fbpx
Close

This private residence in the French Riviera is for design lovers with a love for history

While the original buildings have been preserved, the interiors have been given a modern makeover

From the superyachts dotting the Cannes harbour to the tiny island of Île Sainte-Marguerite is only a 10-minute boat ride where one arrives at much quieter crystalline waters with rocky inlets, its periphery surrounded by dense woods and wild beaches. The car-free isle is one of the four Lérins Islands – and while small, its vast historical and mythical repertoire balances the scales. The legend of the Man in the Iron Mask is believed to originate here – the prisoner, who was the supposed half-brother of King Louis XIV, was said to have been held captive in the island’s tower.  

While the island is visited by a cluster of tourists daily, there are no hotels or residences on this idyllic island – except for one. Le Grand Jardin is a private residence comprising a 14,000-square metre sanctuary which dates to the 13th century – and was previously owned by the likes of the 15th-century Duke of Guise and Louis XIV. Legend has it that Napoleon once grazed his horses in its gardens and slept in the tower (now turned into a bedroom for guests) while protecting the south of France.  

The exclusive and luxurious residence is ideal for visitors seeking privacy and a connection to nature, who can rent the entire fully staffed property which includes 12 bedrooms across seven separate buildings such as the Governor’s House, three cottages, a guest house and the old fortress tower with a surrounding 14,000-square metre botanical park that boasts sweet-smelling citrus trees and natural pools. The clean lines of the modern architectural interventions blend seamlessly with its original features, as preservation was of utmost importance to its renovation, from its architecture to its gardens.  

“The core focus has been on preserving the history of the buildings, whilst also adopting modern-day luxuries,” the property’s team explains. “Original features have been restored, which included using historic drawings of the gardens so they could be returned to their previous grandeur. Inside, every aspect of the design was thoughtfully curated with a focus on sustainability and natural materials. From the white and grey marble and neutral beige furnishings to the teak wood floors, this signature design has created an era-defining hidden sanctuary, with an effortlessly chic feel.”  

The Latest
April 25, 2025

A Fusion of Sustainability and Design

Marcantonio’s Terra pouf for Natuzzi Italia is a statement of conscious craftsmanship

April 25, 2025

Things to Covet- April 2025

Not to be underestimated, here’s where side tables take centre stage

April 24, 2025
Green coast project

Rqitects completes a multi-use project for Green Coast Real Estate with a LEED Gold accreditation

The project combines both commercial office spaces and industrial warehouses

April 24, 2025

A Vision of California Modernism

Paul McClean and Michael Webb explore the art of liveable modernism in their latest Rizzoli book

April 22, 2025

Smart Integration

Kettal’s Pavilion H blends aesthetics and functionality

April 22, 2025
Downtown Design Riyadh

Downtown Design Riyadh – Highlights Announced

Held in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Architecture and Design Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the fair will take place at JAX District from 20-23 May.

April 21, 2025

Island Sanctuary

Baituti Home develops Zuha Island’s most inspiring design projects

April 21, 2025

Elevated Living

Versace Home announces the grand opening of its boutique at Dubai Mall Zabeel

April 18, 2025

Culture Express

Designed by Aline Asmar d’Amman, the Dream of the Desert train seamlessly blends modern elegance with the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia

April 18, 2025

The Art of Curated Living

OBEGI Home designs a breathtaking mansion on Jumeirah Bay Island through thoughtful curation and bespoke elements

April 17, 2025
d3 x Fuorisalone.it announcement

Dubai Design District (D3) signs partnership with Fuorisalone and Brera Design District

The strategic partnership officially signed during Milan Design Week, will enable collaboration, knowledge sharing, industry networking, and joint initiatives.

April 17, 2025

Luxury Meets Everyday Comfort

This Dubai Hills villa by MWM Studio integrates comfort, functionality and refined aesthetics