Atelier Oï: Exploring mastery of material and context in design

How does Vera respond to the surrounding traditional architecture and the natural world?

We were inspired by the rocky landscape surrounding Andermatt. That is why we paired natural stone with a Swiss stone pine called Arve, which is found in the Alpine region and has a distinctive texture and smells that add to homeowners’ sensory experience. Just think about the drive through the Schöllenen Gorge. That is something we wanted to reflect in the interiors.

In all our projects, lighting and the use of different light sources play a huge role in influencing the mood and perception of a room. This was no different in Vera. The moments during sunrise and sunset when the sun hits the peak of the mountains are truly magical and captivating.

We wanted to recreate that awe-inspiring feeling within each apartment through Vera’s unique lighting concept. Therefore, each apartment has customised wall features that filter the light and bathe the apartment in a warm glow. We also made sure to incorporate key elements of Alpine architecture such as a loggia, balcony, and fireplace. 

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How is materiality expressed in your work?

Throughout the 1990s, the power of manual work and the human hand was essential. Even still, it is our hands that are our primary tools. We often say we think and experiment with our hands. It is much like a cook who must touch, taste, feel and guide the food. This process has remained almost unchanged with advancements in technology and digital tools.

Our desire is to remain closely connected to nature and its materials as it is where our aesthetics originate. Nature dictates the characteristics and materials that will be used. It also shapes the creations we make. It is this connection that binds and guides all of our works. 

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Atelier Oï celebrates its 32nd anniversary this year, how has Atelier Oï evolved?

At Atelier Oï, we transform materials by thinking with our hands. Thanks to our intimate rapport with materials, the starting point of our creative process is often the material itself. Through experimentation and curiosity, we try to discover, understand and capture it with all our senses.

Our profound know-how in transforming materials enables us to materialise emotions and stories in a unique way. We, therefore, create a bespoke ‘storytecture’ for each project and client. Hence, our aesthetic constantly evolves with each project, discovering new materials and forms along the way. 

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What drives Atelier Oï?

We benefit from an enriching exchange of perspectives and ambitions. By weaving the client’s DNA and our own, we can create an interconnected story that highlights the best elements of the project and creates a rich narrative.

We call it ‘storytecture’, as mentioned above. From there, the narrative draws the contours of the design.

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How do you avoid burnout and keep things fresh?

We have a curious nature and are privileged to be part of this creative world, where each project gives us a chance for new and fresh starts and discoveries.

Although the constantly evolving challenges may be emotionally draining and tiring at times, the breathtaking scenery of the lake, mountains and forests around our headquarters—the Moïtel—provide us with a tranquil atmosphere that restores and strengthens our energy.

Not only that, but we also get to do what we love—creating and living in harmony with nature through our designs.

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Does Atelier Oï have a signature style?

We do not have an Oï signature or a distinctive aesthetic sign. Each project emanates the Oï attitude—a collective of designers who want to work with materials and our senses to best tell and celebrate the customer’s story.

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What would you advise a young designer starting out?

Be curious and carefully observe what your world presents to you. Observation is the most beautiful way of thinking. Use all your senses to explore the world around you and ask questions to comprehend better the situations you witness.

Question why things are the way they are or how they work. Create new scenarios from these scenes of life. Allow yourself to be inspired by what you uncover, and make it a goal to learn something new daily.

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What and who inspires you?

Located between the lake, the mountains and the vineyards, Atelier Oï draws inspiration from the surrounding nature and celebrates nature’s seasons.

Therefore, our projects explore the natural world—with all its resources and phenomena—as well as our relationship with it. Our creations reflect the permanent impermanence of nature and its seasons—with the insight that the only permanent thing is change.

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