HILL RESORT

Altapura, France

DESKTOP STUDY 2
SAINARMITHA
20C01C4021
Introduction
Altapura, one of the most popular ski
resorts in the world, is located in Val
Thorens, France, at 7,545 feet, making
it the highest resort in Europe. With a
warm pool and an elegant
Scandinavian-style interior, this 5-star
luxury resort exudes après-ski
splendor. It offers a complete package
of indulgence, adventures, and
enjoyment with sweeping views of the
six glaciers and craggy peaks of Les
Trois Vallées. In addition to the there
are several activities available, like ice
driving, Europe's largest toboggan run,
and paragliding, as well as a
multisensory spa on site to improve
wellbeing.
Reasons for the
location:
Logical and appropriate aspects:
•Ski-in/ski-out access: The building appears to be located
directly on the slopes, providing convenient ski-in/ski-out
access for guests. This is a major advantage for skiers and
snowboarders.
•Central location: The building seems to be situated in the
heart of the resort village, offering easy access to
shops, restaurants, and other amenities. This can be convenient
for guests who want to enjoy apres-ski activities or explore the
village.
•Sun exposure: The building's position looks like it gets good
sun exposure, which can be a plus for guests who enjoy
sunbathing or want their rooms to be bright and airy.
•Views: The building may offer scenic views of the
surrounding mountains, which can be a desirable feature for
some guests.
• Potential drawbacks of the
location:
Noise: Being located in the center of the village, the
building might be exposed to noise from
restaurants, bars, and other activities, especially
during peak season.
Crowds: The central location could also mean more
crowds and congestion, particularly in common
areas like ski lifts and restaurants.
Privacy: Depending on the layout and design of the
building, some rooms might have less privacy due
to their proximity to public areas or other buildings.
Aesthetics: The building's style might not blend
seamlessly with the surrounding traditional
architecture, depending on individual taste.
What is the historical background :
Nationally (France):
Internationally: •French Alps: The French Alps have played a significant
Early ski resorts: The first modern ski resorts role in the development of ski tourism worldwide. Early
emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in resorts like Chamonix and Megève were pioneers in the
Europe, primarily in the Alps. These resorts were industry, setting standards for infrastructure and
often housed in converted hotels or chalets, with hospitality.
limited amenities and mostly catered to wealthy
•Government involvement: The French government has
clientele.
Development of purpose-built resorts: As skiing historically played a role in supporting ski resorts through
gained popularity, purpose-built ski resorts started infrastructure development and tourism promotion. This
popping up in the mid-20th century. These resorts has contributed to the development of several major ski
often featured modern architecture, integrated resort regions, including the Three Valleys, where Val
accommodation, and diverse amenities catering to a Thorens is located.
broader audience. •Architectural influences: French ski resort architecture
Shifting trends: Over time, ski resort design has often blends traditional chalet styles with modern
evolved to reflect changing trends in elements. Recent developments incorporate sustainable
tourism, architecture, and sustainability. Today, we see
design principles, respecting the mountain environment
a mix of traditional and modern styles, with an
emphasis on energy efficiency, environmental and preserving local heritage.
integration, and guest experience.
 Building character:
The hotel's design is inspired by Nordic style and incorporates elements characteristic of the region, such as
staggered façades.
The architects of Studio Arch refined these 'building blocks' of mountain architecture while adapting them to
modern standards.
Contemporary Design
The hotel features a striking, harmonic and playful appearance with three curtain walls constructed using the
Reynaers CW 60 Solar system.
The façades are made of glass and integrated solar panels that reflect the beautiful countryside of Val
Thorens.
The interior design is a modern take on the mountain theme, creating an atmosphere of glamour and
coziness.
Luxurious Amenities
The hotel offers lavish interiors with fixtures reminiscent of royalty.
It features a 1,000 sq m Pure Altitude spa with seven treatment rooms designed with skiers in mind
 If the building is in an urban setting – the issues
of urban context – urban space – urban form:

