Since its foundation in 2013, LAPIS has been actively involved in operative research about the ‘alpine house’ specifically directed at investigating the relationship between building typology and urban morphology in the rural mountainous area. In particular, it has carried out extensive research into the elements and characteristics of domestic and functional buildings in the Alpine environment. This comprehensive study of Swiss architectural heritage inevitably delves into the most critical condition that characterises vernacular buildings today; that of abandonment. This critical condition becomes the premise of LAPIS design studios, inviting the students to critically envision the re-population of neglected Alpine areas through the architectural project. Indeed, the project is thought of as a critical tool and a practical device. One for respectively reading the territory in its cultural and material forms, and affirming a political vision capable of directing the course of its transformations. The project becomes an experimentation ground towards sensible and sustainable strategies in an inherently hostile environment.
