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A concrete annex transformed and extended into cozy home that opens to views of the Swiss Alps.
Built on a steep slope that faces the Swiss Alps, Mon58 was an old concrete annex with huge potential. Architecture firm Associati transformed the building into a cozy home, expanding the footprint with a simple 5m³ extension. The project carefully preserved not only the modernist exterior but also the entire concrete envelope – the latter, as a celebration of vernacular concrete architecture from Savièse, Switzerland.
Working with a minimal budget, the studio renovated the existing volume to create a welcoming and comfortable home. Built from concrete slabs and posts, the volume featured two levels and a rooftop garage. The architects added a small extension to the south, effectively doubling the available space. They also added new insulation from within to preserve the exterior of the annex, which is partly embedded in the sloping site. Mineral bricks and cast-in-situ concrete expand the visual language of the original architecture, emphasizing its character further.
The redesigned interiors make the most of the compact footprint. On the lower level, there’s a new kitchen and lounge area, both opening via glass sliding doors to a terrace. This floor also houses a bathroom. Above, the upper level contains the bedroom. Finally, the studio used a consistent material palette throughout Mon58. Apart from concrete with different finishes, this interior also features glass and steel elements. Solid wood furniture and terracotta plant pots add more warmth to the living spaces. Photography@ Claire Alhanko, EIIWS + Lydia Genecand.
