Nestled within the charming French village of Hécourt in Normandy, the newly renovated Hécourt House by Studio Guma is a testament to architectural brilliance. This former farmhouse has been transformed into a country dwelling, serving as a communal retreat for the landowner’s loved ones and those yearning for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The renovation aimed to seamlessly blend modern design with the rustic charm of the rural landscape.
Studio Guma‘s vision comes to life as the elongated farmhouse and two quaint outbuildings stand proudly on the site. These existing structures embody the essence of the countryside, and the architects have carefully chosen locally sourced materials to maintain an authentic atmosphere.
Millstone facades, red flat tile roofs, zinc gutters, and wooden lintels all contribute to the timeless beauty of the dwelling. As you approach the house, the build volumes gracefully descend, effortlessly merging with the surrounding greenery. Beech trees, walnut trees, shrubs, hedges, thuja rows, fruit trees, and a sprawling lawn create a picturesque backdrop, paying homage to the site’s agricultural heritage.
Inside the Hécourt House, Studio Guma’s poetic response to the rural elements is evident in the meticulously organized layout. The spaces flow seamlessly, blurring the lines between shared and private areas. The bedrooms, located in the lower part of the terrain, strike a perfect balance between openness to the garden and a sense of privacy. The preservation of walls, beams, fireplaces, and traditional vertical windows adds an air of authenticity to each room, inviting nature to become a part of the private domain.
The Hécourt House has been intelligently partitioned into two distinct sections, each serving a specific function, to create communal spaces. The kitchen-dining area, which is located in the former cart shed, acts as the heart of the house, seamlessly connecting the interior and exterior spaces.
With its lofty ceiling, this area opens up to stone terraces and gardens, effectively erasing the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. On the other hand, the living room, situated in what used to be a stable, provides a more intimate setting. Its large windows frame picturesque landscapes, allowing the soft light of sunrise and sunset to filter in, creating a serene ambiance.