Alpine House, Royal Botanical Garden, Kew

A new architectural accent has been established by the "Alpine House" in the traditionally rich Botanical Gardens in Kew near London. A double-arch of steel spans over the collection of plants below, the walls of STADIP appear like a protective net. Inside, streams of cooled air pass over the alpine garden to simulate harsh mountain conditions, although the building is right in the middle of the mild English climate.

The construction with its soft shapes appears almost organic and has become a harmonious sight in the Gardens, which for years has been an UNESCO world heritage site.