Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
Crafted for
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Raymond Blanc’s two-star Michelin hotel and
restaurant, this bridge revitalized the Japanese garden, replacing a
deteriorated glulam structure. To ensure strength and durability, the main
carriage beam sections were kept substantial.
Reviving
17th-century Chinoiserie and Japonisme trends, the bridge perfectly
complemented the refurbished Japanese garden. Manual assembly, aided by a
gantry scaffold, positioned the main beams due to limited vehicle access. The
Mushroom Bridge spanned a container cultivating restaurant fungi. Curved timber
segments formed the arch and handrails, while Chestnut poles masked the
container.
Stainless
steel flitches elevated beam ends for longevity, while oval handrails with
scroll terminations added charm. The Teak-crafted Zig-zag bridge showcased
hand-shaped posts and rails, secured with stainless steel coach screws and Teak
plugs. Teak’s durability guaranteed an 80-year lifespan. The client opted
against no-slip inserts, preferring maintenance to preserve slip-free surfaces.