Restored Mill House Offers a True Lesson in Color by the Seine

This ambitious renovation begins with a classic story of a Parisian family in need of space and greenery. The man, his wife, and their twins love their typical Parisian neighborhood of Batignolles but are certain that the grass will be greener and there will be more square meters somewhere else.

Looking for a large house with a garden, they fell in love with an exquisite 19th-century mill house in Fresnes-sur-Seine. Typical of the period when Parisians invested in their first country properties just minutes from the capital to enjoy the charms of rural life, this mill house still retains a very beautiful English-Norman architectural style with numerous features on the ground floor such as wooden finishes, a winter gallery, and raised arched windows.

When the new owners took possession of this four-story building, it was presented in its original layout with divided rooms as was common at the beginning of the 20th century. Very standardized spaces, like Haussmann's grand apartments and their so-called drawing rooms, are far removed from servant spaces such as the kitchen or laundry room. To bring this place filled with history alive, it was necessary to modernize and adapt it for family life.

Transforming the original plan was obvious for the architects. Returning the kitchen to the hospitality area, creating perspective, emphasizing the architectural strength of the place through color use and influence on circulation to ensure the old building has a modern atmosphere: discover this ambitious (and colorful) renovation adventure.

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