Reconstruction - Thermalbad Wallis

Foundation

As far back as the 15th century Brigerbad was mentioned as “the healing baths which pour out of the Valais”. The foundation stone of today’s modern complex was laid down in 1957 by Cécile and Hans Kalbermatten. In the years that followed the Brigerbad was continuously expanded and renovated. Later, in 2007, the Cécile and Hans Kalbermatten Foundation was established. Goal: Long-term preservation of the Thermal bath and leisure facility as a health promoting local recreation area and tourist attraction of the upper Valais.

Renovation

The last and most significant renovation was completed on the 20th of December 2014, following a 15 month building period. Up to that point the Brigerbad had only been open during the summer months. Now it was open year round. With the preservation of the existing pools as well as the unique Grotte, embedded in the rock, the Thermal baths have been able to sustain their existing identity. The extension of the buildings, offering additional capacity, was created by adding another storey to the existing ground plot! The new restaurant “Kristall” arches out over 2 existing indoor pools, which are connected to the outdoor pools.

Additional capacity

Part of the additional capacity belongs to the new Children’s Pool and the Indoor Pool (School Sport Pool) 25m in length, which is used by the students from Visp, Brig-Glis and Naters as well as the Swimming Clubs. The project has been appraised by SECO as a shinning example of the new regional policy. The Thermal baths of Brigerbad are the only ones along the valley floor of the upper Valais and are – together with the adjoining Camping grounds – well-known throughout Switzerland. The transformation to a year round recreational facility, including the addition of a modern Wellness, Spa and Fitness center, has led to a substantial upgrade of the Tourism infrastructure in the upper Valais.

Info

Employer: Hans Kalbermatter Thermalbad AG
Architect: dreipunkt AG, Brig
Construction Management: AMICASA, Michel Carron, Riddes
Building equipment and appliances: Kannewischer Ingenieurbüro, Cham
Operator: Thermalquellen AG, a company of Eurothermes group
Construction time: 15 months, 17th September 2013 – 20th December 2014
Construction volume: 33’700 m3
Construction costs: 30 million Swiss Francs

Reconstruction 2013-2014

Foundation

Renovation

Additional capacity

Info