Câlin - Belgian finesse inconspicuously tucked away in Provence

September 25, 2023

Discretely hiding in the midst of Provence wine fields, Contekst redesigned a guest house property that offers exceptional landscape scenery and sophistication in the southeast of France.


With undisturbed views on long stretched wine fields, trees and mountains, actual peace and quiet is what first meets the senses at this exclusive Provence property. 

Behind ‘Câlin’ is a Belgian family who has been re-visiting Valréas for more than twenty years. Seeing this particular estate for the first time, they immediately felt its potential as a restful and invigorating location to be appreciated by family, friends and other kindred spirits. A place to isolate oneself and indulge completely in the noiselessness and the natural environment.



The gentle conversion from a traditional hamlet into a contemporary group of guesthouses has been carried out by fellow Belgian architects Sam Peeters and Toon Martens and their Antwerp-based interior design studio, Contekst. Their precise knowhow of transforming historic interiors with sensitivity and an eye for the essential has offered the vernacular construction a new purpose by accentuating its original features and charm. Small pathways and hidden connections between the spaces, indoor as well as outdoor, create suspense and an intriguing circulation. Privacy has been given special attention, making it possible for every guest to enter solitude whenever needed. Rammed earth, concrete and Opus Incertum stone floors and walls have been used throughout the property, tying the volumes together and obtaining a coherent atmosphere throughout. Together with Lebanese lighting experts PSLab, custom lighting solutions have been integrated in the main entrance as well as in the bedrooms. 



The Belgian interior stylist and designer, Bea Mombaers has included together iconic and vintage furniture coupled with artworks and decorative craft pieces, emits personality and warmth. To offer a complete aesthetic experience at ‘Câlin’, Mombaers has overseen the selection of every decorative item and fabric in the property, the furniture, linens, cushions, lamps and tableware. A home wear line including towels and kaftans designed by Mombaers will also be available at ‘Câlin’.



Adding curiousness and meaning to the walls and spaces, a curated group of artworks has been integrated into the interior, representing both young and established artists, notably Belgian. Connoisseurs of art, the architects at Contekst have curated most of the works on display. ‘Câlin’ showcases top-level artistry and craftsmanship as a result of the owners’ clear ambition of intriguing and enriching the guests’ overall experience.



Photography  Piet-Albert Goethals

Architecture Contekst

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