In an idyllic setting in the Quercy region of France, this contemporary French farmhouse exudes style and sustainability alongside 18th century charm, close to the medieval hilltop village of Lauzerte in the Tarn-et-Garonne.

Le Grand Chene has been created by a San-Francisco based product designer who has worked with some of the most prestigious brands in the world. This project has been four years in the making with the primary aim to sensitively renovate a 300-year old Quercy farmhouse into a sustainable home fit for 21st century living.

With architects, designers and sustainability experts from California working alongside French artisan builders, the result is a unique abode which pays great respect to the farmhouse’s 18th century heritage as well as showcasing modern flair and smart technology. The solar panelled canopy above the swimming pool fully powers the property, the gorgeous garden is watered by rainwater in buried reservoirs and there are two electric vehicle charging points on the driveway.

Yet the charm of the Tarn-et-Garonne remains with limestone so typical of the region, exposed wood beams, elegant wooden floors contrasting a flood of natural light from newly installed windows framing the garden views and beyond.

The estate has been split into four dwellings, each one with its own entrance and stylish kitchen-diner. Starting off in the 2-bedroom house, there is a spacious lounge and contemporary kitchen, whilst the serene garden studio on the lower floor has books, objets d’art, an en suite double and a pretty south-facing terrace. Then there’s the 2-person cottage with its bedroom and dining space beneath the high vaulted ceiling. The fifth bedroom can be found on the lower floor of the impressive studio with its double height glass windows, spiral staircase and superb sociable air-conditioned space upstairs with a large dining table and huge Smart TV.

Everything here is the high level you would expect. Some of the furnishings have been designed by the owner himself, bedlinen is percale cotton from Paris whilst cookware and tableware has been sourced from premium stores across Europe. In the garden come across summer flowers, an olive grove and lovely valley views. Each dwelling has its own patio or balcony for your morning coffee or evening aperitif, then you can gather on the west terrace with its al-fresco dining table to fit every guest and high-end gas barbecue. The outdoor swimming pool, which can be heated on request, has ample sun loungers and a private changing room and shower.

This region of France is a paradise for food and wine enthusiasts – discover delightful Farmer’s markets in local villages selling walnuts, goat’s cheese, truffles, duck and other seasonal wonders and there are plenty family-run vineyards where you can sample local wine. The medieval hilltop village of Lauzerte, classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’, is just 8km away whilst other historic gems within easy reach include Montcuq, Tournon-d'Agenais  and Puy-l'Évêque.

Cycle by the Tarn River in Moissac, sail along the Garonne in Agen and visit the famous Malbec-producing vineyards of Cahors, a beautiful town on the Lot River, home to Le Pont Valentré, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are so many ways to truly embrace the authentic essence and natural beauty of southwestern France during your stay at Le Grand Chene.