The new Madre Nostra terrace at CERVO
The terrace at Madre Nostra is a place where design, function and nature come together in perfect harmony. With the recently completed remodelling, CERVO has once again proven how to turn visions into reality. We spoke to Andrea Kraft from dreimeta, Adrian Schnidrig from Schreinerei Schnidrig and Urs Hänggi from Swiss garden furniture manufacturer Schaffner to find out more about the inspiration, planning and challenges of this impressive project.
A space of calm and elegance
When Daniel Lauber expressed the desire to redesign the terrace, the vision was clear: an exclusive place that stands out from the rest of the CERVO world while retaining the relaxed atmosphere. Andrea Kraft describes her inspiration as follows: «Relaxed luxury with a Madre Nostra twist.»
With a focus on natural materials and understated colours, Andrea has transferred the elements of the CERVO design concept to the terrace. The combination of larch wood, which can already be found in the architecture of CERVO, and the warm, Italian colours of Madre Nostra create a harmonious interplay. Cushions in different textures and patterns provide cosiness and a playful detail.
Function meets beauty
The demands on the terrace are enormous: from robust furniture that can withstand skiing and winter boots to adaptation to extreme weather conditions at an altitude of 1,600 metres. This is where the Schnidrig joinery came into play, realising Andrea Kraft's design concept with precise craftsmanship and innovative solutions.
Adrian Schnidrig explains: «The tables and benches made from local larch combine natural aesthetics with functionality. The delicate metal structures ensure stability and durability. This allows us to create furniture that is both visually impressive and meets the high demands of our guests.»
Focus on sustainability
Sustainability plays a central role at CERVO - a value that both the Schnidrig joinery and Schaffner share. The larch wood used comes directly from the surrounding forests around Zermatt and has been an integral part of Valais culture for generations.
Particularly noteworthy are the chairs, which were specially made for the new terrace of the Madre Nostra by the Schaffner joinery. The Schaffner Rigi chair, an iconic piece of Swiss design, was specially customised for the CERVO. Urs von Schaffner explains:
«Switching from ash wood to larch wood from Zermatt was a logical step for us. Larch wood has a unique grain and colouring that perfectly reflects the regional character of Madre Nostra. At the same time, the use of local resources minimises transport routes and strengthens the circular economy.’
Adrian Schnidrig describes it aptly: «Larch has had a connection to the region for thousands of years and can tell stories - just like the CERVO. It's a special feeling to be part of a project like this.»
Urs Hänggi adds: «Our philosophy is not only to create beautiful and functional furniture, but also products that always tell a little story. The Rigi chair is a symbol of how good design, sustainability and tradition can go hand in hand.»
Challenges and creative solutions
Andrea Kraft and Adrian Schnidrig faced a number of challenges during the realisation. The outside bar in particular, which was given a back office in the neighbouring stable, required creative solutions. Despite tight schedules and a lack of construction management, the partners were able to achieve a result that exceeded expectations thanks to close collaboration and a great deal of commitment.
Andrea Kraft emphasises: «It was great to meet up with old friends again. The intensive collaboration with Adrian Schnidrig and his customised solutions was crucial. Communication was open and goal-orientated right from the start.»
Urs also emphasises the collaboration with CERVO: «Your clear ideas and willingness to go down innovative paths made this project something special. It was a genuine collaboration in which design and functionality were perfectly combined.»
A place for special moments
The terrace of the Madre Nostra is not only a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, but also a place where guests can experience the beauty of Zermatt's nature and the relaxed elegance of CERVO. With a glass of wine in your hand and a view of the majestic Alps, you can forget everyday life for a moment.
We look forward to spending many unforgettable hours on the new terrace of the Madre Nostra and would like to thank everyone involved in making this project possible.
Book your table and enjoy live music on the terrace on Fridays - Sundays from 12:30 - 15:30.
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