蒙塔塞尔别墅丨瑞士丨Leopold Banchini

An architect’s architect known for his love of concrete, brutalist forms and a no-nonsense approach to architecture devoid of decoration that prioritises experience above all else, Leopold Banchini has once again captured our attention with his latest project, Villa Montasser. Located in Mies, Switzerland, this striking residence, completed this year, speaks to Banchini’s ability to create architecture that is both contextually sensitive and conceptually rich.

Villa Montasser sits beside Lake Geneva, its design a direct response to the majestic Alpine landscape that surrounds it. The project draws inspiration from the work of Swiss painter Ferdinand Hodler, particularly his obsession with symmetrical reflections of mountains in Swiss lakes. The villa’s long, plain façade serves as a blank canvas, reflecting into a water basin of the same length. This mirroring effect is further emphasised by a singular long window that opens onto a floating terrace, creating a horizontal line that echoes Hodler’s paintings of mountains reflected in still waters.

True to Banchini’s style, Villa Montasser embraces a minimalist aesthetic that prioritises form and proportion. The building’s simple geometry belies the rich spatial experiences within. The rectangular plan unfolds across three levels, each offering a unique relationship with the surrounding landscape. The ground floor living spaces open generously to the outdoors, while the underground bedrooms face an enclosed patio filled with a thin layer of collected rainwater. This clever design feature not only provides natural light to the lower level but also creates a mesmerising play of reflections throughout the interior.

An erratic block, a remnant of ancient glacial movement, sits upon the water’s surface, adding a touch of rugged naturalism to the otherwise sleek design. This element serves as a poignant reminder of the site’s geological history and its connection to the broader Alpine landscape.

A thoughtful addition to Banchini’s portfolio, Villa Montasser employs clever use of reflection, both literal and conceptual, offering a contemporary interpretation of Switzerland’s artistic and natural heritage. Respect.

[Images courtesy of Leopold Banchini Architects. Photography by Rory Gardiner.]