House of Architects

House of Architects in Vals, Switzerland, a Michelin Key Selected property, is widely celebrated for its innovative design, exceptional spa access, and outstanding service. Guests consistently highlight its unique architectural blend with nature, creating a memorable and tranquil experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

House of Architects generally receives a "Very Good" to "Exceptional" overall rating, scoring 8.5 out of 10 on Booking.com from over 257 reviews, and 8.8 on Agoda with 24 reviews. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with guests particularly impressed by the hotel's architectural brilliance, the world-renowned thermal baths, and the attentive staff.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise several standout features:

• Design & Architecture: The hotel itself is an architectural masterpiece, with clean lines, quality materials, and an aesthetic use of minimal space. Its innovative design harmonizes with the surrounding Vals valley. Being a Michelin Key Selected property, its architectural pedigree, with rooms designed by luminaries like Peter Zumthor, Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, and Thom Mayne, is a major draw.
• Spa & Wellness: The direct, covered link bridge access to the famous Therme Vals is a significant highlight. Guests appreciate exclusive early morning and after-hours access to the baths, allowing for serene and meditative experiences. The spa facilities include multiple pools (indoor, outdoor, fire, ice, blossom, sound pools), a fitness center, steam room, sauna, and various beauty and body treatments using local quartzite.
• Service: The staff's hospitality is frequently cited as a standout feature, described as exceptionally friendly, polite, helpful, and always ready to meet guests' needs.
• Views: Many rooms offer beautiful garden or mountain views.

3. Room Quality

The 73 rooms at House of Architects, though described as relatively compact (around 20-21 m² or 215 ft²), are extremely comfortable and well-decorated. Each room showcases the unique vision of its designer:

• Ando & Kuma Rooms: Crafted from oak, featuring artful Japanese carpentry, designed by Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma respectively.
• Zumthor & Mayne Rooms: Offer a moodier ambiance, utilizing saturated chiaroscuro colors or textures of local Vals quartzite. Standard amenities include balconies, private bathrooms with walk-in showers and free toiletries, and a work desk. While some guests note the absence of a television or traditional table, this is often seen as encouraging unwinding and appreciating the environment.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel features a family-friendly restaurant that serves French, Italian, and European cuisines, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Breakfast is a highlight, offering continental, buffet, and high tea options, including a rich alpine breakfast with freshly baked bread, homemade jams, and a selection of local meat and dairy products.

As part of the larger 7132 Hotel complex, guests have access to additional acclaimed dining establishments:

• 7132 Silver: A two-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative gourmet menu.
• 7132 Red: Offers fine dining with timeless French and Italian cuisine.
• 7132 Glenner and 7132 daPapà: Provide more casual dining experiences. There is also a stylish bar and a coffee shop.

5. Service & Staff

The service at House of Architects receives consistent high praise, with a staff rating of 9.4 on Booking.com. Guests describe the staff as "exceptionally friendly," "polite," "helpful," and "always ready to take care of anything you need." The hospitality is a defining aspect of the guest experience, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel is nestled in the picturesque village of Vals, Switzerland, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, thermal springs, and architectural significance. Its prime location offers:

• Direct Spa Access: A covered link bridge provides seamless access to the Therme Vals.
• Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area is ideal for hiking and skiing, with ski lifts nearby. The hotel also offers bike rentals.
• Transportation: The nearest international airport is Zurich (ZRH), approximately 160 kilometers away, with car transfers taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Airport shuttle service is available upon request for an additional fee. Free private parking is available on-site, and covered garage spaces can be reserved for CHF 25 per night.

7. Value & Pricing

House of Architects is considered a "more attainable alternative" to the luxurious 7132 Hotel, offering an "affordable luxury." While rated 7.7 for value for money on Booking.com, the average room price of around $482 is seen as exceptional value given the quality and included access to the acclaimed spa. Some guests specifically mention the overall experience, including the Thermes, makes it "great value for money." Buffet breakfast is available for an extra charge (approximately CHF 38 for adults, CHF 19 for children). Pets are allowed for an extra charge of CHF 30 per night.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some recurring points of feedback include:

• Room Size: Rooms are noted as being "small" or "compact."
• Room Feel: Specific room types, like the Thom Mayne room, might feel "claustrophobic at times" for taller individuals.
• Elevator: There is only "one really small lift for everyone," which can be an inconvenience.
• Noise: The hotel cannot guarantee noise-free guestrooms.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. agoda.com
3. premiumswitzerland.com
4. mypremiumeurope.com
5. michelin.com
6. michelin.com
7. tablethotels.com
8. 84rooms.com
9. myswitzerland.com
10. hotels.com
11. grisonshotelsweb.com
12. premiumswitzerland.com
13. 7132.com
14. trivago.com
15. 7132.com