THE PRITZKER WINNING MASTERPIECE CAN BECOME YOUR NEXT VACATION
Project: Therme Vals Spa in Switzerland
Architect: Peter Zumthor
Status: Completed in 1996
Area: 1400 sqm
Location: Vals, Switzerland
Photography by: theworldpursuit.com , Dominik Gehl, Fernando Guerra
Peter Zumthor’s Therme Vals in Switzerland stands as a paragon of modern architectural design, blending in perfectly with its natural surroundings and creating an unparalleled sensory landscape. Zumthor, a recipient of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, has infused this spa with elements that highlight his mastery over material, light, and space.
The facade of Therme Vals is an architectural work of art, carved with various-sized openings that frame the picturesque landscape of the Vals valley. These openings are not just aesthetic features but serve to create a dynamic interaction between the interior and exterior. Each window, set within wide recesses, reveals the unusual depth of the walls, constructed from locally quarried Vals quartzite. This design choice allows natural light to penetrate deep into the spa, enhancing the visual connection between the building and its natural environment.
One of the most striking features of Therme Vals is its green roof, which makes the building almost disappear into the hillside. This grass-covered roof not only provides thermal insulation but also integrates the structure into its natural surroundings, reducing its visual impact on the landscape.
The carved courtyard further emphasizes this connection, offering a tranquil outdoor space where visitors can immerse themselves in nature.The courtyard serves as a serene retreat, enhancing the overall experience of relaxation and rejuvenation. The interior of Therme Vals mirrors the rugged beauty of its exterior.
The indoor pools are constructed from the same Vals quartzite, creating a seamless transition between the inside and outside. These pools, with their varying temperatures, offer a journey through hot and cold, light and shadow. The stone slabs, arranged in layers, create a cave-like atmosphere, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the tranquility of the space. This design not only emphasizes the materiality of the stone but also highlights Zumthor’s attention to creating a cohesive and immersive environment.
Zumthor’s use of local materials, such as the 60,000 slabs of Vals quartzite, demonstrates his philosophy of building in harmony with the environment. This choice not only roots the building in its geographical context but also ensures durability and a timeless aesthetic. The stone, with its varying tones and textures, is the primary material, complemented by concrete, terrazzo, mahogany, and bronze. Each material is chosen for its tactile quality, contributing to the sensory richness of the space. Peter Zumthor, awarded the Pritzker Prize in 2009, is renowned for his ability to create spaces that engage the senses and evoke a profound emotional response. His design for Therme Vals is a testament to his belief in the power of architecture to enhance human experience. The spa, completed in 1996, has received international acclaim and is considered one of Zumthor’s most significant works. The building’s heritage status, granted just two years after its completion, underscores its architectural importance and cultural value.
Therme Vals is not just a spa; it is an architectural masterpiece that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. Peter Zumthor’s design, with its thoughtful use of materials, light, and space, creates an immersive and sensory-rich experience that resonates with visitors long after they leave. The building stands as a testament to Zumthor’s vision and skill, cementing its place as a landmark in the world of architecture.
To visit Therme Vals, travelers can fly to Zurich Airport, which is the nearest major airport. From Zurich, one can either rent a car for a scenic drive through the Swiss countryside or take public transportation. Trains from Zurich to Chur are frequent, and from Chur, a bus or taxi can take you directly to Vals. The journey, whether by car or public transport, offers stunning views of the Swiss landscape, setting the stage for the serene experience that awaits at Therme Vals.
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