To preserve the unspoiled beauty of the idyllic scenery, Villa Vals designed by SeARCH in the Swiss Alpine village of Vals is a subterranean dwelling. Fully immersed in the mountainside, its organically formed exterior is matched by a quirky interior that breaks radically with local architectural traditions.

Surprised that it was permissible to construct a pair of dwellings so close to the world famous thermal baths of Vals, the client seized the opportunity to develop the site, without disturbing the bath’s expansive views. The house – approximately 160m2 – is completely dug out of the mountainside. It offers room to for ten people and is surrounded by a spacious garden offering a great deal of privacy. A big glass facade opens out onto the terrace and offers a spectacular view on green meadows (snow-covered hillsides in the winter) and mountaintops.

“We’ve added an element of drama in Villa Vals. The entrance through the tunnel is one example.” — Bjarne Mastenbroek