Villa Cayola

Architect Philippe Rizzotti Makes An Intuitive Connection With Nature

Designed by Paris-based architect Philippe Rizzotti, the building is a study in restraint of form and material, adapting seamlessly to the site and absorbing the topography into the design in a "synthesis of conscious and intuitive connection."  

Constructed entirely of birch plywood inside and out, the fabrication lends a natural element to the modernist design, creating spaces of intimacy and warmth inside, and discreet assimilation to the landscape outside.

Set on two levels, the communal living spaces include the living and dining areas and a gourmet state-of-the-art kitchen with walls of glass that open out to the terraces in a seamless visual imprint that disappears into the forest.  

Each of the five bedrooms is unique, and are oriented towards the rising sun. On the ground floor garden level, are two en-suite bedrooms, while the lowest, semi-buried level includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms. 

The color palette is composed of soothing neutrals throughout, referring back to nature with soft and understated nuance.  

There's a space dedicated to well-being with an indoor heated pool and a Finnish sauna to enjoy year-round, while the rooftop terrace overlooks the treetops ad views of the Atlantic.

COTE LUMIERE

Located along the Cote Lumière on the Atlantic in the Vendee region of Loire, the small village of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire lies along some of the most beautiful and unspoiled coastal regions of western France, with some of the areas' best beaches including Le Veillon. With over ten miles of craggy cliffs, sheltered coves and marshlands, and long stretches of sandy beaches backed by forests, the area's great natural beauty has been declared a NATURA 2000 protection zone of great biodiversity.  

Explore the 11th-century Chateau de Talmont with its extensive fortifications and fascinating ancient history. Part of the region renowned for its seafood, you can visit the covered market in town for some of the best oysters as well as local products.

Just minutes from the bustling seaside resort of Sables-d'Olonne, the town's promenade is lined with shops and cafés, a long sandy beach, and a large marina which is home to the Vendée Globe, the famous single-handed, round-the-world yacht race.

A half hour south is La Tranche sur Mer where you can launch day trips offshore to L’Ile-d’Yeu and  Noirmoutier. The ancient harbor city of La Rochelle (known as the “White City”) lies just over an hour to the south and was one of the most important trade routes and ports and now features a modern marina as well as Renaissance history.

LOCATION

Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, Loire, France. Nearest Airport: Nantes (100km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall