With design attributed to François Mansart (architect to Louis XIV) and gardens inspired by, if not actually designed by Le Nôtre himself, Château de Villette has stood, almost unchanged, since the late 17th century. It was, however, in the next century, that the château shone, serving as a hub for influential intellectuals and elite, supporting ideals of the Enlightenment.
In an elegant new tome, we are first guided through the history of the chateau followed by an intimate look at the recently refurbished interiors. New owners, who purchased the chateau in 2011, undertook an ambition restoration of the entire estate, guided by Pierre-André Lablaude, chief architect to the Monuments Historiques and for the Domaine National de Versailles.…
