No.5 Saint Paul, a designer townhouse in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence

A 16th-Century Retreat Reimagined by Designer Katie Lyons

Originally a neglected five-story structure, this home has been transformed by designer Katie Lyons into a timeless dwelling. The design emphasizes natural texture—think couches de chaux plastering and hand-finished Moroccan tiles. It is a home with soul, where vintage finds from Nice’s Cours Saleya market meet the clean lines of 20th-century furniture.

The interiors favor an earthy palette of olive greens and sun-baked ochre. Each floor reveals meticulous craftsmanship: original terracotta floors, distressed wooden beams, and expansive windows that frame the village ramparts like living canvases. Softness is found in the 100 percent pre-washed French linens and the organic curves of the Noon armchairs, creating a sanctuary that feels tactile and deeply sophisticated.

The ground floor opens onto a rare, private landscaped terrace that offers a front-row seat to the rolling hills of the Loup Valley. Upstairs, small stone balconies provide a vantage point to watch the rhythm of village life, perfect for a quiet glass of rosé at dusk.

What we love

This is a stunning 16th-century townhouse that feels both historic and fresh, and the views over Saint-Paul-de-Vence are just unparalleled. It’s the perfect home base for a deep dive into French culture.

Layout

This vacation home for rent in Saint-Paul-de-Vence sleeps up to seven guests. Spanning five levels, the layout offers three suites (approx. 35m² each). Two suites feature super-king beds that can convert to twins, while the third accommodates additional guests via flexible bedding arrangements. Each suite boasts a private bathroom with either a freestanding copper bathtub, a cast-iron tub, or a large Zellige-tiled shower. The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen and dining level.

Good to know

The house is located in a pedestrian-only zone. While parking is available nearby, the final approach is on foot over cobblestones. A full laundry service is provided by the housekeeper. Pets are welcome by prior arrangement.

Amenities & services

Air conditioning, wifi, honesty bar, tea and coffee facilities, French linen sheets, copper bathtubs, Zellige tiles, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, baby equipment, terrace, balcony, housekeeping, concierge assistance

Around

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a living museum, its 16th-century ramparts housing a dense concentration of modern art and cultural history. Walk 10 minutes to the Fondation Maeght, a masterpiece of architectural design by Josep Lluís Sert, or pay respects at Marc Chagall’s grave in the local cemetery. The village’s open-door spirit means you are never more than a few steps from a world-class meal or a hidden courtyard.

A car is recommended for exploring the broader Riviera. Nice and its international airport are a mere 20-minute drive, while the glamorous coastlines of Cannes and Antibes are easily accessible.