House in the Orchards, Saillon
Nestled between the canal and the apple trees of Saillon, the House in the Orchards gently emerges, blending seamlessly with its landscaped surroundings. Rooted in the agricultural landscape, this project commands attention with architecture that is both discreet and assertive.
From the outset, the aim was to minimize ground impact, preserving as much green space as possible, especially the venerable apple trees of these ancient orchards. Inspired by traditional farm buildings that grew vertically to maximize arable land, this project illustrates the possibility of vertical densification while safeguarding precious agricultural terrain. By building upwards, the House in the Orchards reduces its footprint while offering expansive living spaces, creating a symbiotic relationship between architecture and the agricultural landscape.
Rising over three levels, the house boasts a slender and refined silhouette, crowned with a thin roof that stands out in the village. Each space is meticulously designed to offer a harmonious and warm living experience. The house naturally blends into its landscaped context, at the edge of an agricultural zone, affirming its uniqueness through contemporary architecture that respects its environment.
The house is distinguished by its beveled facade angles, which converge in rounded forms at varying heights, refining its silhouette. This architectural detail pays homage to the historical constructions of Saillon, echoing traditional local architecture.
The mineral facade is complemented by a wooden trellis that supports a variety of climbing plants. This vegetative framework roots the building in its landscaped context, creating a visual transition that integrates the house into the garden, despite its height.
Carefully placed openings throughout the house facilitate continuous interaction between the interior and exterior. These windows, true living pictures, frame the idyllic landscapes of Valais and the surrounding built structures, weaving an intimate link between the domestic and external worlds.
The house’s material palette is minimalist, employing few materials to achieve visual and tactile harmony. Outside, the lime-based mineral plaster is mixed with sandtoned pigments to evoke the essence of the Saillon marble quarry. Shiny mica flakes are embedded in the plaster, recalling the play of light on snow. Additionally, finegrained rock fragments add a soft and vibrant texture up close.
Inside, the lime plaster is left raw, without pigments or additives, and is troweled and pressed to a relatively smooth finish while retaining its textured aspect. This plaster harmoniously dialogues with the oak woodwork that permeates the house, creating a coherent and warm atmosphere.
Every step inside the house invites contemplation of the landscape, and every threshold crossed offers a new perspective. The project celebrates the simplicity of daily life, magnifying each moment through a profound connection with its territorial context.
