Le silo
The project involved the restoration and redevelopment of the former silos of the sion mills. previously unused, this heritage-listed building was renovated in keeping with its historical status. the major challenge for this iconic urban landscape was to reconcile its historical character and substance with current requirements.
The building consists of three distinct parts: a base anchored to the ground, housing a bar in the basement and a restaurant on the ground floor; the former grain silos, which give the building its appearance and slenderness; and the crowning section, which houses a residential unit.
Empowered by all the machinery required for grain processing, the upper levels of the building offer a free plan with six columns and a square envelope with rounded corners. openings on all sides, the concrete frame construction system, and the high ceiling are the key elements of the project to create functional spaces.
A cellar is arranged in a tube connected to the vertical circulation, allowing the 25-meter ascent from ground level. the ground floor accommodates the various bedrooms and service areas. functional volumes and translucent partitions structure the entire floor plan while separating it from the structure to preserve the existing interpretation. the upper floor groups the living spaces around a single volume offset from the floor plan. its position offers expansions for the living room and dining room, as well as contractions for the library and kitchen, which, due to their position, offer more or less generous clearances in line with their function. finally, inside the volume, excavated in the roof, a terrace is designed to take advantage of the privileged view.
The existing interior finishes were refreshed in a common manner to simplify the understanding of the spaces. the marks of time and the raw appearance of the materials remain visible. in dialogue with these elements, the project uses coverings such as joinery, metalwork, and glazing. the connections between the different planes are carefully crafted with negative joints or miters.
