Bleu Wisteria

As the granddaughter of a DIY enthusiast, Karolänn Bapté Traversac has always been drawn to beautiful materials and the gratification that comes from skilled craftsmanship. In 2017, she began training as a decorative painter and launched Jolie M’Home, where she now shares her expertise in polished concrete, lime, and decorative finishes as a materials artist.

A trailblazer in her field, Karolänn has since built a network of specialized applicators, fostering creativity and collaboration. Bleu Wisteria now serves as the perfect space to showcase her artistry—a vacation home and showroom in one. “Bleu Wisteria is a window into the Jolie M’Home world, embracing natural materials, a gentle lifestyle, and authenticity.” And the best part? Hands-on material workshops will soon be held at Bleu Wisteria, allowing guests to experience the art of finishes firsthand.

In this early 20th-century building in the Gard, the Bapté Traversac family has preserved the original stone walls and restored the lime plaster, carefully maintaining the character of the wooden beams. The spaces have been reimagined to make this compact house feel open and spacious. Traces of its history remain, like the vaulted ceiling in one of the bedrooms—a charming reminder of its days as a village passageway. Traditional tiles have been replaced with polished concrete flooring, lending a modern touch to the interiors.

Embracing lime paint as an artistic medium, Karolänn created a hand-painted mural headboard inspired by artist Rafael Uriegas. In the living area, another artist, Margot Gillot, crafted a custom wall piece on a lime background, echoing Miró’s style. This home invites creativity, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking artistic inspiration.

Ideally located in the heart of Saint-Victor-de-Malcap—a charming, quiet village with shops and restaurants—Bleu Wisteria is the perfect base for exploring the Gard region. Start the day with a brunch or breakfast delivered upon request before setting off. Antique lovers can enjoy a 15-minute drive to Barjac, where a popular antique and flea market is held twice a year. The area is dotted with medieval gems classified as “most beautiful villages of France”: Lussan, Aiguèze, La Roque-sur-Cèze, Montclus, and Balazuc.

Summer visitors can cool off with a swim in the Cèze River, followed by a relaxing drink at a riverside café. If the sea beckons, the Mediterranean is only an hour and a half away. Pack a picnic of local specialties—picholine olives, fougasse, Nîmes pâté, and apple croustade—and head to the beach at Espiguette.

Karolänn, who knows the region well from her family trips, has plenty of suggestions for her guests: “Between the Cévennes and the Ardèche, there’s so much to do! Culture, nature, wellness, and a wide range of activities—paddleboarding under the Pont du Gard, horseback riding, cycling, climbing, via ferrata, fishing, and even caving.” Dive in and make the most of your stay!