The Brocher Foundation’s grounds cover nearly three hectares on the shores of Lake Geneva in Hermance, near Geneva. Also facing the Jura Mountains, the Brocher Center is a haven of peace. As such, it offers an ideal setting for retreats and advanced scientific meetings. The park, with its lime, chestnut, tulip, maple and pine trees, is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and an area conducive to reflection. The Gloriette with its Doric columns – a pavilion overlooking Lake Geneva – represents a peaceful place, lulled by the waves.
Built in 1884, the Villa Brocher was renovated in 2010 in accordance with the rules of art and respect for heritage. Its modern furniture contrasts nicely with its 19th century architecture to make it a particularly elegant place. Its dining room and lounge are perfect for small meetings.
The Brocher Center
The conference room of the Brocher Center can accommodate up to 60 people. It can be adapted to host smaller groups around a round table. Equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment for conducting state-of-the-art conferences, it also offers an unobstructed view of the lake and the Jura through its bay window.
The Orangery
This Art Nouveau-style building features a single, rectangular structure with expansive windows. The large, semi-circular iron-framed bays are adorned with polychrome glass, offering views over a rose garden.
The Woodland Pavilion
Originally a storage space for wood and garden tools, the former “lumberyard” was transformed into a residential pavilion featuring two bedrooms and a studio. When first built, it included a dovecote, a function long since abandoned but still evident in the decorative facade openings.
The Cottage
The conversion and renovation of the garage into rooms to host resident researchers took place in 2012. The technical installations and finishes were restored, while the tiled roof, copper metalwork, cement faux finishes on the balcony, and woodwork were recreated identically. The work was carried out with a dual approach in mind: preserving heritage and creating modern infrastructure. The building now holds 8 rooms.
