Alpine-inspired community oven blends tradition with modernity
Concrete, timber and stainless steel reinterpret Alpine architecture
1Modern interpretation of Alpine architecture
Designed by Studio Carraldo, the backdirwas_5 community oven was built in Boden, Austria as part of the Medienfrische festival. The project reinterprets traditional building techniques of the Alpine region with contemporary materials like concrete, timber, firebrick and stainless steel. Meaning 'bake yourself something', the oven serves both local residents and visiting artists.
2Forest-sourced timber formwork
The oven stands on a solid concrete base cast using formwork made from round timber logs sourced from surrounding forests. The design team drew inspiration from traditional log construction techniques seen in nearby farmhouses, translating this character into a modern architectural language. The wooden formwork gives the concrete an organic texture.
3Heat-efficient firebrick dome
The combustion chamber is designed as a dome made of refractory firebricks. This dome stores heat generated during firing and reflects it back into the oven's interior, ensuring efficient heat utilization. Traditional oven insulation principles have been optimized with modern materials in this innovative design.
4Sculptural stainless steel body
The structure is enveloped in a sculptural stainless steel body. At the front, it follows the width of the concrete base while tapering upwards on the sides. A horizontal drip edge forms the upper termination. Traditional wooden shingles common in the Alps are reinterpreted as large stainless steel panels.
5Interlocking metal cladding system
The stainless steel panels connect through an interlocking system to form a precisely assembled outer shell. This design maintains the functionality of traditional Alpine shingles while offering a contemporary aesthetic. The metal cladding provides both durability and a modern appearance to the oven.
6Fusion of local and contemporary
The project represents a small-scale architectural example that combines local building traditions with collective use. While the chimney resembles a spaceship landed in the village, the architectural language of nearby farmhouses is reinterpreted with modern materials. This approach demonstrates harmony between traditional and contemporary design.
7Designed for community interaction
Backdirwas_5 was conceived not just as a cooking space but also as a community gathering place. The oven is available to both local residents of Boden and visiting artists during their stay. This diversity of use strengthens the project's social dimension and community-building potential.
8Exemplar of sustainable architecture
Studio Carraldo's project demonstrates how local materials and construction techniques can be sustainably incorporated into modern architecture. Through locally sourced timber formwork, energy-efficient firebrick design and recyclable steel usage, the project serves as an inspiring example for the future of regional architecture.