The story of Jinny Blom's restoration of her mother's house in the South of France is a testament to the power of personal connection and the joy that can be found in the act of creation. With a promise to her late mother, Françoise, Jinny and her husband, Marc Fox, embarked on a journey to bring the house back to life, infusing it with their own unique style and a sense of playfulness. This article delves into the process, the inspiration, and the personal touches that make this renovation so captivating.
A Promise Fulfilled
Jinny's loyalty to her mother's wishes is the driving force behind this project. Françoise's decision to leave her house in Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val in Jinny's care was a significant gesture, and the landscape gardener took it upon herself to honor her mother's memory. This promise became a passion project, a way to keep her mother's spirit alive and to create a space that would resonate with her.
A Village Transformed
The village of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, with its rugged limestone plateau and the Aveyron River gorge, provides a picturesque backdrop to the story. Once desolate and parochial, the village has undergone a transformation, attracting a diverse community, including a Parisian interior designer and a former member of Yohji Yamamoto's fashion design studio. This vibrant atmosphere inspired Jinny and Marc to infuse the house with a sense of joy and playfulness.
A Home Filled with Memories
Françoise's house, dating back to the late 17th or early 18th century, is a simple yet charming space. With one room per floor, it reflects a bygone era. Jinny and Marc's renovation process was extensive, addressing structural issues and repairing the roof. Their decorating choices were heavily influenced by the former interiors of the Hôtel des Marronniers in Paris, known for its exuberant use of toile de Jouy and Manuel Canovas papers.
A Celebration of Pattern and Color
The couple's approach to decorating is characterized by a bold use of pattern and color. They hung many walls with riotous Manuel Canovas papers and fabrics, creating a vibrant and playful atmosphere. Accessories, such as the 1950s French daisy chandelier and Verner Panton 'Flowerpot' pendant lights, add to the eclectic and whimsical style. The attention to detail is evident in the carefully curated collection of treasures, including surrealist paintings, Murano glass, and Danish tiles.
A Tribute to Françoise
One corner of the sitting room is dedicated to Françoise, featuring a Georgian cabinet, a Russian samovar, and a small sculpture of Venus de Milo. These personal touches pay homage to her life and interests, such as her love for books and her remarkable vegetable gardening skills. The house now reflects a harmonious blend of Jinny and Marc's style and Françoise's legacy.
A Passion Project Transformed
What began as a means to keep a promise evolved into a passion project. Jinny and Marc's renovation process was a labor of love, and the result is a house filled with joy and a unique sense of playfulness. Their dedication to honoring Françoise's memory and creating a space that resonates with their own style is a testament to the power of personal connection and the joy that can be found in the act of creation.
In my opinion, this renovation story is a beautiful example of how personal connections and a sense of playfulness can transform a space. It reminds us that the act of creating and restoring can be a deeply fulfilling journey, one that brings joy and meaning to our lives and the lives of those around us.
