oak + steel residential extension by atelier victoria migliore nestles in french forested site

atelier victoria migliore has formed an extension for a single-family house situated within a wooded setting in hardelot, northern france. with the site settling on the edge of the forest and in a residential beach area, the design focuses on the environmental surroundings to generate a timber volume with openings that frame the verdant landscape. the structure provides the occupants with a relaxing living space where they can enjoy privacy as well as a close connection with nature.

all images courtesy of nicolas sevestre

one of the main goals for this extension by atelier victoria migliore was ensuring total discretion from the neighbors. for this reason, the construction was proposed in the shape of an attached volume that serves as a visual barrier. this site implantation will increase intimacy in the garden by hiding it when viewed from the street. in addition, the architects framed and angled the views strategically, to provide more natural light inside and intensify the vegetal sensation, while still preserving intimacy. 

the extension represents a specific architectural language assembling a series of different materials. the walls are defined as massive and obscure, creating the discretion requested by the residents. the roofs and the floor are linked to a steel structure, disconnected from the walls and the natural land. in this way, they provide lightness to the whole composition.

the oak roofing is composed of two sloping roofs, whose shape and angle direct the views from the inside towards the upper part of the pine trees. in addition, this angularity invites a soft light within the interior, throughout all seasons.

project info:

name: hardelot house
architects: atelier victoria migliore
location: hardelot, northern france
area: 60 sqm (646 sqft)

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edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom