Grand Surselva

At the historic Grand Hotel Surselva, dating back to 1908, selected interior spaces were renovated and repurposed to support contemporary holiday programmes. An old garage was transformed into a divisible activity and conference space for up to 100 people, while a new ski depot and baby crèche were integrated within the existing structure. Precise architectural interventions enhance daylight, flexibility and internal clarity, while respecting the character of the landmark hotel.

Revitalising a Historic Alpine Hotel

The Grand Hotel Surselva, originally reopened in 1908, stands within a forest of pine, fir and larch trees. Characterised by loggias, towers, verandas and bay windows, the building represents a distinct alpine hospitality typology.

Commissioned by Intersoc, the project focuses on the careful renovation and adaptive reuse of selected interior spaces, introducing a ski depot, a baby crèche and a flexible activity room that can be converted into a conference facility for up to 100 people.

Contemporary Use within a Historic Framework

The ambition was to integrate new programme requirements without compromising the architectural identity of the hotel. The design intent is expressed through targeted interior transformations that respect the historic shell while enhancing functionality.

An existing garage space within the hotel was identified as an opportunity for conversion. Rather than adding new volumes, the intervention works through precise modification of the existing structure.

Flexibility through Simplicity

The former garage was transformed through three essential interventions: opening the façade, lowering the floor level and inserting two projecting glazed volumes.

The lowered floor creates a level difference with the surrounding terrain, allowing the integration of a stage with built-in storage — particularly suited for children’s activities. The glazed cubes optimise daylight penetration and visually connect the interior with the alpine landscape.

The space can be subdivided and easily reconfigured into a conference room for 100 participants, supported by adjacent service functions. Each zone within the renovated areas is defined by a distinct colour palette, reflected in finishes and custom-designed furniture, creating clarity without excess.

The baby crèche is organised around a central interior element that combines storage, changing facilities and a subtle separation between play and sleeping areas. This integrated furniture structure ensures spatial legibility and operational efficiency.

Precision within the Existing

The project avoids structural overstatement. Interventions are limited, readable and reversible where possible. By working within the existing envelope, the architectural character of the hotel remains intact.

Geometry and material articulation are carefully calibrated to differentiate new insertions from the historic fabric without competing with it.

Framing the Alpine Context

The opening of the façade and the addition of glazed volumes strengthen the relationship between interior activity and the surrounding forested landscape. Daylight and views become active components of the spatial experience.

Adaptive Reuse as Strategy

The project demonstrates that sustainability in hospitality often begins with reuse. By transforming existing underused spaces rather than expanding the footprint, material consumption is minimised.

Flexible layouts, integrated storage and adaptable rooms ensure long-term usability, allowing the hotel to respond to evolving programme needs while preserving its heritage value.