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Maison MPB by Ralph Germann Architectes

By Jessica Mejias

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Maison MPB is an elegant alpine house designed by Vevey-based Ralph Germann Architectes.

The home is located in Fribourg, Switzerland, and was completed in 2012.

Maison MPB by Ralph Germann Architectes:

“Ralph Germann architectes designed this alpine house for a couple who wished to live in a harmonious environment, but there was a prerequisite that it could also comfortably handle gatherings of 20 persons.

The architects approached the brief by visiting the surroundings, observing the vernacular architecture of these pre-alps. The overall design was inspired by the simplicity of forms and volumes of the local farms. Ralph Germann architectes selected three key materials for the project: larch (facades, interior furniture and fixtures), concrete and lime (interior walls).

The house was designed as ecological as possible, installing a heating system that uses a wood pellet stove.

One of the most impressive features of the house is the 35m (114.8 ft) long “Wall sculpture” realized by Swiss artist Thierry Kupferschmid in Corten steel, which brings poetry to the entrance alley.

Some furniture and all interior fixtures were custom built for the house. A 12m (39.4 ft) long library was designed on the 2nd floor and the 5m (16.4 ft) high fireplace in the in the living area has been built with 8mm (3.5 in) thick plates of laminated steel. The basement of the house incorporates a spa area and a 20 meter (65.6 ft) long swimming pool.”

Photos by: Lionel Henriod

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About Jessica Mejias

Jessica is a resident of Madrid, where she often can be found stalking the halls of the Prado Museum, hoping to catch a glimpse of Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights. An Art History graduate, she enjoys admiring art and architecture, reading, and keeping young by playing video games. Learn more about HomeDSGN's Editorial Process.

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