Therme Vals (Thermal Baths in Vals, Switzerland) (Vals, Graubünden, Switzerland, 1993 – 1996) The experiential atmosphere of the Therme Vals in Switzerland (probably one of Zumthor’s most famous works) will be discussed in detail in another chapter. Set within a hill, the baths have a flat and geometric façade, while inside it is a complex arrangement of geometric volumes to create a variety of intimate spaces and negative spaces (hallways). These volumes act also as columns, creating an irregular structural grid for the building. By repeating these volumes, groups are created, which act together to create different zones of levels of intimacy, materials, sound, temperature, and light. The concept of solid and void are expressed through the negative spaces creating by these groupings and the extraneous thicknesses of their walls. The groupings of volumes have an arrangement that is derivative of a convention building. There are some that are spaced out along the edges, acting as walls and forming the boundaries. Then there are some that are in the middle of the plan, acting as columns and defining the pool spaces.
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