Pilatus Arena: integrated planning and delivery of the hospitality areas
Pilatus Arena in Kriens is not only Switzerland’s most modern mid-size arena for sport, culture and events, it is also a prime example of how well-conceived hospitality concepts can achieve great impact within an optimally used footprint. Commissioned by Halter AG, Integral design-build AG delivered the complete interior fit-out of the Pilatus Arena’s hospitality areas from initial planning through to completion.
Integrated planning for a seamless user experience
The hospitality concept at Pilatus Arena follows a clear idea: functionality, experience and efficiency should merge into one. The end-to-end concept delivered by Integral includes interior design, an operations and usage concept, and the logistical planning of the hospitality and gastronomy areas developed in close collaboration with an experienced gastro planner.
A key focus was flexibility: the 240-seat VIP restaurant can be used in a variety of ways from business lunches to gala dinners. The result is an infrastructure that supports diverse formats while meeting the highest design and functional standards.
Key Facts:
- 850 m² hospitality area
- 165 people in the extended project network
- Over 30 contractors coordinated
- 2.5 years of planning
- Delivered from 1 April to 31 July 2025 on schedule and efficiently
Complexity as a design challenge
The challenge lay in high complexity within a compact footprint. Careful planning was essential to create a hospitality environment that is maximally functional while also delivering a compelling atmosphere.
Developed across approximately 850 m², the concept supports both day-to-day operations and event operations from a quick snack to an exclusive VIP experience. Through scenario-based planning and use-case analysis, the team ensured that all operational workflows interlock seamlessly.
- Efficient processes for sports and cultural events
- High-quality catering for VIP guests
- Flexible adaptation to visitor volumes
- Optimized logistics routes for kitchen, service and replenishment
Three levels – one vision
The hospitality fit-out at Pilatus Arena spans three levels, each with its own function and atmosphere, unified by a consistent design and usage concept. Kitchen, logistics and guest flow are precisely aligned.
On the ground floor, the central production kitchen forms the heart of the hospitality infrastructure, supplying all areas of the arena. State-of-the-art kitchen technology is integrated into a compact, efficient spatial layout that enables optimized workflows and coordinated operations.
On the second floor, three food boxes expand the offer. They are designed to adapt flexibly to different event types from handball matches to concerts. This allows the arena team to respond dynamically to visitor volumes, adjust the offer based on demand, and maintain high standards of quality, efficiency and service speed.
On the third floor, the 240-seat VIP restaurant offers premium dining and the best view into the arena. A dedicated regeneration kitchen and a stylish bar create an environment where function, atmosphere and design come together as one cohesive experience.
Seamless integration and precise coordination
Successful delivery was built on close collaboration between Integral and Halter AG. Aligning more than 30 contractors, integrating complex fire safety requirements, and coordinating with ongoing construction processes required maximum precision. The arena’s hospitality areas demonstrate how intelligent planning, clear communication and interdisciplinary collaboration lead to a compelling overall outcome.
Planning a complex hospitality project? Benefit from our experience delivering demanding interior fit-out solutions.
