Castigno

In the design of Project Castigno, natural, authentic and sustainable materials were deliberately chosen. The materials reflect the philosophy of the project: respect for the local environment, the history of the village, and the creation of a harmonious interaction between architecture and nature. 

1. Natural Stone

The buildings in Castigno are largely constructed from locally quarried natural stone. This stone is characteristic of the Languedoc region and gives the village a timeless appearance. The use of natural stone provides not only durability but also thermal insulation, which is essential in the warm Mediterranean climate.

2. Painted Plasterwork

Many of the façades feature plasterwork painted in warm, vivid colours such as pink, purple and red. These colours are inspired by the shades of the surrounding vineyards and add a playful, modern element to the historic village.

3. Wood

Wood plays a prominent role in both the interior and exterior of the buildings. Old beams have been preserved and restored wherever possible, while new wood has been used for window frames, doors and interior details. Sustainable timber, such as oak and chestnut, was chosen to create a natural, warm atmosphere.

4. Roof Tiles

The traditional terracotta roof tiles have been carefully reused or replaced with handmade replicas. These tiles are not only aesthetically fitting but also match the historic architectural style of the region.

5. Concrete and Lime

For some modern additions to the village, such as the wine house and the gallery, polished concrete was used in combination with lime plaster. This material gives a contemporary appearance without detracting from the traditional character of the surroundings.

6. Glass

Large glass surfaces are subtly integrated into certain buildings, such as the winery. This provides plenty of natural light and a direct connection with the surrounding nature. The reflective quality of the glass emphasises the interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces.

7. Reused Materials

Sustainability is central to the design. Many of the materials used, such as old stone and wood, come from demolished buildings in the region. This minimises the project's ecological footprint and preserves the historic identity of the village.

8. Clay and Earth Tones

For the finish of walls and floors, clay was sometimes used, a traditional building material that is breathable and environmentally friendly. The earth tones blend perfectly with the natural surroundings and reinforce the sense of authenticity.

The Philosophy Behind the Materials The choice of these materials is no coincidence. Castigno embraces a "slow living" philosophy in which sustainability, harmony and aesthetics go hand in hand. The use of local and natural materials emphasises the connection with the Languedoc region, while innovative applications add a contemporary touch. The result is an architectural masterpiece that is not only beautiful and functional but also a tribute to the history and terroir of Assignan.