By Nestled by the northern gate of the Camargue Regional Natural Park in Arles, France, Mas Baudran stands as a beacon of sustainability and resilience. Designed by PAREIL, this 16th-century estate sprawls over a one-hectare agricultural expanse, surrounded by rice fields, and seeks to explore new sustainable living practices amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
Embracing Sustainability in Harmony with Nature
With its low altitude, Mas Baudran is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including flooding, rising sea levels, and groundwater salinization. However, it aspires to be a sanctuary for experimentation and contemplation, showcasing innovative ways of coexisting with nature while resisting the threats posed by environmental degradation.
A Confluence of Art and Sustainability
Mas Baudran poses a profound question: Can art contribute to repairing the living? Through its artistic endeavors and sustainable initiatives, it seeks to provide an affirmative answer. At its core lies a historic 16th-century house, a testament to Camargue’s architectural heritage, around which the project revolves. The renovation primarily focuses on revitalizing the attic and barn, transforming them into spaces for artistic residency, including a reception room, ceramic workshop, and multi-use area.
Integrating Tradition with Modernity
The renovation project strikes a delicate balance between preserving the historic charm of the estate and introducing modern sustainable features. A secondary façade, constructed behind the historic one, creates a bioclimatic patio, providing shade from the summer sun while facilitating indoor-outdoor connectivity. The house incorporates natural ventilation systems, thick stone walls with high thermal inertia, and insulation made predominantly from Camargue rice straw, ensuring energy efficiency and thermal comfort.
Self-Sufficiency and Permaculture
Mas Baudran is designed to be self-sufficient in water and energy, with an emphasis on permaculture practices in the edible garden, aimed at achieving complete food autonomy. Additionally, the fields at the rear of the estate are leased to local farmers, fostering organic and sustainable agricultural practices.
A Hub for Creativity and Awareness
Beyond its practical sustainability measures, Mas Baudran serves as a vibrant hub for creativity and dialogue. It hosts a diverse array of artists, including visual artists, writers, and thinkers, fostering collaborations aimed at raising awareness of contemporary environmental challenges and inspiring innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
In conclusion, Mas Baudran House exemplifies a harmonious integration of tradition, sustainability, and artistic expression. Through its innovative design and commitment to ecological stewardship, it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of creativity in addressing the pressing environmental issues of our time.
