La Maison sur la Sorgue : A Storied Artistic Setting…

What is your history with La Maison sur la Sorgue?

Some 20 years ago, we just fell in love with this mansion in the very centre of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – a gem of a village on the edge of the Luberon massif and right next to the Alpilles mountains. We completely renovated it, and the building now boasts an interior garden with a swimming pool, five singularly charming suites, a boutique and an art gallery.

Did you have plans for a boutique hotel from the outset?

At the time, this concept was still just that – a concept! But just as the building chose us and motivated us for this hotel project, it also guided our inspiration. The location was perfect. We had 11,000 ft. sq. to bring to life and decorate. We are both receptive to art as well as design and decoration, and so we took great care with every detail, including beautiful materials, sophisticated colours, objects from far-off lands steeped in history brought back from our many travels. Simultaneously, we act as a showroom for partner brands, celebrating their objects and furniture. That is how our boutique hotel sprang to life, and in all honesty, we are now becoming more like a “gallery hotel”!

What exactly is your artistic offering?

Right next to the house, the Retour De Voyage Gallery opens directly onto the garden and the newly restored village square. This layout reflects our desire to make it a space for our guests and the artists we welcome, as well as a place to meet and share moments, open to the outside world. We regularly organise events here, such as the previews of the four or five exhibitions held here every year. We also put these works on display inside the house and in the patio, to present art in a less museum-like way

Which artists can guests discover there?

Renowned artists such as the photographers Hans Silvester and Denis Brihat, whose work is on permanent display here, as well as other creatives who are not as well known in Europe but who enjoy an international reputation. Examples include the sculptor Ndary Lô from Senegal, whom we met on a trip, as well as many other artists and craftspeople whose works, art and craft objects we are delighted to showcase.

What is your vision of the art of hospitality?

A subtle combination of comfort and sophistication. It all starts with the interior design and is rounded off by a bespoke service. Everything comes down to countless tiny details: a hearty breakfast or brunch with local produce, valet parking, and reservations for the finest local restaurants, performances and the region’s many cultural events. Not forgetting bike hire and organising visits to wine cellars or meetings with exhibited artists. As with any concierge service, we can adapt your every need, drawing on our extensive knowledge of the region.

Article from the Magazine Esprit de France.