The Mirror Houses by Peter Pichler Architecture, A Shimmering Escape in South Tyrol

Architecture Design of The Mirror Houses

Description About The Project

Discover the Mirror Houses in South Tyrol, Italy, by Peter Pichler Architecture. These floating vacation homes use mirrored glass and curved lines to blend seamlessly into the Dolomites, offering a luxurious escape amidst nature.

The Project “The Mirror Houses” Information:

• Project Name: The Mirror Houses
• Location: Bolzano, Italy
• Project Year: 2015
• Built area: 80 m²
• Designed by: Peter Pichler Architecture

A Vision of Modern Architecture Amidst Nature

Nestled within the enchanting South Tyrolean Dolomites just outside Bolzano, The Mirror Houses by Peter Pichler Architecture offer a rare synthesis of high-end contemporary design and unspoiled alpine beauty. Surrounded by apple orchards and dramatic mountain vistas, these twin holiday homes redefine the concept of luxury retreats—creating immersive living experiences where architecture becomes part of the landscape.

Commissioned by a client residing in a 1960s renovated farmhouse on the property, the Mirror Houses were envisioned as exclusive vacation rentals that uphold privacy, serenity, and visual harmony. “Our client wanted to share this extraordinary land with travelers,” the architect explained to Luxury Houses Magazine, “but without compromising his own peace or theirs.”

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Independent Living, Seamlessly Integrated

The two units are completely autonomous, offering guests their own private garden, separate access, and dedicated parking. Inside, each residence includes a light-filled kitchen and living room, a bedroom with generous skylights, and a spacious bathroom. Natural light and ventilation were prioritized through thoughtful orientation and operable window features, while a compact basement adds convenience for short-term storage.

The overall volume of the structure is split and staggered, creating subtle shifts in height and length that prevent visual bulk and lend the architecture a feeling of rhythm and articulation. “By slightly offsetting the two units, we softened the geometry and made each one feel unique,” said Pichler.

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Architecture That Reflects—Literally and Figuratively

Floating lightly above the ground, the Mirror Houses rest on a slender base that elevates them for panoramic views and minimal site impact. Their eastern façade opens fully to nature through sweeping floor-to-ceiling glass, inviting the landscape inside. These expansive windows transition into a curved black aluminum skin, wrapping the structure with an aerodynamic finesse.

On the Western façade, a high-performance mirrored glass cladding reflects the client’s private garden and the mountainous surroundings. This reflective surface offers an almost camouflaged quality, allowing the units to blend seamlessly into their environment. Notably, the mirrored glass is laminated with a UV coating to prevent bird collisions—an essential feature in a location so immersed in wildlife.

“It’s not just about visibility or invisibility,” Pichler told Luxury Houses, “It’s about allowing the old and the new to coexist without clashing—so that the farmhouse is mirrored and merges with the contemporary forms instead of competing with them.”

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A Floating Sanctuary for Modern Travelers

The experience of staying in the Mirror Houses is elevated—literally and figuratively. Each unit cantilevers into the landscape, providing uninterrupted views from its private terrace. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee facing the rising sun or stargazing through the overhead skylight, the design invites a deeper connection to the tranquility of the alpine region.

Photo credit: | Source: Peter Pichler Architecture

For more information about this project; please contact the Architecture firm :
– Add: Corso S. Gottardo, 22, 20136 Milano MI, Italy
– Tel: +39 02 8088 7477
– Email: info@peterpichler.eu

More Projects in Italy here:

• House on Lake Como, elegance estate by J. Mayer H.Architects
• House ML+M+R in Italy by Filippo Caprioglio – Caprioglio Architects
• House in the Riverside, Nice Renovation by MACHINA Architetti Associati
• Fluid Home with flexible multifunctional spaces in Italy by Alessandro Isola

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