For me, starting a new project is always the most thrilling part. (maybe that’s my ADHD – LOL) And, when it was time to actually fly to France to see some buildings, I was beyond excited. This search was a bit different from previous searches in NY and NJ; this one had a specific vision. A space to host residencies for a painting workshop while serving as short-term rentals when needed. This journey from dream to reality has been ripe with success and failures, challenges with both the language and cultures and it’s just getting started.

The Needle In A Haystack

The search began early in the U.S., involving online listings and emails to a realtor. It’s worth noting that there’s no guarantee of receiving a reply. Many people contact realtors in Europe to test the waters, so it was essential to convey a serious intent to purchase before the fall. The criteria were clear: a central location, ample space for guests, and renovation potential without being overwhelming. While a few properties seemed promising, none felt quite right—until, as the evening light was fading, the building at 15 Rue De La Mairie was presented.

Maison de Mairie

This three-story building stood out immediately, directly next to the town hall in the heart of Quillan. With classic French charm and tall new windows throughout, it wasn’t perfect but had incredible potential. The ground floor, a one-bedroom unit, required only a kitchen installation and some cleanup to be ready. The second floor (or first floor, as labeled in Europe) was more challenging, with piles of rubbish, blood splatters on the walls and floors, and a broken toilet left behind. The top floor had its share of issues, including punch holes in walls and doors, along with significant cosmetic damage. Despite these challenges, the entire building required only cosmetic renovations, which was a huge bonus.

GROUNDFLOOR

Renovation projects often come with their fair share of challenges—unexpected issues like rotting beams, crumbling foundations, or animals living in the walls with you eating your home’s electrical wires. While de Mairie didn’t suffer from those problems, it came with its own unique twist: there wasn’t a right angle in the building. From the ground floor to the roof. The walls and ceilings waved, the floors rippled—And it was totally French.

1ST FLOOR

The work began with replacing three kitchens, one for each floor, and updating two bathrooms with new showers on the upper levels. Walls and ceilings were scraped, sanded, and plastered—sometimes reaching as high as 18 feet. Stoves, sinks, fridges, and range hoods were carefully selected and installed for each unit. The entire project was completed in just under two months, requiring significant effort and investment. Yet, the potential of the property made every moment worthwhile.

2ND FLOOR

What sealed the decision was the vision of what it could be. This building wasn’t just a place to stay; it was the foundation for something bigger. A space for artists to find inspiration. A home base for travelers exploring the region. A connection to Quillan’s vibrant community and culture.

Now, as renovations are wrapping up, every step has been documented—These images capture the building’s raw, untouched state: its quirks, character, and potential. They tell a story of what was and hint at what’s to come. Sharing these before photos feels important, not just to see the process but to inspire anyone following this journey to show you what’s achievable. With a little patience and the ability to accept that everything is not going to go as planned, it can be a reality.  They’re a reminder that nothing grows in a vacuum, and the real beauty lies in the transformation.

Beauty emerges through the act of change—the blood, sweat, tears, and determination that breathe life into  vision.

For now, enjoy the “before”.