Location: Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Interior Designer & Architect: AW2 architecture & interiors

Developer: 1875 Finance SA

Construction: EDIFEA SA

Photography: Juan Jerez del Valle, Mikael Bénard, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Located directly on the ski slopes of the Swiss Alps, Six Senses Crans-Montana has been conceived by design firm AW² architecture & interiors as an upward journey through the mountain towards light. The project is conceived as a powerful, tectonic structure that responds sensitively to its surroundings, with AW² carefully studying the perception of the surrounding mountains to create an architecture that mirrors and integrates with the natural landscape.

The hotel’s accommodation and facilities are organised within a central six-storey structure, forming an elevated platform topped by two chalet-inspired residential buildings. This arrangement provides panoramic mountain views from the bar, outdoor swimming pool and surrounding lounge areas, where log fires and a film projection station encourage relaxation and social interaction.

Central to the architectural and interior concept is the transition from dark to light, gradually revealing the spaces and landscapes beyond. Inspired by the natural geology of the Alps, the hotel emerges from the mountainside like a rock reaching towards the light. The guest journey begins at the underground entrance, conceived as a mineral grotto, before opening towards carefully framed views of the surrounding landscape.

Throughout the interiors, AW² architecture & interiors has employed refined, understated materials including local stone, timber and leather, creating a warm and tactile connection with nature. The arrival space features stone-lined walls and a timber ceiling inspired by the facets of a mountain cave. Within the suites, the design evokes the comforting feeling of ‘coming in from the cold’, combining rough timber planks, stone-coloured wall finishes and expansive private balconies overlooking the ski slopes, forest and valley. Each suite continues the project’s commitment to understated luxury, providing a cocooning retreat immersed in its alpine setting.