In recent history, for over 200 years, explorers and scientists have been striving to overcome nature’s limits and reach the top of the mountains. Man’s innate passion for conquering increasingly higher altitudes then started to turn into the modern discipline of mountaineering.

The developing appeal of this process and sports activity is shared by both athletes and amateurs of all ages and nationalities, each with different levels of preparation and commitment. This growth has been accompanied by a desire for building high-altitude functional shelters (for occasional use such as huts and bivouacs) and public or private buildings with a refined aesthetic.

The mountain environment’s unique weather conditions require appropriate project solutions able to match the landscape without spoiling the natural view. At the same time, any development must be able to involve and take advantage of any localised natural element. These include the slope of the land and any possible southern orientation for window positioning to maximise the heat input from sunlight.

Amongst the materials that better meet such needs is Microtopping®, the minimalist-looking microcement which is available in a range of neutral shades and applicable uniformly on any kind of solid surface. Equally at home in this environment is Nuvolato Architop®, the innovative “brutalist” concrete, ideal for sophisticated and yet durable, low-maintenance floors.