Nestled in the heart of the Vallée des Merveilles, the Refuge des Merveilles occupies a unique and remarkable site, serving both as a shelter for those in distress and as a gateway for mountaineers, families, and visitors to explore the wonders of the high mountains. Located within the main basin of the ancient glacial cirque of the Haute Vallée des Merveilles, the refuge sits in a landscape rich with environmental, scenic, and heritage significance.

The project is rooted in preserving the building’s history, integrating the original refectory into the two existing structures, now connected internally. The stone facade is carefully restored, enhancing views of the surrounding mountains and lake, while new joinery respects the building’s heritage aesthetic. The original masonry, crafted from locally sourced stone by Italian masons, and the woodwork—sourced from the valley—are central to the renovation. The goal is to honor the ancestral craftsmanship while improving the refuge’s performance and longevity.

The design focuses on reorganizing the refuge’s functions with a clear principle: optimizing circulation, space utilization, and functional layout. The entrance is reconfigured, the common area is enhanced, the kitchen is redesigned, and the dormitories offer diverse configurations. A standout feature is the roof design, which incorporates zenithal lighting to illuminate the heart of the building, leveraging its south-facing orientation. The installation of 100°-angled sheds ensures optimal natural light year-round, maximizing winter sunlight while preserving vertical light in summer. This design illuminates the eastern dormitories, primarily used during the winter months.

The Refuge des Merveilles is more than a shelter—it is a thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring a sustainable, functional, and welcoming space for all who venture into the mountains.