The Eagle: A Mountain Top Masterpiece

Unveiling Bernhard Viereck's Award-Winning Alpine Restaurant Design

Bernhard Viereck drew inspiration from the breathtaking landscape surrounding the project. The aim was to create a building that would seamlessly blend with its context, hence the rock-shaped structure and facade covered with black glass. The choice of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) as the main structural material was influenced by the tight time frame of 12 months from design initiation to completion. A detailed 3D BIM model was built to facilitate swift collaboration across disciplines. The interior, mainly composed of wood, stone, and leather, further enhances the natural ambiance.

What sets The Eagle apart from other mountain top restaurants is its unique features and strengths. The restaurant is set amidst a breathtaking landscape with 360 degrees of panoramic views. The two-way slanted CLT superstructure, fully clad in timber and stone on the inside, is covered by glass panels up to 6m high on the outside. An additional highlight is the “Eagle drive-in” at the lower part of the building, where skiers can pick up snacks without unstrapping their ski gear.

The realization of The Eagle's design involved the use of prefabricated concrete, natural stone for interior claddings, and glass panels as facade material. The building also features KNX electrical installations for smart home controlling, floor heating inside and outside (terrace), specially designed "bird" lamps, perforated acoustic panels at the ceiling, oak wood interior cladding, and heated object carpet flooring.

The design team, led by Hubert Hebesberger, included Gernot Kraut as the project designer and Martina Haller and Christina Payerhofer as interior designers. The project was awarded in November 2019 and completed in November 2020, located on Kreischberg Mountain, Austria.

The Eagle has been recognized for its innovative design and was awarded Silver in A' Architecture, Building, and Structure Design Award in 2021. The Silver A' Design Award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, The Eagle is a testament to Bernhard Viereck's innovative approach to architecture and design. It stands as a unique landmark in the Austrian Alps, offering a unique dining experience while blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The project's success is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovative design, and a deep respect for the natural environment.