Architecture Dordogne
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Architecture in Dordogne: A deep dive into historical house

Mahaut Fauquet
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Modified on
1/14/2025
24
Summary

Are you dreaming of a beautiful house in the south of France? Dordogne is renowned for its villages, stone houses, hilltop castles, and exceptional vineyards! The architecture Dordogne is famous for, including Périgordian dwellings, offers unique charm but also comes with advantages and disadvantages worth understanding before embarking on your real estate project. Discover here the most beautiful houses in Dordogne and their peculiarities.

Typical Architectural  in Dordogne

Traditional Perigordian Stone Houses

When one thinks of the southwest, one naturally imagines Périgordian houses, built on several floors using large overlapping stones and topped with tile roofs. Inside and out, they benefit from undeniable charm: walls covered in ivy, exposed beams, terracotta floors, stone fireplaces... Considered French heritage and therefore protected, these houses, whether in the city or countryside, blend perfectly with the surrounding rural landscape, cobbled streets, and flourishing gardens.

A protected house means that its external appearance cannot be changed without obtaining a permit; however, interiors are often renovated to create a modern and comfortable space. For houses requiring renovation, know that many properties are eligible for the Malraux tax reduction scheme, which aims to encourage the renovation and preservation of historical heritage by offering tax benefits to owners who undertake restoration work on classified properties!

  • Advantages: Charm, integration into the landscape, renovation potential
  • Disadvantages: Maintenance, insulation
house Périgord

Countryside Longhouses

A typical construction of western France, from Normandy to Nouvelle Aquitaine, the longhouse is, as its name suggests, a house built lengthwise and often on one level. The interior, typical, combines wood and exposed stone to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Unlike townhouses, countryside longhouses are generally sold on large plots of land, giving you the opportunity to expand, build an annex, an outbuilding, a pool (if there isn't one already!), or simply enjoy a large garden!

The rooms are traditionally built in a row, but these houses are highly changeable: it's up to you to decide whether you want to keep the original layout for a cozy effect or create a new space by knocking down some walls. Bonus point: the historically underused attics will make excellent spaces for bedrooms! The longhouse has one drawback: built directly on the ground, it may lack proper insulation. If not already done, it is recommended to carry out work to better protect against moisture and cold!

  • Advantages: Charm, space, adaptability
  • Disadvantages: Maintenance, distance, sometimes complicated renovations
Country Farm

Vineyard Estates

Monbazillac, Chanteracoise, do these names ring a bell? These renowned estates are all part of Périgord Pourpre, in the Bergerac region. Dordogne is rich in vineyard estates, many of which are for sale today. It's an opportunity for the amateur oenologist to retrain in production or wine tourism!

Buying a vineyard estate is investing in a unique, authentic, and enriching lifestyle, rooted in French tradition. It also means enjoying breathtaking views all year round, witnessing the passing seasons, and enjoying a life closer to nature.

However, managing a vineyard estate requires in-depth knowledge of the winemaking process and market requirements, which can be challenging for new owners.

  • Advantages: Beauty, lifestyle, investment
  • Disadvantages: Expertise required, price
Vineyard

Castles in Dordogne

Dordogne is renowned for housing an impressive number of majestic castles, some dating back to the Middle Ages. Among these architectural jewels, many are perfectly habitable! Multiple lounges, reception halls, monumental fireplaces, lush gardens, valley views... Living in a castle certainly offers extraordinary qualities! How can one not imagine family holidays, spectacular parties, but also quiet days, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities?

Castle prices in France are often advantageous but beware, they often require work, and above all, a lot of maintenance!

  • Advantages: Charm, size, luxury
  • Disadvantages: Maintenance costs
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Castle Dordogne

And you? What do you think of the architecture of the Dordogne?

Whether you aspire to the tranquility of the countryside, the charm of a traditional stone house in the city, the management of a vineyard estate, or life in a castle, Dordogne offers a diversity of real estate properties catering to various needs and aspirations. Don't hesitate to check the listings to find the rare gem that will fulfill you!

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