L’Ancrier

Eager to settle in quickly without altering the original structure, Julie and her husband chose not to undertake major renovations. This functional and welcoming home—with its spacious upper-floor hallway offering plenty of room for everyone and large windows that open onto the garden—required little more than thoughtful updates.

Their first project? Repainting all the walls in white to brighten the interiors. “A sort of blank canvas to furnish and decorate gradually,” Julie explains. As DIY enthusiasts, the couple also created custom pieces, including the living room coffee table and the kitchen counter, showcasing their love for tile work.

The owners envisioned a welcoming and comfortable living space, where guests would feel instantly at ease. The sofa, easy to find but hard to leave, sets the tone for relaxation, while a large table invites everyone to gather for meals, games, or simply enjoying time together. Books and magazines are thoughtfully placed throughout for entertainment, with cupboards stocked with board games and a garage filled with beach toys and bicycles.

Carefully selected bedding ensures optimal comfort for guests, and the rooms are inviting yet unthemed, allowing visitors to feel completely at home. The decor is simple and uncluttered, complemented by vibrant pops of color. Over time, the couple enjoys adding paintings, frames, and other decorative touches. “Nothing is set in stone!” Julie says.

A graphic designer by trade, Julie discovered a passion for interior design through this project—to the point of considering a career change!

Plenty of great activities await on the Normandy Coast! Julie and her husband, now experts in the area, recommend starting with the Saturday morning market under the medieval halls (over 500 years old!), catching a family movie at Le Drakkar cinema, or taking a stroll along Cabourg beach while enjoying a crepe. Amateur historians might explore the cliffs of the Vaches Noires in Houlgate and Villers, hoping to unearth a fossil or two in the mud.

Evenings wind down peacefully at L’Ancrier. “We love gathering in the kitchen, simmering a delicious meal over a glass of wine. The light at the end of the day is amazing, and we enjoy watching the sunset. From there, we also have a beautiful view and a lovely sky—even when it rains!”