Villa Aoube Claré

Built in 1951, this house was one of the first in central Hossegor. It enjoyed 70 sun-soaked summers filled with family memories before slipping into a five-year slumber. But like a true Basque-Landese fairy tale, all it needed was a little magic—and a lot of elbow grease—to come back to life. “It’s a listed heritage house, and we wanted to honor that history while bringing it back to life,” explains Marie.

The original architecture—typical of Basque-Landese style with its generous arches, thick walls (great for staying cool when the sun is blazing), red tiles, wide eaves, solid woodwork, and decorative brick framing the windows and pool—has been carefully preserved.

“It perfectly blends regional authenticity with seaside elegance. You’ll even spot a subtle Art Deco influence in the clean geometry and the elegant simplicity of some architectural details,” says the owner. The result? A delightfully retro style, paired with modern comfort.

In 2023, the house was beautifully transformed under the watchful eye of the Architects of the Buildings of France. Marie and her partner, both designers, reimagined the interiors to create a space that feels fluid and harmonious. Everything was redesigned to welcome light and comfort—without ever betraying the soul of the home.

“We created a large opening that runs from the living room all the way to the pool—a corridor of light that draws the eye out into the garden,” Marie enthuses. The arches echo one another like a mirror game, and the materials—wood, Basque granite, terracotta—are noble and natural. Tradition, with a contemporary twist.

When it comes to decor, the vibe is bohemian—chic, but never blingy. The duo hunted, restored, and designed until they nailed the feeling of a Landes summer à la Brigitte Bardot. “We wanted it to be beautiful, but never pretentious,” the owner emphasizes.

Soft tones—off-white, brick, sand—pair with natural stone, 1950s furniture, and details like an enameled clerestory window at the top of the stairs. Even the dining room door is original, lovingly restored. It’s a summer cocoon where the ‘50s meet endless vacation vibes.