Atelier du Pont transforms an old farmhouse in Menorca into a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

This former farmhouse, located in Alaior, on the island of Menorca, classified as a biosphere reserve by Unesco, has been renovated by Atelier du Pont respecting the site and its history. Set in 80 hectares of unspoilt countryside, this house is the result of the desire of the owners (mother and daughter) to create a place worth being, a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its uniqueness is reflected in both the colours and the light that surrounds and bathes it.

Between the structural transformation and the renovation of what was once a ruin, the new building has taken shape. Topography, geography, vegetation and local materials: the meeting of the raw elements of Menorca is the main source of inspiration.

The organic curves of the wooden doors and the arched openings characterise the project. Particular care has been taken to soften the forms, creating continuity between the spaces.

From the kitchen to the bedrooms, lemon yellow ceramics, bright red glazed tiles, dry stone, terracotta and raw rock mix with brushed metal taps and switches.

Sculpted stone, iroko wood, a palette of pinkish beige, cream, ochre and acid yellow. The inspiration comes from both impalpable and very specific elements: an alchemy between local, traditional know-how and contemporary design.

The space is dotted with decorative elements collected by the owners from the four corners of the world, giving the overall impression of an uninterrupted journey.

In harmony with the relief of the Menorcan landscape, the exterior of this room opens up a dialogue between earth, stone and water. The swimming pool, paved with square or rectangular ceramic tiles, is a refreshing link between the shady interior and the scorching heat outside, surrounded by garrigue and wild olive trees.

The construction elements of the old farmhouse, such as the tiled gutters, still combine tradition, functionality and originality. They bear witness to local craftsmanship.

Project: Estancia San José
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Architecture and Interior Design: Atelier du Pont.

Architects: Anne-Cécile Comar y Philippe Croisier.
Associate local architect: ARU Arquitectura
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Photography: Maria Missaglia
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Text: Atelier du Pont.

Atelier du Pont

Atelier du Pont is an Architecture, Interior Design and Design studio. Since 1997 and around the two founding partners, Anne-Cécile Comar and Philippe Croisier, the studio has been enriched by a wide range of skills with people from all walks of life.

Their approach is global. Whether their projects take the form of a small 15 m² boutique or a 10,000 m² building, they tackle all aspects: architecture, urban planning, interior design, furniture, art direction and space planning. That is also what makes them special.

To draw the first sketches of a project, they study the landscape, the climate, but also traditional practices and knowledge, local raw materials and the genius of the place. They are in favour of a contextual and generous architecture. They have no predefined answers. Each project is an opportunity to explore new avenues and new methods. Their working environment allows them to experiment with new combinations and materials. The right choice of materials is what gives legitimacy and identity to each project.

Conceived as a small laboratory, his new studio – Impasse Lamier, in the heart of Paris’s 11th arrondissement – is a showcase for his expertise and approach to design. It is also a place to live, exchange ideas and even play sports. It is a place to experience new ways of working and the spaces they design.

They currently employ 40 professionals: architects, planners, site managers, interior architects, designers, not to mention integrated eco-design consultancy.

Project by Atelier du Pont