Swiss-based French Écal
alumnus ALEXANDRE
PICCIOTTO earned a spot
in ‘The Challenge’ with
his passion for emerging
technologies.Thanks to its transparent outer walls and
translucent solar panels, the architecture of
Alexandre Picciotto’s conceptual travelling
pavilion becomes an envelope and an
energy source.Through the footprint-less aspect of my
concept, visitors can appreciate the fragility
of a moment that is destined to be erased
before reappearing in new forms and in new
landscapes.
Where do you think the hospitality industry
is headed? Time is the genesis of my project.
Unlike traditional palaces and renowned
hotels, reception areas that are as fragile
and fleeting as sandcastles may be easier to
appreciate. I’m defining luxurious hospital-
ity not as profusion and excess, but by the
vulnerability of what’s being offered. Think
of Woodstock in 1969, whose programming
and uniqueness made a mark on the history
of music and popular culture since it hap-
pened only once. I believe the hospitality
industry will turn to more innovative and
creative sectors to move beyond the stand-
ard – to renew the experience of travel. – TI
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