Spa Renovation – Rethinking 1980s Architecture

Die Schweizer Architektur der 1980er-Jahre steht für Qualität und Klarheit – so auch dieses 1986 realisierte Ensemble von Rudolf Guyer und Esther Guyer. Eingebettet in eine gestaltete Parkanlage mit historischer Villa und Blick auf den Bodensee vereint die Anlage Hotel, Seminarbereiche, Gastronomie, Ausstellung und Wellness. Der Spa-Bereich entsprach jedoch funktional und gestalterisch nicht mehr den heutigen Anforderungen.

Initial Situation: Clear Objectives for the Spa Renovation

Photos show the current state

Located in the basement beneath the indoor pool, the existing spa included a wet area with showers, WC, and a Finnish sauna, a small relaxation space, and a separate larger relaxation room. The renovation focused on three key challenges:

Architectural Concept: Openness, Light, and Spatial Quality

A key intervention was the creation of a new escape route from the relaxation room directly to the exterior. For this purpose, the surrounding soil was removed and the existing concrete wall was largely replaced with a generous glass façade. This not only improved safety but also introduced daylight and visual connections to the outside.

A new outdoor area was designed as a Zen garden. A wooden platform with seating and lounging areas creates a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces. The escape route is naturally integrated into this design.

Reorganization of the Spa Spaces

By selectively removing the partition wall between the wet area and the relaxation room, circulation and spatial flow were significantly improved. A more open entrance area now connects the textile and non-textile zones.

A central shelving unit with satin glass elements serves multiple purposes: spatial separation, storage, and light diffusion. It allows daylight to penetrate deeper into the interior while integrating practical features such as towel storage and sauna controls.

On the relaxation room side, a backlit nature image enhances the calming atmosphere.

Modernization of the Wellness Offer

The outdated Finnish sauna was replaced with a modern bio sauna. With lower temperatures, it is more suitable for families, elderly users, and sensitive guests. A large panoramic window frames views of the Zen garden, strengthening the connection to nature.

The wet area was functionally upgraded:

Materiality and Atmosphere

The design follows a calm, natural concept using wood and natural stone. These materials create a warm and timeless ambiance with subtle Asian influences.

A raised ceiling enhances the sense of space, while a carefully designed lighting concept supports both functionality and atmosphere.

Conclusion: Added Value Through Spa Renovation

This renovation demonstrates how existing architecture can be thoughtfully and respectfully transformed. Targeted interventions significantly improved functionality, safety, and user experience while preserving the original character.

The project stands out for its clear architectural language, high-quality materials, and well-considered lighting design. The concept and design development were entirely created by our architecture office.

Our scope of services included the survey of existing conditions, the creation of detailed 3D as-built plans as a basis for further development, as well as the preliminary design and preparation of all planning documents up to the building permit application.

Project information

Area of expertiseAddition / Alteration / Renovation / Architecture
CollaborationMoreno Architektur GmbH
StatusPreliminary project to Council Submission
Year2025