CONTEMPORARY HOUSE in the heart of nature. “Residence D”
Contemporary house – 460 m² – Private Client

The “Residence D”, a contemporary house in the heart of nature, is designed to be the main residence of Mr. D. This project is in keeping with the environment with interior and exterior spaces that open generously onto the surrounding forest. The “Residence D” thus embodies an ideal of modern living, where comfort, environment and luxury coexist.

Building a contemporary house in the heart of nature

Initial state of the site and land development

Located on an impressive plot of more than 17,000 m², “Résidence D” is a contemporary house that benefits from a green and isolated setting. From the beginning, the project aimed to maximize the supply of natural light while preserving the privacy of the residents. To achieve this, the house is judiciously designed to preserve the natural character of the site.

In addition, its generous openings facing south benefit from natural sun protection thanks to the surrounding trees. Its northern facades are, on the contrary, closed to protect themselves from the prying eyes of the neighbors.

 

Conservation of natural elements

The land is a true haven of nature, adorned with majestic trees that add a touch of nobility to the environment. Groves and hedges line the property boundaries, creating a peaceful atmosphere and preserving privacy. In addition, a pond, a natural element of great value, has been preserved as part of the project.

 

Access to the house via a path in the heart of nature

The access to the residence from the public space was designed with particular attention to preserving the existing environment. By following a winding path between the existing trees, the entrance does not immediately reveal the house. On the contrary, it gives the impression of entering a natural path. This leads to a courtyard in swept concrete, where the facades are deliberately blind, to create a space that preserves privacy and secures the interior spaces of the residence. However, a welcoming porch gracefully marks the entrance, inviting one to enter the interior of this magnificent contemporary home.

 

Implementation, Organization, Composition and Volumes of the contemporary house

Natural integration of the contemporary house

The layout of the volumes of the contemporary house adapts meticulously to the existing topography. Thus, it minimizes interventions on the ground, which allows to preserve the majestic trees that enrich the landscape. This approach respectful of the site, results in an organic and balanced architectural composition, which creates an exceptional living environment.

 

Optimizing natural light and protecting privacy

The design of the house takes full advantage of natural light. Large south-facing windows bathe the interior in light throughout the day. In summer, the generous canopy of surrounding trees provides welcome shade, while in winter, when the leaves fall, light penetrates deep into the interior spaces.

However, in order to preserve the privacy of the residents, no openings are planned on the north side. This decision is particularly important since the dwellings on the north side have their living spaces on the first floor. Indeed, any opening could have compromised privacy by offering a bird’s eye view of the interior spaces of the house.

 

Composition of spaces

The project comprises five distinct programmatic elements, each carefully integrated into the overall design of the house:

Swept Concrete Courtyard

The swept concrete courtyard serves as a parking and turning area for vehicles. It is completed by a porch that marks a warm entrance and connects the main volume (living space and swimming pool) to the annex (multipurpose room, technical area and garage). From the access, no opening is visible, thus reinforcing the feeling of privacy and security.

Living volume

The living area is composed of several volumes, encompassing a large living room, a dining room, a kitchen, as well as two bedrooms and an office. The entrance space subtly marks the transition to the pool volume, creating an elegant division. The large openings facing south create an open living space offering breathtaking views of the lush surrounding forest, while flooding the interior with natural light.

Indoor pool

The indoor pool is oriented from north to south and has large bay windows to maximize the entry of natural light. It creates a space for relaxation and leisure within this contemporary house. This volume is separate from the living spaces to address issues of humidity, privacy and security.

Annex volume

The annex houses a multipurpose room designed to accommodate various activities. For example, a cinema room, a games room, or even a party space with a bar. Its position detached from the main living spaces avoids disruptions to the quieter activities of the house. The annex also includes a technical room equipped with energy storage batteries, a small workshop, a garden room and a closed garage that can accommodate two vehicles.

Wooden Terrace

The large wooden terrace connects the swimming pool to the living room, creating a real “open-air living room.” It is the ideal place to enjoy nature and the wooded environment of the site. It offers a fluid transition between the interior and the exterior that invites relaxation.

 

Choosing a burnt wood façade for a contemporary house surrounded by nature

Since this contemporary house is located in the middle of nature, in a humid environment, special attention was paid to the durability and aesthetics of the façades. To ensure a distinctive appearance and minimal impact on the environment, the façades are clad in burnt wood cladding. This choice of material gives the house a unique and organic look, while highlighting the commitment to environmentally friendly materials.

Anthracite grey Trespa elements create areas of contrast in the design of the façades, and bring a more contemporary touch to the architectural ensemble. These areas of contrast not only serve an aesthetic purpose, but also play an important functional role. Indeed, wood, as a natural material, is subject to changes depending on its exposure to the elements, such as water and UV rays. Thus, the areas of contrast make it possible to better manage these colour variations, ensuring that the house maintains its attractive appearance over time.