La petite grange cachée

It’s as if time has stood still. This is the feeling you get when strolling through the charming narrow streets of the medieval towns scattered throughout the Périgord Noir, a region in Dordogne named for the dark oak forests that blanket its hills.

Nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies will be spoiled for choice here: mushroom foraging, chestnut picking, exploring the Lascaux Caves, or visiting the Château de Beynac perched majestically above the Dordogne. Outdoor adventures like hiking and canoeing abound, offering endless options to immerse yourself in the region’s beauty. The must-do weekend activity? A trip to the market! Discover local specialties such as foie gras, truffles, walnuts, cèpes, cabécous, and pâté de Périgueux. Fill your basket with these delights and set off for a picnic in the enchanting woods.

Born and raised in Bordeaux, Émilie and her husband moved to the Périgord region in 2016, seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. While searching for a home, they discovered a small agricultural property with a main house—now their family home—and a barn, which had been partially converted into living space in the 1980s.

Determined to preserve the barn’s rustic charm, they installed old terracotta tiles on the floor and brightened the interiors by painting the stone walls and wooden beams white. Taking a hands-on approach to the renovation, they designed the bathroom, kitchen, and concrete furniture themselves, even taking on all the painting. Despite its modest 35 m² size, the project proved to be a monumental undertaking, requiring three years of effort. But the results speak for themselves: a cozy, character-filled barn that invites guests to reconnect with nature and savor the simple joys of country living.

Primarily a wedding photographer, Émilie occasionally turns her creative eye to holiday homes. Her photography can be seen at La Maisonnette des Vignes and Chez les Biscotto, two other stunning properties in the Périgord region. Inspired by these beautifully styled interiors, she poured her heart into decorating her own barn.

Hunting for antique furniture and vintage tableware in the region, Émilie also let her creativity shine with personal touches—like transforming her grandmother’s old dish towels into charming vintage curtains. The result is a warm and inviting space with a cozy, nostalgic feel, where every detail tells a story. It’s the kind of home that feels welcoming in every season.