The residence designed by Andrea Pelati Architects in Bevaix, Switzerland is a modern semi-underground structure of exposed reinforced concrete that, while offering views of the neighboring lake and the Alpine mountains through its glass facade, maintains its intoversy, organised around a central patio. 

Built in the historical fishing and vineyard village of Bevaix, this family house is located on a slope close to the docks in a peaceful neighbourhood. It offers a panoramic view over lake Neuchâtel and the Alps.

The original design concept for the building varied from that of a typical project. The design team initially envisaged two scenarios for the site: one being two terraced houses, and another being a unique house with the entire living program on a single level with secondary rooms in the basement.

Potential clients were approached, and a final client chose to adopt the single house option with project-specific requirements that the architect was able to accommodate into the final design.

The two key elements of the project are:

  • The vision of a house emerging from the slope, as if the garden is elevated above the ground protecting the new living space.

  • The split-level patio in the middle of the house brings a cascade of natural light to the lower level where there is a secluded garden ideal for relaxing.

The dwelling is made entirely out of reinforced concrete that is exposed inside the house, creating a natural flow throughout the building. Externally, it has been bush hammered to strengthen the mineral aspect of the construction.

The generous glass façade on most of the ground level blurs the line between the inside and outside living spaces and creates a harmonious and seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

The garden has been designed to enhance privacy while retaining an opera box view of the impressive landscape

The garden has been designed to enhance privacy while retaining an opera box view of the impressive landscape; and this in turn also provides an opportunity to move freely in and out of the house. 

The use of holistic materials such as anodized aluminium and oak timber creates a contrast with the rawness of concrete, resulting in an organic build that encompasses the natural landscape and a modern architectural style. The final build is a contemporary and functional home that is in harmony with the landscape. It embraces openness and cosiness in balance.

Facts & Credits
Title Villa BEC
Typology Architecture 
Location Bevaix, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Status Completed, 2022
Architecture Andrea Pelati Architecte
Project Team Andrea Pelati, Leonardo Coppola, André Sundhoff, Antonio Conroy
Photography Karina Castro
Text provided by the architects


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