This project started with a mountain guide?s home. Because the house was originally self-built, it had a unique soul. After a change in ownership, Solelyâ?s ?vocation? also changed. Now using it as a second home, the new owners wanted more light, more spectacular views.

© Alexandre Mermillod

Architects: Chevallier Architectes

Location: Route de Coupeau, 74310 Les Houches, France

Area: 190.0 sqm

Project Year: 2014

Photographs: Alexandre Mermillod

© Alexandre Mermillod

From the architect. This project started with a mountain guide?s home. Because the house was originally self-built, it had a unique soul. After a change in ownership, Solelyâ?s ?vocation? also changed. Now using it as a second home, the new owners wanted more light, more spectacular views.
© Alexandre Mermillod

Located on a natural promontory in the lower Valley, surrounded by rock faces giving it the appearance of a natural fortress, Solelyâ boasts a superb site and orientation.

© Alexandre Mermillod

The challenge was to avoid losing the essence of the charming and traditional original building while integrating an updated design, modern materials and innovative solutions. The project was made possible by the architectural literacy of the new owners, as well as their sensitivity to beauty and their appreciation for high quality construction. In a word, the architect and the owner...