Situated in the mountains of Nêuchatel, Jaquet-Droz’ headquarters are located in the heart of the green valley of Crêt-du-Locle.With regard to its natural context and to its close vicinity the starting point was to play on contrasts.

The initial idea was to think of the volume and its execution rather as of a sculpture than of an architectural piece. Appearing to be made of a block of shining metal the impression arises of a sculptor’s piece of work, in this sense the watchmaker’s work on materials thus creating unique pieces.

The shimmering volume, in close relation to its environment, is ever changing according to time that passes by, marked by the rhythm of seasons.

With view over the small valley, the general shape reacts to the inclination of the terrain with a playful stair composition, ending in cantilever on the building’s North side, making it hover over the landscape.

The building’s particular cross-section is thought of as to allow its extension, by a simple extrusion.