The Maison de Villamont in Lausanne stands as the inaugural architectural project undertaken by Alexandre Perregaux, a structure he designed and constructed for his own use between 1791 and 1793. His professional trajectory began with technical training as a goldsmith before evolving into a practice encompassing ivory carving and the large-scale planning of government buildings within the Vaud region.
Early Training and Artistic Origins
Born in Lausanne in 1749 to Jonas Perregaux, a carpenter from Geneveys-sur-Coffrane, and Marie-Françoise Bergier, Perregaux entered his vocational life through a four-year apprenticeship as a goldsmith starting in 1761. Following this period, he travelled to Rome to further his technical education. Upon returning to his hometown, he established a practice as an ivory carver, producing intricate miniatures and medallions. His daughter, Marie Ferrier-Perregaux, frequently collaborated with him by painting these delicate ivory reliefs.
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Perregaux shifted his professional focus to architecture in 1789. His career intersected with major political shifts, starting with the establishment of the Helvetic Republic in 1798. During this period, the administration entrusted him with the management and maintenance of state-owned properties. Following the 1803 Act of Mediation and the collapse of the republic, the Vaud canton regained its sovereignty, providing him with significant commissions for the new cantonal government.
Contributions to Lausanne Infrastructure
The architect's influence on the Lausanne landscape is defined by his classical designs for government institutions. He completed the building for the Grand Council of Vaud between 1803 and 1806, which served as the legislative seat until a fire in 2002. Shortly thereafter, he oversaw the construction of the central Post Office, completed in 1807. His work also extended to civic entertainment spaces, including the Marterey, which served as the first theatre of Lausanne until its eventual replacement in 1871.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 April 1749, Lausanne
- Died: 21 May 1808, Lausanne
- Occupations: Architect, goldsmith, ivory carver
- Citizenship: Old Swiss Confederacy
- Religion: Reformed
- Language: French
Questions readers ask
What was Perregaux's first major architectural project?
His first project was the Maison de Villamont in Lausanne, which he built for himself between 1791 and 1793.
Which government buildings in Lausanne did he design?
He designed the building for the Grand Council of Vaud, constructed between 1803 and 1806, and the city's central Post Office, built between 1805 and 1807.
