Villa Albertine

Before becoming the beautiful retreat it is today, Villa Albertine was once a blacksmith’s workshop, part of Adrien’s family for over 90 years. In 1933, his great-grandmother purchased three plots of land in Barbizon for her children, and the property was later named in her honor—her last name being Albert.

When Marie and Adrien decided to renovate it, they went all in, dedicating a year and a half to the transformation. “We managed the construction ourselves and even did some of the work by hand. All the fittings and décor were designed by us as well,” says Marie. What inspired these two design enthusiasts? Bauhaus, modernist, Arts and Crafts, and brutalist architecture. The result? A villa where you’ll love both admiring every detail and simply staying in.

As for the décor, Marie and Adrien have once again demonstrated impeccable taste. Passionate about vintage finds, they have furnished the house with carefully selected treasures, including beautifully reupholstered Togo sofas and armchairs, as well as rare pieces sourced from Le Bon Coin and Conox. The result? Light-filled spaces, a minimalist aesthetic, and perfectly curated design elements.

Beyond its beauty, the house is also environmentally conscious. It features eco-friendly paints made in Brittany from algae, hemp insulation, polished concrete floors, and lime and stone walls. The natural approach extends to the bedrooms, with 100% natural latex mattresses and Bonsoirs organic cotton bedding and towels. Thoughtful details that make Villa Albertine feel like home—only better.

From Villa Albertine, everything is within walking distance: you can grab your morning croissants—right in the courtyard, no less, as L’A Pâtisserie from Fontainebleau will soon be opening a second shop there!—have lunch at a nearby restaurant, and then head straight out for a bike ride in the Fontainebleau Forest (five adult bikes and a child seat are available).

For those looking to be pampered or enjoy unique experiences, the owners offer a range of activities: a home pizzaiolo or private chef preparing organic, seasonal dishes, brunch or breakfast delivery, as well as Pilates, yoga, and fitness classes.

To experience the forest from a fresh perspective, guests can take part in a wild food cooking workshop, learning to forage and prepare edible plants with an expert, or join a mushroom-picking excursion led by a passionate forager. And for a truly unique experience? A meditation and singing session among the trees—an unforgettable way to connect with nature.