avignon architecte transforms a neglected veranda into topless house in france

reviving a neglected veranda

nantes-based studio avignon architecte has transformed a neglected veranda that was formerly adjoining the main vacation home into the ‘topless house‘. located on an atlantic coast in france, the structure can be ‘undressed’ to frame the immersive views and let plenty of daylight penetrate the interior. the resulting structure presents itself as a volume with clean, simple geometries, while a removable and adjustable roof is the gem of the entire composition. when it rolls out, it reveals itself letting in abundant daylight. simultaneously, when overhang, seems like it defies the laws of gravity and serves as a cantilever, expanding the living space. while the design team has prioritized transparency, the final design doesn’t compromise privacy.
all images ©sylvain bonniol

optimizing the space and opening up the view

the dilapidated veranda nestled between the two structures now has its own purpose and character. the architects (see more here) sought to form a place that offers its users multiple spatial configurations. the sliding bays equipped with the ‘turnable corner vitrocsa’ system, optimize the space, and open up the view. the whole system can be manipulated and stored to leave the circulation free towards the raised terrace in polished concrete. and then the construction is stripped of all its accessories.

stretching over seven meters in length, the kitchen unit ends its run on a door leading to a master bedroom designed as a cottage with its roof with two slopes. its interior geometry is disrupted by the access tunnel that links it to the main entrance of the house. this hellenistic-looking passageway contains the closet.

defying the gravity rules

outside, a removable wooden deck covers and uncovers a staircase leading under the ramparts and giving direct access to the beach. back from swimming, the vacationers use the outdoor shower with a huge sandblasted glass door. in the evening, the resin underside of the mobile roof, whether closed or open, illuminates its users. ‘the topless house takes us from ‘genius loci’ to ‘genius lucky’.’

plenty of natural light tackles in

unobstructed views towards the ocean

‘turnable corner vitrocsa’ system

a sandblasted glass door

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project info:

name: topless house
architects: avignon architecte

leading architect: benjamin avignon

location: france 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina petridou | designboom