On 2 January 2026, Chesa Marchetta officially opened in Sils Maria, marking the arrival in Switzerland of Artfarm, the international hospitality group founded by Swiss gallery owners Iwan Wirth and Manuela Wirth. The establishment is the group’s second hotel, following the opening in 2019 of the award-winning The Fife Arms in Braemar, Scotland.
Recognised as one of the main cultural centres of the Engadin Valley, Sils Maria has historically attracted internationally renowned writers, philosophers, artists and musicians, seduced by the power of its alpine landscape and the unique quality of its light. This cultural heritage forms the backdrop to Artfarm’s new project, which is located in the centre of the village and engages with its history and identity.
The building that houses Chesa Marchetta was for decades a well-known restaurant and guesthouse, owned by the Godly family since 1947. Over the years, the establishment welcomed many distinguished guests and established itself as a meeting place for the social and cultural life of the area. Following a comprehensive refurbishment over the last four years, the complex has been transformed into a boutique hotel with thirteen rooms, a restaurant seating 46 diners and an adjoining three-bedroom house also designed for extended stays.
The architectural project was led by Luis Laplace, founder of the Laplace studio, internationally renowned for his adaptive reuse projects and for creating high-quality cultural and gastronomic spaces. The renovation sought to preserve the original character of the building while incorporating a contemporary style and a high level of comfort.
The hotel is managed by Federica Bertolini, general manager who was also involved in the opening of Artfarm’s first hotel in Scotland. The restaurant, open to both guests and the local and visiting public, is inspired by the creative and seasonal use of ingredients historically developed by Maria and Christina Godly. The gastronomic offering is the responsibility of chef Davide Degiovanni, who joined Artfarm after working in leading restaurants in London.
Founded in 2014 and led by CEO Bee Emmott, Artfarm is an independent hospitality company with a focus on integrating art, gastronomy and community. Co-founded by the creators of the international gallery Hauser & Wirth, the company develops projects that respond to the local culture and traditions of each destination. With the opening of Chesa Marchetta, Artfarm reinforces its position in the experiential luxury segment, committing to hospitality linked to the territory, history and cultural dialogue.
