Camp Virsoleil is part of the Eco-Systems Restoration Camps Network and registered as a not for profit association in France. We have just completed a 30 day capital campaign through Eco Systems Restoration Camps, for Virsoleil to preserve and repurpose our stone barn “La Grange,” to become the Heart of Virsoleil's educational programs and to provide event, training, and a group activity space. Many Thanks to those of you who supported our campaign to both preserve a piece of French rural heritage and give us space to deliver our diverse educational and cultural programs.
This unique and historic stone barn is over 500 years old, and we are planning a transformation that will make this structure the heart of our educational and group experiences in Ajat, France.
Our Plans Our plans preserve the historic beauty and structure of this 200 year-old barn while transforming its function to serve as the heart of our educational, cultural, and community programs. La Grange is in excellent structural condition which allows the renovation to focus on: Interior restoration of two lofts, Installation of stone and earthen floors A group kitchen.
Renovation and New Uses “La Grange” is built in the “Perigourdine” style of architecture indigenous to the region and is estimated to have been built more than 200 years ago, after the French Revolution. Virsoleil director Teryl Chapel has more than 45 years of experience in building and remodeling. He will be leading the renovation, with input from regional experts to maintain the historic importance and creating a new, regenerative purpose.
The Main floor (75 sq m) originally used to house cows, work horses, and farm equipment, will be transformed to an auxiliary teaching and gathering/dining space and shared kitchen, as well as a processing area for food and herbal products. The Lower loft (30 sq m) Approximately 1.5 meters above the main floor, was used primarily for storing hay and animal feed and will become the main indoor learning, performance, and group space. The Upper loft (60 sq m) was also used for drying and storing hay will become Dormitory-style sleeping loft. Indoor camping
Contact Teryl teryljchapel@gmail.com to learn about this work, and please donate to help preserve local French culture and bring this learning and community space into reality! All donations are tax deductable