LOOKING INTO A MIRROR

Designed in the spirit of post-modernism, the original complex reinterpreted vernacular materials and architectural elements, featuring a masonry base of reinforced concrete with an exterior facing of local river pebbles. A laminated timber frame supports the two-sloped roof, resulting in a triangular volume with an offset that forms a covered square at the entrance.

This space offers views of the Lac de Gruyère lake and the Fribourg Pre-Alps, with four oblique beams anchoring the structure. BARAKI’s approach introduces a large mirrored stainless steel surface that conceals the WC cubicle joints while reflecting the surrounding landscape, creating an impression of infinite space. The reflective material blends the building into its environment, minimising the visual impact of new materials.

The public rest stop, Merya, responds the need to renovate outdated sanitary facilities and improve their functionality. Swiss studio BARAKI replaced the internal circulation with direct access from the covered entrance square to individual WC cubicles to make maintenance easier and ensure safety and user comfort. Though the client sought practical upgrades, they allowed architectural freedom, enabling the design team to integrate the design with the existing structure in a creative way.

Inside, the cubicles feature a clean, modern aesthetic with stainless steel walls and automated features, contrasting with the abstract exterior. At the front, urban furniture, designed in collaboration with Elie Fazel and Valentin Sieber of multidisciplinary design office Work Matter, enhances the covered square, encouraging visitors to linger. The metal and stainless steel furniture is integrated into prefabricated concrete blocks, adding functionality and comfort.