Construction of the Foster + Partners-designed Gstaad House has been delayed, and no new start date has been confirmed. Meanwhile, a legal restriction affecting the project's planned restaurant has been lifted.

Almost a year after receiving its building permit, Gstaad House is still awaiting the start of construction. Project initiator Siamak Siassi confirmed that technical difficulties prevented work from starting as planned in April 2026.

Speaking to the Anzeiger von Saanen, Siassi explained that additional geotechnical investigations had been necessary. The project's final financing package is also still being prepared.

In response to the delays, the municipality of Saanen has extended the building permit by two years. It is now valid until 2 September 2028, according to the municipal building planning commission. No revised construction timetable has been announced.

Restaurant plans move forward

There is, however, progress concerning the building's planned hospitality facilities.

A private-law restriction previously prohibited producing, storing, and selling food on the property. According to Siassi, this restriction was lifted through a notarised agreement in April 2026, removing one of the obstacles to the proposed restaurant operation.

An ambitious project for Gstaad

Designed by British architectural practice Foster + Partners, Gstaad House is planned for the Tomi commercial area below Lauenenstrasse.

The multi-storey development aims to bring together art, culture and hospitality, with exhibition and event spaces, secure storage for valuable collections and a private members' club.

As GstaadLife reported in October 2025, the architectural concept includes a striking timber structure with a ramp connecting its various levels. The project is intended to serve both private collectors and the wider community through exhibitions, concerts and cultural events.

While the restaurant restriction has now been resolved, questions remain over when construction will begin. For now, the extended building permit gives the developers two more years to move the project forward.

Source: Anzeiger von Saanen, 13 October 2026, reporting by Maxime Vögele.