Arquebus and Navigation Exercises

Restoration of "Salle des Rois"

The Salle des Rois, in the Hôtel de l'Arquebuse, is a precious example of 19th century architecture and interior design. The building is one of the few fine examples of the Heimatstil in Geneva (a style that brings together different influences and pays particular attention to the decoration of meeting and transit areas).

When we arrived at the project, the technical installations of the hall (light, acoustics, climate) were outdated. Similarly, the frescoes and woodwork had been too heavily restored during previous campaigns and deserved serious renovation work in order to give the room its historic atmosphere. Finally, all the portraits of the kings suffered from damaged frames and damaged and/or dirty canvases.

Within the framework of the complete renovation of the room, coordinated by De Giuli & Portier Architectes SA, we acted as Artistic Directors for the follow-up of the "artistic" restoration of the site. During the preparatory meetings, we brought our expertise in the visual and historical choices as well as in the selection of the various participants. Finally, during the interventions of each person, we carried out a regular and rigorous follow-up and participated in the meetings of the building site in order to coordinate as well as possible with the rest of the companies present and the commission of the Arquebuse.