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.
Around the world, many late modern buildings have already fallen victim to demolition or are under imminent threat. In addition to the pending destruction of the IIM building in Ahmedabad by L.I.Kahn, which has now been averted thanks to international protests, various other icons in Asia are currently under threat. In Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, for example, the Kamalapur Railway Station (1961-68, Daniel C.Dunham/Robert G.Boughey) and the Teacher Student Centre (1959-65, K.A. Doxiadis) are to make way for the construction of a new elevated railroad line. In addition, quite a few buildings of the great Bengali pioneer Muzharul Islam are already destroyed or in precarious condition. Together with our professional colleagues in Bangladesh, we are trying to draw the attention of the international architectural community to these circumstances by means of open letters and seminars. These and other actions are also intended to sensitize local politicians and stake holders to the value of the high-profile buildings in Dhaka. In particular, it is intended to promote awareness for the preservation, reprogramming or repuse of existing buildings. However, the globally led discussion should also remind us that there is still a lot to be done in these fields in our country as well.