The Artist’s Life in Provence

On a recent visit to ceramicist Caitriona Platts-Manoury’s studio in Provence, I couldn’t help leaving with a case of lifestyle envy.

In an earlier post, we covered Platts-Manoury’s studio (see Inspired by Pop Art: Caitriona Ceramics in Provence). The Irish-born ceramicist and her French husband (he is a painter and a collector of tribal art) made a conscious choice twelve years ago when they moved from Paris to Saint-Rémy de Provence. “It had been my dream, after getting my ceramics degree, to come and live here,” she says. “La qualité de vie is rather lovely here.”

Home is a traditional French mas, an old farmhouse complete with tiny window openings to the north to protect against the bitter mistral wind and large openings toward the south for the sun. Relatively untouched, or “dans son jus,” as she describes it, they have lovingly used the traditional architectural features of the mas as a backdrop to their more modern and contemporary furnishings. Her colorful ceramics are displayed alongside his paintings and tribal art in a carefully edited space. “We care about where we live,” she says, “and we don’t want to have too much.”

Above: The front door and wooden shutters of Platts-Manoury’s French farmhouse are painted a traditional light blue.

Above: Brightly colored ceramics like these planters are a trademark of Platts-Manoury. For more information about her work, see Caitriona Platts-Manoury.

Above: The iconic midcentury Saarinen Tulip table and chairs complement the art and ceramics while the farmhouse’s architectural details form a pleasing backdrop.

Above: A black and white screen designed by Platts-Manoury holds pride of place in front of the traditional fireplace.

Above: Colorful books and a tribal sculpture enliven the rustic space.

Above: The ceramic sculpture and lamp are both by Platts-Manoury.

Above: The tiled floor is original to the farmhouse.

Above: Purple artichokes sit on a ceramic platter by Platts-Manoury.

Above: The kitchen shelves are fully stocked with more of Platts-Manoury’s colorful tableware.

Above: A sculptural red bowl is the focus of the coffee table.

Photography by Christine Hanway for Remodelista.