The Altes Hospiz project by architects Miller & Maranta high in the Swiss mountains is so powerful because it unites opposites: nature and architecture, existing and new. The recognisable, archetypal building volumes, combined with contemporary design and aesthetics, make it seem as if the inn has always stood in its familiar surroundings.

A centuries-old chapel and the former guest house come together under one new, large and distinctive roof. The existing façades were raised without losing their individuality. New window openings fit into the unambiguous design language, but are clearly recognisable as new elements. The project dares to deal with and build on the existing, without unnecessarily wanting to preserve and explain what once was. The feeling and finesse with which this is done are almost moving. The renovated building is part of the landscape and stands there as if it had always been there. Materiality also plays a major role here.