TURM VALS
Advisors: Omar Gandhi (Omar Gandhi Architect)
Site: Vals, Graubünden, Switzerland
Developed under the tutelage of Prix-de-Rome winner Omar Gandhi, this project is a response to Peter Zumthor's famed Therme Vals in the secluded Swiss village of Vals.
Site: Vals, Graubünden, Switzerland
Developed under the tutelage of Prix-de-Rome winner Omar Gandhi, this project is a response to Peter Zumthor's famed Therme Vals in the secluded Swiss village of Vals.
The tower is situated on the side of the valley opposite to the Therme Vals. It is visible from several of the framed views in the thermal baths, but rather than looking back down at the cramped hotel complex from the top of the tower, visitors will be prompted to look out at the expansive mountain range that lies beyond. |
The tower will be partly subterranean, constructed by quarrying stone directly out of the mountainside to form a winding staircase. The remainder of the tower will be constructed using the same material. The project hinges on the experience of procession, guiding visitors underground and into the mountainside before bringing them back up to breach the surface of the Swiss countryside. Along the way is a moment where the negative construction blends into the positive construction. |