Résidence Les Voiles

Private mandate

Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva

2024 - in progress

The site is located at the crossroads of several landscape systems that define the portion of land concerned by the project: the plot is positioned at the end of a neighbourhood of villas, facing the visual opening created by the grounds of the equestrian centre's sports centre and interacting with the forest bordering the River Aire. The new residential building occupies the western corner of the plot, opening up and delimiting a clearly defined and generous outdoor space, playing with the different landscape systems.

The two-storey building volume is structured by the curves of its curved terraces, which resemble sails. This organic movement links the edge of the forest with the plot, which opens onto the wider landscape. The undulation formed by the intrados creates a back-up. Instead of sliding, the space clings to these arches, which house generous loggias extending the living spaces of the flats. The detachment of the ground gives the volume a floating effect above the ‘meadow’. It shows that the original slope of the site has remained virtually intact. The pillars, designed like masts, accentuate this suspended effect. A ramp connects the mineral part of the access and parking area with the raised ground floor of the building.

These features assert a clear relationship with the surrounding nature. The horizontal lines that criss-cross the volume and the large windows establish a continuity between the interior and exterior, both vast and open.Thanks to these horizontal lines, the building blends into the landscape, similar to architect Frank Lloyd Wright's design for his Prairie Houses, which appear to lie on the ground, melting into the landscape.


group8, Résidence Les Voiles , Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, 2024 - in progress

Program

Grouped housing development with 4 flats

Specifications

Very high energy performance construction

Client

Private customer

Commission type

Private mandate

Image credits

@group8