In the heart of France's picturesque countryside, a house stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its former owner, Françoise. This is the story of how landscape gardener Jinny Blom, with her husband Marc Fox, breathed new life into Françoise's cherished home, transforming it into a vibrant sanctuary filled with colour, pattern, and joy. What began as a simple promise to care for her mother's house became a labour of love, a passion project that brought together art, history, and personal memories.
A House with Resonance
Jinny's loyalty to her mother's wishes is a testament to the deep bond they shared. Françoise's choice of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, a quaint village nestled in the Aveyron River valley, was initially met with skepticism. However, Jinny sees it as a place of resonance, a place where her mother felt a sense of belonging. This house, dating back to the late 17th or early 18th century, with its one room per floor layout, became a canvas for Jinny to honour her mother's memory.
A Life-Long Influence
Françoise's influence on Jinny's life and career cannot be overstated. From her love of France and its culture to her appreciation for the arts and crafts, Françoise instilled in her daughter a deep connection to the country and a passion for gardening. This influence is evident in the way Jinny approached the renovation, infusing the house with a sense of joy and playfulness.
A Passion Project
The renovation of Françoise's house was more than just a means to keep a promise; it became a passion project. Jinny and Marc Fox, a former music executive, took on the extensive restoration work, repairing the roof, fixing plaster walls, and addressing water damage to the wooden floorboards. The decorating process was a celebration of pattern and colour, inspired by the exuberant interiors of Hôtel des Marronniers in Paris.
A House Filled with Joy
The result is a house that exudes joy and playfulness. Manuel Canovas' copper 'Cote d'Azur' wallpaper and fabrics adorn the walls, creating a vibrant backdrop for the eclectic mix of vintage furniture and accessories. From the Arne Norell 'Ilona' sofa in the sitting room to the 1960s rattan lounge chairs in the attic, each piece tells a story. The dining area, with its colourful ceramics and Verner Panton 'Flowerpot' pendants, is a testament to Jinny's love of pattern and colour.
A Tribute to Françoise
One corner of the sitting room is a special tribute to Françoise. A Georgian cabinet, a Russian samovar, and a small sculpture of Venus de Milo are among the treasures that evoke memories of her. This room is a reminder of the deep connection between Jinny and her mother, and the way in which the house has become a living memorial to her.
A House with a Story
What makes this house truly special is the story it tells. It is a story of loyalty, love, and the enduring legacy of Françoise. It is a house that has been transformed into a vibrant sanctuary, filled with colour, pattern, and joy. It is a house that has become a home, a place where memories are made and cherished. In my opinion, this house is a testament to the power of love and the enduring legacy of a mother's influence.
