1st prize | Blueprint: 2004
Associate: François Besson | Civil Engineer, Alpatec S.A.
Brief: Protective roofing

Since C.E. 370, there has been a succession of Christian constructions on this site to house the relics of Saint Maurice and his companions, many of which were destroyed over the years by falling stones. In 1611, the Abbey was moved to a less exposed location.

The new roof will be covered by fallen stones, to acknowledge their role in the site's history and also to demonstrate the ever-present danger overshadowing the site.

The stone roof will serve as a filter to give a subdued diffusion of light. The ambience inside is calm, inviting contemplation and meditation.

A metallic structure anchored in the rock will support the roof and the weight of the stones will counter the suction of the wind. On the higher part, a trellis will catch any stones that happen to fall. The lower part is covered with a translucent material which catches rainwater and hides the structure without masking the silhouette of the bell-tower and the rock face.