Thursday 12 July 2007

Mr. Gherkin's house.

Went on holiday to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat on the south coast of France in early June. And very nice it was too. In particular, the walk around the Cap itself is lovely.

My favourite bit wasn't one of the spectacular views of the med, but the holiday home of Norman Foster. For those that aren't up on their architecture (like me, until the FUSE boys put me right), he's the dude who designed this:Yep, "The Gherkin" - unaffectionately known as the Swiss Re building. So, what's Mr. Gherkin's holiday pad like then? Well, its a stark modern box right on the tip of the cap, that has an incredible view of the sea. What makes it cool is two huge arches that go into the hillside above and below it. Its probably best if I show you...
There. Not only do they look pretty sweet, but they're functional too. Note the sail-like thingies hanging from the left-hand one... those can be positioned wherever you like, offering Mr. Gherkin shade on his terrace, or perhaps to prevent the sun's glare from obscuring the TV when his little Cornichons are playing PlayStation. There's even massive sails that stretch between the two arches - which I reckon could be used to keep the rain off. Nice.

2 comments:

chumly said...

I like reading about tavelers. Thanks. I liked Dentman.

Anonymous said...

Just seen this house today. Looks even more magical in the sun, the pure white structure popping out of the dark green of the mediterranean busches and the blue sky. Think you should come back to picture it again with a good weather...

Local wanderer.