You're up much too high - 4,265 feet high to be precise - in the rugged Italian Dolomites, and your destination is the remarkable family-owned and run Hotel Silena. This ultra-contemporary conversion by Network of Architecture, or noa* as they style themselves, is designed to be both of, and in tune with, these brutally beautiful surroundings. Nature is unquestionably in charge here, a fact which noa* very much acknowledge and embrace.
Earth-coloured aluminium facades are designed to resemble swamp plants, enveloping balconies. Wellness areas have a curved facade, an outdoor lounge adjoins an indoor/outdoor pool and a rooftop sauna invites lounging while taking in the view. The architects describe their work here as following a “naturalistic-Asian concept", to create "a place of tranquillity, strength and soul". Thirsty for a cuppa? Hotel Silena’s tea library takes your daily brew to new heights.
For more inspiring architecture, discover these impressive shipping container homes.
