The French manor house holds a special place in my heart. I spent some of my formative years in Paris, and to me, that architectural style means elegance, luxury, and success.
In other words, this is the home of my girlhood dreams.
While we associate France with fashion and wine, their architecture has particularly influenced our own. The height of popularity came after World War I when servicemen — among their ranks included architects and builders — returned with new inspiration. They borrowed an assortment of architectural features from different styles of buildings all over France, resulting in what we refer to now as the French Eclectic style.
Although this style of architecture faded after World War II, as with most things, new generations embrace the past and revive it. By the 1990s, the French Eclectic style emerged again and was influenced by everything from Beaux-Arts and Chateauesque traditions to each homeowner’s imagination.
Many European houses have names, which is a tradition a lot of Americans continue. I think it makes a home even more appealing.
This gorgeous French manor house is called Bon Temps. If you’ve ever set foot near New Orleans, you know that means good times!
I’m sure plenty of good times have happened in this French manor house because with 9,339 square feet, there is plenty of room to throw a lovely soirée!
Located in the Williamsburg subdivision — a wonderful area a stone’s throw from White Rock Creek — the home sits on almost an acre with six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and three powder baths.
The details are what separate it from so many we see today. From the Lueders limestone staircase, imported fireplaces, and honed marble floors to the elaborate ceiling moldings, it is evident a great deal of thought and care was put into this French manor house.
If you know and appreciate marble, you are in for a rare treat. The study has a fireplace surround of Fleur de Pêcher marble. This is rarely extracted today and is the same marble used in the main hall of the Napoleon III apartments at the Louvre in Paris. It was also used in the Palais Garnier where the Paris opera is held.
The principal bedroom is on the first floor, along with three other bedrooms, which is a rarity.
With all this elegance and beauty, you may need to be reminded this is at heart a family home and lives easily and comfortably.
This French manor house offers what everyone wants today. It’s a gated property with room for the entire family, plenty of outdoor space, and summer’s essential — a gorgeous pool.
Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate’s Sharon Redd has this luxurious French manor house at 14308 Hughes Lane listed for $2.895 million.
