The Château is an old house, and as we start to live in it we are identifying the niggling minor issues to be fixed, and some of the major changes that we need to do now or plan for the future.

The dining area had been painted a rather aggressive red, which darkened the space. A trip to a nearby supplier (who is happy to imitate Farrow and Ball colours), and a day of cleaning, priming and painting, and the atmosphere of the entire room is transformed by a peaceful French Gray.

Next, new locks on the front door sourced on eBay mounted with the help of the carpentry skills of my brother, and a coat rack installed at the bottom of the tower staircase.



The first weeks in the Château have been animated by visits from friends, and the welcome arrival of my older brother Matthew and his lovely wife Teresa (an early fan and keen photographer of the place!). Matthew is an experienced cabinet maker and kitchen designer, who advised us on options for renovation, and started to plan a gradual remodeling of the kitchen more in line with our needs and the style of the house. Together with the practical activities, we were also able to explore the nearby region and visit Vézelay and Clamecy – as well as walk the dogs, and enjoy some of the local wines!
