BLOG / 20.11.2025

Gîte in the great outdoors – a special project brings tourists to Calmus

An eye for detail, the highest level of craftmanship and customisation based on individual requirements – these core values apply to every project JANS undertakes, whether large or small, public or private, close to home or far beyond national borders. There is always something special about working with public-sector clients. These projects offer the opportunity to meet new people, are generally open and accessible to the wider public, and are, at times, even somewhat in the spotlight.

Everyone welcome

These properties undoubtedly apply to our Gîte Calmus project. This building with its special history was carefully restored by JANS in conjunction with the municipality of Saeul. Originally a school and later used as a youth hostel, the building has been given a new lease of life as unique tourist accommodation surrounded by countryside.

What makes it so special is that, instead of concealing the building’s history, JANS and the client have meticulously preserved it and integrated it into the new structure.

In the spotlight

The mayor of Saeul, Gérard Zoller, attended the official opening in June 2025 alongside culture minister Eric Thill, with a large crowd of visitors travelling to Calmus to witness the unveiling. The high level of interest in the project is something that makes the JANS team particularly proud. They take great satisfaction in having made such an important contribution to the municipality.

One of the team is project manager François Lafontaine, who has been part of JANS since 2021. He accompanied the project throughout the almost two-year construction period. “What’s special to me is the unique history of this house and various uses it has had over the years,” he said. “Retaining this original character and incorporating it into a new, modern structure was no easy task.” All that had to be done while meeting the latest standards and requirements.

Old meets new

Large sections of the original substance of the building had to be removed, both inside and outside the building. JANS also reconstructed part of the foundations, and replaced the roof. Despite the full-scale renovation work, maintaining the existing character and integrating it harmoniously into the new property was a top priority. Door openings were retained, and the original ceilings and floorings were carefully restored and brought back to life.

Lafontaine was delighted to see how successful this combination of old and new turned out to be and that he and his team was able to breathe new life into the building.

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Dream destination for fans of the outdoors

The new gîte can comfortably accommodate up to ten guests across five beautifully designed rooms. Whether for families, groups of friends, solo travellers or organised excursions – the accommodation is designed to appeal to a wide range of visitors.

The unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside make the accommodation a truly special place to stay. Numerous hiking trails and cycle paths start right at the front door, making it an attractive destination for active holidaymakers. With its own sauna, dedicated bike storage and repair station and three outdoor terraces, the lodge offers the kind of comfort most people would love to have at home.