studio razavi frames the french alps inside concrete + timber mountain house

located in the french alps region where strict regulations are placed in the architecture and development in the area, studio razavi challenged these guidelines to design a single-family mountain home. the 200 sqm residence follows the traditional architecture of the alps but at the same time, has been updated with a contemporary material palette and overall modern character.

all images © olivier martin gambier

despite have little freedom of architectural expression, studio razavi architecture was able to work  around these limatations and achieve a whole new structure accommodating the family residing.

‘everything from building height/width ratio to roof slope, via building material and window sizes are strictly controlled to enforce what is locally perceived as patrimony protection but de facto creating camp architecture, endlessly mimicking traditional mountain homes.’ comments the architect. ‘in order to circumvent these limitations we took great care in analyzing historical buildings as to understand what their forms accomplished and how they shaped the local architectural culture.’

a contemporary approach is apparent with the combination of concrete and wood used and seeks to depart from the limitations and aesthetics of the site. as a result, the mountain house captures and enhances the intrinsic qualities of the hillside and protrudes out to form a distinctive wooden volume supported on a concrete base. entry is gained from the concrete base and internally, the interiors follow a timber material expression in both the bedrooms and communal areas. in the living room, the large glass window span the top level to frame the snow-covered landscape outside.

a large window capture the picturesque view outside

the communal areas are placed on the highest level

walls are wrapped in wood panels to emulate a comfortable and warm atmosphere

a sheltered balcony

due to the highly preserved alpine valley, there are stringent architectural guidelines in place

bedroom with bunkbeds

master bedroom

entrance in gained from the concrete base

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