Fashion and accessories designer Clare Vivier and her husband, Thierry, embarked on a remarkable journey to realize their long-held dream of owning a home in France. In 2020, they acquired a stunning 19th-century manor in Saint-Calais, a town southwest of Paris, which had been abandoned for half a century. This acquisition marked the beginning of a transformative renovation, breathing new life into a historic property through a unique blend of French provincial charm and Californian modern aesthetics.
The Viviers, both known for their creative endeavors—Clare with her successful brand, Clare V., and Thierry as an accomplished television journalist and DIY enthusiast—decided to undertake the extensive renovation themselves. They enlisted the expertise of their friend, Kate Berry, a seasoned creative consultant and the US editor of Cabana, to guide the design process. Thierry managed the construction as the foreman, while Clare and Kate led the interior design, aiming to create a space that felt more formally French and classically elegant than their Los Angeles residence.
The manor required significant restoration, including a new roof and updated electrical systems. Once the structural integrity was secured, the focus shifted to the interiors. Clare and Kate carefully selected a color palette that complemented the distinct French light, opting for subtle, muted tones characteristic of Farrow & Ball paints. These serene backgrounds were then invigorated with splashes of vibrant color through furniture pieces, such as a custom-made clover-green corduroy sofa and a vintage dining table painted in a striking high-gloss orange, inspired by Charlotte Perriand's designs.
Their design philosophy extended to sourcing unique pieces, with many traditional French armchairs and beds discovered in Provençal flea markets and subsequently reupholstered in cheerful fabrics from Pierre Frey and Clare's own Wallshoppe collection. For items not found locally, Kate meticulously sourced them from the US, from custom kitchen cabinet knobs crafted by her brother-in-law in San Francisco to delicate linen curtains and Roman shades. These carefully selected elements were personally transported by Clare and Kate from the US to France, ensuring every detail contributed to their vision.
The hands-on approach extended to the landscaping, with Clare and Kate personally selecting plants from local nurseries, planting them, and painting custom Versailles boxes. This collaborative effort transformed the property into a deeply personal and joyful project. The success of this endeavor has inspired the Viviers to acquire two adjacent properties: a small guesthouse for friends and a larger, dilapidated structure they envision converting into a corporate retreat for Clare V., complete with a new swimming pool. Thierry, once again, is at the helm of these new ventures, embracing the ongoing expansion of their French dream.
This journey of transformation, blending personal history with artistic vision, resulted in a home that elegantly marries rustic French classicism with the fresh, vibrant spirit of Californian modernism. The Viviers' French estate is a testament to thoughtful design, collaborative effort, and the pursuit of a dream, creating a harmonious and evolving sanctuary.