Câlin - Belgian finesse inconspicuously tucked away in Provence
Discretely hiding in the midst of Provence wine fields, a newly refurbished guest house property offers exceptional landscape scenery and sophistication. AQUALEX taps provide the drinking water experience.
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‘Câlin’ is nestled in an unusually secluded and calm setting in the southeast of France. With undisturbed views on long stretched wine fields, trees and mountains, actual peace and quiet is what first meets the senses at this exclusive Provence property.
Behind ‘Câlin’ is a Belgian family who has been re-visiting Valréas for more than twenty years. Seeing this particular estate for the first time, they immediately felt its potential as a restful and invigorating location to be appreciated by family, friends and other kindred spirits. A place to isolate oneself and indulge completely in the noiselessness and the natural environment.
Historic interiors transformed with sensitivity and an eye for the essential
The gentle conversion from a traditional hamlet into a contemporary group of guesthouses has been carried out by fellow Belgian architects Sam Peeters and Toon Martens and their Antwerp-based interior design studio, Contekst. Their precise knowhow of transforming historic interiors with sensitivity and an eye for the essential has offered the vernacular construction a new purpose by accentuating its original features and charm. Small pathways and hidden connections between the spaces, indoor as well as outdoor, create suspense and an intriguing circulation. Privacy has been given special attention, making it possible for every guest to enter solitude whenever needed. Rammed earth, concrete and Opus Incertum stone floors and walls have been used throughout the property, tying the volumes together and obtaining a coherent atmosphere throughout. Together with Lebanese lighting experts PSLab, custom lighting solutions have been integrated in the main entrance as well as in the bedrooms. Stylish AQUALEX taps are provided throughout the estate for a tasteful drinking water experience. Pure enjoyment!
Art and objects to engage, intrigue and stimulate
Very familiar to Valréas is Belgian interior stylist and designer, Bea Mombaers. With her own holiday house and numerous interior projects in the same region, she knows where and how to source objects nearby. Her distinct way of bringing together iconic and vintage furniture coupled with artworks and decorative craft pieces, emits personality and warmth. To offer a complete aesthetic experience at ‘Câlin’, Mombaers has overseen the selection of every decorative item and fabric in the property, the furniture, linens, cushions, lamps and tableware. A home wear line including towels and kaftans designed by Mombaers will also be available at ‘Câlin’.
Local rumour has it that ‘Câlin’ used to be a place for art and artists, and so it is today. Adding curiousness and meaning to the walls and spaces, a curated group of artworks has been integrated into the interior, representing both young and established artists, notably Belgian. Connoisseurs of art, the architects at Contekst have curated most of the works on display. ‘Câlin’ showcases top-level artistry and craftsmanship as a result of the owners’ clear ambition of intriguing and enriching the guests’ overall experience.
‘Câlin’ caters for the eye as well as the rest of the senses; comfort has been considered in every way. To provide an exceptional service, the couple Ilhem and Michael are always nearby, on standby to provide wellbeing and support. They have plenty of ideas for local excursions and activities whether it be wine tasting, truffle hunting, cycling or hiking. Furthermore, they can bring services in-house such as yoga classes, massages or catering; with his Italian roots, chef Michael is eager to share his knowledge of regional ingredients and prepare them either together with or for the guests.
Provence does not need much introduction, it is a region which continues to embrace its local culture, traditions and remarkable natural parks. Taking a break at ‘Câlin’ offers an immediate one-on-one with the splendour of the area alongside an exclusive acquaintance with contemporary design and art.
Photos: Piet-Albert Goethals & Buro Bonito
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