Kulm Pavilion

The Pavilion aims to provide a unique dining experience, with unrestricted views towards the Alps. However, the south-facing Pavilion faces issues such as excessive solar ingress, glare, overheating, and thermal and visual discomfort.

The shading design therefore seeks to minimise direct sunlight , whilst maintaining unrestricted views of the Alps.

To achieve this, a series of tests were carried out with varying louvre spacings, depths and angles, testing for daylight availability, sunlight penetration, views out, and so on.

Based on the sun ray associated with the highest level of direct solar radiation, an optimum angle for the shading was determined. This angle prevents direct incident sun rays carrying the maximum amount of direct solar radiation from entering the space.

On analysing the view out from the Winter Garden towards the Alps, there was a limited viewing angle towards the tallest peak in front of the Winter Garden.

This provided a defi ned area on the façade through which views of the Alps would be visible. Louvres in this zone were removed to allow an unobstructed view of the Alps.

Architect: Foster + Partners

Client: Confidential