Chailly – Grand Praz

Turning their backs on Avenue Chailly to open up to the magnificent panorama, the volumes are distinguished by facades that are closed on the north side and largely glazed on the other three sides. The typical floor plan thus marks a back to the street and directs all apartments towards the quiet, sunny part of the site. The use of fluted cladding elements is in keeping with the office’s architectural line, which emphasizes horizontality. This material, chosen for its robustness and economy, takes on a special flavour when applied. Accented by the modénature of the layout and the juxtaposition of the modules delivered in sheets, the facades take on a vibrancy whose effects are reminiscent of textile materials, which reveal their striated aesthetics in varying degrees of contrast depending on the light.

General contractor Alpenda was in charge of the works, taking into account not only the topography but also all the constraints associated with road traffic on a busy thoroughfare. Space for deliveries and storage was limited, and access was only possible by creating a 19% sloping access track. Several assembly and dismantling operations were organized, and alternating traffic flow was implemented during the façade work. All stages were planned with the authorities, not least because of the proximity of overhead bus power lines.

Gunite walls were installed along avenue de Chailly and chemin du Grand Praz to stabilize the ground and enable the construction of the three basement levels of the buildings overlooking avenue de Chailly.

Facades are composed of individual Sto-Ecoshapes decorative elements. This modular system of prefabricated gypsum plasterboards can be assembled and bonded to the façade according to the project designed and drawn up by the architect. The result is an interplay of textures and finishes, depending on the placement of the solution-tinted panels. Stoneware slabs of the same type, Sto-Deco, are used for the base against the ground, while prefabricated concrete pieces mark a visual separation of the floors, accentuating the horizontal lines.

The interiors feature high-quality parquet flooring and large-format tiles, and the spaces are extended outwards by large balconies or terraces facing the lake. Metal privacy screens ensure the privacy of the homes. Two roofs are planted with vegetation, and thermal and photovoltaic solar panels are installed on the roofs for DHW pre-heating and electricity production. The planting of major trees and the creation of two playgrounds complete the ensemble to offer maximum comfort to the new residents.