Renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners has designed a new innovation centre where visitors stay warm and comfortable even in the harshest Alpine weather. The centre - InnHub La Punt - stands out in sustainability. Many reused materials, recycled rainwater and solar energy lay a sustainable foundation.
Local inspiration
InnHub La Punt will be in a prominent location at the entrance to the village of La Punt-Chamues in Switzerland. It has an area of 6,000 m2, spread over three main floors and a basement. The building includes living, work and meeting rooms, sports facilities, shops, a restaurant and an underground car park. For the design, the architect drew inspiration from the local topography and traditional architecture with domed roof to reduce snow loads.
All around, a protective wall envelops the site, blocking cold winds and thus creating a pleasant microclimate. This wall acts as a contemporary interpretation of the thick, insulating walls and deep windows that the Engadine valley is known for. The roof is carefully designed and tuned to use solar energy. The sloping surfaces simultaneously prevent snow accumulation while allowing daylight to penetrate the deepest parts of the building.
Local materials
The building will be made of locally sourced wood; in the basement recycled concrete. More than 30 per cent of the electricity required will be generated by a rooftop photovoltaic system. While a ground source heat pump combined with an underfloor heating system, will provide energy-efficient heating in colder weather. Insulation will be excellent and attention will also be paid to natural lighting via skylights.
It also achieves minimisation of water consumption by using water-saving fixtures and toilets, recycled water and rainwater and water from melted snow. Construction of InnHub La Punt will begin in 2021. Completion is expected in 2022.
