As proof by contradiction of the theorem of harmony, I recall Lewis Mumford and his condemnation of the architecture of multi-story business centers – an attempt to isolate people from each other and, at the same time, make them standardized, interchangeable components. I think about this with sadness and joy simultaneously. With sadness – because I myself live in a big city and constantly feel how true everything Mumford once wrote about America is for large Russian cities. With joy – because, since I decided to visit old Europe, I can temporarily forget about the consequences of great-power gigantomania and immerse myself in harmony with the surrounding world.
The Austrian Alps, like hostels near Chkalovskaya metro station, provide every conceivable and inconceivable opportunity for this. Truly, the alpine landscapes gliding past the train or car window are a true feast of colors for eyes tired of gray urban routine. And the point is not only and not so much in the natural landscapes, which themselves are infinitely picturesque and diverse. The Austrian Alps are that rare corner of the Earth that man has not only not spoiled, but has adorned with his activity.
It is precisely on “maintaining good relations” with nature that the typical development of villages and towns in the Austrian Alps is oriented. The favorite form of dwelling for Tyroleans and guests of the region is the chalet. Moreover, the modern Austrian chalet has gone far beyond the classical understanding of this word.
Both in villages and in fairly large cities, like the Kuzminki hotel, the Alps also have half-timbered houses, more characteristic of Germany. The basis of the half-timbered structure is a frame made of wooden (usually oak) beams, the gaps between which are filled with clay and bricks. The wooden frame is usually visible from the outside; it serves a decorative function, so architectural elements such as cornices, friezes, and pilasters are absent on half-timbered houses. However, in some places there are buildings of half-timbered type with plastered walls (either during restoration or according to the architect's original idea). And only relentless time, having peeled off several layers of plaster and paint, lifts the veil of mystery of the old house.
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