Located outside Geneva, this is the largest-scale housing development in Switzerland. The project, designed to house 10,000 people, was built between 1963 and 1971 in response to a housing shortage. It is made up of 84 blocks in total, and measures 1km. Originally built to last 25 years, the development still stands today. In 2009 the façades, massing and external features were listed.

Due to changing energy-performance standards, a study was commissioned to improve the façade of the building whilst retaining its architectural and social value, and refurbishment work was carried out by Jean-Paul Jaccaud Architects. The structure has just been awarded a ‘Grand Prix’ Laureate in the 2013 EU Awards for Cultural Heritage.

A talk by Franz Graf, a specialist in the preservation of modern architecture who worked on conserving the complex, will take place on December 6th at ABA Gallery, 70 Cowcross Street, London. For more information, visit docomomo-uk.co.uk or call 020 7253 6624.