A Cold 2010 Home Transforms Into a Forest-Inspired Sanctuary
A once unremarkable 2010-built home in Île-de-France has been transformed into a warm, nature-inspired living space by Studio In Sinu. The redesign harmonises the interior with the nearby Fontainebleau Forest, blending organic materials and soft curves. Architects Elena Cadouin and Cassandre Verdier led the project, prioritising wood and tactile finishes to create a welcoming atmosphere.
The original home lacked character, with a rigid, linear layout that felt cold and impersonal. To counter this, the architects introduced flowing shapes and natural textures throughout the space. Oak and okoumé woods dominate the interiors, paired with deep bordeaux and soft beige tones for added warmth.
The bedroom suite, dressing room, and bathroom now connect seamlessly, their open passageways fully lined in oak. This continuity extends to the lower level, where the fitness studio includes a recessed square in the floor—designed to fit taller exercise equipment. Every element ties back to the surrounding forest, reinforcing a sense of unity between the home and its natural setting.
Fontainebleau itself has seen growing interest in sustainable living over the past two decades. Since the 2000s, the French Environment Ministry has supported ecological projects like habitat restoration and eco-friendly hiking and climbing routes. Nearby, EU-funded eco-villages and green urbanism initiatives have also gained momentum, reflecting a broader shift toward nature-conscious design.
The renovated home now stands as a quiet reflection of its forest surroundings. Its use of wood, soft lines, and earthy colours creates a cohesive living space. Meanwhile, the wider Fontainebleau region continues to evolve, balancing tourism with ecological and sustainable development.
