Villa “Le Lac”, in Corseaux near Vevey, is a small 64 m² house designed by Le Corbusier for his parents in 1923. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is worth visiting for its optimised spaces, its ribbon window and its garden on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Fine and applied arts museums
Main highlights
- House by Le Corbusier designed for his parents, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 11 m ribbon window framing Lake Geneva and the Alps from inside
- Minimal dwelling of 64 m² with built-in furniture and storage planned down to the centimetre
Overview
Villa “Le Lac” marks a milestone in the work of Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, known as Le Corbusier. Built between 1923 and 1924 for his parents in Corseaux, in the canton of Vaud, this 64 m² house puts into practice his ideas on modern living and the “machine for living in”.
It foreshadows the five points of modern architecture that the architect would later formulate : pilotis, roof terrace, free plan, ribbon window and free façade. Despite its size, it brings together all the functions of a home. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Things to see and do
The visit begins with the 11 m long ribbon window, which frames Lake Geneva and the Alps. This horizontal opening, innovative for its time, illustrates the architect’s concept of the “picture window”.
Inside, you explore the living room, bedroom, bathroom and small kitchen. The built-in furniture, storage and flow between rooms reveal a functionalist approach based on economy of space and natural light.
Outside, the garden extends the living space. The surrounding wall is pierced by an opening that frames the landscape while preserving privacy : an “open-air room” in Le Corbusier’s vision. The villa also hosts temporary exhibitions devoted to Le Corbusier and modern architecture.
Practical information
Getting there : Route de Lavaux 21, 1802 Corseaux. Bus from Vevey station, stop “Corseaux, Village”. Parking nearby is limited, so it’s best to park in Vevey.
Visit duration : about 45 minutes.
On site : guided tours by reservation and audio guides in several languages.
Visitor tips
The number of visitors at any one time is limited due to the house’s small size. Book your ticket in advance, especially in high season. Allow a little time after your visit to enjoy the lake view. The guided tour helps you understand Le Corbusier’s architectural choices.
Nearby
- The Musée Jenisch in Vevey showcases five centuries of paintings, drawings and prints.
- The Alimentarium in Vevey explores food through interactive exhibitions, opposite the giant fork.
- The Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Barbara in Vevey is easily recognised by its colourful domes.
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