Normandy’s Half-Timbered Houses: Their History, Purpose and Origins
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Half-timbered houses are an iconic sight around the Normandy region of France. The unique architectural style dates back to the late 15th century and remained an influential technique in property design for around 300 years.
The style evolved from a time when people used materials readily available in their local area rather than transporting materials from other parts of the country. As Normandy has an abundance of wooded areas, even more so centuries ago, timber was an obvious choice as a building material. In addition to timber, stone was available in the area, although its limited supply meant that it was often only used as a foundation.
The wooden structure was built on top of the stone base, using a mix of sablières basses, low horizontally placed beams, and vertical beams, known as colombes. Once the frame was in place, the spaces between the timber planks were filled with a mixture of small stones, earth, sand and straw – known as hourdage. There were no set rules, and the owners would often make do with what they had to hand. The outside of the structure was then covered in torchis, a mixture of lime, straw, sand and clay to seal the external structure from the natural elements.
Practicality over charm?
The most important factor at the time would have been building a home that was structurally sound and hardy. This was the main priority over cosmetic appeal and yet today we find the mismatched timbers and uneven structures a uniquely charming characteristic of the Normandy half-timbered house that we are all so very fond of.
Should you travel to Normandy today you will find half-timbered properties wherever you go, the colourful non-conformist structures accompanied by vibrant flowered gardens provide a beautiful old-world charm.
Where to see Normandy’s half-timbered houses
Some of the best examples of Normandy’s half-timbered houses are on display in the regional capital, Rouen, which has boasts the largest collection of half-timbered buildings in France. Regional favourites, Honfleur and Bayeux also have some picturesque examples.
Or, if you want to venture outside of the main towns, the following Normandy villages have been awarded the coveted label ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ and showcase some exquisite examples of half-timbered houses.
Beuvron-en-Auge: a village almost entirely made up of half-timbered properties. Those that aren’t have been sympathetically designed to provide a beautiful, subtle contrast.
Lyons-la-Forêt a beautiful village that sits within a forested setting on the site of a 12th-century castle.
Le Bec-Hellouin is picturesque and well-known, not only for its fine examples of half-timbered properties, but also for its substantial abbey.
These are just some suggestions, I am sure there are many more, and I wish you much enjoyment discovering them.
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Lead photo credit : With its beautiful half-timbered houses, Rouen is a favourite with buyers, Photo: Shutterstock
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By Lisa Carr
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