In Sèvres, near Paris, an old house has been given a new lease of life thanks to a subtle and light-filled renovation led by architect Camille Hermand. The project has restored the garden, long neglected, to its rightful place. On the town’s hillsides, old houses often face out onto the street. The lower level of this property was dark and rarely used, despite an existing but rather uncomfortable veranda. The architect’s renovation of the Belle Époque millstone house millstone house completely reimagined the layout to reconnect the house with its surroundings. This project was based on a simple yet effective idea: inviting light and the garden inside. The transformation has completely altered the perception of space and circulation.

 

A tour of the house

The garden level has become the living heart of the house, bathed in soft, continuous light. An insulation has been completely overhauled to ensure thermal comfort whatever the season. The façade opens wide, creating a direct dialogue between interior and exterior. Brick-vaulted ceiling, preserved and highlighted, adds depth. The light-coloured surfaces amplify the light and create an immediate sense of space. A glass roof illuminates the study, whilst the kitchen catches the eye with its magnificent marble.

Upstairs, the atmosphere changes and becomes more intimate, without ever losing its character. The small sitting room near the entrance has been transformed into a reading nook. A bespoke fireplace has been installed. Deep tones of the joinery complement carefully chosen decorative details. Cement tiles and the glass door evoke the era in which the house was built. The overall décor strikes a balance between historical heritage and modernity, essential in today’s world.

The upper floors house the sleeping areas. Children’s bedrooms have a bathroom fitted with a large bath. Under the eaves, the master suite makes full use of the available headroom. The headboard incorporates several functions and frees up space around the bed. In the bathroom, the pendant lights emphasise the verticality and create an almost theatrical effect. This renovation of a Belle Époque millstone house near Paris by Camille Hermand successfully achieves a delicate balancing act: respecting the existing structure whilst adapting this home to the modern era. To see all of Camille Hermand's projects, click on this link! Photo: ©Paulie Legoff