Amid Payzac’s quiet village, PAYZ House by Alors Studio melds bold modernity with tradition, reflecting its surroundings while redefining them—a seamless union of contrast and context.
Originally constructed in 2007, the villa occupies a privileged, isolated plot that emphasizes the dialogue between the natural and built environment. Its design language is deeply contextual, borrowing from the rugged textures of the surrounding olive trees, aromatic plants, and the dry stone walls that define the landscape. The oversized glass windows act as portals, inviting the expansive horizon inside while the concrete facades echo the earthy permanence of the terrain.
Balancing modernity with vernacular roots, the house contrasts yet aligns with its setting, showing how architecture can connect us to our surroundings while offering fresh perspectives.
Initially conceived as a holiday retreat, the house's layout consisted of three separate units, each connected by exterior pathways. This arrangement reflected a seasonal lifestyle, detached and fleeting. However, Alors Studio's recent extension project reimagines the home for permanence and daily living.
The intervention links previously isolated units with a practical corridor that redefines the house’s functionality. Along its length, it integrates two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a reading nook—spaces designed for both utility and comfort, enhancing daily living without unnecessary embellishment.
While the original design celebrates the horizon with sweeping views, the new addition redirects the gaze backward. It frames a more introspective panorama, celebrating neglected corners of the property—forgotten dry stone walls and hidden terraces.
Material choices play a crucial role in achieving the PAYZ House’s understated elegance. The ruggedness of rough concrete is softened by the warmth of wooden elements, creating a tactile dialogue that feels both grounded and inviting. Built-in wooden benches along the windows transform structural elements into spaces for contemplation. Overhead, sheer brown curtains filter sunlight, adding a touch of vibrancy to the neutral palette of greys.
The PAYZ House culminates in a reimagined sense of home. The imposing steel door and the round concrete form at the entrance announce the house with quiet confidence, while the cantilevered slab offers both practical shelter and a symbolic gesture of welcome.
