Location | Pilatus Kulm, Alpnach OW |
Client | PILATUS BAHNEN AG, KRIENS |
Commission | Competition on invitation 2008 |
Planning | 2008–2010 |
Construction | 2010–2011 |
Architects | Graber & Steiger Architekten, Project Architect: Philip Käslin |
Consultants | Construction manager: Jürg Gabthuler, Structural engineer: Dr. Schwartz Consulting, Cost management: Büro für Bauökonomie, Façade engineering: Metallprojekt GmbH |
Photographer | D.M. Wehrli |
The impressive, crystalline silhouette of the Pilatus massif was integrated into the design for the panorama gallery and developed further in an architectural form. The new structure is subtly fitted into the Alpine terrain and develops between existing buildings and striking rocky outcrops into an artificial topography. The polygonal, meandering ground plan and the gentle cross-sectional modulation are spatial strategies that evoke gentle transitions between the developed and undeveloped landscape. The polygonal connecting section choreographs a series of spectacular perspectives and breath-taking viewpoints, while also acting as a perceptive amplifier that stages the reference to the landscape to the fullest extent. The underlying crystalline theme of the volumetrics is also reflected in the structure, construction and materialisation, and is based on a hybrid steel and concrete composite system.
What began as a study 10 years ago can now finally be experienced as built spaces in Lucerne's Bramberg neighbourhood.
The slender, sculpturally modelled apartment building, which has replaced a dilapidated smaller residential building, makes use of the narrow plot in a densified manner, in keeping with the signed of our times but without creating a spatial constriction in the green neighbourhood structure.
The staggered volume and the customised flats inscribed in it thematise urban living through a variation of different flat types and well-proportioned, well-lit rooms. Generous windows and loggias open up views to the porous neighbourhood pattern, across the city of Lucerne and into the surrounding countryside with its hills, mountains and lakes.
In reference to the historic brick buildings specific to the neighbourhood, which rise upwards on existing garden-like plots, the new building has a vertically structured brick façade that subtly regulates views. The tectonics of the façade creates a lively interplay of light and shadow and makes principals of construction playful visible. While the pillars built on site are constructed in a horizontal masonry bond, the prefabricated parapet elements have a vertical, linear brick cladding.