Restoration of a former coaching inn in Provence: an exceptional architectural project
Restoring a former coaching inn in Provence is never a simple renovation. Originally conceived as places of passage and representation, these buildings carry an architectural memory that must be understood, interpreted and revealed.
This kind of project calls for a fine reading of the existing building, mastery of its volumes and the ability to give the property a coherent aesthetic continuity, while meeting demanding contemporary needs.
This restoration and refurbishment project, led by the Berengere Leroy architecture practice, forms part of this holistic approach, with the ambition of transforming a residence lacking a distinctive identity into a prestigious venue for receptions and events.
Restoring a historic building in Provence: the architectural assessment
Originally, the building had the characteristics of a bourgeois house with no marked heritage value. The interior spaces had lost all architectural legibility and amounted to an empty shell, with no coherent circulation or hierarchy of volumes.
The grounds, meanwhile, lacked structure: an unremarkable sandy courtyard and a neglected lawn to the south did little to enhance the building or provide any meaningful use.
The project’s first challenge was therefore to carry out a precise architectural assessment, defining the direction for the property’s transformation and restoring a strong identity in keeping with its new purpose.
A holistic architectural vision to restore the property’s identity
The refurbishment of this former coaching inn was conceived as a complete reimagining, guided by an overarching architectural vision.
The aim was not to recreate an old style, but to create a new sense of nobility, founded on proportion, circulation and dialogue between the spaces.
The Berengere Leroy architecture practice focused on structuring the volumes, creating fluid routes and framing views, transforming the house into a place that is legible, elegant and suited to high-end events.
Interior refurbishment and architecture bespoke
Every interior space was the subject of extensive architectural work. Circulation routes were entirely redesigned to organise the volumes and create a fluid reading of the property.
Many elements were designed and made bespoke:
- fireplaces designed specifically for the project,
- a dining kitchen conceived as a central reception space,
- sliding bathroom doors,
- bath panels,
- wardrobes integrated into the architecture.
Each room was conceived as an integral part of the architecture interior design, where bespoke work is not merely decorative, but plays a full part in the balance and coherence of the property.
Materials and architectural details: between tradition and modernity
The choice of materials played an essential role in transforming the building. Wide-plank oak floors bring warmth and depth to the spaces, while polished concrete floors anchor the project in a more contemporary aesthetic.
The staircase balustrade was entirely redesigned and embellished with medallions, asserting the character of the property and highlighting the importance placed on architectural details.
All the finishes were conceived with timeless elegance in mind, true to the spirit of characterful homes in Provence.
Reimagining the grounds and giving the setting presence
The grounds were treated as a natural extension of the architecture.
A formal courtyard paved with reclaimed stone was created around a central fountain, providing a stately arrival in keeping with the property’s new positioning.
The entrance door, adorned with medallions, asserts the building’s institutional character, while the formal French garden to the south, punctuated by birdbaths, restores landscape order and classical elegance to its relationship with the setting.
The interior decoration as an extension of the architecture
The interior design was conceived not as an accumulation of objects, but as a natural extension of the architecture.
The aesthetic choices incorporate iconic references from high-end interior design, including Armani and Ralph Lauren, enhancing the property’s luxurious, timeless identity.
Every decorative choice engages in a dialogue with the volumes, materials and light, in a constant search for balance and coherence.
A defining project showcasing the expertise of the Berengere Leroy architecture practice
This restoration transformed a characterless bourgeois house into an elegant country retreat, now dedicated to prestigious events.
The project fully embodies the approach of the Berengere Leroy architecture practice: a holistic vision of renovation, in which architecture, materials and use are inseparable.
This project demonstrates the practice’s ability to work on historic buildings in Provence, revealing their architectural potential while adapting them to demanding contemporary use.
