As an interior designer and founder of Maison Tchénio, I approach each old house like a blank canvas: I pay particular attention to the quality of the natural light filtered through the century-old shutters, to the enhancement of the volumes and to the elegant dialogue between Provencal stone and modern finishes.
My job is to reveal the potential of old houses. Not to sell dreams. My role is to help you avoid the pitfalls, prioritize the steps, and sublimate the existing without betraying the soul of the place.
Let me guide you step by step through the process of transforming your acquisition into a true architect's residence.
Where can I buy a house to renovate in Aix en Provence?
Nombre d’annonces et budgets
The ads available in May 2025 on the SeLoger website in Aix-en-Provence (13100), in Aix-en-Provence (13100), reveal an active market: nearly 100 houses to renovate in Aix (13100) and over 4,200 in the entire Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. SeLoger website in Aix-en-Provence (13100), à Aix-en-Provence (13100). Ce qui révèlent un marché actif : près de 100 maisons à rénover dans Aix (13100) et plus de 4 200 dans toute la région Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
Which areas are worth a detour to buy a house for renovation in Aix?
Plateau de Puyricard–La Trévaresse :
Sainte-Victoire view, residential setting, maisons de maître from €390,000.
Le Montaiguet
Absolute peace and quiet, country houses with swimming pool and outbuildings. Typical house: 133 m², 1,380 m² plot, average price €989,000.
Est-Repentance–Les Trois Bons Dieux
Ancient charm and immediate proximity to the city center. Rare properties with high prices (up to €10,500/m²).
Grand Sud – La Duranne
Finally, the Grand Sud - La Duranne perimeter offers 289 ads for houses to restore, ranging from €10,000 for small outbuildings to €13,800,000 for prestigious villas. A breeding ground of opportunities for high-end investors looking for the rare pearl to renovate in Aix-en-Provence.
Why choose an old bastide or a charming house to renovate?
Old world charm
Older homes in Aix-en-Provence are renowned for their authenticity and unique character. Built with noble, durable materials such as Provence stone, these buildings feature iconic architectural details such as exposed beams, terracotta tiles, weathered wooden shutters and traditional tomettes on the floor. These elements contribute to creating a warm, authentic atmosphere, making each room a unique space steeped in history.
In addition, inner courtyards and typical gardens planted with olive trees and lavender add a touch of tranquility and natural beauty, allowing you to recharge your batteries in a soothing setting. These features make the old houses in Aix-en-Provence true architectural gems, ready to be rediscovered and renovated.
Potential added value
Over the past five years, the price per m² of old property has risen by +27%, testifying to the growing attractiveness of the Aix-en-Provence market. A house in need of renovation, even if the purchase price is attractive, can generate significant added value through careful and harmonious renovation.
Sustainable commitment
In Aix-en-Provence, the transition to energy-efficient renovation is part of the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolitan Council's Plan Climat-Air-Énergie Métropolitain (PCAEM), one of whose key objectives is to reduce housing energy consumption by 30% and greenhouse gas emissions by almost 20% by 2030.
How can you help reduce your energy bills?
- MaPrimeRénov’ : up to €20,000 subsidy for ambitious energy renovation.
- Provence Éco-Rénov : up to €9,000 depending on the nature of the work.
- The numéro unique Allo Rénov’énergie (04 88 60 21 06).
The Metropolitan Climate-Air-Energy Plan aims to reduce energy consumption by 30% by 2030. It's in your interest to aim for at least a two-class DPE improvement.
Should you be afraid of construction? No. But you need to know what you're getting into.
Diagnosis and inventory of fixtures
Before any work is carried out, a complete diagnosis is required to secure your home and reveal its full potential:
- Structural: examination of cracks, foundations and framework to verify the stability of the structure. A meticulous survey, carried out by an engineer or specialized firm, avoids unpleasant surprises and guides technical choices.
- Energy efficiency (DPE): the Diagnostic de Performance Énergétique (DPE) evaluates heat loss and classifies your property from A to G. It defines the priorities for reducing your energy consumption and meeting the objectives of the local Climate Plan.
Property diagnostics: lead, asbestos, termites... these compulsory surveys protect the health of future occupants and provide a legal framework for work to be carried out.
Prioritizing work - shell vs. finish
To optimize budget and deadlines, a distinction is made between three phases:
Structural work
Priority is given to roofing, framing, drainage and perimeter insulation. This stage consolidates the structure and guarantees a high-performance envelope, essential for a renovation that respects the authenticity of Provence.
Second work
This is followed by the installation of electrical, plumbing and heating systems, and the fitting of windows and interior doors. These technical interventions determine the comfort and functionality of each space.
Finishing
Finally, lime plaster, floor coverings (terracotta tiles, solid parquet), chiselled lighting and bespoke or designer furniture enhance your home. It's at this stage that the interior designer breathes the soul and refinement that will make all the difference.
Choosing the right professionals
I always say that methodical planning is the foundation of a successful renovation! According to Maison Tchenio, thoroughness eliminates up to 80% of unforeseen events, and makes it easier to coordinate all the parties involved.
To keep costs under control, I recommend that you compare three estimates for each item (materials, labor, fees), and allow for a 10% safety margin to absorb unforeseen circumstances (discovery of vaults, technical adjustments, etc.). Also factor in administrative costs (building permits, preliminary studies) and architect's fees, if any.
Choice of materials and finishes
For a high-end, long-lasting look, choose materials that are both noble and responsible:
- Solid wood for parquet flooring, joinery and made-to-measure furniture.
- Marble and natural stone for worktops and window sills.
- Antique tomettes or reconditioned cement tiles, for that Provencal touch.
- Lime plaster for interior walls, offering humidity regulation and a warm patina.
And what about the soul? Here are my interior design tips for renovating in Aix-en-Provence
Optimize volumes and natural light
In Provence, light is an integral part of architecture. To sublimate your house to be renovated in Aix-en-Provence, I always intervene gently. For example, removing superfluous partitions, creating interior skylights and playing with mirrors to capture and diffuse the southern light. This approach opens up perspectives while preserving the historic skeleton of the building. In addition, shutters or bay windows were installed to capture the low winter sun and protect against overheating in summer.
Combining old and contemporary styles
The true art of old house renovation lies in the balance between past and present. Combine sleek designer furniture with local crafts for a subtle neo-Provençal style. Contrasting textures energize the space without overloading it. This dialogue of eras reflects the soul of your home and enhances each heritage element.
Managing technical and aesthetic constraints
Renovation also rhymes with technique: anticipating the passage of chains and preserving heritage features are essential. I systematically integrate invisible solutions, such as technical baseboards or illuminated false ceilings, so as not to detract from the aesthetic. For example, during the renovation of a Mas Provençale, we discovered a magnificent French-style ceiling. Naturally, we preserved it. In this way, your project combines modernity with uncompromising respect for Aix's heritage.
Renovating an old house in Aix-en-Provence is a stimulating project, rich in challenges and opportunities. By carefully assessing the structural condition of the property, respecting standards and heritage, and carefully planning each stage of the project, you can transform a historic house into a modern, comfortable space.
Choose qualified professionals, prioritize essential work and take advantage of the financial aid available for energy renovation. With patience, planning and a clear vision, you can breathe new life into these architectural treasures and create a unique home full of charm.
Embark on this exciting adventure and discover the pleasures of renovating an old house in Provence.
