Le Clos des Martines - A Project Built on Excellence
Our Ambition is to Renovate Le Clos des Martines with an Unprecedented Level of Detail.
A Passionate Project Manager
Seb’ is the right-hand man of the owner of Le Clos des Martines. Highly involved from the pre-acquisition visits, he oversees this vast renovation project from start to finish. Transforming a family home into a luxury venue with state-of-the-art facilities and top-quality services is no small task!
“From the plans, everything was thought out in advance down to the smallest detail,” he says. Nothing has been left to chance on the 760 m² of built space. The goal was to preserve the remarkable features, such as the beams, half-timbering, ridge tiles, stained glass windows, and columns… Everything that defines the uniqueness of the place or the building has been treated with the utmost care.”
Roofing Work
A cherry picker was used to remove and replace the ridge tile – an exceptional distinctive feature – as explained by Nico, the roofer. “We only do this kind of work once in a lifetime,” he says. “It’s as rare as it is rewarding! Standing 2.30 meters tall, the ridge tile was restored to its original state, and it’s absolutely stunning. As for the roof, it has been completely re-shingled.”
Masonry Work
The pillars, listed as historical heritage, were scanned and replicated exactly by a company specializing in the restoration of historic monuments in Normandy: La Roche Taillée. The fountain was recreated by Occitanie-Pierre, with one change: the water pumps were relocated to avoid noise disturbances for the guests. Tino, a mason, highlights that “the assembly of the fountain and pillars are tasks we don’t often do. It caught the attention of locals who care deeply about the house’s renovation. And it was a true pride to contribute to it.”
Plastering Artisans' Intervention
The existing moldings were restored, and new ones were created to maintain harmony throughout the house. Finally, the kitchen, a key room in the house, was created from scratch! Its ceiling is the work of artisans specializing in staff application. It’s so well done that it gives the impression of having always adorned the house. The same can be said for the three stone steps between the kitchen and the entrance, which were added: they echo those on the forecourt and blend seamlessly into the décor.
Fine Craftsmanship
The stained glass windows—colors and lead surrounding the glass—were restored by a master glassmaker. The initials of the former owners, the Saintard, Montfilliatre, and Souday-Bravard families, were added, in a similar medallion, alongside those of the new owner and his wife. To ensure the longevity of the stained glass, double glazing was installed both inside and outside, which will help preserve the colors in the future. The radiators were sandblasted and repainted, the brass locks stripped, and all the window latches were restored by Menuiserie Meslin. The cement tiles at the main entrance were reproduced with the original patterns and friezes.
As for Stan, the versatile craftsman who worked on the joinery as well as the baseboards, parquet floors, headboards, and installed the guardrails, he expresses the pride and gratitude of the entire team for having the privilege to be part of such a project. An exceptional project, worthy of an exceptional home! With one small disappointment ;) “Not finding a treasure,” as Seb concludes.
Special thanks to JS Boillet and ASMT, the Dandeville company, architect Géraldine Fortin, and finally, David Varin for their involvement in the project and these invaluable testimonials.