Sunlit Home in Ouchy – Part 2

Refining the Framework: Smart Systems and Built-In Architecture

Ouchy

Switzerland

Client Overview and Design Brief

Following the success of the initial consultation, the client — a brilliant mathematician with a high standard for precision and discretion — became increasingly confident in our process and execution. What began with a general design advisory transformed into a fully coordinated project with technical depth and architectural scope.
To support this transition, we facilitated direct contact with one of our past clients whose project closely aligned in both complexity and scale. This reference proved to be a key trust-building moment and confirmed for the client that we could deliver consistently — not just in design quality, but in execution integrity.
The second stage of the project introduced several highly specific and technically demanding elements: a complete overhaul of the apartment’s electrical infrastructure (migrating to a fully integrated KNX system), the design and production of a custom-built entrance unit and a full-height TV wall unit, as well as the coordination and installation of all these components within a tight urban footprint.

Project Objectives

• Coordinate the replacement of the the existing smart system with a KNX-based automation system, designed to support scalable and scene-based control of lighting, sockets, and future smart devices.

• Conduct a full review and adjustment of power outlet locations, accounting for functional positioning, furniture layout, and daily use patterns with the electrician.

• Define and verify all technical electrical components in line with architectural aesthetics.

• Design and execute two custom full-height built-in units (one for the entrance, one for the TV), combining storage efficiency with visual integration.

• Coordinate all fabrication, logistics, and on-site installation and develop project schedule.

• Repolish the existing parquet flooring to restore its warmth, grain definition, and seamless continuity across all spaces.

• Execute a full repaint of walls and ceilings throughout the apartment, using a neutral, matte palette to reinforce visual clarity and calm.

• Apply textured wallpaper in the bedroom to introduce depth, softness, and a tactile layer of visual comfort in the sleeping zone.

• Oversee all procurement, site coordination, fabrication, and installation processes across architectural, technical, and decorative scopes.

Design Approach

The core design approach for Stage Two cantered around the integration of high-performance technical systems with precise architectural detailing, all while preserving the visual serenity and spatial discipline established in the earlier phase.

We treated the apartment not as a decorative exercise, but as a logical system — where every layer, from automation to wall finish, contributes to a calm and intentional living experience.

Technical Layering with Architectural Sensibility:

The full transition to a KNX smart system required a deep technical coordination effort. Device locations, socket placements, and lighting scenarios were not only defined for optimal use, but carefully positioned to align with architectural axes, material divisions, and sightlines. Every technical element — whether visible or concealed — was treated as part of the spatial composition.

Built-In Elements with Seamless Integration:

The built-ins were designed as monolithic architectural insertions, not furniture. Using vertical rhythm, full-height proportions, recessed handles, and concealed lighting, we created volumes that disappear into the space while still offering maximum function. Material selection followed a restrained, natural palette — warm wood veneers, tactile matte finishes, and a subtle contrast between light and shadow.

Surface Refinement and Textural Balance:

Beyond custom millwork and system design, Stage Two focused on refining every surface in the apartment. Existing parquet floors were repolished to restore their natural depth and bring continuity across zones. Baseboards have replaced. All ceilings and walls were repainted in a soft, neutral finish to maximize light reflection and support architectural clarity. In the bedroom, a textured wallpaper was introduced to shift the atmosphere — adding tactile softness and visual intimacy without breaking the overall logic.

This design phase exemplified our belief that refinement is an active process: not only in what is added, but in what is preserved, adjusted, or removed. Every decision was filtered through the lens of precision — aligning visual simplicity with hidden complexity.

Implementation Considerations

• This phase required precise orchestration of technical, architectural, and decorative tasks — all coordinated while the client remained off-site. Our focus: to deliver flawless execution without compromising clarity or intent.

• The KNX smart system was fully integrated in collaboration with a best-in-class electrician, with every device location, function, and finish carefully aligned to the design logic. Smart scenes were defined in advance to ensure intuitive use, scalability, and a discreet visual presence.

• Custom millworks were designed and fabricated to architectural standards. Flush installation, material continuity, and detailing (e.g., shadow gaps, recessed lighting) were rigorously controlled on site.

• Surface works included the repolishing of parquet floors, full interior painting, and wallpaper application in the bedroom — all sequenced to minimize disruption and preserve craftsmanship.

• Execution was treated as design in motion: highly controlled, elegantly resolved, and always client-oriented.

Outcome

With Stage Two, the apartment transitioned from a promising shell into a fully functioning, intelligent, and coherent living space. Every element - from socket placement to custom millwork - was executed with precision, discretion, and a deep respect for the client’s standards.

The client's satisfaction was immediate and expressed not only through feedback, but through commitment: shortly after completion, they invited us to initiate a third phase of collaboration - expanding our scope to additional zones and new layers of refinement.

This project continues to evolve as a true partnership — grounded in mutual trust, shared discipline, and an uncompromising pursuit of quiet excellence.