Le Prieuré Saint Nicolas

Set within ancient stone walls (the priory dates back to the 12th century!) and dramatic volumes, Pauline and Arnaud have imagined a home that feels both warm and deeply lived-in, where design sits effortlessly alongside vintage finds, and contemporary art meets the spirit of a grand Mediterranean house. Having fallen in love with both the Gard region and this remarkable building, the Parisian couple embarked on an extraordinarily ambitious restoration to bring the property back to life. The result is striking, as much for its sense of balance as for its personality. Nothing feels staged or overly deliberate: a monumental fireplace sits alongside iconic design pieces, modestly sourced vintage objects, and creations by local artisans and artists. Every room tells a story, yet without theatrical flourishes or unnecessary styling. They have created something rare: an atmosphere that is elegant yet unfussy, refined without ever feeling intimidating. You move through the house as you would through the home of particularly inspired friends. Some guests retreat to the gardens or the natural pool, created from a former water basin; others join a wine tasting in the cellar, or spontaneously gather for an apéritif around long shared tables in the cloister garden. Then there is the chapel, thoughtfully reimagined as an exhibition and reception space. A spectacular setting that now hosts cultural events and a delightfully eclectic programme—from piano concerts and photography exhibitions to readings—but which also feels perfectly suited to a grand summer celebration or an oversized dinner party.