Redefining Hotel Design in Remote Landscapes

The question of what dimensions to use for a hotel in a remote landscape has puzzled architects for generations. Should it stand as a monumental object against the backdrop of nature, echoing the grandeur of the Belle Époque? Or should it be designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings, perhaps even hidden from view? These are the dilemmas that architects face when tasked with creating hotels in pristine natural settings.

A Unique Approach

For the Fuchsegg Lodge Hotel, Ludescher + Lutz Architekten chose a different path. Instead of imposing a foreign structure onto the landscape, they sought inspiration from the existing settlement forms in the surrounding cultural landscape. Their investigation led them to the Vorsäss Eggatsberg, a traditional summer settlement located approximately 1,000 meters away.

The Concept of “Vorsäss”

Derived from the Alemannic Alpine region, the term “Vorsäss” refers to a seasonal settlement characterized by simple farmhouses and stables. These settlements, inhabited only during the summer months, are arranged in a loose formation without the formal layout of a village. The buildings, similar in style, blend harmoniously with the natural topography, devoid of streets or fences.

Integrating Tradition and Modernity

Inspired by the Vorsäss settlement, the Fuchsegg Lodge Hotel embraces the simplicity and harmony of its rural surroundings. The architecture reflects the vernacular style of the region while incorporating modern amenities and comforts. By seamlessly blending tradition with innovation, Ludescher + Lutz Architekten have created a hotel that not only respects its natural setting but also celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Alpine region.