Heritage Renewed
In the picturesque Perche region of Normandy, a family inherited a house from their grandfather. Nestled amidst a stunning forested landscape, the house, built in the 1970s, was a testament to its time. However, despite its solid construction, the family felt disconnected from its outdated design and lack of integration with the natural surroundings.
Preservation vs. Demolition
Facing the dilemma of whether to demolish and rebuild or refurbish the existing structure, the family sought the expertise of Java Architecture. After careful consideration, it was decided that preserving and extending the existing house would not only retain its heritage but also minimize environmental impact.
Reimagining the Phoenix House
The renovation aimed to breathe new life into the “Phoenix house.” Key objectives included improving thermal performance, enhancing natural light, expanding living spaces, and integrating outdoor areas. To achieve this, a wooden skeleton was constructed to extend the living room and transform the garage into habitable spaces.
Extending the Living Space
The west facade was opened up to extend the living room and create a parent’s bedroom on the first floor. Laminated douglas wood structures were used to maintain the building’s geometry while allowing ample natural light and panoramic views of the landscape.
Garage Transformation
The garage, no longer needed, was repurposed into guest bedrooms and an outdoor space connected to the kitchen. By vertically extending the structure and integrating it with the main building, a semi-outdoor area was created, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces.
Unifying the Structure
To harmonize the various components of the house, a wooden insulated structure was added, creating a cohesive aesthetic reminiscent of a contemporary farmstead. A continuous wooden facade, adorned with douglas “boxes,” wraps around the building, evoking a sense of warmth and natural beauty.
Preservation Ethos
The project exemplifies the ethos of preservation over destruction, demonstrating that every building has the potential for renewal. By embracing the past while embracing sustainable practices, the Perche house has been transformed into a modern sanctuary that respects its heritage and natural surroundings.