A Dream Realized: Clare Vivier's French Retreat
The story of Clare Vivier, a California-based fashion designer, and her husband, Thierry, finding their dream home in France is both charming and inspiring. For years, the couple envisioned owning a picturesque property in France, particularly during their family trips to Thierry's hometown of Saint-Calais, located southwest of Paris. This idyllic dream felt entirely within reach when they discovered a striking 19th-century manor nestled alongside the serene banks of the river Anille. In a twist of fate in 2020, they learned that the house—seemingly neglected for the past half-century—was finally on the market. Swift action led to their acquisition of the property, marking a significant moment for the Viviers. This wasn't just a purchase; it was the materialization of a long-held dream.The Renovation Challenge
However, the house was no pristine jewel waiting to be showcased; it was in dire need of repairs. The roof was leaking, and the electrical system had seen better days. With an attic that Clare described as “really decrepit,” renovation was unavoidable. Surprisingly, they chose to undertake much of the work on their own—a bold, albeit pragmatic choice. Clare, the founder of the successful brand Clare V., and Thierry, a seasoned television journalist with a knack for hands-on projects, make a formidable team. To enhance their efforts, they enlisted the help of Kate Berry, a talented creative consultant and veteran magazine editor, who currently serves as the US editor for *Cabana*. Together, this trio embarked on a mission to redesign the home, with Thierry assuming the role of project manager while Clare and Kate led the creative direction. Their vision was ambitious: to marry Thierry's classical French provincial aesthetic with Clare's vibrant Southern Californian style. Clare hoped to craft a space that felt slightly more formal and elegant than their LA residence, a balance that aimed to incorporate elements from both their worlds seamlessly. In concert with their visions, they planned to ensure that each room encapsulated a unique blend of California charm, underscored by subtle touches of Gallic flair, resulting in an inviting atmosphere perfectly suited for life in the French countryside. After all, this wasn't just about restoring a home; it was about creating a familial legacy in a place they could truly call their own.
Location played a significant role in the renovation process. Inspired by the distinct luminosity of French light, Berry and Clare opted for a muted color palette, emphasizing Farrow & Ball tones. They introduced bright furniture accents, such as a hand-stitched clover-green corduroy sofa from Orior. A rustic wooden dining table, sourced locally, was revitalized with a glossy finish in a daring shade known as Charlotte’s Locks. “We aimed to modernize the space while keeping it warm,” Berry articulates.
They also scoured flea markets in Provence for classic French furnishings, such as 19th-century armchairs, which were reupholstered with lively fabrics from designer collections. The mixed materials and textures provide both comfort and visual interest throughout the home.
What’s fascinating is how they combined global sourcing strategies with local flavor. Items they couldn’t find across the Atlantic were shipped over, like the distinctively painted bathroom curtains from Madre in Portland, Oregon, and charming Roman shades from Fabric Quilters in New York. Additionally, Clare designed custom touches, such as vibrant yellow cabinet knobs crafted by her brother-in-law, a San Francisco woodworker. This blend of international charm and local craftsmanship creates an engaging narrative around the home’s decor.
