'the garden shelf' by dreier frenzel architecture in geneva, switzerland
all images courtesy dreier frenzel architecture


'the garden shelf' by lausanne-based firm dreier frenzel architecture is a summer pavilion
for a family in geneva, switzerland. composed of three, distinct volumes arranged in
an offset manner, the small concrete structure directs its focal point to the immediate
site - the garden - rather than the more distant view from the slope which it resides on.



in context


hugging the natural topography of the plot, the design scales down the garden in
a terraced fashion. the individual boxes vary in size and host appropriate programs
inside: the smallest form holds storage while the larger 'rooms' accommodate a kitchen
and a spacious seating area. the interior is connected for the inhabitants to step up or
down between functions. when not in use, a system of wooden shutters that run along
the open faces enable the shelter to be enclosed.



view into the kitchen and dining modules



interior



with shutters shut



approach



(left) cantilevered base
(right) detail of shutter



in use at night



site plan



plan



longitudinal section



front elevation



back elevation



cross section



side elevation



side elevation