After the Transhumance

The Aubrac region in South Western France is a harsh and breathtaking environment with rich heritage and biodiversity. Nestled in a valley in Laguiole is the 3.2 hectare site of a former farm where the client wanted to explore how to use the land so that it would benefit the environment and the local community, as well as provide an income from eco and wellness tourism. 

The first layer was to diversify planting to create habitats and a more resilient landscape. A holistic approach was applied and draws on expertise from specialists such as ecologists, entomologists and soil scientists. It includes river restoration, traditional land management and the reintroduction of species rich grasslands, meadows and woodland.

We then overlaid this with human activity – places to sit, swim, gather, exercise, talk, eat, walk. The project offers a unique yoga destination inspired and enhanced by the landscape – experience a flowing sequence of vinyasa by the meandering river; find quiet contemplation amongst basalt boulders during yin yoga; and a profound state of relaxation during yoga nidra classes in a peaceful woodland clearing.

Materiality is key to the project to reference the area’s agricultural roots and pride in craftsmanship and quality. Materials and labour are to be locally sourced within a 25km radius and re-purposed or reclaimed. A material inventory is to be carried out and all site materials are to be retained and re-purposed in the new design.