Building a villa on the Côte d’Azur is an exciting journey—but it’s also a complex, multi-phase process that requires expertise, organisation, and precise scheduling. Understanding the typical construction timeline helps homeowners prepare, make informed decisions, and enjoy the building experience with confidence.
At Baie des Anges, we guide clients through every phase of construction—from the first sketches to the final handover. Here is a clear breakdown of what to expect at each stage of your new build.
1. Pre-Construction Planning and Concept Development
Duration: 2–8 weeks
The process begins long before any construction takes place.
Key tasks include:
- initial consultations
- defining the villa concept, size, and style
- studying the plot and its constraints
- initial sketches and design proposals
- preliminary budget outline
This stage sets the foundation for the entire project.
2. Site Analysis and Technical Studies
Duration: 3–6 weeks
Before building can begin, the land must be fully analysed.
This stage includes:
- geotechnical studies
- soil tests
- topographic surveys
- environmental impact checks
- drainage and water-flow analyses
These studies ensure safe construction and prevent structural issues.
3. Architectural and Engineering Plans
Duration: 6–12 weeks
Once the concept is approved, the architects and engineers create detailed plans.
Deliverables include:
- floor plans
- elevation drawings
- structural engineering
- electrical and plumbing plans
- HVAC plans
- façade and roofing details
These plans are required for both construction and permit submission.
4. Building Permits and Administrative Approvals
Duration: 2–6 months
Depending on the project’s scale and location, permits can take time.
Baie des Anges handles:
- Déclaration Préalable for minor works
- Permis de Construire for new builds or major expansions
- ABF approvals in protected zones
- communication with local authorities and the Mairie
Once approved, the construction timeline officially begins.
5. Site Preparation and Foundations
Duration: 4–12 weeks
Construction begins with preparing the site.
Work includes:
- clearing vegetation
- excavation
- installing retaining walls (for sloped sites)
- laying underground drainage
- pouring reinforced concrete foundations
This phase is crucial for long-term structural stability.
6. Structural Build: Walls, Floors, and Roof
Duration: 3–6 months
This is when the villa becomes visible.
Structural works include:
- reinforced concrete framework
- external and internal walls
- floor slabs
- roofing structure and insulation
- waterproofing systems
Once the structure is complete, the villa is considered “weather-tight.”
7. Exterior Works and Openings
Duration: 4–8 weeks
The building envelope is completed during this stage.
Tasks include:
- installation of windows and doors
- exterior insulation and façade treatment
- terraces and balconies
- roofing tiles or finishes
- outdoor waterproofing
The villa now begins to resemble its final form.
8. Interior Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing (MEP)
Duration: 2–4 months
This is one of the most technical phases.
Installed systems include:
- electrical wiring
- plumbing networks
- heating, cooling, and ventilation
- underfloor heating systems
- smart home infrastructure
After MEP installation, interior walls and ceilings can be finished.
9. Interior Finishing and Craftsmanship
Duration: 3–8 months
This is the longest and most detailed stage—where luxury truly comes to life.
Interior works include:
- plastering and painting
- flooring (stone, wood, microcement, tiles)
- custom joinery and cabinetry
- bathroom and kitchen installation
- lighting fixtures
- interior doors and hardware
High-end finishes require precision and time to achieve perfection.
10. Exterior Landscaping and Outdoor Living Spaces
Duration: 2–6 months
Mediterranean villas rely heavily on outdoor ambience.
Outdoor works include:
- swimming pools
- pool houses and pergolas
- stone pathways and terraces
- retaining walls and gardens
- irrigation and exterior lighting
This stage transforms the property into a true Riviera residence.
11. Final Inspections, Testing, and Corrections
Duration: 2–4 weeks
Before delivery, Baie des Anges performs extensive quality checks.
This includes:
- plumbing and electrical testing
- waterproofing verification
- structural conformity checks
- correction of minor defects (snag list)
- final cleaning and preparation
The villa is now ready for handover.
12. Turnkey Delivery and Handover
Duration: Immediate upon completion
Homeowners receive:
- full technical documentation
- warranties and certifications
- operation manuals
- maintenance recommendations
The villa is handed over move-in ready, built to the highest Riviera standards.
Build with Confidence — Choose Baie des Anges
Understanding the construction timeline is essential for a stress-free building experience. At Baie des Anges, we manage every phase with precision, ensuring your villa is delivered on time, on budget, and with exceptional craftsmanship.
From planning to turnkey delivery, we bring your Riviera dream home to life.