the environment house by group8
all images courtesy group8


the environment house by swiss architects group8 brings together the different environmental
services administered by the canton of geneva’s department of territory (DT). defined by
the client as an exemplary project as sustainable architecture, this building represents a model
that can be reproduced for future constructions of this type. it is designed to become a symbol
for geneva as a building entirely dedicated to the environment. to maximize the potential of
the site, the shape of the building exactly follows the configuration of the plot.
 
the architecture is a result of carefully chosen actions, each one responding to various concerns
of sustainable development, context or society. each side of the building complies with the specific
local requirements of the site: an acoustic facade on the route des acacias to reduce noise pollution;
a transparent facade facing the inner courtyard; a southern façade constituted of external gangways
covered with climbing plants, thus creating a cool microclimate and offering natural protection from
the sun in summer, while its deciduous nature allows maximum sunlight in winter.
 
every decision is evaluated using criteria that encompass a global reflection on sustainable
development. the materials used are analyzed over their entire life expectancy, with assessment
including energy used in their production, transport, demolition and potential recycling.



the environment house in winter



perforated cladding along the facade of the building collects rain water to enhance the growth of the climbing plants which cover it



street view of the environment house



conceptual model



model



models of different elements in the building



model prototypes



site plan




floor plan



project info:
relocation of geneva’s environmental state departments

location:
76, route des acacias, genève

type of commission:
competition with pre-selection, winning project

client:
etat de genève (DCTI)

cost:
50’000’000 .- chf

project team:
adrien besson
tarramo broennimann
grégoire du pasquier
françois de marignac
grégoire thomas

project dates:
2003-2009