‘pavilion d’été à sierre’ by bassicarella architectes in sierre, switzerland all images courtesy bassicarella architectes image © thomas jantscher

geneva-based practice bassicarella architectes (andrea bassi, roberto carella) has shared with us images of ‘pavilion d’été à sierre’, a single-storey summer home in the hills of sierre, switzerland. inserted into the natural topography of the site, the design explores the notion of invisible architecture that works with the landscape through sensitive use of form and materiality.

within context image © thomas jantscher

seemingly scraping the edge of the lush slope, the project utilizes a system of retaining walls that subtly fold in and out to slightly set back the house into the landscape. stacked dry stone forms the structural walls while maintaining a natural aesthetic to the design. the sole architectural indicator that communicates the projects programmatic function is a large picture window that offers an elevated view of the valley below.

exterior view image © thomas jantscher

the interior space is divided into two components with dichotomous atmospheres: an introverted room that provides access up to the mountain and an open area that projects out into the valley. the internal surfaces are finished in raw concrete, establishing a singular effect throughout the house. simple and compact, the design aims to exist in the tension of the site, finding an equilibrium between landscape, function, and materiality.

stacked dry stone wall image © thomas jantscher

approach image © thomas jantscher

sliding glass doors image © thomas jantscher

interior view overlooking the valley image © thomas jantscher

private entrance image © thomas jantscher

roof level image © thomas jantscher

site image © thomas jantscher

plan

plan – detailed

cross section through site