Restoring Elegance: The Reawakening of Château de Purnon
Today,
we take a sneak peak at one of the most fascinating restoration projects in the
heart of Europe - a project that captures the essence of a grand château's
transformation from almost-ruin to renaissance.
Just south of the fabled Loire Valley, the Château de Purnon epitomises the grandeur of 18th-century architecture in the Louis XVI style. This iconic structure, steeped in history and cultural significance, is currently undergoing an extensive restoration project spearheaded by owners Felicity Selkirk and Tim Holding, accompanied by their faithful companion, Truffe. The restoration's foremost mission is to safeguard the structure and restore the roof which, after years of neglect was close to collapsing, all while preserving its rich historical heritage and seamlessly blending traditional charm with contemporary luxury.
Embarking on the restoration of a 105-room castle might not be a conventional retirement plan, but for Tim, a seasoned Australian MP and former Minister, it marks the beginning of a new chapter after years of public service. This Australian couple has found a labour of love and the passion project of a lifetime. When they approached Riluxa to discuss working together on the creation of two pivotal bathrooms in the château, we could not have been more intrigued. Read on to discover one of Riluxa’s most captivating projects to date.
The region of Vienne is rich in historical, cultural and economic significance, with its capital Poitiers playing a pivotal role over the course of French history.
The new guardians of Purnon: Châtelains Felicity Selkirk & Tim Holding, courtesy of Antoine Doyen.
The Château's Rich History
The Château de Purnon, with its iconic Louis XVI architecture, echoes with tales of a bygone era. With an imposing façade of local tuffeau limestone and ochre render, the castle boasts a meandering dry moat, a grand avenue through its own lush forest and several substantial outbuildings. You quickly come to realise that this building is a living chronicle of French history. Completed only one year before the French Revolution, its walls have witnessed clandestine meetings during that tumultuous period, which it miraculously survived intact, contributing to its significance in the annals of time. But when Felicity and Tim first laid eyes on it, they found a masterpiece desperately in need of preservation.
The Grand Allée stretches 3km into the forest in front of the château.
The Restoration Journey – A Monumental Mission
This restoration endeavour is a colossal undertaking, currently one of the largest private restoration projects in France. When Felicity and Tim took ownership of the château in 2020, it was on the brink of disaster: a crumbling and leaking slate roof threatening its very existence. Each outbuilding lay close to ruin, rotting floor joists and flooded interiors presenting formidable challenges. Yet, the significance of Château de Purnon cannot be overstated. Regarded as one of the finest examples of late 18th Century French architecture, it stands as an invaluable historical record, virtually unchanged since its inception.
Tim, Felicity and Truffe, image courtesy of
Guillaume de Laubier
Pictured at Purnon: France’s Chief architect of national monuments, Frédéric Didier
Courtesy of Laura Edwards
The discovery of the original architects' drawings and archives was a pivotal moment, and these plans have guided the meticulous restoration process ever since. This work has been spearheaded by Purnon’s heritage architect Frédéric Didier, who also serves as Chief Architect of the Palace of Versailles. With both the interior and exterior of the building classified as a listed building (a Monument Historique), the project aims to revive the Château’s splendour, blending respect for history with artisanal expertise.
Hidden in the château archives, the original construction drawings by architect Bourgeois were discovered in pitiful condition. They have since been beautifully restored and donated to the Heritage Department - Background Image
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
The initial
focus was on stabilising and restoring the château's roof, a crucial step in
ensuring the structural integrity of this historical landmark. With the eastern
side of the roof now fully restored and the scaffolding relocated to the
western side of the building,
attention has shifted to the comprehensive restoration of the château's
interior, including its incredible 105 rooms! Among these, the fourteen
principal bedrooms, many boasting two adjoining rooms historically designated
for dressing and staff quarters, present a unique opportunity. The
transformation of these spaces into dedicated, luxurious bathrooms marks a
significant chapter in the château's restoration journey. Enter Riluxa, whose
collaboration with Felicity and Tim brings a touch of contemporary luxury to
the heart of this historical masterpiece.
Step by step: Purnon’s roof and bathrooms in progress and Felicity hard at work on this exceptional transformation.
Riluxa's Contribution
Riluxa joined
forces with Felicity and Tim in the creation of two pivotal bathrooms, as well
as Purnon’s first ever shower. The first of these bathrooms will be integrated
into the château's most important bedroom, distinguished by its remarkable 18th-century hand-blocked
wallpaper from the royal workshop of Réveillon – a truly exceptional gem as the only surviving example in
the world! This suite will also boast an extraordinary shower room that we are
excited to be able to share within weeks.
The 18th century hand block painted wallpaper, made by the Reveillon workshop, dating from the château’s original construction – the last surviving examples anywhere in France.
Meanwhile, the second en suite bathroom will meld the château's authentic 18th-century clay tommettes with the contemporary luxury of Riluxa’s products, aiming for a harmonious fusion of heritage and sophistication.
Specialising in premium materials crafted by our artisans in Valencia, Riluxa epitomises quality and elegance. With our roots firmly planted in Valencia's rich tradition of craftsmanship and design, we’re a natural ally for the château's rebirth. Our French founders, along with our diverse European team, infuse Riluxa's approach with a unique flair. We take immense pride in our contribution to this historic restoration, crafting luxurious products that seamlessly blend contemporary comforts with the château's storied heritage. Our dedication to both traditional and modern craftsmanship mirrors the dedication poured into Château de Purnon's restoration by the owners and the network of artisans involved. On this project, our role extends beyond a collaboration; it's a celebration of shared values and a commitment to preserving the wealth of our shared cultural heritage.
Artisans at work: Riluxa's team crafting a range
of bathroom pieces in our factory.
Anticipating the Grand Reveal
Felicity and Tim's dedication to the château is palpable, which you can follow along through beautifully researched and presented content on their YouTube and Instagram channels. As the restoration of Château de Purnon continues, every detail reflects dedication and passion. Riluxa is honoured to be a part of this narrative, adding our touch of luxury to the château's revival. Be sure to follow us for our upcoming exclusive interview with Felicity, where we'll unveil these utterly transformed spaces. You'll see how Felicity has managed to blend old-world charm with the luxuries of today. Stay tuned for an unforgettable showcase of respectful restoration and contemporary elegance.