Exploring the Legacy of Bordeaux: Unveiling the History & Unique Features of its Quintessential Homes

Introduction to the Bordeaux stall

The Bordeaux stall is a type of traditional house which is mainly found in the Bordeaux region and its surroundings. This emblematic construction of the local architectural heritage testifies to ancestral know-how and a desire to combine functionality, elegance and comfort. In this article, we invite you to discover the history of Bordeaux stalls, their main architectural characteristics as well as their evolution over the centuries.

Origin and historical evolution of Bordeaux stalls

The origin of the Bordeaux shop dates back to the 15th century. At that time, these were mainly small wooden constructions intended to accommodate craftsmen or traders. Over time, these buildings were replaced by limestone constructions to meet the growing need for durable and resilient housing.

It was in the 18th century that the shops became mainly residential, notably thanks to the rise of neo-classicism in the architectural field. The limestone facade with sculpted motifs then becomes an essential symbol of this style sought after by wealthy Bordeaux residents.

The popularity of Bordeaux stalls reached its peak between the Second Empire and just before the Second World War. During this period, many shops were built to meet the growing demand for comfortable housing accessible to the middle classes. The Bordeaux Housing Companies (HBM) play a crucial role in their construction, by offering advantageous financing to individuals wishing to acquire a house of this type.

Architectural characteristics of Bordeaux stalls

The Bordeaux shop is distinguished by its low, single-storey structure, which facilitates access to housing for the elderly or people with reduced mobility. The absence of a floor also allows better air circulation and optimal sunshine in all rooms.

The neo-classical limestone facade is undoubtedly one of the most striking elements of these typical Bordeaux houses. The carved designs add a touch of elegance and demonstrate local craftsmanship. The front door is often framed by two symmetrical windows, giving a harmonious appearance to the whole.

Inside, there is generally a functional layout with a central corridor serving several rooms arranged on a single level. Some shops also have a cellar under the ground floor, providing additional space for storing or preserving food.

Finally, the garden at the back of the house constitutes a true haven of peace for the occupants. This small green space allows you to enjoy a pleasant exterior while being protected from prying eyes thanks to the walls that surround it.

Single and double stalls: what are the differences?

There are generally two types of Bordeaux stalls: single stalls and double stalls. The main difference between these two models is their interior layout and access to rooms.

The simple shop is characterized by a succession of rooms in a row, with a central corridor which serves each of them. The bedrooms are generally located at the rear of the accommodation, while the living room and kitchen occupy the front part.

The double shop has a different configuration, with two rows of rooms separated by a wider central corridor. This arrangement offers more privacy to the occupants and also allows better sound insulation between the different areas of the accommodation.

The current state of Bordeaux stalls

Today, Bordeaux shops are very popular on the local real estate market because of their undeniable charm and their often privileged geographical location in the heart of historic districts. However, some of them require major renovation work to meet current standards in terms of insulation and comfort.

Faced with this challenge, the city of Bordeaux has put in place a plan to safeguard and enhance the local architectural heritage, which aims in particular to preserve Bordeaux’s shops and encourage their rehabilitation. Thanks to these measures, these typical houses continue to add charm to the streets of Bordeaux and bear witness to a past rich in history.