Château des Roches

Located in the Loire Valley, this historic, walled quadrangle farmstead is surrounded by 14 hectares of vineyards and sits atop ancient underground wine vaults dating back to mediaeval times. The property also features a ‘pigeonnier’ (dovecote), as evidenced in the domed pale brick roof and internal perforated brickwork.

The property was bought by our clients as a destination venue for weddings and viticulture-related tourism.They also envisioned building their own bespoke home within some of the dilapidated outer farm buildings protected during high season. However, the property lacked a central unifying space within the existing courtyard.

Our research of formal courtyards to French country houses led to a series of interventions: new glazed venue space was created to accommodate up to 70 guests, with facilities and dancefloor located within a historic vault space below, accessible via an existing ramp. Courtyard views that had previously been restricted to the limits of the solid quadrangle stone walls have now been extended to the vineyards beyond, with proposed oak and corten steel-lined openings crafting social spaces, including a communal kitchen for the guest rooms, a wine tasting bar, and outdoor cooking area.

Client

Private

Status

On-Site

Location

Loire Valley, France

Images

ConForm