French Villa: Wouter Tousseyn's Biarritz Transformation

Discover Wouter Tousseyn’s stunning transformation of a French villa in Biarritz into a contemporary coastal retreat blending tradition with modern design.

Nestled in the picturesque seaside town of Biarritz, France, a remarkable French villa has been exquisitely transformed into a contemporary coastal retreat. Renowned Belgian firm Wouter Tousseyn Interior Architecture meticulously crafted this renovation, merging traditional architectural charm with modern design sensibilities.

The result is a serene and inviting home that perfectly harmonizes with its stunning coastal surroundings, offering both elegance and comfort in a breathtaking setting.

french villa dining room with cream walls and with a white fireplace and with a white round travertine table and with wooden chairs

Blending Tradition with Modern Elegance in a French Villa

In the charming seaside town of Biarritz, France, a renovation skillfully integrates the villa’s traditional features, including high ceilings, ornate moldings, and curved arched windows, with contemporary design elements that celebrate the beauty of the coastal locale. The restoration highlights these historical details while introducing modern touches that enhance the home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

A standout element of the renovation is the use of curves throughout the space, which brings a sense of tranquility and continuity. Curved travertine stone details, rounded pillars, and flowing furniture designs create a seamless dialogue with the natural forms of the surrounding coastline. By blending traditional architectural features with modern design, the renovation achieves a harmonious balance that honors the villa’s heritage while embracing a fresh, contemporary style.

french villa bathroom with oak wooden cabinets and a large mirrow

french villa closet with cream walls and with wooden floors and with built-in cabinets and with a built-in bench

Subtle Palette, Striking Impact

The material and color palette in the French villa is intentionally subtle, designed to highlight both the architectural features and the client’s impressive art collection. In the dining room, works by French artist Blase provide a striking contrast to the muted tones of the walls and furniture, while in the kitchen, photos by Romna Ressa add a touch of modern sophistication.

french villa dining room with cream walls and with a round travertine table and with wooden chairs and with a large bouclé sofa

french villa kitchen with built-in cabinets and with a round travertine island and with wooden chairs

Warmth and Invitation in Every Room

One of the key aspects of the renovation was ensuring that each room felt warm and inviting, despite the villa’s large size.

The dining room, for example, was designed to be a relaxed gathering space rather than a formal dining area. A curved made-to-measure sofa, combined with mid-century dining chairs around a traditional fireplace, creates a cozy and welcoming environment that encourages relaxation and socializing.

The kitchen underwent a dramatic transformation, evolving from a cramped and compact space into an open-plan area that exudes light and calm. Clever concealment of appliances, upholstered joinery, and the centerpiece—a brushed travertine island bench—are key elements of the new design. The brushed oak wood and travertine used throughout the kitchen create a serene and cohesive look, while the rounded island add a touch of elegance and reference the gentle curves of Biarritz’s coastline.

The main bedroom is a true sanctuary, with soft, ambient lighting. An arched, double-rounded door leads to a spacious en suite and library, maintaining the villa’s original curved arches. The travertine-clad bathroom exudes luxury and tranquility, providing the perfect retreat after a long day.

Furnishings that Speak Volumes

The choice of furnishings in the French villa is both thoughtful and deliberate, enhancing the overall aesthetic while providing exceptional comfort and functionality. In the living area, a vibrant palette of mustard and teal infuses the space with energy, complemented by standout pieces such as a striking floor lamp and a distinctive side table. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also align seamlessly with the villa’s modern and coastal-inspired design.

The indoor pool, another highlight of the French villa, embodies the coastal theme with its use of organic shapes and textures. Designed to evoke a serene, spa-like atmosphere, the pool area features calming tones and natural materials that reflect the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Together, these carefully selected furnishings and design choices elevate the French villa into a harmonious blend of style and comfort, capturing the essence of both traditional elegance and contemporary luxury.

french villa living room with mustard sofas and with a blue rug and with a wooden wall and with a wood center table

french villa indoor pool with cream walls and a wooden floor

The Art of Transformation

The transformation of this French villa by Wouter Tousseyn Interior Architecture is a masterclass in balancing tradition with modernity. The use of subtle materials and colors, combined with a thoughtful layout and carefully chosen furnishings, creates a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The renovation not only respects the original structure but also introduces modern comforts, resulting in a harmonious and inviting retreat that perfectly reflects its coastal surroundings.

For those inspired by this transformation and seeking to bring a similar retreat feel to their own homes, consider exploring Marnois furniture. Our exquisite collection can help you create a tranquil and sophisticated ambiance, blending traditional elegance with contemporary design to transform any space into a personal sanctuary. Discover the perfect pieces to elevate your home and embrace the art of transformation today.