There are places where stone tells a story. This is the case of this magnificent Provençal bastide located in Varages (Var), a true architectural jewel to which the team of Jardin des Matières had the privilege of bringing its touch of modernity.
The challenge of this prestigious renovation in Provence? To combine the raw authenticity of dry stone walls with the sleek and contemporary elegance of a polished concrete floor. To achieve this alliance between old and new, the secret of our company lies in absolutely rigorous technical preparation. The durability of a polished concrete coating depends not only on its finish, but above all on the solidity of the substrate that supports it.
Discover, step by step, behind the scenes of this exceptional project in Varages, where craftsmanship meets high technicality.
1. The project: The alliance of old and modern polished concrete
The project begins in a typical Provençal setting. The exterior of the house breathes local tradition, offering a striking contrast with the interior volumes undergoing rehabilitation.
2. The preparation stages for a floor before applying polished concrete, Lithos Concrete version
This is where the technical expertise of Jardin des Matières makes the difference. Applying polished concrete to an old substrate without meticulous preparation is the best way to see cracks appear. Here are our 3 crucial steps:
A. Reinforcement: Installation of a fiberglass mesh embedded in an epoxy moisture barrier
The existing substrate may exhibit micro-movements or capillary water rising. To ensure the longevity of the future decorative floor, we proceed with systematic reinforcement.This step involves embedding a reinforcing mesh in a first technical layer to stabilize the entire surface.
B. Waterproofing and adhesion: The role of Epoxy
Once the floor is reinforced, it must be perfectly insulated from moisture and offer maximum adhesion.
Our craftsman applies a two-component Epoxy resin. This technical product fulfills two vital functions for polished concrete installation:
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Creation of a moisture barrier: It blocks capillary rise (common in old stone houses).
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Adhesion promoter: It ensures that the leveling mortars will bond perfectly to the substrate thanks to the sand sprinkling during application.
C. Perfect flatness: Anhydrite screed
Next, we pour a tension-free self-leveling compound.In this image, the mirror effect (wet appearance) testifies to the perfect flatness obtained, which is essential before applying the final polished concrete.
3. Custom fittings: Creation of a concrete vanity unit
A high-end renovation is all about the details. Jardin des Matières is not limited to floors and walls: we also design custom-made polished concrete furniture.This bathroom vanity unit structure is not yet ready to receive its mineral finish, for perfect integration and total visual continuity with the other rooms.
The steps will be detailed in another article.
Entrust your polished concrete project in Var (83) to experts
The technical preparation of this project in Varages is complete. Next step: the artisanal application of polished concrete, with its unique texture and inimitable color nuances.
Do you have a floor renovation project, the creation of a polished concrete bathroom, or an outdoor design project in Provence (Varages, Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, Aix-en-Provence)?
Contact us for a personalized study of your project. Our qualified craftsmen will accompany you from technical preparation to exceptional finishes.
