In the famous Swiss resort of Zermatt, a project proposal has emerged that has sparked a lively discussion among architects and residents of the region. Lina Peak is a concept for a skyscraper that is expected to reach as high as 260 metres, which is more than, for example, the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw. Its initiator claims that a high-rise in a mountain resort is supposed to bring about an improvement in the housing situation and reduce the pressure caused by the large influx of tourists. The idea is questionable, however, as such a large building in a mountainous setting could change the perception of the Zermatt area forever – for the worse, of course.
Zermatt’s problems
Zermatt is located at 1,600 metres above sea level at the foot of the Matterhorn. While the town has around 6,000 permanent residents, it experiences a surge of visitors during the winter and summer seasons. During the busiest periods, the population reaches up to 40,000! Such a heavy infrastructure load leads to rising property prices and a shortage of places to live, affecting both incoming workers and local residents.
Assumptions of the Lina Peak project
The author of the Lina Peak mountain tower concept is Heinz Julen, a hotelier and designer who has been active in Zermatt for many years. His proposal includes the construction of a 65-storey structure 260 metres high, which would make it the tallest building in Switzerland. The structure would be built about 800 metres from the city limits, in the Gorner valley. The lower floors are planned as flats offered at a more affordable price, while the upper floors would go to the commercial market. This arrangement is intended to help finance the entire project. The project also includes communal spaces for residents. A room for cultural events, a restaurant, a sports area with a swimming pool, climbing wall and gym, as well as a childcare area, are all planned. In total, the facility would accommodate around 550 flats with views of the Matterhorn, the town and the surrounding peaks.
Benefits of Lina Peak
The developer believes that a large building will help to alleviate pressure for further expansion in Zermatt. From his perspective, concentrating the development in one place reduces the occupation of more land, ‘spilling over’ the town and allows better management of local resources. Julen stresses that housing prices at Lina Peak would be expected to rise no faster than two per cent per year, which he says would prevent speculation and rising living costs. The project’s author also points out that, as a hotel owner, he seeks accommodation for employees every year, which makes him aware of the large scale of the problem. In his opinion, the new facility would improve the living conditions of those employed in tourism, who are often forced to live in neighbouring municipalities and commute.
Concerns of opponents of the Alpine skyscraper
Some residents and the architectural community approach the project with great reserve. In their view, such a tall structure would disrupt the perception of the area, which has so far been dominated by buildings of a much smaller scale. Comments are also being made about the possible technical difficulties and costs involved in realising the project in the Alpine region. Critics are concerned that the construction of such a large structure could spur the development of further such projects, which would change the way space is shaped in the Alps.
Lina Peak and procedures
Heinz Julen has started collecting signatures for the initiative, which is expected to bring the project to a vote of the residents. As presented, the investor would retain a quarter of the shares, while the remainder would go to local institutions and partners operating in Zermatt. The discussion on the project is ongoing and its future depends on the decision of the community living in the shadow of the Matterhorn.
Source: linapeak-zermatt.com
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