or zucchini from your own little vegetable garden. The open fireplace hanging from the ceiling in the living room is especially welcoming in winter and the infrared sauna in the bathroom is perfect after a ski trip.

The Mi Chalet combines alpine aesthetics with modern design elements and his love for detail and local material gives the house a unique and warm character and makes you wish to extend your stay.

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