Restoration of the building envelope

A house of neo‑classical design dating from 1875, incorporating decorative elements in the Louis XV style, is today divided into apartments. It has regained its original character following a restoration of the building envelope carried out in accordance with traditional craft practices.

All four façades were restored, taking into account the different materials and construction techniques, after careful investigation and productive discussions with the Architecte des Bâtiments de France. A limewash and mineral paint were chosen—traditional techniques that reveal the relief of the façades. The high base was reworked with rocaille and repointed using lime mortar.

During the restoration of the zinc roof, the craftsmen faced several technical challenges in order to reinvent a roof that would meet both energy and architectural requirements. The roof incorporates thermal insulation, while ventilation is ingeniously ensured by a double zinc astragal band.

Each of the bricks forming the chimney stacks was painted by hand to recreate the original vibrant tricolor of ochre, vermilion, and dark brown. The canopy and the metalwork—railings and shutters—were also restored with the help of an artistic ironworker and a master glassmaker.