Cabanon Samena

What could be more inspiring than a view of the Mediterranean? Not much, according to the former owners of Cabanon Samena. Hidden behind the old offices of an industrial building dating back to the 1900s, this cabin once served as a refuge for a local hero—resistance fighter Fortuné Brigando—before being transformed into a painting studio.

After several visits to the area, Côme, an artistic director for a luxury brand in Paris, falls in love with Marseille’s beauty and decides to find his own retreat there. He stumbles upon this quintessential Calanques building, a 45-square-meter gem perched at the top of a staircase leading directly to the beach at Samena. Could this be Marseille’s best-kept secret?

The cabin, already renovated by its previous owners, needed only a few fresh touches from Côme to reflect his personal style. He added built-in benches to the living area, a large table crafted by a local artisan, repainted the walls in blue and white—evoking the Mediterranean and traditional coastal homes—and laid slate tiles for a timeless finish.

To infuse the interiors with his own artistic vision, Côme paid homage to the cabin’s history as a painting studio by collaborating with the artist duo Jacent. Jade Fourès-Varnier and Vincent de Hoÿm created hand-painted frescoes on tiles, adding vibrant character to the living space of Cabanon Samena. The result? As Côme puts it: “A Mediterranean style with a modern twist!”

Having become a true connoisseur of the area, Côme shares some excellent recommendations with his guests. Start with La Friche de l’Escalette, a park dedicated to sculpture and architecture. From there, the choices are plenty! Visit the picturesque port of La Madrague, then enjoy lunch at Chez le Belge in the calanque of Marseilleveyre. This remote restaurant, accessible only by boat or a hike from Callelongue, feels like it’s perched at the edge of the world.

Afterward, unwind with a drink at the Tuba Club in the fishing village of Les Goudes, or head back to Cabanon Samena to prepare a feast with fresh produce from the charming Chez Mère Grand grocery store in Pointe Rouge. A tried-and-true itinerary!