
Two international awards. One extraordinary place.
Architecture is more than aesthetics. It is the atmosphere of a place, the respect for its history and the way it moves people.
In 2026 the Ansitz Velseck was honoured with two international architecture awards – a recognition of the careful transformation of this historic residence into a unique retreat in the heart of South Tyrol. The awards celebrate not only the building itself, but also the philosophy behind it: preserving heritage, creating timeless architecture and giving guests an authentic experience in harmony with nature.
Winner · Tourism Buildings. The BIG SEE Architecture Award is one of Europe’s most respected accolades for architecture and design. Each year an international jury selects outstanding projects that combine architectural quality, innovation and sustainability.
The Ansitz Velseck-Residence Hotel was awarded in the Tourism Buildings category – for the successful blend of historic architecture, contemporary design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Winner · Luxury Residential Estates – 9 out of 10 points. The project was also honoured with the Real Estate & Architecture Award 2026 in the Luxury Residential Estates category.
The international jury praised the architectural concept, the attention to detail and the respectful integration of the historic building into its natural surroundings.
„The Ansitz Velseck impresses with an extraordinary location overlooking the Dolomites and a highly sensitive, high-quality evolution of the historic fabric. The architecture combines restraint and precision with contemporary elegance, while materiality and generous openings create calm, light-filled spaces. Here luxury is defined by atmosphere, craftsmanship and a sense of place, not by effect. Overall the project is very strong in design, integration and presence, and clearly worthy of the award.”— International Jury · 2026
The restoration of the Ansitz Velseck was guided by a simple principle: preserve what is valuable and complement it with contemporary architecture of lasting quality. Historic walls, carefully chosen natural materials and modern design merge into an atmosphere that feels both authentic and timeless. Nothing is created for effect alone – every detail serves the guest’s experience.
The careful preservation of the historic building fabric, the use of regional materials, energy-efficient technology and a long-term understanding of quality create a place that respects its cultural heritage as much as its natural surroundings. The result is a residence designed not only for today – but for generations to come.
The Ansitz Velseck bears the signature of Stefan Gamper — an architecture that approaches the historic fabric with respect and carries it into the present with a clear, restrained formal language. Instead of loud gestures it relies on precision, honest materials and the interplay of light and view. Precisely those qualities that convinced both international juries — and that turn a building into a place that endures.
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