Flon II
Originally, the Flon Valley was characterized by a pronounced topography and abundant vegetation. In 1877, excavation for the funicular tunnel linking Lausanne’s city center to Ouchy led to the valley being filled, transforming it into an urban platform. Over four phases, students developed a project on this site, progressing from the conception of foundations to an exploration of the potential project.
I. The project’s foundations are set within one of the few remaining green spaces in the area. To preserve this environment, Krainerwand bioengineering techniques are used to control erosion and stabilize slopes. Living willow branches are inserted into a wooden log structure and, over time, take on a structural role as the logs decompose.
II. Various interventions punctuate the path linking different areas of the park. Vernacular construction techniques such as tipis, troglodyte dwellings, and rammed earth - enable the creation of structures using only on-site materials.
III. Each structure is refined to a domestic scale. The wattle and daub technique demonstrates how simple, local materials can be combined to create durable, adaptable structures while emphasizing the expressive potential of construction.
IV. A garden ecosystem is created, equipped with a water recovery system based on permaculture principles. Rainwater is collected from roofs, organic waste is composted on site, and at the highest point, a communal kitchen serves both the neighboring school and the district, acting as a lookout and a place to prepare vegetables grown in the gardens.