timothee mercier of studio XM has reconstructed an old and unlivable farm in the south of france, transforming it into a secluded country residence. titled MA house, the dwelling is designed as an intimate refuge buried in the hills. respectful of the site and the architectural history of the region, the new building has maintained the proportions of the old farmhouse in terms of its footprint and envelope. the house is photographed by simone bossi.

studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house
all images by simone bossi photographer

 

 

studio XM/timothee mercier started working on the project in 2016, after the abandoned dwelling remained untouched for 15 years, since the clients were unable to refurbish it until then and had built another house on a neighboring hill. located twenty minutes from aix-en-provence and a little less than an hour from marseille, the plot is well placed but completely secluded, hidden in the country side. respectful of the aesthetic constraints and wishes of the clients, MA house has been designed as an intimate refuge that exists in harmony with the architectural history of the region.

studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house

 

 

the existing structure was carefully dismembered in phases, yet, the footprint and envelope stayed very much in keeping with the proportions of the old farmhouse. ‘more than a simple reconstruction, this house was imagined as a renewal, emphasizing the house’s quirks and lending voice to careful craftsmanship,’ explains timothee mercier. a muted, neutral palette creates a serene atmosphere inside the house, while materials such as stone, wood, and soft fabrics add to that feel.

studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house studio XM converts derelict farm in the south of france into secluded country house

 

project info:

 

name: MA house

architect: studio XM / timothee mercier

location: france