In 1997, a fire triggered by lightning destroyed the mountain top Fronalpstock Stoos summit health resort restaurant. A new and modern restaurant has recently been rebuilt at the same location. This has greatly benefited the resort and a new aerial cable car and chair lift were built in anticipation of increased numbers of visitors.

The Fronalpstock Stoos health resort stands an impressive 1900 metres above sea level and with its breath-taking panoramic view across 11 lakes and the surrounding mountain landscape, it was a challenge for the architect from both a planning and construction point of view.

Project idea

The new restaurant was designed to convey a relaxed cosy atmosphere, with sufficient space for 300 diners, both in the restaurant and on the terrace. The traditional mode of construction, with the basement in reinforced concrete and the floor above in timber, was combined with a significant volume of glazing. The architect’s idea was to have rooms flooded with natural light on all sides.

From the glass terrace, a stunning picturesque view of the mountain landscape fascinates visitors. The east and west façades are entirely glazed from ceiling to floor, allowing light to bathe through the building as the sun rises in the morning and sets in the evening. On the north-facing side, a two-storey atrium was constructed entirely in glass, allowing stunning glare-free views from the ground and top floors of the Schwyz basin with its spectacular panorama.

Special features & Glass

A service cableway had to be constructed to transport building materials. The building was constructed in a record time of eight months and the summit restaurant was then opened to the public. Due to the exposed position on the summit, heavy gusts of wind up to 150 km/h can be experienced. Despite the generous protruding balcony, snow and rain is hurled against the west façade under great pressure (see winter illustration). This strong atmospheric influence is unique and could not have been foreseen.

To counteract wind and snow loads during winter, the architect and developer chose wood and metal framed Pilkington Insulight™ Protect consisting of 8 mm Pilkington Optifloat™ Clear, a 12 mm air space filled with krypton gas and Pilkington Optilam™ Therm 8.8. The total IGU thickness was therefore 28 mm and the Ug-value in accordance with EN 1.0 W/m²K. The floor to ceiling glazing had to have wooden mullions fitted for reinforcement. The metal cladding gave sufficient protection from wind and snow thrown against the glass by wind, whilst the wood framing on the inside gives the feeling of a cosy mountain chalet.

Final observations

The defined objective was more than achieved and visitors are very impressed. At peak times, 1,000 meals are served at lunchtime. It’s worth making the Fronalpstock Stoos summit resort your destination when the weather is good!