Rare treasures discovered in the château attic by the architect from Château de Versailles

This week our architect takes you on a tour of 250 years of discarded treasures found in the château attic helping us start to slowly piece back together the original decor of the château.
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[@AnnaBananna15]

He's not only an architect but a historian of furniture and fabrics!

Yes, he's incredible. His expertise and enthusiasm has transformed our project.

[@louiselewis5061]

Treasures everywhere. Even the architect himself is a treasure with his expertise. It’s all so interesting and exciting.

Wonderfully expressed! Thank you for following our journey.

[@lynnmanning2795]

I watch with interest and humor as you fix history in your magifacient home.I send you energy and insite on your journey.

[@nancyhoekstra7254]

@pp

[@esmeraldagreen1992]

My great grandfather had a lit de camp when I was growing up. During WWII they were given to refugees, whose furniture and home were destroyed in the bombings. It had casings on the short sides. Before the bed was fully opened, you threaded 2 pieces of 2x4 wood through the casings. These pieces were hooked on the corners of the frame on the short sides . When the bed was fully opened, the head and foot pieces made the frame into a full rectangle, which helped keep the canvas taut as a drum. My grandfather had a special mattress that could be placed on the bed for maximum comfort. The bed had hinges with a locking mechanism in the middle of each long side. When it was time to fold the bed, the mattress would be removed, then the head and foot pieces were also removed from the casings, the hinges would be unlocked, the long sides were pushed together, then the long side could be folded and the closed bed ended up looking like a folded umbrella, the kind that fit in a briefcase. There was even a strap sewn that went around the bed to keep it folded like an ombrella. It was an ingenious piece, very sturdy and heavy.

[@belindanoonan6217]

Clearly I’m in “commenting overload”. I love your architect’s passion and knowledge. He is bringing all his experience and immense wealth of education to Purnon. And Flick, your French vocabulary is outstanding. The architect is explaining complex, intricate details and you understand it all. ❤

Thanks Belinda. Yes, our architect is amazing. We scarcely understood the enormity of the decision we were making when we chose him but his experience and judgement has transformed our journey.

[@ValerieDee123]

I'm so happy pernon is in safe hands. Last year we lost my husband's family home and land. It is in safe hands. It had been in his family for approximately 250 years.

Thank you for your message. We feel the burden of responsibility of caring for something so precious. We hope that future generations will be grateful for the decisions that we have made to protect and restore something of rare beauty.

[@nativetexan6628]

Should have done a KZbin channel and saved it. 😂😂😂 I'm just joking of course,

[@mariabettega3513]

That's is so sad, sorry for your loss.

[@SF-ru3lp]

Blessings to you in this new phase, Valerie. G Ire

[@sandie157]

I am very sorry. It's been over a century since my family lost their ancestral home and lands. It's gone . We keep the knowledge of it in our hearts.

[@debbiecagliarini4421]

Wow, they really are some treasures. What great advice "don't throw anything out". I bet there are some other chateaus that wish they were given this advice. What an extremely knowledgeable gentleman, how lucky are you to have him.

His guidance has transformed our experience. He has taught us so much and guided us to making some decisions that we hope future generations will treasure and be grateful for. Thank you for your comment!

[@johniacovelli250]

For 40 years I have owned two contiguous 104 year old buildings and I have learned to keep ALL documents as the city of Montreal periodically asks that I provide evidence, in the form of paperwork that they no longer have, as city hall was destroyed by fire in 1932. Keep every little piece of paper no matter how innocuous it is.

[@goldenineke]

I can’t imagine what it would be like having a chateau full of so many treasures - daunting but exciting!

It's a real journey of discovery and detective work. The furnishings give some wonderful insights into 18th century life. Thank you for following our adventure!

[@goldenineke]

@ I must say my eyes lit up when I saw the strawberry coloured toile!!

