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Landscaping of the prestigious Domaine Notre-Dame du Lac in Cologny (GE)

ID card

  • Project name: Notre-Dame du Lac

  • Location: Cologny, canton of Geneva

  • Type of project: Urban piece

  • Project start date: October 2006

  • Delivery date: September 2022

  • Project area: 7,000 m2 (AMEX project)

  • SIA stages: 31 to 53

  • Lead architect: Atelier K architectes sa

  • Partners: Martin Paysage sa 

The mission

✔️ Carry out the communal and private landscaping of seven luxury villas located on a steeply sloping site overlooking Lake Geneva.

✔️ Ensure the integration of the entire residence into the protected landscape of the Cologny hillside.

✔️ Maintain the view of Lake Geneva while respecting easements of view and preserving privacy with the neighborhood.

✔️ Secure, preserve and enhance the aging tree heritage of the former estate.

The brief

Once a vineyard of unparalleled value in the canton of Geneva, the Notre-Dame du Lac site is now home to the prestigious international institute of the same name. Our project focused on the plot adjacent to the school. Covering approximately 7,000 square meters, this meadow-covered embankment, formerly an orchard, has given rise to seven high-end contemporary villas.

Our team of landscape architects and designers conceived all the landscaping features of the plot, overcoming the constraints imposed by its topography and location. From creating intimate gardens to designing shared spaces, our team developed a project that enhances the unique character of the site.

The tree heritage

In the past, a bucolic orchard and an aging wooded grove graced this embankment, offering an expanded play area for the students of the Notre-Dame du Lac Institute.

After a thorough study of the existing vegetation, we were able to highlight its qualities and determine which trees to preserve for a respectful planting project.

In anticipation of the arrival of future residents, we have planted vegetation at the bottom of the plot, creating a natural hedge to provide privacy between the students and the residents. To enhance the green environment, we have preserved and replanted mature trees.

In order to respect the heritage of the site, fruit-loving trees have been reintroduced into the private gardens.

The project

Access to the villas is via a sumptuous private driveway, lined with majestic trees. It leads directly to an exclusive underground parking garage, clad in marble and bathed in light, located just below the residences.

For pedestrians, a generous side staircase unfolds, inviting a gentle ascent alongside the landscaped grounds. It provides access to the central walkway and offers discreet access to the rear of the residences. This clever design prioritizes both the privacy of residents and the fluidity of movement through the outdoor spaces.

Between the two new rows of villas, the central walkway, a true gem reserved for pedestrians, meanders gracefully, blurring rigid boundaries. Its undulating design creates a warm atmosphere, offering alcoves conducive to conversation. The wooden decking harmoniously connects the entrances, framed by organic plantings with captivating shapes. A continuous, curved bench in pure white accentuates the walkway and provides seating for sharing. Rounded pebbles add a convivial touch. At the heart of this space, a fountain soothes the senses, while a belvedere rises proudly, offering a privileged view of the lake.

In the same spirit, the private gardens are a true invitation to wonder. Every detail has been carefully considered to offer the best possible experience: one that blends elegance and tranquility. The plantings that meander between each garden and around the private pools blur the boundaries of the properties while ensuring privacy between neighbors. The choice of plant varieties takes into account the need for easy maintenance. Fruit trees and carefully selected vegetation add a refreshing and delightful touch to this harmonious scene.

A landscape design that blurs the boundaries

A mediating role throughout the project
We worked closely with all stakeholders, facilitating communication and seeking mutually beneficial solutions. In conjunction with the building department, we ensured the project's compliance with regulations for this protected landscaped site. Our seamless coordination between the school, the neighborhood, engineers, and architects ensured the project's success. Our expertise and collaborative approach were essential in guaranteeing consistency, meeting requirements, and ensuring everyone's satisfaction.
A true landscape challenge where elegance, harmony and intimacy meet to create an exceptional living experience.
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