insider’s view
What made you want to
buy the estate? The dream was to create an oasis at which a variety of ‘events’ could take place, from straightforward holiday rentals to being a choice venue for luxurious retreats and weddings. Why choose France? What’s not to like? France is a beautiful country and provides a great climate, good food, good wine, great skiing, and – more importantly – beautiful houses!
When did you acquire it? We bought it in 2017 and have had great fun exploring local markets and brocantes [car-boot sales], which can be treasure troves of interesting knick-knacks – a big part of
doing up the house has been finding our own style and what fits with the property’s look and feel. What was the renovation
process like? Painting one room can take three to four days! Phil has vowed to write a book called ‘Behind the Paintbrush’ – it’s been a tough 18 months, but completely worth it, now it’s completed.