Tourtour

ST TROPEZ, FRENCH RIVIERA

Set in over 70 hectares (172.9 acres) of private woodland and grounds, this stunning Provence private domain brings together over 900 years of history, from the Templars of 1119 to world leading French contemporary architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.

Nestled in the heart of Provence, in the Var, lies an exceptional private domain of over 70 hectares (172.9 acres), which ensures the utmost privacy. The current owners purchased the land with its numerous outbuildings, ruins and dilapidated chapel, as many date from the time of the Templars, the Poor Knights of Christ (1119 – 1312).

The exceptional location and nature of the historical buildings demanded a unique approach

and world-famous contemporary French architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte was brought in to assist in the design and development of a principal residence.

Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Wilmotte Associés Architects have been responsible for many iconic buildings and developments across the world. Projects include the National Assembly Paris (1992), the National Museum of Contemporary Art Lisbon (1994), Chaumet Osaka (2004), LVMH Headquarters Paris (2004), Ferrari Sporting Management Centre Maranello (2015), L’Oreal Headquarters Clichy (2014), Damien Hirst ‘Treasures from the wreck of the Unbelievable’ Venice (2017) and the Master Plan for the regeneration of Paris’ Gare du Nord (due to be completed in 2023).

The new contemporary residence is situated a short distance from the historical buildings and chapel, on higher ground, taking maximum advantage of the elevated position. Designed in a modernist style, almost brutalist, it provides an inspiring counter point to the historical stone buildings, with angular features, asymmetrical facades and ‘brise soleil’ detailing, adding to the appearance and functionality of the design.

Split over two levels the new residence offers bright and open accommodation, its clean angular lines adding to the sense of relaxed simplicity. The ground floor comprises a fully fitted kitchen, with built-in appliances, dining room, two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms,

and reception room with feature fireplace and direct access to the terrace through sliding glass doors: the internal flooring blends with the stone paving of the terrace, uniting the two areas, only bisected by the track channel guide of the doors, echoing the line of the building. The double height ceiling further adds to the feeling of space, the strategically positioned roof light channel bringing in light while keeping out the heat of the day.

Rising from the reception an open-plan staircase leads to a first-floor landing, creating a ‘gallery’ effect that is presently used as a mezzanine study area directly overlooking the reception below. At the far end of the landing a full height window provides natural light, protected from the sun by external ‘brise soleil’. Two further bedrooms and two shower rooms, with independent access, are located on this floor, along with access to the roof terrace which takes full advantage of the property’s elevated position, offering breath-taking views over the treetops, to the countryside beyond. The large roof terrace is partially covered by a wooden pergola.

The property is situated in its own landscaped garden, that surrounds the house and can be accessed directly from the reception room. A large terrace with external dining area wraps around the property and is connected to a second terrace via a sheltered paved pathway. Walking along the pathway through established

trees the second terrace is revealed, complete with saltwater swimming pool, designed to integrate with the terrace and complement the architectural style of the property.

Located away from the new residence, at the base of the hill, are the cluster of historic buildings, four vestiges of the old estate buildings, dating from the time of the Templars, and a number of further ruins. The two largest buildings are a principal house and the Templar Chapel (deconsecrated), the latter having been fully restored (1,367 sqft SHOB), complete with contemporary minimalist benches (pews).

The four vestiges of old estate buildings were subject of a now expired building permit, approved in 2001, which allowed for the complete renovation of these buildings.

The permit included the creation of a guest house, a caretaker’s house, a main house, a second house (old refectory) and a tower. The total area subject to the lapsed building permit is approximately 20,128 sqft.

Subject to filing for and obtaining a new building permit, the restored and refurbished buildings could make a stunning private estate, or a commercial destination, such as an hotel or holiday accommodation. Subject to authorization some of the land could also be used to create vineyards and/or olive groves.