French Homes We Want to Copy-Paste: Ooh La La Décor Inspirations!

If you're seeking genuine inspiration for your home, we've got a delightful treat for you. In today's blog, we'll explore three privately-owned French homes that have made waves in the world of interior design. These charming residences have been featured in renowned magazines and offer an authentic taste of French elegance. Let's embark on a journey to discover these enchanting abodes and why they're worth emulating in your own living spaces. Get ready to be inspired by the enchanting charm of Mas des Poiriers, Château du Fresne, and Château de Gudanes – très magnifique!

1. Le Mas des Poiriers: A Taste of Provence

Location: Avignon, Provence

Our first stop is the enchanting Le Mas des Poiriers, nestled in the heart of Provence. This 18th-century farmhouse, owned by American Shauna Varvel and her family has been featured in magazines like Veranda magazine and Town & Country among others. The family set about purchasing the property in 2015 after which they embarked upon the massive job of renovating the entire house, working with many talented craftspeople and french artisans.  The gardens are spectacular and the indoor spaces pay homage to the glorious gardens outside without competing with them. We love how interior designer Bednar Long layered sisal carpets beneath rich Oriental rugs and introduced furniture with elegant lines yet simple, even rustic, finishes and neutral upholstery. Most of the rooms use quintessentially French Pierre Frey fabrics for an elevated French farmhouse feel.

What to Copy-Paste:

• Authentic Provencal Charm: Emulate the allure of Provence with natural materials - stone, terracotta tiles, and lavender-filled gardens. Natural elements add an earthy, rustic charm to your home.

• Antique Elegance: Incorporate antique French furniture, mirrors and rich textiles. These vintage pieces bring a touch of history and sophistication to your decor.

• Natural Color Palette: To recreate the serene ambiance of Mas des Poiriers, use a color palette inspired by nature. Think soft earthy tones, gentle lavender purples, and olive greens. Pierre Frey fabrics make for great accents to a neutral palette with their sophisticated farmhouse feel.

2. Château du Fresne: French Elegance in the Loire Valley

Location: Loire Valley

Next up, we visit the Château du Fresne, a picturesque gem in the Loire Valley owned by decorative-arts dealer Flore de Brantes and her husband, Count Amaury de La Moussaye. This privately-owned château has been featured in Architectural Digest. Its timeless French elegance is a true source of inspiration.

What to Copy-Paste:

• Timeless Grandeur: Channel the grandeur of Château du Fresne with classic French furnishings and intricate details. Gilded accents, chandeliers and a tapestry or two can add a touch of opulence to your home.

• French Formal Gardens: If you have outdoor space, you can channel French formal gardens with symmetrical patterns, topiaries and even an accent fountain to capture the essence of a French château.

• Classic French Patterns: Incorporate classic French patterns like damask, toile de Jouy, and fleur-de-lis in upholstery, curtains, and wallpapers for that unmistakable French touch.

3. Château de Gudanes: The Enchanted Castle of the Pyrenees

Location: Pyrenees, South of France

Our final stop is the captivating Château de Gudanes, a privately-owned château located in the picturesque Pyrenees. In 2011, Australian couple, Craig and Karina Waters from Perth, were looking for a vacation home in France, when they came across the Château de Gudanes online. They traveled to see it in person, and after two years of negotiations, they purchased it and began renovations. Almost a complete ruin upon purchase, this dreamy castle has been gradually restored and has graced the pages of Vogue, Harper's Baazar and Architectural Digest, to name a few. The fairy tale-like atmosphere is something to behold. 

 

What to Copy-Paste:

• Storybook Elegance: Emulate the enchanting vibe of Château de Gudanes by incorporating romantic and whimsical elements into your decor. Vintage French farmhouse style, distressed wood, and charming cottage decor are the way to go.

• Garden of Dreams: If you have outdoor space, create a dreamy garden with blooming flowers and topiaries. This mirrors the enchanting gardens surrounding Château de Gudanes.

• Elegant, Rustic Simplicity: Keep your decor elegant yet uncluttered, allowing the beauty of your surroundings to shine through, just like the interiors of this magical château.

Voilà! These three French homes provide you with a delightful taste of authentic French decor, and you can easily incorporate elements from them into your own living space. So, whether you're aiming for the rustic charm of Provence, the timeless elegance of a Loire Valley château, or the enchanting fairy tale atmosphere of the Pyrenees, there's something for everyone in these très magnifiques homes. Happy decorating, mes amis!