[@rowandowland1391]

Those opening shots of the chateau again had us in tears..... what is it about Purnon? We can't imagine what must have been in your minds and hearts the first time you saw her. To see something so beautiful in such a poor condition and all the circumstances that led it to being in this state. And then you come along to reawaken her. She must have cried herself with joy and relief. So many fascinating pieces but that billiard table is beyond belief. I hope there will be someone out there with a love of billiards and deep pockets who can fund its restoration for you. Incredible. M&R

Thank you - as always such a thoughtful message. Those opening photos remind us of how far we have come. And, yes, the billiard table is a real treasure. We can't wait to turn our minds to how we might restore her and return her home!

[@lyricsdebra]

How incredible to see older than the Chateau furnishings and the original furniture to the Chateau. I could spend forever looking through all the historical pieces

Thanks for your message - we're thrilled you enjoyed the tour!

[@blanchedevereaux5403]

Me too!

[@memikell]

The shear scope of the restoration boggles the mind! To undertake such a project takes far more guts than most of us have. You have gone to war against the decay of time and the elements. My hat is off to you and my wishes for your success!

Thank you for your wonderful message!

[@kathyevans2968]

What a font of knowledge and passion you have in your architect. I can see Frederick feels like Purnon is in safe hands with both of you as worthy custodians. I’m appreciative that he let you share his knowledge with us. Thank you.

Thank you for your message. We feel the weight of responsibility for protecting and restoring her every day. We could not do it without our amazing architect.

[@chellerowe9390]

Just amazing the history in Purnon. How exciting to be able to touch and see the history you are uncovering. What an honour to be able to restore it.

Thank you for your message and for following our journey.

[@Aussieroo007]

You have just got another Aussie subscription. They sheer joy of seeing this beautiful old lady coming awake! Just breathtaking. ❤❤❤

Welcome! Thank you following our journey!

[@wendywalsh-pardey9439]

Love your Hard Yakka t shirt. Only Aussies will understand.

We're delighted to spread the word! Great Aussie icon.

[@MB-mw2eb]

I think this was the most interesting vlog about the chateau. F.Didier’s knowledge makes him able to ascertain the most minute detail of what looks like a pile of lumber or an unknown frame of fabric, or a simple table. Incredibly interesting and impressive. It’s so important that you did save everything. Well done.

Thanks for your message. Yes, our architect is amazing. He has transformed our journey with his skill and expertise.

[@brettkruempel244]

How marvelous it is that so many bits and pieces were kept and wonderful that so much of it can be restored. This is a lengthy and arduous task that I am glad you have undertaken.

Thank you for your message and for following our journey!

[@biche1835]

Votre choix d'un architecte aussi connaisseur du 18ème siècle est crucial. Le réflexe de beaucoup de gens qui rénovent est malheureusement souvent de se débarrasser de tout ces vieux morceaux de bois et de chiffons ou papiers. On les voit tout contents d'avoir "nettoyé" l'intérieur. Vous allez être plus tard récompensés par l'authenticité de ce que vous pourrez présenter comme cet extraordinaire billard. Merci de respecter ce patrimoine.

Merci pour votre message. Le respect du patrimoine est au cœur de notre projet de sauvegarde du magnifique Château de Purnon.

[@biche1835]

C'est à nous de vous remercier de prendre en charge ce joyau et de mettre toutes vos forces dans cette "renaissance" du château! Merci aussi de nous montrer tout le travail de ces artisans talentueux qui interviennent sur le bâtiment.

[@jefflawrentz1624]

That was great fun seeing your treasures through a connoisseurs eyes and hearing him explain the purpose of them. How lucky you are to have such a competent guide for these projects. Thank you for sharing this!

Exactly! We feel fortunate that he is guiding us on this wonderful adventure.

[@kayschwartz-pq5kx]

I have just found this vlog and been Aussie, ofcourse I've subscribed, and trying tocatch up and watch all of it, unfortunately I keep losing my place, put it down to old brain😊. What a beautiful chateau she is, and Thank you both, Flick and Tim for taking her on, she is a challenge thats for sure. Love seeing your Dad helping ❤️ both sets of parents have got to be so proud, and Tim thank you for writing the diary so your Mother could follow your progress easily. Sending much love from Western Australia ❤

Thanks for your message and for following our journey from Down Under. We're thrilled that you're working your way though all the videos! Enjoy!

[@donzinette]

Incroyable de voir et entendre l'architecte Frédéric Didier. Merci infiniment pour cette belle émission.

