group8: environment house

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