Rural writer's nook overlooks the English channel in northern France

A family in France commissioned Ziegler Antonin to add a writer's nook and garage to an existing home in Senneville sur Fécamp, located in the Normandie region of northern France.

Designed to nurture creativity and inspiration, this tiny observatory opens on three sides to a glorious view of wide open spaces. More about this mixed-use project right after the jump.

Housing a library and a garage, the elevated addition is glazed to ensure plenty of natural light and unobstructed views of the verdant landscape. Despite the opportunities for distraction, the tranquil retreat is also designed to facilitate concentration and creation — both ideal scenarios for a writer.

A simple material palette belies an elegant design that maximizes the 646 square-foot space devoted to what amounts to a miniature observatory with a garage downstairs. Antonin describes his intention to create a dramatic, theatrical space, both inside and outside; we think the photographs depict tremendous success. Slightly moody, the images in our gallery captures the peace and tranquility this addition offers.