Description: Extension and complete renovation of an existing chalet
Client: Private
Date: 2023 - 2025
Status: Completed
“IDEFIX” is the story of a somewhat stubborn but above all very generous client whose constant wish is to welcome his growing family into his home over the years. To this end, he acquires the chalet next door with the aim of renovating it and creating a connection between the two properties.
The renovation provided an opportunity to add extra bedrooms, but above all to create a new living space around a large table that could accommodate all the family. The low ceilings inherited from the original building were carved out on sides, combined with the redesign of the openings in the facade and roof they increase the brightness and perception of space. The circulation was completely redesigned to optimize and streamline movement between the two chalets, both inside and outside.
Essentially, all that remains of the original chalet is the masonry base and the log construction. The extension at the rear of the building and the extension connecting it to the main chalet are built below ground level in order to preserve the relationship between the existing architecture and the landscape.
These two spaces are distinguished by the strong minerality of the raw concrete cladding, contrasting with the warmth of the larch wood that is omnipresent in the rest of the project. The different atmospheres thus created reflect the different phases of construction, showcasing and magnifying the raw materials, both old and new.
At the cutting edge of the latest renovation techniques, the project aims to be exemplary in terms of energy efficiency, with complete insulation of the thermal envelope, geothermal heat production, and electricity generation on the roof via high-quality solar tiles renowned for their exemplary respect for heritage.