Mirage Gstaad: House Covered with Mirrors
The House of Mirage: illusion or reality?
This luxurious architectural treasure is located in Gstaad in Switzerland. It is covered with mirrors and in the snow high up in the mountains at an altitude of 1,049 metres it can work miracles. Its name, Mirage, literally reflects the construction itself, which in a luxurious manner reflects the surrounding countryside.
“It is an echo which continuously creates feedback of uninhabited nature, just interrupted by one human creation," explains Doug Aitken, author of the project.
Predecessors of the glass Swiss construction
Behind this exceptional construction stands American artist and film-maker, Doug Aitken, popular for his interesting accomplishments and projects. He drew inspiration from Californian ranch houses of the 20´s and 30´s of the last century. Specifically, he´s been influenced by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who focused on this type of buildings.
2017, Aitken comes with the first project, Mirage, a house completely covered with mirrors, located in the heart of the California desert. A follow-up is a mirror house in the shape of a pavilion, located in the centre of a historic building in Detroit, 2018.
The interior of Mirage Gstaad is also in the spirit of minimalism.
You might be surprised at the simplicity, which also dominates the interior of the building. Even here, you will find mirrors, both on the walls as well as on the ceiling. The interior is comprised of mirrors built at different angles, creating a kaleidoscope effect, flexing the light and creating unexpected reflections.
"My work is the real sum of perception of the surrounding landscape. When you think about art, often you envision something much firmer, but Mirage is absolutely exceptional," Aitken explains. The construction was installed during three winter months, relying on natural light and changing weather.
Mirage welcomes visitors
It is a one-floor construction, which you, too, can visit. Accept our invitation to visit this magical place. Aitken´s work, will remain in the Alps for only a two-year period.
