The Reinvigoration Of A 13th Century Hospice In The Swiss Alps

At 2100 meters above sea level, the pass has been in use for centuries, and here—since 1237—travelers have sought refuge in the hospice of St. Gotthard. The current hospice was constructed in around 1623: in the years that followed, it was a small affair, consisting of four rooms and two floors. The current renovation of the hospice renders it as a much larger space, the architects extended the building with the addition of guest rooms spread across the top floor, and a new lead-clad roof. Whilst they have maintained the original facade of the building, the floor plan and the interior have been entirely reimagined in a thoroughly contemporary manner by the firm. Having faced the perils of history—fire, landslides and war—the building has once again been reinvigorated and remains a vibrant meeting place for those passing through the Alps.