New office S&W - architect and planning permission

Located in the heart of Annecy, our project is set in the wooded grounds of an early 20th-century Art Nouveau villa, listed as a historic monument. This exceptional setting required a delicate balance: modernising without distorting, densifying while preserving the character of the site, and above all, remaining in the background of the existing residence, the true centrepiece of the site.

Particular attention was paid to visual concealment from the street, so that the contemporary architecture, with its sober lines, blends discreetly, almost retreating into its surroundings. The building's views were carefully studied: there are no openings on the north façade, both to preserve the privacy of the neighbourhood and to comply with the principle of bioclimatic design.

In order to limit the footprint, the project's volume was designed vertically to preserve as much green space as possible, while respecting the architectural hierarchy of the site: the new construction had to remain modest so that the historic residence could retain its legitimacy as the mistress of the premises.

2.  What were the specific features of this project?

This project developed over a long period of time following a change of client and a change in the initial purpose. The project was approached as an "autonomous extension" of the existing residence, as Stone & Wood wanted to create a true living space open to the city by combining housing, workspaces, and venues for festive and cultural events within the park, thus establishing a living and dynamic ecosystem.

The concept of reversibility is one of the project's key features, as the building was initially intended to be a residence before being converted into offices. However, in view of current urban, environmental and social issues and at Stone&Wood's request, it was necessary to design the spaces and technical systems in such a way that the offices could be easily converted into a residence.

The initial budget of the former client did not, at first glance, allow for construction in wood, but we were convinced that this type of project would make more sense if we could achieve it. In parallel with certain study periods, we exchanged ideas with a company to develop an initial approach that involved making choices, so we reworked the project to give ourselves this constructive opportunity.

Stone&Wood appreciated this approach and went even further by approving the use of high-quality, bio-based materials (wood wool insulation, parquet flooring, wood veneer, etc.) in the project, while favouring short supply chains. In addition to our bioclimatic design approach, the environmental dimension of the project seemed entirely consistent with the values he wishes to uphold, and the director made the necessary efforts to see this approach through to completion.

4.   What was the biggest challenge in this project?

I don't really see one, except perhaps achieving gentle densification in the city centre without disrupting the privileged context in which we had to work. Each project we undertake has its own challenges, which we try to address by drawing on an awareness of what is "already there".

5.   What advice would you give to a company wishing to embark on this type of project?

Conduct a feasibility study in order to understand as much as possible in advance the regulatory constraints of urban planning and try to engage in dialogue with the city authorities to ensure the project is accepted.

Organise sufficient time for discussions between the architect and the client to ensure a tailor-made project that truly meets their expectations, allowing them to fully embrace the project and easily visualise it.