Après-ski revisited at 2,000 metres
In the heart of the Andorran Pyrenees, Grandvalira stretches over 210 kilometres of slopes and is among the largest ski resorts in southern Europe. In the El Tarter area, perched at two thousand metres, the Petroni terrace offers an unexpected break: a place where you swap ski poles for a glass of vermouth, pinchos and a few tapas, facing the snow-covered peaks.
The brief for this project was demanding: create a warm, contemporary open-air atmosphere in a high-mountain climate with extreme temperatures, heavy snowfall and regular winds. Vondom rose to the challenge with three collections by the same designer.
The heart of the terrace, by Vela
At the centre of the scheme are the modular sofas from the Vela collection, designed by Ramón Esteve. The prismatic geometry of this line is instantly recognisable: flat volumes that seem to float above the ground, tracing a contemporary and discreet silhouette.
The modularity of the Vela is a decisive asset on a terrace of this size. The modules fit together to form linear seating or islands, depending on footfall and the type of service. It can host a group of skiers after the descent just as well as a guest who has come to enjoy a moment of calm.
Ulm sofas, softness and comfort
In counterpoint to the bold volumes of the Vela, the Ulm collection adds a note of softness. Ramón Esteve designed these sofas and armchairs with softened, almost organic forms, made for the comfort of a long break. The upper rib of the backrest, which works with a generous cushion, gives the piece a silhouette that is both recognisable and welcoming.
On the Petroni terrace, these seats are strategically placed to enjoy the best views of the surrounding peaks. The proposition is clear: slow down, contemplate, savour.
The informal wing, brought to life by Frame
On the other side of the terrace, the mood changes. The high tables and stools from the Frame collection, again designed by Ramón Esteve, make up a more dynamic area, suited to standing, quick conversations and shared drinks.
The signature of the Frame collection lies in its rigorous minimalism: a clean geometric base, a simple tabletop, no frills. This vocabulary suits the Grandvalira setting perfectly, where the whiteness of the snow and the mineral quality of the mountains call for furniture that does not push itself forward.
When design takes on the Pyrenees
The technical challenge of this project deserves to be highlighted. Vondom outdoor furniture is made from rotomoulded polyethylene in Beneixída, which gives it remarkable resistance to frost, UV and sudden temperature changes. A decisive feature when the terrace goes from midday sun to biting evening cold within a few hours.
At Verano Design, we see this project as the perfect demonstration that design does not stop at the gates of the high mountains. On the contrary, it is in these demanding climates that the build quality of the Vondom collections truly shows. The signature of Ramón Esteve, for its part, looks particularly at home there.
