A Tapestry of History: Villefranche-sur-Mer’s Enduring Legacy

Founded in 1295 as a strategic trading port under Charles II of Anjou, Villefranche-sur-Mer (literally “Free Town by the Sea”) flourished as a tax-exempt haven for merchants, a legacy reflected in its labyrinthine old town and vibrant cultural mosaic. By the 16th century, its deep natural harbour attracted naval powers like the Dukes of Savoy, whose citadel Saint-Elme still watches over the bay. Today, this UNESCO-noted town remains a magnet for expats and creatives, drawn to its pastel-hued streets, artisan markets, and cinematic allure (Alfred Hitchcock filmed To Catch a Thief here). The apartment’s villa, perched in the hills above the old port —echoes this heritage, blending 18th-century bones with modern sensibilities .

Design Vision: Marrying Provencal Warmth with Eclectic Flair

The clients’ brief demanded a delicate balance: merging the Irish love for cosy, textured interiors with the American penchant for classical styles, all rooted in Provence’s rustic elegance. The result is a space where marble floors—veined in soft greys for communal areas and warm creams in private suites—unify the design, while layered textures and curated artefacts tell a transatlantic story.

Key Features:

Provencal Foundation with Eclectic Accents
The open-plan living area features exposed wooden beams and ornate walls, hallmarks of Provencal architecture, softened by linen drapery and a structured custom sofa in neutral tones. A hand-carved Irish oak dining table anchors the next space, juxtaposed with mid-century modern lighting from Barcelona—a nod to the couple’s shared love for travel.

Garden Integration
The ground-floor garden access transforms the outdoor space into a Mediterranean oasis. A terracotta terrace, shaded by olive trees and lavender borders, hosts a custom stone fireplace for alfresco gatherings, while the sea-facing upper balcony offers a private retreat with daybeds and panoramic views of the bay.

Culinary Harmony
The kitchen marries rustic charm with modern functionality: reclaimed oak cabinetry pairs with red stone countertops, while a farmhouse sink and copper pendant lights evoke Provencal farmsteads. A hidden wine cellar, discreetly integrated into the original stone walls, caters to the clients’ passion for hosting.

Bedrooms: A Dialogue of Cultures
The primary suite blends Irish hygge with coastal minimalism. The master bed draped in Irish linen overlooks the garden, while hand-painted Moroccan tiles in the en-suite bathroom introduce global flair. The guest room, inspired by New England coastal homes, features navy accents and nautical art, harmonised with French antique vanities.