Having established her career in Paris, botanical painter Claire Basler wanted a studio and home in surroundings that reflected her interest in nature. She found it in Les Ormes, a small village in the country about half an hour from Paris — in a neglected former school that was rapidly becoming reclaimed by nature. Inside, Claire found that it was remarkably intact despite its disuse, and after a little tidying she has left the building just as it is. Filled with her paintings, vintage furniture (some made by her brother, a blacksmith) and fresh flowers every day, it's an idyllic retreat for Claire and Ziza (her sweet labrador), who also enjoy friendly visits by the older villagers, who love to reminisce about their school days there. So lovely. More here on Marie Claire Italia.
(photography by mags mogensen)