Bettina, Appenberg is idyllically situated in the heart of the rolling Emmental region. What challenges does the terrain pose for the design of the garden and surrounding area?

Bettina Käppeli: The last ice age and the retreat of the Rhône Glacier shaped the hilly landscape of the Emmental that is so characteristic today. Below what was then the glacier, the Bärbach River carved its way deep into the Nagelfluh rock, forming the valley at the foot of which the Oberhünigenstrasse runs today. The Appenberg is situated on the flank of a moraine from the last Ice Age, formed by the Aare Glacier. This gives the village a unique location and distinctive topography. The buildings on the Appenberg were deliberately placed on this steep slope and integrated into it via three terraces. As a result, the buildings are accessible across all floors. The Appenberg has grown organically over decades. Many of the existing structures fulfill important functions. One of the challenges is to correctly interpret these functions, simplify them, and translate them into a new design concept. Another challenge is to respect the existing topography and provide a new network of paths that continues to connect all levels with the outdoor space. Furthermore, questions arise regarding natural hazards, slope stabilization, surface drainage, the design of the new walls, as well as the construction sequence and site logistics.

The existing access roads will be reduced to a maximum gradient of 12 percent. How will this be achieved?

The current paths have gradients of up to 25 percent. In the future, the paths and ramps designed to bridge elevation differences will be reduced to a maximum gradient of 12 percent in consultation with procap, the Center for Barrier-Free Construction. The new path network is based on the existing connections and consists of a main and a secondary path system. The main paths run along the contour lines and ensure barrier-free access to the four main terraces. The secondary path network consists of stairs running perpendicular to the contour lines, which allow users to quickly navigate the elevation changes.

Appenberg is a place steeped in tradition. How did you take this into account when planning the surroundings?

The Appenberg has a unique charm thanks to the diversity of its buildings, the materials used, and its location in the heart of the Emmental’s natural and cultural landscape. Our work is characterized by a comprehensive analysis of the site and research into its historical context. Through site visits and discussions with the operators, we were able to identify key elements—including the perennial garden, the wall stones, the natural stone paving, and the benches. In planning workshops, we defined how and where these elements could be reintegrated into the overall concept. The planned interventions are intended to preserve and further strengthen the site’s identity, ensuring that Appenberg retains its high level of recognizability.

The Appenberg combines seminar and hotel facilities, making it a place for learning as well as a place to unwind. How is the dual purpose of the site reflected in its landscaping?

The overall concept for Appenberg calls for different zoning areas for future uses. At the center of the complex, in conjunction with the courtyard building, a space for gathering and socializing will be created, designed for group activities or events. The new village square, featuring an arena and a terrace, will become a hub for leisure and social gatherings. The spaces for learning, relaxation, and retreat are embedded in a decentralized manner throughout the surroundings. These areas each have their own distinct character and relate to the context of their immediate surroundings. For example, a herb garden with a south-facing view is located along the slope on the south side. Behind the main building lies the woodland garden, and further north, the orchard nestles against the hillside. To anchor the individual buildings within their surroundings, each is assigned a dedicated outdoor space in front of it. These areas allow the seminar rooms to be used in conjunction with their respective outdoor spaces. In this way, a strong connection is created between the interior and exterior spaces.

What do you find most appealing about this project?
For us, the appeal lies in working at the intersection of the old and the new; guiding a place steeped in tradition into the future through targeted measures without destroying its spirit, and leveraging the multidisciplinary expertise of our planning partners to collaboratively develop tailor-made solutions for the site. Defining the needs of future users, the overarching vision of the site as a place of recreation and an ecological stepping stone within a larger context, and planning as a process are further aspects that make this project so compelling. Bringing these diverse aspects together with the goal of creating a place that remains attractive over the long term—one that evokes emotions, fosters mutual exchange, and strengthens community—is incredibly exciting for us as landscape architects.

The project is being carried out in collaboration with numerous partners. What characterizes this collaboration?
Multidisciplinary collaboration within the overall project team requires a strong commitment to ongoing coordination and constructive communication. The constant exchange between the various disciplines involved creates an interesting dynamic that consistently gives rise to innovative and effective solutions.