Houzz Tour: An Idyllic Former Rectory with French Countryside Views
Just a stone’s throw from the gardens of Versailles, a former rectory gets a fresh update to make the most of its views
Fabienne Dupuis
3 January 2015
Nestled in a little French hamlet that was home to the royal dog kennels in the reign of King Louis XIV, this 16th century former rectory in the Yvelines countryside has now been converted into a charming home. It’s the perfect weekend retreat for Catherine and Pierre, who enlisted the help of interior decorator Catherine Sandin to help transform the old property into their new bolthole.
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here Pierre, a retired engineer, and Catherine, a real estate agent
Location A small village close to Versaille
Size Around 1,200 sq ft; 2 bedrooms, and an additional small stone house yet to be renovated
Century built 16th century
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here Pierre, a retired engineer, and Catherine, a real estate agent
Location A small village close to Versaille
Size Around 1,200 sq ft; 2 bedrooms, and an additional small stone house yet to be renovated
Century built 16th century
The living room was once home to large pieces of dark wood furniture, but it has been totally revamped by the new owners, who brought light into the room through soft, natural and bright tones. They painted the woodwork, then sanded down the ceiling beams and coated them in lime, which greatly increased the sense of light and space.
Discover how to gently modernise a cottage
Discover how to gently modernise a cottage
Candles, models of sailing boats, frames and a few books help to re-create the atmosphere of a true country home, where the owners can relax and escape busy city life.
In the dining room, two small bookcases are hidden behind white linen curtains. A low sofa beneath the window gives Pierre a place to rest indoors while enjoying the natural light of the sun.
A bonheur du jour writing desk, which was found in Pierre’s wooden barn, was restored with two tones to highlight its details. Interior decorator Catherine added a garden chair to keep the continuity with the outdoors. Right next to it, a round, pearl grey armchair offers a comfortable alternative.
A twinkling chandelier hangs over the dining table and reflects light throughout the room. The untreated wooden clock was handcrafted by interior decorator Catherine.
In the kitchen, a little garden table with matching chairs was added to the centre of the room, creating a simple and picturesque look. Raspberry toile de Jouy cushions complement the red and white splashback tiles perfectly.
Catherine dressed the twin beds, used by the couple’s two granddaughters, with old louvres, and added two organdie voiles to create the feeling of canopies. Medallions picturing Marie Antoinette have been hung above the beds to nod to the long historical tradition of the region.
The bathroom is flooded with light thanks to a large skylight. The traditional taps, basin and towel rail, which was found in a junk shop, give the room a retro feel.
Get designer advice on maximising space and light in a cottage
Get designer advice on maximising space and light in a cottage
Upstairs, Pierre and Catherine decided to sacrifice the loft to allow space for two bedrooms. The coated pine floorboards bring warmth to the space while the roof windows allow plenty of natural light to enter the room.
At the back of the house, the owners created a little area of pure relaxation, which allows them to enjoy the sun at mealtimes and during the long sunny afternoons.
The home’s terrace is the ideal place to catch the morning sunshine. The climbing wisteria creates an enchanting scene and offers a lovely aroma.
A long table was placed at the end of the garden. Overlooking the Yvelines countryside, it’s a magnificent location in which to share meals with family and friends.
Photos: Stephen Clément
TELL US…
What do you like about this French home? Share your thoughts in the Comments below.
Photos: Stephen Clément
TELL US…
What do you like about this French home? Share your thoughts in the Comments below.
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Lovely vintage home, thanks for sharing. If you're looking for French Country Furniture resource please visit, www.KateMadison.com. We offer solid wood cupboards, tables, chairs, and armoire all styled from classically French furnishings.
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