The Historiic Surprises in Modern Swiss Hospitality

Donna Heiderstadt -- Interior Design, 10/1/2012 2:00:00 AM

Mineralbad Kaltbad Rigi near Lucerne, Switzerland, designed by Mario Botta. Photo by Aqua-Spa-Resorts AG.

What do a 145-year-old brewery-turned-boutique hotel in Zurich, a new luxury resort in Gstaad, and a pair of thermal spas where the views are as cool as the pools have in common? They each show how Swiss design is breaking with tradition by embracing it in novel ways.

Three contemporary hospitality projects have recently debuted in Switzerland, with a fourth set to open in December, and each challenges the notion of traditional alpine design. Furthermore, three of the projects incorporate creative reuse - from reclaimed antique farmhouse timber to vintage beer bottles - in design elements that serve as a clever wink to the past. Keep reading for the full story on each one.

B2 Boutique Hotel + Spa in Zurich

Mineralbad & Spa Rigi Kaltbad on Mount Rigi

Alpina Gstaad