This summer garden project is located in Onex, in the canton of Geneva. To complement the architectural renovation of a villa, we were commissioned by the client to propose new layouts to fully enjoy the outdoor spaces during the summer.
From the very beginning of the project, the idea of expanding the garden onto the neighboring plot was considered and planned for. The initial design left room for a potential second phase where the historic garden could extend across the entire property. During construction, the purchase was finalized. The enclosed garden of the detached house was transformed into a generous plot, a verdant setting within a lush park.
From the renovation of a suburban garden to the creation of a green park
This two-pronged project begins with the renovation of the "historic" plot. In this area, our work focused primarily on incorporating planted areas, creating pathways, and restoring the natural stone terraces. The initial sketches also include a hammock area and lighting for the garden.
The integration of the adjacent 2900m2 plot completely transforms the garden's layout. A screen of evergreen shrubs surrounds part of the land, creating the feeling of a verdant cocoon. A few strategically placed openings provide views of the wider landscape and Mont Salève.
The lush garden places particular emphasis on plants, with rich palettes adapted to the exposure and desired atmosphere. For example, in the area we like to call "the Brocéliande forest," we combined trees with gnarled silhouettes with rocks, luxuriant ferns, and mosses to recreate the atmosphere of this magical place. We also considered the garden's beauty in winter. To achieve this, we used plants with decorative wood. A ribbon of greenery, shaped by color gradients ranging from deep green to vibrant red in winter, adorns the view from the villa's windows.
Japanese maple, Persian beech, Peking lilac… very beautiful specimens were able to be sourced from the largest and most prestigious European nurseries.
A garden with organic shapes in motion
A closer look at: the pergola area
The pergola offers a relaxing and convivial space. The roof provides shade for an outdoor kitchen, a dining area, and a lounge area with armchairs and sofas. The interior is divided into two sections: a storage area for outdoor furniture and a dedicated space for parking and repairing bicycles. As cycling is a passion of the owner, we integrated a transparent window allowing a view of the bicycles displayed inside from the garden . Combining cedar wood and powder-coated sheet metal, the orange Kettal structure contrasts with the surrounding greenery and adds a touch of originality to the garden. The natural stone flooring, echoing the theme of organic shapes, was factory-prepared, numbered, and installed according to a precise layout. An integrated LED strip around the perimeter emphasizes the rounded shape and creates a floating effect at nightfall.
