As is often the case, farms that have lost their agricultural purpose are just waiting to be given a new lease of life through new uses. This family farm, typical of the canton of Vaud, was no exception!

Out of use for nearly half a century, the farmhouse and its rural surroundings have evolved over time to meet changing needs, but the barn was just waiting for us to breathe new life into it and welcome new occupants. The new generation’s takeover of the property brought a fresh, contemporary vision, whilst remaining respectful of the building’s heritage.

Inside the barn, the existing structure naturally guided us in terms of spatial division, but it also defined large volumes, inspired by the existing timber framework, which has been preserved, highlighted and showcased.

The spaces in the main building, meanwhile, have been adjusted and adapted to current needs and standards.

The energy aspect was one of the most crucial elements of the project! Thanks to decentralised electricity generation, we have covered an entire side of the roof with solar panels, incorporating a roof opening set within the photovoltaic array.

The design principles behind this renovation are decidedly contemporary, whilst making use of materials that are in keeping with this two-hundred-year-old building. We therefore opted for exposed solid timber floorboards.

The juxtaposition of traditional materials with modern finishes gives this project a look that is both traditional and contemporary. Exposed rubble stone walls sit alongside polished concrete floors, glass balustrades, hexagonal porcelain stoneware tiles integrated into the oak flooring, as well as reused period doors and the restored original farmhouse floorboards. Space management is, of course, also achieved through the optimisation of storage areas. Thus, making the most of all available space, we have incorporated as many walk-in wardrobes, cupboards and cloakrooms as possible, including bespoke joinery fitted beneath the staircase, which blends in with the details of the balustrades to the point of becoming virtually invisible.

Services : Project study / Design / Lighting design / Plans and 3D renderings / Official documents / Construction management

Area : 250m2

Date : 2021

Contractors :

• Civil Engineer : Martins Ingénieurs Conseils, Puidoux
• Roofing, Windows and Interior Joinery : Ingold & Fils SA, Moudon
• Scaffolding : Planète Echafaudage Arpaç, Payerne
• Bricklaying, Plastering, Painting, Tiling and Parquet Flooring : GeneralBat Sàrl, Le Mont-sur-Lausanne
• Electrical work : Stucki Frères, Mézières
• Solar panels : Solenergy Sàrl, Mézières
• Lightning protection : CIM-TEC, Ropraz
• Heating, ventilation and plumbing : Grandchamp Samuel Sàrl, Puidoux
• Blinds : GB Multiservices Sàrl, Penthalaz
• Kitchens : Tek Cuisines SA, Crissier
• Polished concrete : Lookhome, Villars-Sainte-Croix
• Locksmithing : Joker Metal SA, Cheseaux-sur-Lausanne
• Glazing : Savoy verre sàrl, Forel
• Cleaning : Netclean Services Sàrl, Lausanne
• Paved outdoor area : Camandona SA, Moudon