A Community Hall that Epitomizes the Best of Local Craftsmanship and Sustainable Architecture.
Newly unveiled, this architectural gem synthesizes functionality, aesthetics, and the rich tapestry of local craftsmanship. Architecture firm Emixi has completed the community hall for the quaint village of Bussy-sur-Moudon, Switzerland. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes, the new building takes the place of the previous hall, which was badly affected by a fire in 2019. Now, it stands as a testament to resilience and the power of innovative design. Resting on a half-subterranean base, the structure accommodates a garage and community spaces that breathe new life into the municipal administration’s premises.
From afar, the hall’s wooden frame structure exudes an air of simplicity, but upon closer examination, it reveals intricate textures and layers. The studio opened up the building both toward the vibrant energy of the village center and to the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. The interior of the hall echoes the same graceful simplicity as its exterior. The calming neutral palette of the mineral floor pairs perfectly with the rhythmic dance of the textured acoustic timber ceiling. A cleverly placed, self-contained technical volume that houses essential services such as the kitchen and bathrooms becomes the focal point of the space. This “house within a house” adds a layer of architectural intrigue while organizing the programs.
Natural materials in neutral colors meet colorful accents.
The architects used color to emphasize different elements. Among the subtle nuances of the hall’s interior, a deep blue finish on the central core’s wooden surface makes this key volume stand out. On the façade, a green horizontal metallic line follows an imagined horizon, echoed by the height of the main entrance and the windows.
The hallmark of this project lies in its steadfast commitment to sustainability. All craftsmen, crucial to bringing this project to life, hail from a 30km radius of the site. This thoughtful decision not only reduces the building’s environmental footprint but also proudly showcases the region’s rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship. The hall thus becomes an embodiment of Bussy-sur-Moudon’s identity and a physical manifestation of its spirit. All images credited to Karina Castro.
