Designed by Savioz Fabrizzi Architectes, the Gaudin House sits at an elevation of 5,744 square feet above sea level within a small Swiss village named Anzère. It was completed in 2013 and is currently used as a holiday home due to its exceptional positioning within a skiing area. However, its heritage goes all the way back to 1878, when it was originally built as a barn.
Its conversion process focused on maintaining its fundamental characteristics while ensuring utmost comfort. One of the most significant interventions is represented by the addition of a large glass banner, which faces the valley and welcomes natural light throughout the living areas. The exterior stone facade contrasts with the larch siding panels that protect the interior walls, floors and ceilings. For an extra touch of warmth, the main room is heated with the help of a wood stove.
From the architect:
This barn of 1878, secluded 1760 meters above sea level, was used for housing during the pasture season. The animals were sheltered in the ground level.
Despite several negligible modifications over the years, this building kept its original character, distinctive and typica. The added annexes were dismantled to reveal its initial shape, slightly raised in order to gain height under the roof. The building is currently used as a holiday home ; due to its privileged position on the skiing area, it is well appreciated in winter.
The conversion project tries to emphasize the comfort of the barn while keeping its rudimentary character. The building stays simply set in the fields, without particular exterior layout. The main outer intervention is the opening of a large glass banner facing the valley, offering sunshine, light and the exceptional panorama on the alps.
The inner surfacing, soft and warm, made with larch siding panels, contrasts with the rough stone facades, made to resist to the tough alpine climate. A wood stove guarantees the heating of the main room.
Architects: Savioz Fabrizzi Architectes
Location: Anzère, 1972, Switzerland
Project Year: 2013
Photographs: Thomas Jantscher
Civil Engineer : Editech, Ayent
Client: Jean-Pierre Gaudin
Volume sia 116 : 285 m3
