The following contribution is from another author.
Engineer Dick Strawbridge and designer Angel, inspired by their fairytale residence Chateau de la Motte Husson, have curated a collection of personalized gifts and homewares that tell a unique tale. Each design is a product of the family’s discoveries of hidden treasures and captivating wildlife within The Chateau. Throughout eight years and nine series, they have revitalized, revived, and reimagined over 50 stunning spaces. Dick and Angel’s ingenious and creative approach has transformed an abandoned French Chateau into an extraordinary family abode. The Chateau’s secrets have captivated audiences from more than 45 countries, inspiring Angel to craft distinctive designs that fuse her passion for Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and illustration with the narratives of her home.
Where did it all start?
The Chateau’s forgotten folly has been slowly revived from top to bottom, now boasting a magical mezzanine for the kids and a relaxing retreat for Dick and Angel. Restored to its former glory, the original folly, located at the garden’s north-facing wall, offers 21st-century comfort and vibrant colors.
As they ticked off another renovation from their lengthy to-do list, Angel was determined to create a recreational space rather than a purely functional one. “I envision a social cooking area for adults, a ladder upstairs for the kids, and little slides coming down,” Angel enthusiastically shared her ideas for the folly’s transformation.
However, before they could proceed with the renovations, all the structural work needed to be completed. Dick took on the challenge of clearing the bamboo jungle (covering an area of 350 m2) behind the folly to make way for the scaffolding. Dealing with the fast-spreading bamboo was tricky, as it could easily become invasive if left unchecked.
Additionally, the folly was completely covered in ivy, which had grown rapidly. Dick, Angel, and the team had to dig deep to reveal the beautifully slated 150-year-old roof beneath the dense ivy. During this process, the roofer, Steve, removed the old slats and rotten timber and even uncovered some 19th-century recycling by the original builders. Steve continued his work by installing a new roof for the folly and adding an eyelid-shaped window.
Angel also had an idea for the top of the folly – a new weather vane to commemorate its renovation. With her father, former jeweler Papi Steve, lending a hand, they created a unique copper weathervane depicting the Strawbridges. Angel was thrilled that her father made it and that all four family members were represented on the weather vane. She considered it the perfect finishing touch to the project.
Interesting Approaches When Blending Old And New
An interesting solution in the historic home renovation was the addition of a secret door. You should watch Escape to the Chateau yourself and enjoy the luxury home renovation, and also find out where exactly it goes, where the adults-only area is, and what the maid’s room will look like. Services where the show is available can be found on the VeePN website.
The Kitchen Tiles
In episode 3, the Strawbridge family kitchen undergoes a transformation! No room at The Chateau would be considered complete without personal touches. That’s why Angel takes charge in printing custom-made tiles that perfectly match the family and the Chateau.
These illustrative tiles can be printed on demand with the exact designs you’ll find in Dick and Angel’s kitchen! From the British and French flags to the customizable Chateau de la Motte Husson tile – you can style these in your own home and even personalize a few to make them just right for your family.
The Wildflower Meadow
Dick, Arthur, and Dorothy embarked on a mission in the debut episode of series 5. Their objective was to craft a magnificent spot where Angel could gather Wild Flowers. Thus, they commenced the planting of seeds to create a Wild Flower meadow right in front of The Chateau’s Orangery. Subsequently, in each subsequent series, we witness the enchanting meadow blossoming during springtime, a delightful sanctuary for stunning flowers and pollinators.
The Potagerie Suite
The fourth floor of The Chateau is home to a room that eagerly awaits some much-needed tender loving care. In series 5, Dick and Angel embarked on the renovation of the former servant’s quarters, a stunning room boasting captivating views of the Walled Garden, also known as the Potagerie.
This room patiently waited for almost four years to receive the attention it rightfully deserved. During that time, the Walled Garden underwent a remarkable transformation, enhancing the view even more! “The Potagerie Suite” serves as a heartfelt tribute from Angel to Dick, a beautiful tribute to his cherished Walled Garden.
Emerald Fan
During the first episode of series 8, Dick and Angel worked on the renovation of Papi and Café Grandma’s new bedroom suite in the Coach House. They added a personal touch by designing a print and including a “Cuddle Cushion” from Arthur and Dorothy. Angel’s design, called ‘The Emerald Fan,’ combines traditional Japanese dress, vintage elements, hand-held fans, flower motifs, and elegant Art Deco design. The print exudes glamor and effortless style, transporting us to a bygone era.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for innovative home design, you can probably learn a thing or two from the past. Renovating a castle is a difficult task, but the atmosphere is unique and difficult to put into words. You can find for yourself the intersection of innovation and luxury of previous centuries.
