Concept proposal for a mixed-use center | Crans Montana, Switzerland | 2017
In collaboration with:
DBS Architectes | www.dbsarc.com
Role: Architect
Activities: Individual work in collaboration with the directors | Concept development | Graphic
Credits: Project: DBS Architectes
A gridshell is a light structure composed by a grid of laths that are shaped into an organic surface similar to a shell. The strength of this structure depends on its double curvature, able to create innovative shapes using a minimum amount of material. These properties make gridshell an interesting construction method for designers and structural engineers, who are able to design flexible and innovative spaces without a massive architecture.
In Crans Montana DBS Architectes made a concept proposal for a multifunctional centre, experimenting a gridshell approach. The proposal was conceived in a short time to give an idea of how this technique could be used.
One of the main challenges was the connection between the gridshell and the sloping site. Most of the existing gridshell structures are built on a regular ground, which allows to compose the roof and the other parts of the building without facing different heights.
The first idea was to create a basement able to connect them, designing the gridshell only as an independent light structure over a public square. Than, we decided to develop an architecture in relation to the ground, shaped as a petal which in some points touches the soil and in others rises creating different views on the landscape.
