Château de Damblain: Custom oak finger jointed scantlings for exceptional exterior joinery
In Damblain, located in the Vosges region, the charm of the past is being revived through a major renovation project led by Menuiserie Levieux. To restore the windows of the château, now transformed into a guest house, the family-run company partnered with Ducerf Group to supply custom French oak laminated scantlings. This highly technical project exemplifies the importance of quality materials combined with artisanal expertise to meet the demands of an exceptional restoration.
A heritage renovation project in the heart of the Vosges
Situated near the border of the Vosges and Haute-Marne departments, close to Vittel and Contrexéville, the Château de Damblain proudly stands amidst a 5-hectare park. Fully renovated between 2017 and 2019, this late 19th-century building has been restored to its former glory, now serving as a 4-star guest house.
The project's architect enlisted Menuiserie Levieux, known for their work on similar heritage sites. “The goal was clear: to restore the joinery using noble wood, respecting the original style and meeting the specifications of the project,” explains Rémy Husson, Sales and Design Office Manager at Levieux. The project required meticulous attention to detail to balance heritage requirements with modern comfort.
Traditional oak windows with “Gueule de Loup” joints
Menuiserie Levieux crafted nearly fifty custom exterior joinery pieces from oak. “We had to recreate windows with 'gueule de loup' joints, authentic mortised glazing bars, traditional surface-mounted cremone bolts, and interior shutters hinged with triple hinges,” notes Rémy Husson. Some windows even incorporated restored antique stained glass set into new frames. Such work demands high precision, as each component must fit perfectly into the existing, often irregular, masonry.
This challenge was met with the precision and expertise characteristic of this family business, founded in 1898. Now led by Stéphanie Levieux, the company prides itself on delivering “haute couture” French windows, combining technical mastery with attention to finish and aesthetic detail.
A local, sustainable, and high-quality material choice
To meet the project's aesthetic and technical demands, the team turned to their long-standing partner, Ducerf Group, specialists in French oak and technical wood products. “We've worked with Ducerf for years. They supply us with flawless laminated scantlings—certified, free of sapwood, minimal knots, and with a gluying guaranteed by CTB-LCA certification,” says Rémy Husson.
Choosing oak laminated scantlings was strategic. Their stability and uniformity allow for faster, more reliable fabrication. “This significantly reduces the need for reworking, filling, or sanding. Ultimately, it saves us time and ensures quality for our clients,” he adds. Moreover, using wood from sustainably managed French forests minimizes the project's carbon footprint while promoting local resources.
Custom finger-jointed scantlings designed for exceptional projects
Each piece of joinery being unique, Ducerf's laminated scantlings were custom-made in close collaboration with their technical teams. Thibault Ramage, Technical Sales Representative at Ducerf, recalls: “For the lower rails, we had to glue plies perpendicular to the usual orientation. This specific request was to create appropriate drip edges.”
This exemplifies Ducerf Group's ability to innovate in service of their clients, offering bespoke sections, tailored volumes, and continuous technical support. “We feel heard, supported, and valued. It's a true partnership,” summarizes Rémy Husson. Such adaptability is crucial for companies like Levieux, who must meet precise specifications while adhering to technical and heritage constraints.
A story of shared values and trust
Both companies, each with over a century of history, share common values: a passion for quality craftsmanship, a commitment to tradition, an appreciation for French wood, and a focus on customer satisfaction. “We share the same DNA and a family history spanning more than 100 years. We specialize in bespoke, high-end work and are committed to long-term relationships,” says Rémy Husson.
This shared pride is especially evident when local wood—here, from Burgundy forests—finds its place in French heritage sites. “It's gratifying to work with oak that grew on our land. In 100 years, the Levieux windows made with Ducerf's laminated scantlings will still be there,” he assures.
Ducerf's finger-jointed scantlings: The ally of high-end exterior joinery
Specifically designed for exterior joinery, Ducerf Group's oak laminated scantlings combine aesthetics, durability, and performance. Sourced from French forests, they meet the highest standards of quality, traceability, and finish.
“It's the right product for this type of project, whether it's heritage restoration or new high-end construction. The laminated scantling allows for the fabrication of all window components, with consistency that facilitates the work of joiners,” concludes Thibault Ramage.
This choice aligns with a comprehensive quality approach, ensuring the longevity of the Château de Damblain's exterior joinery and the satisfaction of its owners.
