The view is everything!

Compiled by Team IAnD

Photography: Solène Renaud pour Chevallier Architectes; courtesy v2com

Read Time: 1 min 30 sec 

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Close to the boundary of a protected wilderness in the south of France, Chevallier Architects rejuvenate a home with state-of-the-art technology, whilst keeping it contextually rooted.

The situation was unique: Chevallier Architectes took on this project, when it was on the verge of being abandoned. There were many constraints, but the architect’s team studied the situation and proposed solutions that would make it possible to successfully complete the construction, including optimization of the space.

 

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With the site very close to the boundary of a protected wilderness, the building’s orientation and structure key were constraints for the team to study and resolve. Working in the heart of a large and unavoidable green space, they could give the cottage its proper place, including a spectacular view of three iconic peaks, the two Drus and the Aiguille Verte.

 

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The building’s main structure features a classic design, in sharp contrast with its modern addition, which is characterized by generous windows and impressive volumes. The materials are chosen and sourced through careful research. For example, the many wood construction elements are recycled, requiring significant colorimetry work to ensure suitably consistent tones.

 

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The mezzanine, suspended above the lounge, is an example of a solution implemented to fulfil one of the owner’s desires – without compromising the view of the Aiguilles de Chamonix mountains. In the same spirit, the architect has made it possible to see the Aiguille Verte and the Drus from the kitchen, or even from the swimming pool in the basement.  

 

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Accordingly, one of the kitchen walls is a glass panel facing the Whymper Couloir, while the pool features a window well affording a view of the spectacular scenery. The stone sub-basement supports the cottage and unifies its volumes.

The building is equipped with the latest technology, including highly advanced home automation systems, integrated into the project from the very beginning.