House

The majestic Pic du Midi is a backdrop. Ten minutes south of Lannemezan, in a discreet village, an old barn has been transformed into an exceptional loft, combining the warmth of the larch, the robustness of the stones and the modernity of the steel. A place that is both raw and refined, with its swimming pool and its independent cottage nestled in the garden. THE EXTERIOR The façade, mixing stone and larch, exudes a certain nobility, accentuated by generous windows. It is a contemporary chalet, without ostentation. The garden, on the other hand, is a haven of peace. It consists of a perfectly integrated (heated) swimming pool, with its wooden terrace, majestic trees and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. The cottage, a little apart, preserves the privacy of its occupants. THE GROUND FLOOR A large entrance, with its sculptural black steel staircase, leads to three generously sized bedrooms, a bathroom and toilet, as well as the boiler room and laundry room. The two bedrooms overlooking the pool invite you to the sweetness of sunny mornings, while the third, with its own bathroom, offers a view of the garden. The bathroom has a style that is both retro and contemporary. Doors and toilets have been recovered from a former hotel in Lourdes. A detail that says a lot about the history of the place. THE FIRST FLOOR Where we really live, in a vast and open-plan space where every corner has been thought out. We first arrive on a large landing where a first living room is located under the mezzanine. Further on, the kitchen, open to the dining room, faces a breathtaking panorama. Its elements also come from this old hotel from the 30s. Light floods the space through large windows, and here we find ourselves in front of an architecture designed for life. The owner, a great chef of international renown, has designed a kitchen for large tables. A detail? A cold room worthy of the greatest restaurants. The living room is a warm cocoon, dressed in greyed wood. The "Bruno" wood-burning stove, a real centerpiece, diffuses an irresistible and efficient heat throughout this space. In addition, a covered terrace allows you to extend the experience, enjoying a summer dinner or an aperitif in the shade. THE SECOND FLOOR Under the roofing framework, a mezzanine houses a guest bedroom, with an incomparable view of the Pyrenees, framed by an imposing bull's eye. This room could easily be separated to provide more privacy (subject to possible permissions). BLISS'S OPINION Lovers of the mountains and the countryside, this place is the ultimate compromise. 25 minutes from the cross-country ski resort of Nistos, 45 minutes from the Loudenvielle Skyvall gondola (-Peyragudes), 40 minutes from the Saint-Lary gondola, one hour from the Pic du Midi and the Grand Tourmalet, and only 45 minutes from Balnéa. In two hours, you will reach Biarritz and its beaches, and in one hour and a half, Toulouse is waiting for you. A place where you simply live.