The works
The conservation and conversion of this friary complex began with extensive sampling, which enabled many original decorative features to be uncovered, particularly towards the former kitchen-garden area, where much of the frescoing was salvaged.
A precious 15th century crucifixion concealed between the refectory floor and ceiling was detached and restored, and will be returned to its original setting upon work completion.
Treatment of the old walls and water regulation have allowed perfect recovery of the magnificent ground-floor spaces looking out onto the old cloisters.
The structural analysis and reinforcement of the entire complex has enabled the seismic improvement of all the buildings.
The roofing, made of larch and oak wood depending on area, has been insulated and ventilated without detrimental effects on aesthetics.
The plastering and colours are exclusively lime-based in both interior and external applications.
The engineering and systems in all the apartments have been structured for independent management of built-in air-cooling devices and under-floor heating.
Insulated metal or timber doors, window frames and shutters offer excellent sound-deadening and airtight properties – the best possible for this conservation context.
The specifications for the floors, bathroom fixtures and electrical systems are top-end and enable buyers to customise the final additions.
A large room in the cellars area houses the water-softening machinery and the monitoring and video-surveillance systems.
The large courtyard in front of the former friary offers ten ground-level parking spaces and twenty-four automated underground ones that are independent two by two. This choice means the whole square, paved in flat cobbles and sandstone, may be used without it taking on the appearance of a car park and thus preserving the atmosphere of the entire context.
All the service networks – drains, sewers, telephone lines – have been newly designed and laid, including the connections to the mains beneath the road or to the supply network.