My French Country Home

MFCH is a luxurious bi-monthly publication which features the greatest elements of French life. Join us as we explore lush gardens, bustling brocantes, the elegance of baking from scratch, and living simply but well. Our pages will transport you not only to the glamour of Paris, but to the sweeping lavender fields of Provence and the rolling hills of Normandy.

EDITOR’S LETTER

CONTRIBUTORS • We are delighted to have the following talented writers, photographers and artists contribute to this issue.

Royal Snowfall • The forecast had predicted snow for days, but in the Paris region, there was no guarantee it would happen — and even less chance it would last. Hoping for a winter miracle, photographer Antoine Bonin packed his gear to capture Versailles blanketed in snow at first light. His preparation paid off in spectacular fashion.

Quoi de Neuf?* • *What’s new?

Christmas Comfort • Perched above the medieval city of Provins, a Bourgeois residence has found new life through the passion and vision of Aude de Clerck and her husband — both devotees of heritage and art history. Today, as they prepare to welcome guests for Christmas, their home glows with the warmth of a generous open kitchen and carefully crafted comfort.

Heritage at Home • Get the look of Aude de Clerck’s 19th-century Bourgeois home with a few choice antiques, a warm neutral palette and a splash of statement wallpaper.

The Still Life • Eau‑de‑vie — literally, “water of life” — is more than fruit fermented and distilled into a smooth after‑dinner drink. In France, making it has long been a ritual that brings growers and distillers together, turning the process into a convivial social occasion.

Old Flames • Aficionados of classic Haussmannian apartment design know it as the holy trinity: the warm glow of old oak floors (parquet), ceilings adorned with delicate plasterwork (moulures) and the pièce de la resistance — a marble fireplace (cheminée) standing proudly at the center of the living room. For anyone who has ever fantasized about making a life in Paris, these are the classic features that make the heart beat faster.

Perfect Paris Pastries • For nearly two decades, Arnaud Delmontel’s flagship pâtisserie on Rue des Martyrs has been a 9th ‑arrondissement staple. Formerly the official baker to the Élysée Palace and winner of the Grand Prix de la Baguette de Paris, Arnaud has conjured the classic taste of the French capital with his new book, Paris Pâtisserie: 70 Recipes at the Heart of Parisian History. We’re delighted to share a selection of sweet recipes for your holiday table.

2026 Gift Guide • Père Noël has arrived at MFCH, and he’s brought plenty of French goodies along with him! Each year, we look forward to sharing a selection of beautifully made pieces that caught our eye. From timeless favorites for her, to small luxuries for your littles and thoughtful pet gifts, there’s something for everyone on your list. So, sit back and let our 2026 French Holiday Gift Guide help you shop à la française this season — whether you’re looking for something special for a loved one … or yourself.

Les Puces de Saint-Ouen • Les Puces de Saint-Ouen, situated on the northern edge of Paris, is the world’s largest antiques market, home to more than 1,700 permanent dealers and drawing some 5 million visitors each year.

The Omelette de la Mère Poulard • Our editor-in-chief, Sharon Santoni, recalls an unforgettable Normandy meal, where an unexpected family ritual around the fire produced something extraordinary.

Home for the Holidays • Sara Marner tells how her family fell in love with France on a holiday from Australia, when her children — now grown — were toddlers. They soon discovered the Perche region, returning year after year, and eventually bought a stunning 16th-century manoir. It’s now their...