Chemin Byron

“This was my first project in Switzerland, which was exciting because I’m a Swiss citizen. I spent a few years in Switzerland during my childhood and have important family connections there. It’s my homeland in a sense, and I was excited to be returning home for this project.” –Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA

This modern house is located in a traditional Swiss neighborhood on the outskirts of Geneva, Switzerland. Carefully integrated into its steeply sloped site, the design of the home balances a modern architectural language with a warm, intimate feel. Working closely with local Swiss builders and engineers, design principal Tom Kundig incorporated the high level of craftsmanship and precision for which Swiss architecture is known. This collaboration is also reflected in the exterior materials, which consist of the steel and glass characteristic to Kundig’s style, but finished with traditional local materials including terra cotta and European pine.

“The local Swiss building entitlement challenges we encountered on this project were not surprising, but it meant we were working with a really high level of craftsmanship with a superb level of precision. It was an inspiring crew to work with.” –Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, Design Principal

Taking advantage of its hillside site, the three-story home opens to views of Lake Geneva and the Jura Mountains beyond. A large lightwell integrates natural daylighting throughout each level, down to the semi-below-ground basement. On the north side, a bronze main entry door opens into the main level hall, which leads to a spacious living/dining/kitchen area and a covered terrace beyond. An abstract figural sculpture by Antony Gormly commands the terrace, drawing views outdoors towards the lap pool, lake and mountains beyond. On the upper level, a master suite also affords pristine views, taking the form of an extruded glass box hovering above the terrace. Two additional bedrooms complete the top floor, with an additional guest suite, sauna and exercise room located on the lower level. An approachable yet refined interior palette includes materials such as concrete, gray wood and metal finishes, as well as natural stone and stucco.

Project Team: Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, Design Principal; Steven Rainville, AIA, LEED® AP, Project Architect and Project Manager; Katherine Ranieri and Sini Kamppari Pearson, Architectural Staff; Debbie Kennedy, LEED® AP ID+C, Interior Design

Consultants: Nocea Architecture, General Contractor, Associate Architect and Civil Engineer; O- Lighting, Lighting Design; Thomas Jundt Ingénieurs Civils, Structural Engineer

Photos: Nic Lehoux