For classic, restrained Geneva, this house is, frankly speaking, a provocation that inspires mixed opinions among both tourists and locals. Three different architectural styles embodied by three creators, in an eclectic mix with hints of Gaudi and Hundertwasser - that is what the House of the Smurfs is.
It seems as though its authors agreed on only one thing - not to use straight lines. In all other respects, they allowed their imagination to go far beyond the bounds of tradition, using mosaics, wrought-iron details, arabesques, and whimsically curved, rounded forms.
Perhaps this is Geneva's most unusual residential complex. The opinions of tourists who see it range from "Terrible!" to "Beautiful!". Still, architects, artists, and designers will surely draw inspiration and ideas from it. Louis-Favre Street in the La Grotta quarter, behind the railway station, will lead you "to the Smurfs," as locals call this place.
