Architecture and interior design for a Provençal bastide in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence


In Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, at the heart of a landscape shaped by history and light, renovating a Provençal bastide calls for a discerning reading of what is already there and a profound understanding of its architecture. More than a simple interior design project, this undertaking forms part of a comprehensive approach led by architectural practice Bérengère Leroy, where every intervention is in dialogue with the building, its proportions and its heritage setting.


Conceived as a unified whole, this bastide has undergone a complete architectural transformation, bringing together façade renovation, the redefinition of volumes, the selection of materials and the design of an interior scheme bespoke. A cross-disciplinary approach, true to the philosophy of the architecture practice, in which architecture, materials and use are one.


The role of the architecture practice in renovating a Provençal bastide


Working on a Provençal bastide involves more than simply enhancing its appearance. The Bérengère Leroy architectural practice first undertook an in-depth analysis of the existing building, its proportions, lines and place in history.


The aim was clear: to preserve the spirit of the place while restoring the architectural distinction befitting an eighteenth-century residence. Every decision was guided by the pursuit of balance between respect for the heritage and adaptation to contemporary ways of living, in a measured and exacting architectural approach.


Redrawing the façades: a defining architectural intervention


The bastide’s façades were carefully redesigned as a central part of the architecture practice’s remit. The existing openings were rethought and realigned to restore a coherent symmetry characteristic of classical Provençal architecture.


This reordering of the elevations has enhanced the building, strengthened its architectural expression and restored a more assured presence within its surroundings. The intervention never seeks to make a show, but to achieve precision, while respecting the site’s historical codes.


Stone, ironwork and craftsmanship: architecture designed bespoke


As part of a bespoke architectural design approach, all the window surrounds, pediments and stone steps were designed specifically for this bastide by Bérengère Leroy architectural practice. These elements were then made to order by a stonemason, using traditional techniques.


The ironwork also contributes to the project’s identity. Every detail is conceived as an extension of the architecture, accentuating the building’s lines and reinforcing the residence’s timeless character. A craft-based approach in which architectural design guides the hand.


Enclosing and revealing the bastide: the architecture of entrances and thresholds


The architectural composition extends beyond the building itself. The architecture practice designed the courtyard wall as a defining element of the project. A substantial wall, accompanied by a monumental porch and its wrought-iron gate bearing the initials of the property, marks the entrance and orchestrates the gradual discovery of the bastide.


This considered treatment of thresholds and circulation creates a carefully choreographed approach, with the architecture guiding the eye and preparing visitors for the experience of the place from their very first steps.


A holistic approach: architecture, interior design and bespoke furniture


True to the Maison’s DNA, the project naturally extends indoors. The Bérengère Leroy architectural practice ensured continuity between architecture and interior design by selecting materials, fabrics and colour palettes in constant dialogue with the volumes.


The upholstered furniture was designed bespoke and then made by Atelier Bérengère Leroy: sofas and bespoke armchairs bespoke, headboards, ottomans. Each piece fits seamlessly into the architecture without ever weighing it down, extending the character of the place into everyday life.


A unique bastide, reflecting its setting and its inhabitants


The project’s crowning touch is its personalisation, brought to its fullest expression through the finishes: decorative nailheads, buttoning and stitched details. These choices reflect the owner’s wish to make this bastide in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence a distinctive place, unlike any other.


Through this project, the Bérengère Leroy architectural practice expresses a thoughtful and exacting vision of architecture, in which every project becomes a unique interpretation of the place, its history and those who inhabit it.


Would you like more information about this creation, or to make an appointment to create it bespoke?

FAQ

Why engage an architecture practice to renovate a Provençal bastide?
Engaging an architecture practice allows the renovation of a Provençal bastide to be approached as a whole, taking into account its history, proportions and heritage setting. An architectural perspective ensures that interventions are well judged and respectful of the existing building, while adapting the residence to contemporary ways of living.
What role does an architecture practice play in renovating the façades of a bastide?
The architecture practice works on the façades by analysing their composition, rhythm and architectural coherence. In Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this may involve redesigning openings, seeking symmetry and restoring an architectural expression true to the conventions of eighteenth-century bastides.
How does an architecture practice incorporate traditional craftsmanship into a project?
An architecture practice works closely with specialist craftspeople, such as stonemasons and ironworkers, to bring the architectural design to life. Each element is designed bespoke to sit naturally within the building and enhance the bastide’s authentic, timeless character.
Can architecture and interior design be conceived together?
Yes. When a project is led by an architecture practice with a holistic approach, architecture and interior design remain in constant dialogue. Materials, volumes and bespoke furniture are conceived as part of a coherent continuum, so that every space extends the architectural character of the place.