How do you redesign a lakeside villa in Cologny, Collonge-Bellerive or Anières?

On the left bank of Lake Geneva, villas in Cologny, Collonge-Bellerive and Anières often enjoy gently sloping gardens and open views over the lake, with the Jura in the distance. The light changes a great deal through the day and the seasons, amplified by reflections from the water. Many of these houses were built in different periods and extended over time, so their layout no longer always matches how the family lives now.

Start from the view and the light

We begin with an on-site survey and an analysis of orientations. Living areas go where the view and the light are at their best, more private spaces where it is quieter. The choice of materials takes this strong light into account: wood, stone, natural textiles and matt finishes that limit glare.

Connect the house, the terrace and the garden

• Create continuity between living room, terrace and garden, with materials that flow from inside to outside.
• Separate entertaining areas from family spaces without closing the house off.
• Integrate custom storage and furniture to keep the volumes clear.

The prestige house at Collonge, in Collonge-Bellerive, and the 200 m² house at Hermance, in Vésenaz, show this work on the left bank. For a more minimalist approach, the Devancet villa in Vernier shows what custom furniture brings.

Facades, openings and authorisations

Enlarging a picture window or changing a facade to frame the lake better may require an authorisation. We check this from the concept phase, working with an architect and an engineer when the structure or facade is involved. Confirmation must come from the competent Geneva cantonal authority.

Key takeaways

• The view, the light and the garden guide the layout of the villa.
• Entertaining and family life each find their place without closing off rooms.
• Any change to the facades is checked early with the cantonal authority.