Kulm Eispavillon

The Kulm Eispavillon in St Moritz, designed by Foster + Partners, is a striking example of temporary winter architecture that reinterprets the traditional ice pavilion for a modern context. Set in the high alpine environment of St Moritz—a world-renowned winter destination—the pavilion is conceived as an ephemeral structure that celebrates both the beauty of ice and the innovation of contemporary design.

Design Concept

Foster + Partners have reimagined the idea of an ice pavilion by combining advanced engineering with a poetic sensitivity to its surroundings. The design takes inspiration from the natural clarity and translucency of ice, creating a lightweight, sculptural form that appears to emerge organically from the snowy landscape. Its geometry is carefully crafted to not only offer a visually arresting form but also to respond to the harsh alpine climate, ensuring stability and performance even in extreme winter conditions.

Materiality and Construction

Although the pavilion is termed an “Eispavillon,” its construction involves more than a simple assembly of ice blocks. The project uses cutting-edge techniques and materials that mimic the ephemeral qualities of natural ice while providing the necessary structural integrity. Advanced environmental controls and possibly integrated refrigeration systems help maintain the pavilion’s form throughout the winter season, allowing it to serve as a functional space for events, exhibitions, or social gatherings.

Context and Function

Positioned near the iconic Kulm Hotel in St Moritz, the Eispavillon not only complements its prestigious setting but also offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and frozen landscapes. Its temporary nature—designed to melt away at the season’s end—underscores a celebration of transience, much like the fleeting beauty of winter itself. The pavilion provides a unique venue that bridges art, architecture, and the natural environment, inviting visitors to experience the magic of the alpine winter in a distinctly modern setting.

Sustainability and Innovation

Foster + Partners’ approach to the Kulm Eispavillon reflects their broader commitment to sustainable design. By designing a structure that is both temporary and highly efficient, the project minimizes its environmental footprint. The innovative use of materials and technology ensures that while the pavilion stands as a bold architectural statement during the winter months, it also respects the delicate balance of the alpine ecosystem.

In summary, the Kulm Eispavillon in St Moritz is a remarkable fusion of tradition and modernity. It transforms the inherent beauty of ice into an ephemeral work of art—an installation that not only enhances the winter landscape but also offers a forward-thinking example of how temporary architecture can be both sustainable and spectacular.

architect: foster + partners
collaborating architect: küchel architects AG
timber construction: blumer – lehmann AG
steel manufacturer: pfister metallbau AG
stonework: edilstone AG
civil engineer: edy toscano AG
builder: nicol. hartmann & cie. AG
electrical installation: arge merz AG / elektro RES AG
heating and ventilation: hälg & co. AG
refrigeration plant: kälte 3000 AG
roofing: nani gregor
windows: holzmanufaktur swiss AG

image source