Respecting the historical footprint of the original Vila Muhr, the reconstruction carried out by OFIS arhitekti preserves the proportions and spatial organization of the preceding heritage building. Maintaining its volumetric presence and orientation, the design preserves the relationship with the natural landscape and the adjacent Hotel Bohinj.
As a guiding principle, the renovation project opted for a selection of locally sourced, sustainable materials. In this regard, the ground floor incorporates stone reclaimed from the original ruins in its façade, while the upper levels are clad in Slovenian wood, treated using traditional charring methods that ensure greater durability without the use of chemicals. As an architectural tribute to its past, the renovation of Vila Muhr presents itself as a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation.
Vila Muhr by OFIS arhitekti. Photograph by Miran Kambič.
Project description by OFIS arhitekti
The reconstruction of Vila Muhr seeks to honour its rich history while embracing modern architectural and ecological principles. Originally built in 1902 by Austrian architect Franz Ritte Von Neumann for Adolf Muhr, the villa served as a hunting retreat and later became a royal residence, a hospital, and eventually a hotel annexe. Over time, neglect led to its collapse in 2014, leaving only remnants of its stone foundation. Rooted in the architectural heritage of Bohinj, the project reinterprets traditional Alpine elements in a refined and innovative manner.
The design respects the historical footprint of the original villa, maintaining its volumetric presence and orientation. The reconstructed form follows the proportions and spatial organization of the former building, preserving the relationship with its natural surroundings and the adjacent Hotel Bohinj. By incorporating salvaged stone from the ruins into the ground floor facade, the project maintains a tangible connection to the past while reinforcing the building’s authenticity.
A key principle of the reconstruction is the use of sustainable, locally sourced materials. The ground floor features reclaimed stone, while the upper levels are clad in Slovenian timber, treated through traditional carbonization techniques for durability without the use of chemicals. This method, inspired by ancient practices, ensures longevity and enhances the building’s natural aesthetics. The reinterpretation of the original wooden balconies fosters a seamless blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques.
The new Vila Muhr integrates hospitality, culture, and history within its programmatic framework. The ground floor houses a restaurant with an interior that features reclaimed wood and locally inspired craftsmanship. A conference hall on the first floor offers a dynamic space for gatherings, while the upper floors accommodate four exclusive suites, each designed with unique features such as fireplaces, saunas, and panoramic views. Large openings and balconies create a direct visual and spatial connection with the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor experience.
A restored underground tunnel, once linking the original villa with the hotel, has been revived as a curated exhibition space. This immersive passageway narrates the historical evolution of Vila Muhr and its significance within the Bohinj region. Elements such as handcrafted chandeliers made from storm-felled wood and perforation motifs inspired by local hayrack ornamentation further celebrate the cultural identity of the site.
Vila Muhr’s reconstruction is an architectural tribute to the past, seamlessly woven into the present. Through its sensitive approach to materiality, craftsmanship, and ecological integrity, the project not only revitalizes a historical landmark but also establishes a contemporary dialogue between tradition and innovation. By respecting the spirit of the original villa while embracing sustainable design, Vila Muhr stands as a model for heritage-driven architectural renewal.
