cheseauxrey associés
Mayen in Les Grillesses
best architects 23
renovation and addition
Place
Sion, Switzerland
Studio
Photos
Sedlatchek Nicolas
Description
The mayen, dating from the 1850s, is in an
agricultural area. The upper floor was originally used as a farmer’s dwelling
during the transit of cattle in spring and autumn, while a cowshed occupied the
lower part. The aim of the project was to revitalise the mayen while preserving
the vernacular characteristics of this heritage. Parts of the stone walls and
the roof, in very poor condition, were rebuilt. However, the final volume has
remained unchanged. An underground extension hosting the bathroom and the
technical room was added at the back of the volume. The day area (kitchen,
dining and living space) is on the upper ground floor, which has retained the
eastern entrance. Two bedrooms are on the lower level. The original entrance
and cowshed doors, including openings, have been preserved. The wooded part on
the south façade, typical of the mayens of the region, has been reinterpreted
with a fixed pane of glass. Inside, a box entirely made of wood facilitates
insulation and accommodates technical equipment. A new slab between the two
levels is visible on the lower ground floor. On the upper level, the slab is
covered with natural stone for low maintenance, especially for skiers in
winter. In the living area, the wooden panelling blends into a bench in front
of the fixed window, thus saving space. The window frames the mountains behind
the Rhône River, revealing a living painting throughout the seasons. The
transformation was intended to be minimal and respectful of this local heritage.