La Maison de Cocagne

The building, likely constructed around 1650, reflects the changing styles and tastes of its various owners over time, much like the city of Arles itself. Some elements of its past, such as the charming exposed stone cornice, have been preserved.

When Bérengère and Thibaut began the renovation, their intention was not to erase its history. Instead, they embraced the blend of styles that make the house “both fun and intriguing.” They updated it to enhance comfort and conviviality, for example, by opening up the living area and adding a large bench for lounging or enjoying a drink. Upstairs, in the four bedrooms, they focused on creating intimate spaces for guests to enjoy in the privacy of their own rooms.

The décor at La Maison de Cocagne is anything but sterile; it’s brimming with references to art and pop culture. “The decoration is meant to be bold, and each room has a distinct personality!” says Bérengère. In the four bedrooms, you’ll find a variety of themes: one exudes a grandmotherly charm with floral wallpaper and 70s wicker furniture, another embraces a psychedelic vibe with yellow striped walls, and yet another features disco balls (a playful nod from their wedding), which Bérengère humorously describes as “a 70s teenager’s attempt to make the room cool.”

The kitchen combines retro elements with polished steel furniture designed by Jean Nouvel—a twist that adds an appealing modern edge. The bathrooms have not been overlooked either; tiled from floor to ceiling, they offer a nostalgic, time-traveling ambiance. Many of the furniture pieces and decorative elements have been carefully sourced by Bérengère and Thibaut, reflecting their unique vision and attention to detail.

Want to recreate a psychedelic seventies bedroom at home? Head to the many antique shops in the city or visit the famous Eygalières flea market, held on the first Sunday of every month. Alternatively, you can simply relax on the cozy lounge bench at La Maison de Cocagne and admire the screenprints by Jean Cocteau or Niki de Saint Phalle that adorn the walls.

“We chose Arles for its cultural and artistic richness. Even in winter, the city is lively and very pleasant,” confides Bérengère, a convinced Arlesian by adoption. After inspiring Van Gogh with numerous paintings, it’s now all the visiting travelers who will find their creativity stimulated in Arles. Every year, thousands of photography enthusiasts flock to the Rencontres d’Arles, the Arena, LUMA, and the Vincent van Gogh Foundation. The rest of the Camargue is also worth a visit. Throughout the landscapes, you can spot pink flamingos, bulls, or wild horses. For a beach afternoon, it’s just a 40-minute drive from La Maison de Cocagne. It’s truly everything you could dream of, and even more!