The Libellules Community Center, designed by Acau Architecture, is built on the site of the former Actaris water meter factory in Vernier, Geneva. The project is represented by thoughtful spatial planning, a strong focus on sustainability, and an inclusive approach to community engagement.
Fostering neighborhood connection
The Libellules Community Center is an integral part of an urban regeneration initiative that strengthens neighborhood ties. Standing amid large-scale residential complexes, the center’s simple yet striking design provides a welcoming contrast to its dense surroundings. The project was conceived as an interactive and adaptable space, serving as a bridge between the Lignon, Gordon-Bennett, and Libellules neighborhoods.
A central greenhouse as a 'social catalyst'
The community center, with its simple design, stands out amidst large housing estates. It features a central greenhouse, a covered plaza that encourages public interaction and serves an educational purpose regarding energy efficiency. This space acts as a social catalyst, hosting markets, performances, and gatherings, transforming the traditional concept of a community center into an open and adaptable public space.
Inclusive design
The architectural program was developed with a participatory approach, ensuring that future users had a voice in shaping the space. This collaborative process helped define the functions of both indoor and outdoor areas, allowing residents to influence the design in a way that reflects their needs.
Inside, the center offers a range of multifunctional spaces that cater to different age groups and interests. A lounge with a kitchen encourages social gatherings, while a dedicated play area for children fosters early learning and engagement. Teenagers have access to a game room, and the basement provides spaces for workshops, rehearsals, and technical facilities. These thoughtful design elements ensure that the center remains a vibrant and adaptable space for generations to come.
Sustainable strategies
The community center incorporates a range of sustainable strategies focused on energy efficiency and user comfort. Geothermal probes and photovoltaic panels support thermal regulation, providing heating in winter and cooling in summer. A Canadian well is used for passive cooling, and shading sails in the greenhouse help reduce heat gain during warmer months.
The building also includes features to support natural ventilation, such as operable lateral doors and open chapel areas that enhance airflow. In winter, the greenhouse contributes to passive heating by capturing solar energy. The outdoor spaces are organized to provide a balance between private and communal use, with ornamental gardens offering privacy and shared vegetable gardens encouraging interaction. Residents were involved in decisions about the use of outdoor areas, supporting a participatory approach to the design process.
An interactive landscape design
The community center extends beyond its walls, integrating a carefully designed outdoor environment that supports social interaction. A hierarchy of outdoor spaces ensures a transition from public to private zones. Shared vegetable gardens on the southern façade encourage residents to engage in urban farming, fostering a sense of collective ownership and environmental stewardship.
Ornamental gardens provide a buffer between the center and nearby residences, ensuring privacy while maintaining visual harmony. By creating opportunities for interaction and shared experiences, the landscape design enhances the social fabric of the neighborhood, making it more inclusive and connected.
