CASA GUBERAN – Light-Filled Historic House with Douglas Fir Floors
Private Residences — La Praz, Schwitzerland
Christophe Guberan I STUDIO GUBERAN
Douglas Fir Flooring | Surface Treatment: White lye & White Oil
Solid Wood Planks | Grading: URBAN Classic
28 mm x 300 mm | Varying Lengths & Room-Length up to 7 m
- Douglas fir
The CASA GUBERAN house is located in the Swiss Jura and was built in 1840. It originally served as a farmhouse and guesthouse, consisting of many small, dark, and partitioned rooms.
During the renovation and conversion into two apartments, the focus was on light, spatial flow, and open structures. The goal was to open up the historic rooms, allow light to enter, and create a free flow throughout the day. The varying floor levels now define the individual areas and give the spaces structure.
The floor became a central design element: Solid Douglas fir planks from the Black Forest extend across floors, stair treads, beds, drawers, cabinets, and seating areas. The wide 30 cm planks were treated with a white lye and white oil. This treatment softens the natural rosy hue while giving the floor a bright, warm appearance.
Original elements of the historic building were deliberately preserved during the renovation and integrated harmoniously into the new spatial concept. Each window is unique, shaped over time and through use. The thick walls with deep window sills are made of light-colored regional limestone. The lime-plastered walls were finely smoothed so they catch the light and create subtle vibrations – a perfect harmony of wood, light, and space.
Photos © Jasmin Depora
"The floor connects the whole house together, infusing warmth and atmosphere. Working with these Douglas fir floorboards has added real value to the project."
Christophe Guberan, Product Designer | STUDIO GUBERAN