La Maison du Mûrier

La Maison du Mûrier is the tangible realization of the dream of an Anglo-Japanese couple. Keiko, a stylist based in London, and Jason, a photographer, were both enchanted by the beauty of the Hautes-Alpes and its clear skies. They dedicated twelve years of their lives to this project, starting in 2009 when they purchased the house abandoned. The journey was fraught with challenges, from the collapse of a part of the building to repeated floods and the difficulty of finding the right people to help. Despite these obstacles, their unwavering dedication led to the transformation of the property into a unique and special place.

In a way, these hardships were what forged the house’s unique spirit. While the couple was determined to conserve everything that could be preserved, they also exercised the freedom to integrate contemporary building elements such as steel extensions and large windows, resulting in a distinctive fusion. This blend represents the best of both worlds, where traditional materials contribute a certain warmth to modern architecture, introducing light and space that may be lacking in typical Provençal stone houses. In this manner, they have crafted an intimate studio for two, with high, vaulted ceilings that impart the ambiance of a small chapel.

By making a significant contribution to the work, Jason and Keiko have left a personal imprint on the decoration of the house. Jason carefully and skillfully crafted many interior elements, shaping steel bed structures and beautiful buffets.

A curated collection of furniture and designer objects by luminaries like Jean Prouvé, Charles & Ray Eames, Tom Dixon, and Martino Gamper are scattered throughout the house. The living room’s yellow sofa, a creation by British designer Jasper Morrison, known for his functional and elegant furniture designs, consistently receives rave reviews for its comfort!

Moreover, many pieces of furniture were custom-made to match the house’s unique dimensions perfectly. This careful planning allows the boldly vibrant colors throughout to stand out, infusing the space with a lively sense of joy.

La Maison du Mûrier is located 35 minutes from the Le Dévoluy ski area. One or more days can easily be organized to enjoy memorable ski descents among the 100 km of open slopes after a fresh snowfall. It is a small luxury, especially considering that, at the end of the day, the house awaits with open arms, away from the hustle and bustle of traditional resorts. A heated pool, wood stove, and cinema room will be cherished during this period, creating a unique atmosphere.

In the summer, the house will delight swimming enthusiasts, as well as those who enjoy hiking, fishing, paragliding, or climbing – the village of Orpierre is a little paradise for climbers of all levels. The large outdoor pool at La Germanette is an iconic place surrounded by mountains and suitable for families, not to mention all the bodies of water, rivers, and small basins in the region. La Joue du Loup opens its doors to cyclists in July and August. And to immerse yourself in Provencal style, you can explore the Lavender Routes!