Wabisabi Farmhouse | Studio Nomad Interiors

The architectural renovation of the Wabisabi farmhouse beautifully marries the rustic charm of its rural elements with the sleek functionality of modern design. The original structure, characterized by its dry-stacked limestone walls and traditional manger, served as a foundation for the renovation. These elements have been preserved and thoughtfully integrated into the new design, creating a seamless dialogue between the past and the present. The limestone, with its weathered texture and earthy tones, provided a warm backdrop that resonates with the serene environment which was created as part of the clients' brief.

A muted color palette, drawing inspiration from the surrounding architectural vernacular and countryside, has been used to create the tranquil atmosphere. Soft grays, warm beiges, and gentle whites dominate the interior spaces, allowing the natural light to play off the surfaces and create a sense of calm. The layout has been reconfigured to promote functionality and flow, catering to the needs of a young family with a child and a dog. Open living spaces encourage interaction while also allowing for quiet corners where one can retreat with a book or enjoy a moment of reflection.

Upon entering the house through a glass door, one is greeted by the open-plan dining, kitchen, and living areas. The aim was to create a kitchen that looked as little like a kitchen as possible, so modular cabinetry was customized with bespoke washed oak veneer doors spanning the full 9 meters of the room. The result is a single piece of furniture that encapsulates a cooking nook, breakfast area, kitchen pantry, and extensive storage. Similarly, the island serves as a simple, sculptural element, with cabinetry facing the kitchen side and Moroccan handmade clay tile, cladding the side facing the living area.

In keeping with the concept of utilizing natural finishes, the walls throughout the house were painted with limewash, while microcement in matching tones was used in the bathrooms. Early on, we decided to incorporate travertine wherever stone surfaces were needed, and the color palette of the whole decor was pared down to complement the travertine's creamy hue. The intentionally restricted palette allowed us to focus on texture and pattern; for instance, the travertine was cut into brick sized pieces to create the herringbone floor in the bathroom, honed for the island top, and brushed vein-cut for the shelf under the fireplace.

All custom cabinetry was designed to be simple and functional, essentially “disappearing” by blending with the walls. The remaining loose furniture and decor was specifically sourced for this house and consists mainly of a mix of reclaimed wood pieces and a selection of antiques. Here too, the emphasis was not on variety but on texture and simplicity, featuring a few key pieces and allowing the rest of the space to be quietly enriched by beautiful weaves, raw wood textures, or handmade fabrics.

The result is a harmonious living space that nurtures family life, accommodating the needs and conveniences of a dynamic, functional lifestyle.