Archaeologists will be commissioned to examine the land because Nyon was originally a Roman colony. The city completely covers the Roman city whose center has not changed since Antiquity.
Past and present intertwine
The adoption of this characterful residence could not be done without a profound reinvention of its spaces. In the large garden adjoining the house, Katrine and Claus have the idea of building a new structure which will house two apartments and Katrine’s gallery: “Cabane Blanche”, a space dedicated to Scandinavian design and Swiss and international artists.
The apartment where Katrine and her family live is connected to the old part of the house, which gives the place an elegance made of tradition and modernity. “Even though it was difficult to give up the top floor which offered a breathtaking view of the lake, we felt it was more important to have an outdoor space for the children,” explains Katrine. Indeed, a vast terrace was created, closely linked to the living spaces, creating a wonderful indoor-outdoor feeling. Bold detail: a swimming pool has been created on the terrace. “You can enjoy the breathtaking view of Nyon Castle while doing laps!” exclaims the owner.
Another challenge, with a storefront location, the Rougemont bakery had been in place for many years. There was no doubt that the latter should be preserved. A complete renovation of the place will be carried out, the volumes of the existing business will be greatly improved and two new kitchens will be created: a pastry/bakery laboratory and a kitchen dedicated to midday meals. Parking for the entire building will also be created in the basement.
Spaces full of character
The couple wanted to give the place a contemporary look while preserving the details of the old architecture; the beautiful doors and windows weathered by the years, the fireplace and the bathroom cupboards have been preserved. “These original touches are probably what I love most about the house,” says Katrine. The kitchen and bedrooms are located in the old part, these mixtures of periods create a very particular atmosphere and contrasts which the Dane was able to take advantage of.
She spent countless hours deciding what would work best to bring the two very different vibes together. On arrival, she managed to create a chic, hygge cocoon in monochrome tones. Katrine does not hesitate to play with periods; a timeless bathroom with early 20th century accents extends a bedroom with a resolutely contemporary style. There are a lot of green elements in the house, such as the gray-green kitchen, green doors and shutters, green walls in the entrance and stairwell and a green banister for the gallery.
The interior design is a blend of classic design and contemporary Scandinavian style. While recycling some of the furniture that the family already owned, she drew a lot of inspiration from the designer line that she exhibits in the showroom. She appreciates noble and natural materials such as ceramics, wood, leather, marble: “I like Scandinavian designers who mix warmer styles – inspired by Asia for example – with Nordic freshness. » These lines can be magnificent in a modern house, but also in a chalet in the mountains. “For example, the iconic Mater Design stool with its leather seat is both cool and sophisticated and goes wonderfully with any style.”
A showcase for art and design
To reach the Cabane Blanche gallery, you climb a staircase which leads to the space above the garages and kitchens of the bakery. A deep volume, ending with a patio, in the middle of which a tree grows, which brings the place a lovely source of energy and vitality, while allowing Katrine to present a small selection of outdoor furniture.
The concrete ceiling has been kept raw and simply finished, it responds nicely to the wooden floor, both reflecting the owner’s love of natural materials. “I love the showroom and its positive soul, it’s my oasis!” expresses Katrine.
In addition to hosting art exhibitions, Cabane Blanche aims to offer its customers a choice of cutting-edge furniture and lighting. “We wanted to create a space where art and furniture complement each other, in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing clients to imagine how a piece of art would fit into their home.” Katrine has today decided to share her life between Nyon and Copenhagen, where she is from. This will allow her to better discover the designers she likes in her gallery, which is constantly reinventing.
To find out more: Cabaneblanche.com
