How We Transformed a Narrow Block into a French Provincial Masterpiece

At Fyffe Design, we’ve worked on many beautiful French Provincial homes, but this one is truly something special. What makes it unique isn’t just the classic elegance of its design but how it cleverly adapts to a challenging, narrow block with rear lane access. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful design can turn a tricky site into a dream home, balancing style, privacy, and functionality.

Here’s a closer look at how this home makes the most of its unique block:

This home showcases a classic French style. The French provincial façade features intricate elements with a subtle art deco twist of curved centre details. Sophisticated yet timeless, creating a welcoming first impression.

The selling point of this home is its unique, relatively narrow block of land with lane access at the rear for added privacy. For increased curb appeal, the home design boasts a timeless symmetrical façade, creating a balanced exterior that helps bind all the other elements of the home to a uniform, cohesive look. The entrance has a spacious front porch that goes around the property. We placed the double garage to the rear of the home, maintaining a modern chateau appeal.

In the formal lounge, the interior is characterised by a coffered ceiling where the central hub is all designed in one area, with a fireplace on the right and a study corner on the left. An ensuite guest room, a grand staircase, a courtyard, a cellar and a powder room are located at the front of the property. Secluded from the hub of the home, there are main living quarters at the back, opening out onto an alfresco that acts as a bridge between the living area and garage. The block allows for flexibility and the added safety of not having an easy access point into the home.

Due to building restrictions in the area, the plunge pool is small but provides a private retreat for relaxation in the comfort of the home. These tree protection areas surrounding the property provide shade and keep the house cool.

The first floor is space-efficient, and at the centre holds a grand staircase that backs onto a north-facing courtyard, benefitting from plenty of natural light during the day while creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

The home has a well-structured layout. There are two kids’ bedrooms with a shared bathroom at the front section of the property. There is a princess suite at the southeastern façade and a grand master suite that overlooks the backyard. This layout provides a dedicated space for maintaining privacy and clearly defining different zones for different activities during the day.

The block boasts about 320 sqm of internal floor space and offers vast green spaces around the home. The expansive external area is nestled in the tranquillity of nature with additional space for recreational purposes.