An exhibition is co-designed by the Fab Lab Onl’fait and the ecomuseum of the Association for Industrial Heritage as a part of the Tracks4Crafts.
It explores both the symbolic imagery of the "Swiss chalet" and the know-how associated with the construction of these dwellings, from traditional craft techniques to the proto-industrial processes developed in the Geneva region. It also highlights the raw material at its heart: wood.
Having become a Swiss emblem, the chalet has a long history. The image we have of it today, far removed from the peasant dwellings of yesteryear, was initially shaped by the eyes of travelers who came to discover Switzerland. Faced with this growing enthusiasm, chalet construction experienced a real boom at the turn of the 20th century, spurred by innovations in woodworking machine tools. Companies like Spring Frères even began producing prefabricated chalets.
What does the chalet evoke for you? Wood, geraniums, mountains, Switzerland?
If you are planning to be in Geneva until 6 March 2026, we invite you to immerse yourself in these stories through the reconstruction of a chalet in the API courtyard, as well as demonstrations, photographs, folklore objects, and artists' creations.
From October 16, 2025 to March 6, 2026
Free admission, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
A project initiated by Franck Vacheron and Shannon Sykes. With contributions from Pauline Nerfin, a historian specializing in chalets.
Featuring works by Ben, Jacques Burkardt, Réhane Favereau, François de Limoges, Wolgrand Ribeiro, and Shannon Sykes.
Acknowledgements: Geneva City Archives, Geneva Library, Fribourg Cantonal and University Library, Lullier Nature and Environment Vocational Training Centre, Galerie 1 2 3, Thônex Town Hall, Ballenberg Rural Housing Museum, Carouge Museum, Lake Geneva Museum, as well as Jean-Pierre Pillet and the owners of the photographed chalets.
More information: https://www.patrimoineindustriel.ch
Photos: Jay Louvion