The importance of light and space

It is much easier to live in a house undergoing renovation if that house offers you space: with its high ceilings, large square rooms and symmetrical layout, this house fits into that category and was one of the many attractions it held for us when we first saw it. Living in France, one notices and appreciates space so much more – probably because there is so much more of it! Natural light is so important that we could not thrive without it. A room with large windows providing natural light and fresh air means greater productivity and verve: enter Mr. Fix It who has worked tirelessly over these last few months to bring our house back to its former beauty. Having light and space has, I have no doubt, given him increased impetus to carry on.

Our large windows allow us to look at the beauty of nature around us, to watch the world go by and marvel at the huge 14th century church which sits majestically opposite our house. They somehow offer a feeling of a greater connection between the interior and the exterior. We have been blessed with full sunshine again this week, and not a day goes by without our marvelling at how very blue is the sky and how golden the light before sunset.

We count ourselves lucky to have such wonderful natural light. Perhaps this lends inspiration for lighting in our kitchen. Mr. Fix It is as I write preparing his electrical layout plan for this and I know it will be quite stunning: soft lighting under the wall cupboards to show off the granite worktops, lamps all around and small lights from the ceiling pinpointing different parts of the huge space. The importance of good lighting cannot be denied and with our temporary kitchen in place already, a couple of lamps sitting on the corner fireplace, one almost does not notice the fact that we actually have yet to fit the kitchen. Yes, lighting can transform even the dullest room.

With Christmas fast approaching we have taken time out this week to experience local festivities. The run up to Christmas starts later in France but as soon as St. Nicolas (December 6th) approaches, every little village, every town seems to put on some sort of exterior light display: and how well it is done. We visited Carcassonne and sat in the huge square watching the ice skaters uplit from the ice in changing colours. Then as night fell, the trees all around became a blaze of soft colour, the huge centrepiece statue almost seeming to dance in time with the music.

We are leaving this week in the car to drive back to the UK for Christmas with family and friends, our route taking us through Luxembourg, Germany and Belgium. Mr. Fix It can take a well-earned rest from his toils and enjoy a glass of wine or two as we catch up with everyone in England. We wonder if Eddie & Alfie will remember their young days in the UK and whether they will miss their canal side walks here in France. I have a feeling they will go with the flow however, as we have done this year since we started work on this house. A little driving adventure lies in store for them but come evening time, wherever we are, they will be snuggled up to us no doubt, happy to be anywhere that we are.

Alexis
The Overseas Guides Company
Have a look at my website at: http://www.francebuyingguide.com/