Tradition meets today. Mama’s Design Concept.
Mama loves Zermatt. And Mama loves great design. That’s why it was clear to us from the very beginning: transforming the former Hotel Admiral into a home for modern mountain lovers had to follow a concept. A concept that carries Zermatt at its heart while remaining open to fresh ideas.
Alpine roots. Rethought.
Mama’s design is a love letter to Alpine heritage. But one that looks forward. We take traditional forms, materials and patterns and reinterpret them in our own way. The facade features a stylised Edelweiss motif. Locally sourced larch wood and Valaisan tuff stone meet clean, modern lines. The result feels familiar – yet refreshingly new.
Our balconies are made of painted larch wood. The terrace flooring is a durable tile with a stone finish. And because beauty should also be practical, even the roof of the outdoor bar was built using the same wood as the facade. It all fits. It’s all Mama.
Step in and feel at home.
The moment you enter, it becomes clear: nothing at Mama is left to chance. Above the reception hangs a true design icon – the PH lamp by Poul Henningsen. A Danish classic. Behind the reception desk, a historical map of Zermatt is engraved directly into the wood. A bold statement about our roots and who we are.
In the common areas, we used materials that are both robust and refined. Dark tiles and smoked oak floors create a warm, open atmosphere. You feel welcome. You feel like staying.
Mama's rooms with character.
Our rooms tell stories. The bed headboards are made from genuine loden – a fabric that has protected Alpine herders through harsh winters for centuries. The classic dark green shade pays homage to the region’s traditions. That’s exactly what Mama is about: loving, thoughtful and deeply connected to this place.
We added fabrics from Pierre Frey inspired by traditional paper-cut folk art from mountain villages. Carpets made of pure new wool from Merino sheep. Upholstery by Etro, featuring their iconic paisley pattern. Every piece was chosen with care. Everything has soul.
A true highlight is the minibar cabinet in the look of a vintage suitcase. Covered in leather, finished with straps, brass nails and corner guards. Even a small drink in the room feels like the beginning of a great journey.
Love is in the detail.
At Mama, the story is often found in the details. In the bistro stands a design fireplace tiled using traditional Japanese Raku technique. The surface recalls Mama’s old tiled stove. Old and new come together. And the warmth is real.
The coworking space features a smoked oak shingle wall, reminiscent of traditional Swiss rooftops. The bathrooms feature brushed black chrome fittings from Hansgrohe, developed in collaboration with Italian designer Antonio Citterio. Timeless. Elegant. Just right for Zermatt.
Our philosophy also shows in the furnishings. The Elephant Chair by Scandinavian brand NORR11. Vintage armchairs embroidered with Turkish Suzani. Fabrics from the Rohleder Home Collection by Olaf Hajek. Unique pieces you don’t just see, you feel them.
Design for us is more than aesthetics. It’s an emotion. It’s a mindset. And it’s our way of showing Zermatt just how much we love it. When you come to Mama, you’ll feel it instantly. Everything was created with heart. And with deep respect for the region.