Lechner & Lechner Architects have employed a curved timber frame construction method to craft the Amorph Living Sculpture, an architectural vision that seamlessly integrates living spaces with the surrounding natural landscape. Through meticulous site analysis and vantage point selection, guided by tools such as Google Earth, the project draws visual connections to significant landmarks including Leopoldskron Castle, the Leopoldskron Pond, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Untersberg mountain range.

Merging Architecture with the Landscape

At the heart of the project lies the ambition to dissolve boundaries between interior spaces and the environment, fostering a dialogue between architecture and nature. The fluid, free-form floor plan is deliberately designed to frame and optimize sightlines toward the natural and cultural landmarks, resulting in an organic architectural expression. Two slender, interlocking volumes converge at an angle, creating a dynamic central opening that acts as the focal point of the residence.

The architectural team’s innovative approach extends to the ground floor, where expansive windows and thick, sculptural soffits frame curated views of the landscape. These design elements not only direct the gaze but also reinforce a sense of connection to the surroundings. Outdoor spaces, such as terraces and gardens, act as transitional zones that mediate between the built structure and the natural environment, blending the lines between indoors and outdoors.

Organic Development and Timber Construction

The residence continues its symbiotic relationship with nature on the upper level, where two spacious terraces offer panoramic views of the Leopoldskron Pond, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the Salzburg Alps. The timber frame construction emphasizes wood’s versatility as a sustainable building material, with each element meticulously crafted using CNC milling technology. The organic curves of the structure create a sculptural form that celebrates the material’s adaptability while maintaining an intimate relationship with the site.

Inside, the design prioritizes spatial fluidity, allowing residents to traverse the home in continuous loops via vertical connections that include a central sculptural staircase. This staircase becomes an architectural highlight, drawing the eye outward toward the garden and water, enhancing the interplay between interior and exterior spaces.

The Sculptural Versatility of Wood

The Amorph Living Sculpture exemplifies the potential of wood as a primary construction material. Timber frame walls are composed of individually shaped wooden studs, generously insulated, and clad in Polyurea—a material selected for its durability and rustic aesthetic. This innovative construction approach not only underscores the adaptability of timber but also showcases its ability to contribute to both structural integrity and artistic expression.