Rocks Resort, Laax

It may have been 10,000 years ago that a huge avalanche (some say the biggest ever) created what is now the Swiss winter resort of Laax, but the incredible landscape continues to exhilerate anyone that sees it. None more so than Domenig Architects, who used the view as their prime inspiration when creating the just-opened Rock Resort – which has 220km of these wonderful slopes literally on the doorstep.

see more views of Laax and images of Rocks Resort

Aware that anything blocking the view would be an eyesore, the architects coated the facades of the eleven cube-shaped buildings with quartzite stone facades that reflect the surrounding mountain scenery.

The complex, which is 90 minutes from either Zurich or Friedrichshafen airport, offers a 70-bedroom boutique, 160 apartments, 6 restaurants and 14 shops. All apartments get the services of the hotel including housekeeping, catering, concierge service and ski hire.

The interiors are slick yet warm, filled with Cassina furnishings and characterized with natural materials such as untreated gnarled oak and concrete. Integral wet rooms are equipped with a steam bath/shower with all fittings by Dornbracht.

Domenig Architects have kept a strict environmentally friendly approach throughout the project, sourcing only local and natural materials, and incorporating a climate-neutral heating system.

Melina Keays is the entertaining director of Wallpaper*. She has been part of the brand since the magazine’s launch in 1996, and is responsible for entertaining content across the print and digital platforms, and for Wallpaper’s creative agency Bespoke. A native Londoner, Melina takes inspiration from the whole spectrum of art and design – including film, literature, and fashion. Her work for the brand involves curating content, writing, and creative direction – conceiving luxury interior landscapes with a focus on food, drinks, and entertaining in all its forms