Timber construction in Graubünden
As a timber construction firm based in Laax, Camathias SA specialises in timber system construction, timber architecture and bespoke timber structures for clients and architectural practices throughout Graubünden. From initial planning right through to final inspection, every project is managed under one roof: with strong regional roots, precise craftsmanship and structurally sound design.
Deeply rooted in the region
One-stop timber construction expertise for the whole of Graubünden.
Your timber specialist
What we look out for in timber architecture
Graubünden’s topography, climate and building regulations place particular demands on timber construction. Camathias SA is familiar with these conditions from years of practical experience in Flims, Laax and throughout the Surselva. Whether it’s a chalet, a detached house or a block of flats: we design and build timber construction projects tailored to alpine locations, snow loads and local building regulations, and support clients every step of the way, from initial consultation through to final inspection.
A single point of contact – from the initial sketch to final approval
- Local knowledge: We have experience with alpine building regulations and the relevant authorities in Graubünden.
- Local tradespeople: Short lines of communication with local clients and partner companies.
Your timber-frame builder for new builds, conversions and refurbishments
- New builds & refurbishments: From the initial sketch to the finished design.
- Refurbishment: Professional refurbishment and extension of existing timber buildings.
Timber Architecture: How We Design and Construct
- Design & Structural Analysis: The design and structural system are developed in tandem.
- Materialisation: Wooden architecture that blends in with the landscape and climate.
Whether you’re carrying out your building project yourself with our help or, as an architectural practice, are looking for a partner specialising in timber construction: we’re here to support you.
Modular Construction: Our Range of Prefabricated Solutions
In timber system construction, Camathias SA prefabricates wall, ceiling and roof elements in its own workshop, regardless of weather conditions. The timber comes from Graubünden and other sources. The Assembly of the wooden components On-site construction is therefore faster and more precise than with traditional on-site production. For clients and architectural practices in Graubünden, this means shorter construction times whilst maintaining the same high standard of quality.
Timber construction partner for the whole of Graubünden
For property developers and architectural practices in Flims, Laax and the Surselva, this means: a single point of contact, short lines of communication and expertise in timber construction tailored to the mountains of Graubünden.
Many years of experience
Preliminary project
Initial ideas are being turned into concrete plans.
Project
Detailed planning provides a solid foundation.
Planning application
Documents are submitted in accordance with the regulations.
Construction work
Under our supervision, tradespeople carry out the work according to the plans.
Conclusion
Your building project will be successfully handed over.
Showcase properties
A historical overview
Timber architecture in the Flims and Laax region
- Before the 19th century: The Surselva remained without a continuous road until 1846 and, as a result, developed a distinct, enduring tradition of wattle-and-daub construction, largely independent of outside influences.
- 17th–19th centuries: Residential houses and stables built using the wattle-and-daub construction method were erected in Flims and Laax. Preserved examples in the old village centre of Flims include a 17th-century house with an adjoining stable dating from 1826.
- Second half of the 19th century: Repeated village fires in Laax (including those in 1874, 1877 and 1886) destroyed entire rows of houses and forced the valley community to rebuild them using traditional craftsmanship time and again.
- 20th century: As Flims and Laax grew into tourist resorts, demand for new timber-framed buildings increased. Architects such as Gion A. Caminada from nearby Vrin helped shape a contemporary interpretation of the Graubünden timber-framed building style, which attracted attention far beyond the Surselva region.
- Today: Camathias SA continues to practise the carpentry trade in the region from its premises in Laax, combining it with modern timber-frame and prefabricated construction techniques from its own production facility.
We are also your architect
For building clients and architectural practices in Flims, Laax and the Surselva, this means: As Timber architect We are your point of contact, offering you direct access and expertise in timber construction tailored to the mountains of Graubünden. We draw up the preliminary design and the final design, and submit the planning application. Under our site management, we build your Graubünden home, ensuring there is no loss of information between the architectural practice, the timber builder and the joinery workshop. This simplifies the scheduling process, as decisions do not need to be coordinated multiple times but are incorporated directly into the planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I go about building a house in Graubünden?
In Graubünden, it is worth checking building regulations, the slope conditions and access arrangements at an early stage, before the actual planning begins. Camathias SA supports clients in Flims, Laax and the Surselva throughout the entire process, from the initial idea right through to final inspection.
- Preliminary assessment: Check building regulations, the zoning plan and the plot of land.
- Planning & Planning Application: Draw up the design, structural analysis and documentation for the authorities.
- Description: Carry out the construction under expert supervision.
- Final inspection: Handover and inspection of all trades.
I’d like to build my flat out of wood. How do I go about it?
When undertaking interior fit-outs or renovations of a flat built using timber construction methods, it is advisable to first carry out an assessment of the structural integrity and the desired room layout. Camathias SA provides a one-stop service for the design and construction of timber structures for interior fit-outs and renovations in Graubünden, including detailed design and installation.
- Current situation: Check the structural integrity and the existing building fabric.
- Choice of materials: Choose a suitable type of timber for walls, ceilings or panelling.
- Modular construction: Prefabrication at the factory to ensure precise on-site assembly.
- Implementation: Installation carried out by our own specialist staff, with support provided to ensure it is completed on schedule.
What makes timber architecture in the Grisons mountains such a challenge?
Alpine locations require structures that are designed to withstand snow loads, account for the slope gradient and comply with local building regulations. Camathias SA designs timber architecture that takes these requirements into account from the outset.
How does timber panel construction differ from traditional timber construction?
Which timber construction company in Graubünden specialises in timber system construction?
Camathias SA, based in Laax, specialises in timber frame construction and prefabricated building systems. The company was founded in 1982. It carries out projects in Flims, Laax and the Surselva region, as well as elsewhere in Graubünden.
In which regions of Graubünden does Camathias SA operate as a timber construction firm?
The company’s head office is in Laax. Camathias SA carries out projects primarily in Flims, Laax and the Surselva, as well as in other regions of Graubünden.
Does Camathias SA also undertake the refurbishment of existing timber buildings in Graubünden?
Yes. As well as constructing new buildings, Camathias SA refurbishes and extends existing timber buildings – for example, by adding extra storeys or dormers – for clients throughout Graubünden.