Hécourt House: A Masterpiece of Farmhouse Transformation into a Modern Country House

Hécourt House, designed by Studio Guma, stands as a testament to the seamless blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. Located in the picturesque village of Hécourt in the Eure Valley of Normandy, France, this architectural gem is just an hour away from Paris. The project, led by architect Emmanuel Guilloux, transforms a former farmhouse into a serene country house that serves as a family sanctuary and a retreat from the bustling city life.

Preservation of Rural Heritage

The Hécourt House project respects the historical essence of the original structures. The long farmhouse and two small outbuildings retain their millstone facades, red flat tile roofs, and zinc gutters. These elements evoke the rural history of the location, while the wooden lintels above the openings add to the warm and authentic atmosphere. The buildings are strategically positioned along a gentle slope, blending harmoniously with the surrounding vegetation, including beech trees, walnut trees, shrubs, hedges, fruit trees, and a sprawling lawn.

Modern Enhancements

Integrating Modern Elements

Studio Guma's approach to the transformation is characterized by the subtle integration of modern materials such as concrete, steel, and lacquered aluminum. These materials contrast with the mineral essence of the original structure, introducing a touch of modernity without compromising the building's heritage. The tones of the new materials harmonize with the existing color palette, maintaining the bucolic character of the farmhouse.

Spatial Organization and Design

Seamless Transition Between Spaces

The design of Hécourt House is dictated by the existing elements, with spaces unfolding sequentially, providing a seamless transition between shared and private areas. The bedrooms, located in the lower part of the terrain, offer a sense of privacy while being open to the garden. Traditional vertical windows enhance the sense of seclusion.

Central Living Spaces

The kitchen-dining area, located in the former cart shed, serves as the central living space. This high-ceiling area opens onto a stone terrace on the southeast side and a garden on the northwest side, creating a continuous flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. In summer, this area merges with the outdoors, becoming a hub of activity, while in winter, it is heated by the morning sun, providing a cozy nest open to nature.

The Living Room: A Space for Intimacy

From Stable to Living Room

The living room, housed in a former stable, offers a more intimate experience. The ground floor, centered around a central fireplace, features two large windows that frame picturesque views of the landscape, capturing the soft light of dawn and dusk. The partial demolition of the wooden floor on the first level creates a mezzanine, ideal for quiet activities like reading or watching movies.

Materials and Aesthetics

Harmonizing Modernity with Tradition

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the transformation of Hécourt House. The use of concrete, steel, and lacquered aluminum introduces a modern touch, while their textures and tones harmonize with the existing structure. This approach ensures that the modern elements do not overshadow the farmhouse's historical essence, preserving its authentic character.

Hécourt House by Studio Guma is a remarkable example of how architectural design can transform a historical farmhouse into a modern country house. By preserving the original structures and integrating contemporary materials and design elements, the project creates a serene retreat that reconnects individuals with nature while offering all the comforts of modern living. This transformation serves as an inspiration for those looking to blend rustic charm with modern elegance in architectural design.

All photographs are work of Maxime Delvaux