The house after 6 months
A house that became ours
Just six months ago we took over the keys to our house in the South of France. Since then we have been away three times – a total of about 30 effective working days – to give the house the love and attention it needed and to put our own touch on it. There have been days of hard work, sore muscles and long to-do lists, but also days filled with laughter, presence and the joy of creating something together.
One of the most enjoyable things was when our daughter and son-in-law were with us for a few days and gave us an extra hand – and made the work even more fun.
Today we have reached the point where the house really feels like ours. It has found its own style – a harmonious blend of French charm and Scandinavian simplicity and tranquility. A place where there is room for relaxation, togetherness and new memories, and which we look forward to sharing with others.
How did we get this far in just 30 days?
In just six months – and three stays in France – we have transformed an almost empty house into a personal and welcoming home. In total, we have put about 30 effective working days into the house, and it has required both planning, determination and many hours of physical work.
When we started, the house needed cleaning, painting and furnishing. With almost 200 m² and space for 12 people, much more than furniture was needed – everything from crockery and kitchenware to a washing machine, internet and the little everyday details had to be put in place.
Preparation and logistics were key
We knew that our time in France was precious. That's why a large part of the work started already at home in Denmark. Preparation and planning were crucial to getting this far in a relatively short time.
We ordered a lot of things from home to save time shopping – and the biggest challenge was the logistics: getting the pergola, furniture, plants, appliances, internet box and not least about 40 tons of pebbles delivered, just when we were in the house. At the same time, the car was packed to the brim every time we drove to France – even though our dog had to accept a little less space on the trip.
Learning, help and French persistence
Along the way, we have learned to navigate French DIY stores. At first it was a challenge, but today it feels natural. The French are incredibly helpful, and when the language is a problem, translation apps have proven to be indispensable.
A style between France and Scandinavia
Today we have reached the point where the house feels like ours. It has found its own identity – a calm and inviting style where French charm meets Scandinavian simplicity. The result is a holiday home with soul, warmth and space for both relaxation and togetherness.
And what now?
For us, the house in France is more than a place – it is a shared project, a free space and a way of being together. The first six months have been marked by commitment, work clothes and many practical tasks, but also by the joy of creating something with our hands and watching it take shape little by little.
Today we are in a place where the next visit doesn’t start with a long to-do list. Of course, there will always be things we can adjust and improve – it’s simply in our nature – but the pace is different now. From now on, stays are more about enjoying everyday life in France.
In between small practical projects, we take time for the simple pleasures: delicious ice cream desserts, freshly baked croissants, a good glass of red wine and cozy moments with family and friends. We like to have our hands in the practical, but in a relaxed and non-binding way – as a natural part of holiday life.
The house
