Lisors House

Nestled in the rolling hills of the French countryside, there lies a stunning manor that has undergone a remarkable transformation. With its historical roots dating back centuries, the manor had fallen into disrepair and was in desperate need of restoration. But, thanks to the vision and persistence of its owner, it has been reborn into a magnificent home, blending old-world charm with modern sustainability.

As I arrived at the manor, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The verdant fields, dotted with vibrant wildflowers, stretched out as far as the eye could see. The manor, with its elegant stone façade and grand oak door, stood proudly in the midst of this idyllic setting.

As I entered the manor, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that spoke of a long history and a deep respect for the past. But, as I soon learned, this wasn't just a mere aesthetic choice - every detail of the renovation had been carefully considered to honor the heritage of the building and the surrounding area.

The owner had gone to great lengths to ensure that the restoration of the manor was carried out with the utmost care and attention to detail. The use of locally sourced materials, such as the exquisite limestone that made up the walls, was not just an aesthetic choice but also a way to honor the rich geological history of the region.

The manor's construction techniques were also steeped in tradition, with expert stonemasons carefully selecting each stone to match the existing ones and using lime mortar to bind them together. The wooden beams were restored and treated with natural preservatives to preserve their original beauty and character.

The floors, a mix of restored original wood flooring and new sustainably sourced oak, were sanded down and refinished with a natural oil to bring out their warmth and natural beauty. The result was a harmonious blend of old and new, where the modern met the traditional in a stunning display of craftsmanship.

But what truly set this renovation apart was the owner's unwavering commitment to sustainability. From the insulation to the heating and cooling systems, every aspect of the manor was designed with energy efficiency in mind. The roof was insulated with natural materials like sheep's wool and wood fiber, while a geothermal heat pump and solar panels provided the primary sources of heating and electricity.

All of this quality and sustainability came at a cost, of course. The total renovation cost of the 900 square meter manor came to €1.5 million, but the owner knew that investing in quality materials and expert craftsmanship would pay off in the long run, both in terms of the value of the property and the satisfaction of living in a beautiful, sustainable home.

The renovation of the manor in the French countryside was a remarkable feat of perseverance and dedication. Despite facing numerous setbacks, including the threat of collapse, the owner refused to give up on his vision, and the result was a magnificent home that was both respectful of its past and designed for a sustainable future.