Foster + Partners’ design for Gstaad House in Switzerland has been granted planning permission. Capitalising on its scenic natural surroundings in the picturesque town of Gstaad, the new timber building will house a state-of-the-art exhibition and auction space, climate-controlled galleries, and a private members’ club on the top floor. The project will be the first purpose-built display and storage facility in the town and provides a new model that addresses the specialised requirements of fine art, car, fashion and antiques collections.
Kirsten Scott, Senior Partner, Foster + Partners, said: “Our design generates a spectacular arrival experience, as the building comes into view from the road. Its distinctive facade is made from local larch and diffuses natural light into the spaces above ground, while providing panoramic views of the valley. An integrated ramp activates the whole building, with continuous circulation from the ground level to the penthouse.”
The landmark building is nestled within a valley and responds to the unique contours of the landscape. The architectural form reflects the undulating mountains and winding roads, with a gently sloping façade, flat roof, and an integrated ramp for cars and pedestrians that wraps around the building.
A ground floor exhibition space will host a series of public events throughout the year. During the summer months, its doors can be opened to connect with the natural surroundings, which will act as a venue for parties and large-scale events during the summer months. Private gallery spaces on the floors above are designed to showcase collections in a tailored and climate-controlled environment.
The penthouse is a members-only social club, with elegantly furnished indoor lounges and a wraparound roof deck with views across the valley. Members also have access to a private dining room for personal events – and a fully equipped kitchen services sit-down dinners and parties.
3000 square-metres of flexible subterranean space provides customised storage solutions to accommodate all types of collections. In-house experts will help create bespoke storage spaces, with the lighting, racking system, flooring and climate that is best suited to conservation requirements.