Resort Setting: Altapura is situated within the Val Thorens ski

resort, a purpose-built car-free village located in the Tarentaise
Valley of the French Alps. This context shapes the hotel's design
and function, catering primarily to winter sports enthusiasts
seeking ski-in/ski-out convenience and luxurious amenities.
•Limited Urban Fabric: As a resort village, Val Thorens has a
relatively sparse and seasonal population. This lack of a dense
urban fabric influences the building's scale and relationship to
its surroundings.
•Environmental Sensitivity: The hotel's location within the
Alps necessitates careful consideration of its impact on the
fragile mountain ecosystem and adherence to strict
environmental regulations.
 Urban Space:
Public vs. Private: The hotel program likely balances public spaces like restaurants,
bars, and lounges with private guest rooms and spa facilities. Creating a balance
between these spaces and ensuring accessibility for different user groups is crucial.
Connectivity: Pedestrian pathways and connections to ski slopes and other resort
amenities are essential for a seamless guest experience within the car-free
environment.
Outdoor Space: Integrating balconies, terraces, or courtyards into the design can
provide valuable outdoor space for guests, especially in a resort setting known for its
scenic beauty.
Urban Form:
Massing and Proportion: The hotel's large, boxy form might stand out in the context of the
typically smaller and organic structures of traditional Alpine villages. This raises questions about
its visual integration and potential dominance within the resort's built environment.
Architectural Style: The hotel's architectural style should consider the local context and
vernacular while incorporating modern elements that reflect the resort's luxurious image.
Sustainability: The building's form and materials can contribute to its sustainability by
optimizing energy efficiency, natural light, and integration with the surrounding environment.
PLAY OF LIGHT & SHADE

Lighting and Interiors

The hotel's strategic placement allows for ample natural light to flood the
interiors, highlighting the modern and luxurious design.
Carefully placed lighting fixtures, both indoors and outdoors, accentuate the
hotel's unique character and create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, especially in
the evenings.
Outdoor Spaces
The hotel's large terrace and balconies offer stunning views of the snow-
covered Alps, allowing guests to witness the captivating dance of light and
shade on the surrounding landscape.
The outdoor swimming pool under the snowflakes creates a magical play of
light and shadow, especially during the winter season
If the building is in a Semi-urban/rural setting
– the issues of semi-urban/rural context:
Altapura Hotel in a Semi-Urban/Rural Context: Key Considerations
While I don't have specific details about the Altapura Hotel's location, I can provide
insights on how semi-urban/rural contexts influence building design, drawing on the
example of Val Thorens:
Semi-Urban/Rural Context:
•Varying Densities: Unlike a purely rural setting, semi-urban areas might have pockets
of denser development alongside open spaces and agricultural land. This creates a
more nuanced context than a purely rural setting.
•Landscape Integration: The hotel's design should seamlessly blend with the
surrounding natural landscape, respecting its scale, materials, and visual character.
•Community Integration: Engaging with the local community through job creation,
procurement, and cultural sensitivity is crucial for sustainable integration.
•Infrastructure and Accessibility: Access to necessary infrastructure like
transportation, utilities, and waste disposal needs careful planning in less densely
populated areas.
Specific Considerations for Altapura: •Land Use and Zoning: Understanding local land-use
Visual Impact: The hotel's scale and form should be
carefully considered to avoid overwhelming the regulations and zoning restrictions is crucial for ensuring the
surrounding landscape or disrupting existing views. project's feasibility and compliance.
Sustainability: Utilizing local, sustainable materials •Social Impact: Assessing the potential social impact on the
and incorporating energy-efficient practices can community, including potential disruptions or benefits, is
minimize environmental impact. important for responsible development.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting local traditions and •Long-Term Sustainability: The project's design and operation
incorporating vernacular elements in the design can should consider long-term sustainability, minimizing
foster a sense of connection with the community. environmental impact and ensuring economic viability for the
Economic Impact: The hotel's operation should
future.
create economic benefits for the local community
through job creation, supporting local businesses, and
responsible tourism practices.
Accessibility: Providing accessible transportation
options and designing the hotel for inclusivity can
attract a wider range of visitors without straining local
infrastructure.
 What are the zoning regulations – are there any
specific local laws – are there any relaxations

[Link] the municipality: Determine the specific town or village where the Altapura Hotel is located. This
information should be readily available from the hotel's website or other online resources.
[Link] for the municipality's website: Most French municipalities have their own website where you can
find information about local regulations, including urban planning documents and zoning maps. These
documents might be titled "Plan Local d'Urbanisme" (PLU) or "Carte Communale".
[Link] for specific sections: Within the urban planning documents, search for sections related to zoning
regulations, construction codes, and any special regulations applicable to tourist developments or hotels.
[Link] with a local expert: If you need further assistance interpreting the regulations or understanding
their implications for the Altapura Hotel project, consider consulting with a local architect, urban planner, or
lawyer familiar with the specific municipality's regulations.
What is quality of landscape within the premises –
the relation between building and landscape

Landscape Quality:
•Natural features: The presence of natural elements like trees, water
bodies, or topography significantly impacts the landscape's quality and
potential for integration with the building.
•Man-made elements: Existing landscaping, gardens, or hardscapes can
influence the overall quality and character of the space.
•Maintenance and upkeep: The quality of the landscape also depends on
its ongoing maintenance and care.
The ingress and egress details – the movement
patterns – the parking details – View points

