A bit of history
Built in 1886 by architect Charles Garnier for the Foucher de Careil family, Villa Maria Serena overlooks the city of Menton, located on the Italian border.
This green haven, facing the sea, is surrounded by gardens classified as historical monuments and known as the "little Africa." In 1922, it became the property of an English banker who bequeathed it to the city of Menton in 1947. This beautiful "Belle Epoque" style mansion is now visited by tourists from around the world and also serves as a reception venue for high-profile individuals.
PROJECT
At the beginning of 2019, the city of Menton initiated a restoration program for the exterior of the building, including the rendering of the 2,000 m² of facades. These facades were damaged due to sea spray and the attacks of sea salt. The villa needed to be renovated using a durable material.
Mise en œuvre
The operations began with the removal of the existing plaster on the 2,000 m² of facades down to the stone masonry. This process allowed for the sanitation of the facades before proceeding with the rendering. The company SMBR, located in Nice and responsible for the works, then carried out the application of the different layers of render using mechanical projection. A scratch coat and a roughcast made of lime and PROMPT natural cement were applied.
A DURABLE AND NATURAL SOLUTION
The mineralogical composition of PROMPT natural cement gives it exceptional properties such as perfect adhesion, resistance to aggressive water, to weather conditions, and in marine environments. In fact, PROMPT natural cement meets the NF P15-134 standard for "cements for see works."
This makes it an ideal material to renovate buildings exposed to seawater, maritime air, salt, etc. Other qualities include low shrinkage and compatibility with lime and old substrates. Another advantage is its light ochre color, which provides a beautiful aesthetic appearance. This color allows for a wide range of shades depending on the choice of sand. Furthermore, in addition to being a durable solution, PROMPT natural cement is a natural alternative.
"This restoration campaign allowed us to observe that, despite the extreme conditions of the waterfront, the century-old original plaster was remarkable. PROMPT natural cement provides better resistance to sea spray and improved strength while retaining enough flexibility to give the old structure real elasticity. Despite the bad weather, the implementation was surprising and made the work easier for the workers," said Pierre Verdet, director of SMBR works.
Complete restoration
Maria Serena Villa has regained all its former splendor and grandeur. It now wears a beautiful robe in the color of Sienna Earth. Visitors can stroll through its gardens and, while admiring the splendor of the facades of this magnificent mansion, imagine the balls and receptions where high society used to gather.
Key information
2,000 m² of facades to be rendered
12 months of work
Stakeholders
Client
City of Menton
Project manager
Technical Services of the City of Menton
Contractor
SMBR (Nice)
