Finding herself part of an eccentric ‘club’ of châtelains, Erin Choa reflects on the warmth she has encountered despite the chilly château rooms

Art de vivre, and appreciating the ordinary things, is a way of life in France, says Janine Marsh

A twist of fate led André and Lisanne Hedger to realise their dream of owning a chocolate-box thatched cottage in the heart of the countryside – the perfect place to create happy memories with their young family

There’s a wonderful informality to this manor house near Paris, designed to celebrate the beauty of the grounds outside and the period details inside

Chantal and Rob Powell have used sympathetic methods and materials to give their ancient Dorset farm a new relevance for the 21st century

YEARS IN THE PLANNING, LAURA’S RURAL IDYLL FINALLY BECAME REALITY WHEN SHE FOUND THE PERFECT COTTAGE AND SET ABOUT BRINGING IT BACK TO LIFE WITH COLOUR