Studio XM’s Timothee Mercier has reconstructed an old and uninhabitable farm in southern France and transformed it into a remote country residence. The MA House Apartment is designed as an intimate hideaway in the hills. The new building respects the location and the architectural history of the region, maintaining the proportions of the old farmhouse in terms of floor space and shell.
The abandoned apartment remained untouched for 15 years as clients were unable to renovate it by then and had built another house on a neighboring hill. The property is well located but totally secluded, tucked away in the countryside. With customers’ aesthetic constraints and desires in mind, MA House was conceived as an intimate sanctuary that is in keeping with the area’s architectural history.
The existing structure was carefully phased, but the footprint and envelope largely matched the proportions of the old farmhouse. This house is more than a simple reconstruction. It was seen as a renovation that accentuated the home’s quirks and showcased the meticulous craftsmanship. A muted, neutral color palette creates a calm vibe in the home, while materials like stone, wood, and soft fabrics contribute to that feeling.