Chair-Lift Station in Arosa

In an effort to reconcile economic needs and tourism with nature conservation, Arosa is using fewer ski lifts, but with a greater capacity. The relatively large volume of this base station was visually reduced by burying the building inthe ground and covering the roof with a planted layer. At the same time, prominence is given to the striking, angular entrance facade, which, with its translucent polycarbonate sheeting, has the character of ice crystals. Inview of the limited access to this ski area, lightweight materials such as plastics, corrugated metal sheeting and wood were used forthe construction. The station has a steel load-bearing structure, the members of whichwere brought to the site by helicopter.