Things happen when least expected, which was the case when a client called about a second home she and her spouse purchased in Rasteau, France. The most recent renovation had been completed four decades prior to their purchase, so their new ancient home needed 21st century attention. The request—would I come to see the property and work out some ideas on site for a quickie renovation?

A few weeks later they picked me up in Avignon and then on to Rasteau. The in-town home still habitable, we settled in for the next four days to figure this one out. Suffice it to say, what was originally envisioned as a simple renovation became a significant restoration project.

The purchase included what had appeared to be an abandoned lot, the proposed site of a new pool.

Before: “The Pit” separates the home from this unused, empty space

The house was disconnected to this part of the grounds because the large pit in the foreground of the image created a barrier, even though I’d wager it was never used as a moat. To create direct access from the home to a new terrace, we built  a new floor over the pit.

Before: A redundant stair led from the master bedroom to the roof, on the exterior of the home

What had been a virtual city dump became a much better use of real estate.

After: Limestone paving stones unify the space, and simple details are in keeping with the traditional Provencal style of the region

After: Dramatic lighting creates a bold feature in the evening

After: Simple furnishings complete the terrace. What’s for lunch?

Thanks for reading and keep checking in. As always, comments and questions are encouraged.

Ernesto Santalla