Designed by Pritzker Prize Laureate Peter Zumthor in 1988, the Saint Benedict Chapel graces the village of Sumvitg in Graubünden. Zumthor’s signature style is evident in the chapel’s modest exterior, emphasizing the beauty and simplicity that defines his work. Inside, the craftsmanship shines, showcasing his unmatched skill.

The chapel’s origin traces back to a 1984 avalanche that wiped out the village’s baroque-style chapel. Positioned on a hillside, the new chapel not only provides stunning mountain views but is also safeguarded from potential avalanches by the surrounding forest.

In an interview with The New York Times, Zumthor disclosed his architectural philosophy: “When I start, my first idea for a building is with the material. I believe architecture is about that. It’s not about paper, it’s not about forms. It’s about space and material.” This philosophy is reflected in the Saint Benedict Chapel, where modern materials seamlessly blend into the Alpine setting, paying homage to tradition.

Despite incorporating contemporary elements, the cylindrical chapel harmoniously coexists with the village’s traditional architecture. Wooden shingles and snips, reminiscent of local houses, adorn the exterior. The boat-like roof adds expressiveness, bridged by a ring of vertical wood columns and glass panels that allow natural light to illuminate the interior.

Within the chapel, a single space unfolds, adorned with minimalist wooden columns, beams, and benches, highlighting Zumthor’s craftsmanship. The Saint Benedict Chapel stands as a testament to Zumthor’s architectural prowess, seamlessly integrating modernity with tradition in the Alpine landscape.

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