Rocks Resort
Laax, Switzerland, 2009
Vals Quartzite as a visible expression of Alpine architecture
The Rocks Resort in Laax is an ensemble of cubic buildings located directly at the base station of the LAAX ski resort and designed by Domenig Architekten. Vals Quartzite defines the façades as a regional natural stone that is an integral part of the building, both aesthetically and technically.
Location and architectural concept: The Rocks Resort is situated in the heart of Laax (GR), directly at the base station. The architecture draws inspiration from its Alpine surroundings: cubic volumes are grouped around a central square like natural boulders, inspired by the rockslide that occurred around 10,000 years ago. More about the project
Products: Vals Quartzite , broken, honed C320, sawn, honed C120
Area of application: Bathroom, Interior Flooring, Kitchen, Layered masonry, Interior Wall Cladding
Building contractor:
Architecture:
Material supplier: Truffer AG
Material & contribution by Truffer
Vals Quartzite forms the visible envelope of the Rocks Resort complex. The robust, locally quarried natural stone has a direct connection to the Alpine surroundings and reflects the precision craftsmanship of our stoneworks in Vals. The quartzite was used in solid form as façade cladding, giving the architecture its distinctive appearance.
Architectural features
The buildings of the Rocks Resort follow a cubic architectural concept that reflects the Alpine landscape. The façades made of split Vals Quartzite appear like blocks broken directly from the mountain, creating a calm and understated dialogue between nature and architecture.
Function & use
The complex comprises restaurants, shops and more than one hundred apartments in various sizes. As a “Design Hotel™” and part of the Alpine infrastructure, it combines both tourism and residential functions.
Sustainability & regional values
The Alpine setting and the use of locally sourced materials are central to the sustainability concept. Vals Quartzite provides not only aesthetic character, but also reduces transport distances and strengthens regional value creation.
Characteristics & solutions
Vals Quartzite was used for the façades in split and cut form. Given the demanding Alpine weather conditions, it was essential to select and process the material in a way that ensures long-term durability and frost resistance.