Ingress/Egress:
•Identify main access points: Look for the hotel's address on its website or maps, and use
street view features to locate the main entrance(s) for vehicles and pedestrians.
•Accessibility: Check the hotel's website or contact them directly to inquire about
accessibility features like ramps, designated drop-off zones, and accessible parking.
•Public transportation: Research public transportation options near the hotel, including bus
stops, train stations, or ski lifts, and how they connect to the hotel entrance.
Together, openings and furniture work in
synergy to enhance the design and
functionality of a space. Openings can be •Flexibility and Adaptability: Furniture can be arranged and
strategically placed to provide natural light and rearranged to adapt to different needs and activities. Flexible
views to furniture arrangements, creating a more furniture systems allow for easy reconfiguration, making spaces
pleasant and stimulating environment. more adaptable and responsive to changing needs.
Furniture layout can influence the use and
perception of openings. For example, placing
seating near windows can encourage occupants
to enjoy the views, while strategically placed
furniture can block unwanted sunlight or
glances.
Both elements contribute to the overall user
experience by impacting comfort,
functionality, aesthetics, and sense of
place. Carefully considering their interaction is
crucial for creating well-designed and functional
spaces.
Is technology making the building nature
friendly – or is it working other way round
•Energy efficiency: Building automation systems, smart lighting, and
high-performance materials can significantly reduce energy
consumption, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller
carbon footprint.
•Renewable energy integration: Solar panels, wind turbines, and
geothermal systems can generate clean energy on-site, further reducing
reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainability.
•Water conservation: Low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and
intelligent irrigation systems can minimize water usage and protect
valuable water resources.
•Waste management: Smart waste management systems can optimize
waste collection and recycling, reducing landfill waste and promoting
resource recovery.
•Indoor air quality: Improved ventilation systems, air filtration
technologies, and green building materials can create healthier indoor
environments, reducing respiratory problems and promoting occupant
well-being.
•Monitoring and optimization: Building management systems can collect
real-time data on energy consumption, water usage, and indoor air
quality, enabling continuous monitoring and optimization for improved
sustainability.
Embodied energy: The
production, transportation, and installation of
high-tech building systems can require
significant energy and resources, potentially
negating the benefits of their operation.
E-waste: Disposal of outdated or malfunctioning
technological components can create electronic
waste, posing challenges for responsible
recycling and management.
Reliance on complex systems: Complex
technological systems can be vulnerable to
failures or cyberattacks, potentially jeopardizing
the building's environmental performance.
Social and environmental
inequalities: Unequal access to technology and
resources can exacerbate existing social and
environmental inequalities, limiting the benefits
of sustainable technologies to certain
communities.
Data privacy concerns: Collecting and
managing building data raises concerns about
data privacy and potential misuse of information.
What about the role of nature in the whole
project – how sensitive is it to nature

Positive roles of nature:

•Site selection: Choosing a site with minimal disruption to existing ecosystems and
sensitive habitats is crucial. Minimizing tree removal, protecting waterways, and respecting
natural drainage patterns are essential.
•Biodiversity: Integrating green spaces, planting native vegetation, and creating wildlife
corridors can attract and support diverse species, enriching the local ecosystem.
•Microclimate: Trees and vegetation can provide shade, reducing cooling energy
needs. Green roofs and walls can insulate buildings, improving thermal comfort and energy
efficiency.
•Water management: Implementing natural drainage systems, rainwater harvesting, and
permeable surfaces can reduce reliance on municipal water and improve water quality.
•Human well-being: Access to nature and green spaces has numerous benefits for human
health and well-being, reducing stress, improving air quality, and promoting physical
activity.
•Aesthetics and character: Integrating nature into the design can create a more visually
appealing and inviting environment,
Sensitivity to nature:
Construction impact: Construction activities can disrupt natural
habitats, damage soil, and pollute water sources. Implementing responsible
construction practices like minimizing site disturbance, using recycled
materials, and employing proper erosion control measures is crucial.
Light pollution: Artificial lighting can disrupt nocturnal wildlife and
contribute to skyglow. Designing lighting systems that minimize light
trespass and use energy-efficient sources is important.
Invasive species: Planting non-native species can disrupt local
ecosystems. Selecting native plants and controlling the spread of invasive
species is essential.
Water consumption: Landscaping and irrigation systems can increase water
usage. Choosing drought-tolerant plants, implementing efficient irrigation
techniques, and utilizing rainwater harvesting can mitigate this impact.
Maintenance needs: Maintaining green spaces and natural features requires
resources and expertise. Planning for long-term maintenance and ensuring
proper management are crucial for lasting benefits.