The Figuier House by Bétyle Studio is the renovation of a former 1820 agricultural outbuilding in Marseille into a 45-square-metre compact residence that functions as both a workspace and a private retreat. To preserve the original limestone rubble walls, which had no windows and were structurally sensitive, the designers avoided cutting new openings in the exterior. Instead, they inserted a central “architectural core” of timber and glass set back from the existing masonry to define zones for the office, bedroom and circulation without altering the historic shell.
The interior is characterised by deep-red stained okoumé wood and warm brown stoneware tiles that reference local terracotta tones. Sandblasted glass bricks placed high along the edges of the central structure diffuse soft daylight throughout the interior and, at night, create a lantern-like glow while maintaining privacy.
Every element within the home is bespoke, with custom furniture, architectural hardware and lighting made specifically for the project. Many details subtly honour the building’s agricultural past, such as a stainless-steel vanity inspired by old livestock troughs and repurposed farm hooks reused as wall pegs.
Image Credit: Mathilde Hiley
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Adaptive Reuse Urban Living
- Transforming historical structures into modern living spaces offers a sustainable alternative to new construction.
- Integrative Architectural Design
- Combining new materials like timber and glass with existing structures creates harmonious living environments that respect historical integrity.
- Contextual Interior Aesthetics
- Utilizing locally inspired materials such as terracotta tones in interior design provides a culturally resonant atmosphere.
Where This Applies
- Historic Preservation
- The market for converting and restoring ancient buildings into functional modern spaces is expanding.
- Sustainable Architecture
- Architectural practices that preserve original elements while incorporating new designs gain traction in the eco-conscious sector.
- Custom Craftsmanship
- The demand for bespoke furniture and unique architectural elements in residential projects stimulates niche craftsmanship markets.
