In extending a warm welcome to new members, for whom French is not the first language, perhaps a few words of introduction would be in order.

As a recognized society, Maisons Paysannes de France has been active in the Lot for 38 years. Our principal activity concerns conservation of the vernacular architectural heritage and its setting. We frequently act to save places of interest that are under threat.

We also provide guidance in techniques ans materials for those involved with restoration, and attempt to ensure the continuity of traditional crafts through published materials and practical demonstrations.

Our key concern is to ensure that restoration is undertaken in a sympathetic manner. All to many of the limited stock of our fine buildings has been permanently disfigured by inappropriate restoration in a vain attempt at “ modernisation “. Old buildings are not preserved by the excessive use of modern materials but they can provide new uses or be brought back into use by a skilful repair.

Such repair may not always iron out the bulging or the bowing, the sagging or the leaning which are often the inevitable and characteristic consequence of age.

Our mission is to try to insure that, through good and practical advice, such age continues to retain a beauty of its own.