Curated Architecture and Design from the Alpine Region

The Villa Sandmeier

The Villa Sandmeier

Location: Veyrier, Geneva, Swiss Alps

Year: 2011

Architecture: Lacroix Chessex

Photography: Joël Tettamanti

Designed for a traditional client, this contemporary architectural project goes beyond Swiss minimalism and abstraction. Its design language balances simplicity with a strong visual impact, creating a structure that feels timeless yet modern. The concept reinterprets classic elements with innovative approaches, making it a standout example of contemporary Alpine design.

The building is envisioned as a composition of three concrete “tables” stacked in varying arrangements. The first floor rises gently from the cellar, housing technical and additional rooms in the basement. This elevated ground floor establishes a distinctive connection to the surrounding garden, introducing a sense of monumentalism despite the building’s modest scale. The second floor accommodates three bedrooms, while the upper floor’s folded form creates an inverted roof, complete with a striking gargoyle that channels rainwater into a small pond.

Constructed with an exposed concrete exterior and insulated interiors, the structure achieves a seamless integration of form and function. The two six-foot base floors feature subtle deformations, maximizing interior space while maintaining the building’s geometric clarity. This interplay of simplicity and complexity results in a dynamic architectural experience, where each element is thoughtfully tailored to enhance both aesthetics and utility.

Project Gallery

Subscribe to our newsletter!

You will receive an occasional email with new content.

More Featured Projects