The Belgian architect Jonas Bensch designed a total makeover of the ground floor in a Villa in Geneva, Switzerland. By merging his love for Belgian Art Deco with his elemental design strategy, he transformed the eclectic situation into a balanced, light and ingenious atmosphere.

1. jonas@bensch.be +32 473 48 64 02

2. Project by Jonas Bensch.
The refurbishment of a villa in Geneva, Switzerland.

3. De-sign.
As an architect I do not pretend to achieve an overall
picture, but I can show what is achievable. Thinking
about this picture is designing. In the expression
'designing' or „de-sign‟ or even „something to throw
off‟ lies the task of the architect:
“what is the minimum what the architect should
throw off so that others can‟t reject it afterwards”
This is the pivot of my elemental design strategy.

4. Coherence.
The less I do the better the result will be.
Demarking freedom and responsibilities among
client and architect was my main task. I did so by
insisting on 3 elements: a cupboard, tablet and floor.
They provide framework and canvas on which the
client can shape its eclecticism.
Who am I to compel clients with a certain way of life.

5. Element 1 - Cupboard.
The cupboard should be more cupboard.
It creates space to stock and hide stuff. It filters the
noise out of the living room and increases the
contrast between living and dining room. She
consists of a rectangular steel plated grid and 48
structured glass door panels.
A minimalistic remoulding of Belgian Art Deco.

6. Element 2 - Tablet.
Re-establishes calmness instead of restlessness.
To achieve this, I reversed the classic order:
fireplace > shelves on both sides > storage on top
and below. Instead, I made one horizontal tablet that
induces supplementary functions such as: posing a
television, lamps, books …
You can even light up your own wooden fire.

7. Element 3 - Floor.
It littary bounds the former two elements together.

8. Existing situation.

16. Elemental design strategy.

24. Completion.

44. God is in the details.

63. Press.
De Standaard: www.destandaard.be
Het Nieuwsblad: www.nieuwsblad.be

65. jonas@bensch.be
+32 473 48 64 02
@jonasbensch