- Interior
In the heart of the Dolomites, in the picturesque town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, lies a remarkable architectural project: the extension of an existing mountain home. The brief was clear: to create two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, where the boundaries between bedroom and bathroom would dissolve into a harmonious blend of stone and timber.
In the first bedroom, a raised timber platform, crafted from natural trunks, seamlessly extends into the headboard and ceiling, creating a cozy, cocoon-like atmosphere. A feature wall of split travertine stone serves as a backdrop for the bed and continues into the shower and behind the sinks. The freestanding stone sinks, supported by a sleek metal wireframe structure that incorporates mirrors and shelving, are integrated into the bedroom itself. The toilet and bidet are discreetly concealed behind timber-clad doors, contributing to the serene ambiance of the space. The second bedroom follows a similar philosophy, with a timber bed platform as its foundation. Here, the sink, with its raw, natural edges, appears to float, supported by a vertical mirror unit that also serves as storage. The shower and toilet areas are subtly hidden behind timber-framed doors, while a floor-to-ceiling glass wall frames a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, bringing nature directly into the room.
The perfect balance between tradition and innovation creates a timeless elegance
Both bedrooms feature hidden desks, seamlessly integrated into the wardrobe joinery, which can be revealed as needed. A corridor with ample storage connects the bedrooms and is accessed by sliding timber doors that, when open, create a sense of continuity between the spaces. Despite the home's compact size, the goal was to achieve a sense of depth and spaciousness through the simplicity of the design and the thoughtful use of materials. The tactile quality of the wood and stone evokes warmth and intimacy, transforming the space into a cozy mountain retreat.
This refined project is the work of Alessandro Isola Studio, a multidisciplinary design practice based in London. Founded in 2014 by Alessandro Isola, the studio combines architecture, interior, and product design. His Italian roots and international experience are reflected in his work, where craftsmanship and technology come together. His work has been exhibited, published, and awarded internationally. For many of his projects, Alessandro returns to his native Italy to collaborate with independent artisans who have perfected specific techniques over generations. By combining this traditional know-how with modern technology, Alessandro brings ideas to life with a timeless quality. The extension of the mountain home in Cortina d'Ampezzo is a perfect example of Alessandro Isola Studio's philosophy: a delicate balance between tradition and innovation, where materials and space come together harmoniously.
Photography by Thomas Pagani
Text by Ine Simons