Avoriaz 1800 – Organic Architecture in the French Alps
A 1960s sustainable resort that's still way ahead of its time.
The idea behind organic architecture is to create buildings and structures that are in tune with the surrounding nature, and Avoriaz is a stunning example. This car-free ski resort was dreamed up in the 1960s by the architect Jacques Labro, with apartment blocks, chalets, and amenities intertwined with skiable paths. Opened in 1966, it has been glorious ever since.
When Labro designed Avioraz in the 1960s, he was thinking well ahead of his time, with clever solutions for a sustainable future built-in from the very start. His urban ecology based on southern exposure means that sunshine and natural daylight are significant energy savers, while innovative snow-holders improve the buildings’ insulation. This was only the start for this resort, which continues to innovate in an environmental way.
In 2008, Avoriaz brought together the world’s most eco-friendly resorts to form an international think tank on the theme of sustainable development best practices. This led to the 2011 pilot project to outfit the resort with triple glazing, two-way ventilation, and glass walls to heat incoming fresh air, resulting in reduced power consumption to 44% less than required by heat regulations.
We can chat about the perfect time to find the freshest snow, and arrange incredible accommodation with the best views. All you need to do is get in touch.
Jurriaan Teulings
Jurriaan dreamt of becoming either an astronomer or a circus clown. He became a lawyer instead, but finally found the ultimate fit for his free-range mind as a travel writer and photographer. A Stroopwafel evangelist, he's also won a few awards: two in plexiglass, one in bronze, and one made of beads. The biggest prize: 20 years of travel to all continents and 100 countries so far.
all images: Shutterstock