Designed as a holiday home for René Vogelbacher and his wife Evelina (née Stampa), who was a prominent postwar voice in the women’s movement of the liberal party (FDP), this 1978 gem lays out the basic formula for the Pierre Zoelly mountain house. Architecturally, this translated as alpine avantgarde. In essence, Zoelly took the simplicity and year-round shelter of the traditional Val Bregaglia mountain house, giving it a contemporary spin: a sculptural reinforced concrete tree forms the foundation and static core. The centrepiece also doubles as a cosy fireplace. Thick walls, a gneiss-plated roof and tiny windows protect against the elements, while a large glass front adds a modern, light and airy touch.