Merci pour votre message!

[@elisabetharzberger2456]

not only is your château a jewel tombe polished but it's a treasure trove, too❣️

Indeed! Some treasures are a little more obvious than others but therein lies the joy of discovery and explanation. Thank you for your message.

[@1957azerty]

Wow ! Quelle incroyable chance pour ce château de tomber sur vous ! Ces trésors sont sauvés !

Merci beaucoup pour votre message!

[@michaelw.8614]

At first, to the untrained eye, the objects looked like just attic junk. Your architect is a Rockstar and his storytelling of the objects was simply fascinating. Great episode!!

Thanks for your message. Our architect is amazing. His expertise has immeasurably enriched our journey.

[@Rose_Catwoman]

It would be a dream come true to work in such a project. Chateaus are the most beautiful art the past has left for the future. They must be preserved at all costs. No modern architecture will ever beat the old one.

[@lydiarowe491]

A mammoth project with artefacts from this chateau that could only be done with respect for the past. A very brave endeavour..❤

Thank you for following our adventure - we're thrilled you enjoyed the tour with our extraordinary architect!

[@megbond]

That billiard table may just be an old frame now, but to be the only one known to be of that age in France is amazing! Fairly hopeless to play on with a parquetry table top instead of slate, but oh the incredible history of it... What an absolutely priceless treasure!

We agree - an astounding and rare piece of billiard history. We can't wait to restore it. As you observe, not so much to play on, but to capture what it tells us about the evolution of the game.

[@melissaeden1219]

The love and care with which you are restoring Purnon are so clear. With each step you make choices that are the best for the place and the process she needs to return to her best self. It's wonderful to see the architect enthuse about all of the items that might have meant nothing to an uneducated eye. It's so good that you took his advice and saved everything, and I love the glint in Flick's eye every time she realizes the significance of a new discovery!

Thank you for your message. It's been wonderful for us to learn throughout our journey from people with such incredible experience. Although we always feel that we are working with real urgency, it's been more important to stop, take the time to understand and to listen carefully to the secrets that Chateau de Purnon is gently whispering to us.

[@lisadurban3525]

The billiard table and other finds were fascinating

Thank you for following our journey - hopefully we can carefully restore her and return her home!

[@laurielaurie8280]

To imagine how the Chateau must have looked like in its day 😀It must have been just beautiful. I can't wait to see it restored❤

Step by step she is being reawakened - thank you!

[@stephaniegaromon3244]

What an excellent piece of advice the architect gave you, to not throw anything out. He’s a treasure as well as everything found in Purnon. Even discovering items older than Purnon is truly exciting. The architect said they would have brought things with them, thus older than the chateau!! You are both the right people to own Purnon and be guardians of it for this century. ❤

Thanks for your message and for acknowledging our incredible architect Monsieur Frederic Didier. He has transformed our journey.. We're thrilled you enjoyed the tour

[@AthollMoir]

How utterly fascinating! Good luck with your restoration. You have a gem in the Architect!

Thank you! We feel very fortunate that we were able to secure his services.

[@Leed216]

I could listen to his explanations and discoveries all day. So much history saved and hopefully restored one day. Fascinating

We're thrilled you enjoyed it! Thanks for following our journey.

[@jlebo001]

This is my favourite upload so far! Didier is incredible. What a treat to be a fly on the wall for your tour with him. He is so engaged and encouraging. It must be marvelous for him to have such engaged clients in you at Purnon. The enormity of the task you've set yourselves must feel overwhelming at times. It's wonderful that you've got Didier and all the teams of skilled artisans at hand to support you in your venture. Thank you for uploading for us.

Wonderful that you enjoyed it so much! We are indeed fortunate to have Frederic Didier guiding us on our adventure. Thank you for your message.

[@RaySqw785]

Bravo Felicity, ton français devient de plus en plus fin, vous avez là des trésors, et du plus restaurable facilement, de quoi remplir les pièces du château, rien n'est évident, mais petit à petit l'oiseau fait son nid ;) et merci de partager cette experience d'une vie

Merci pour ton message. Petit à petit, nous remettons les pièces ensemble. Nous espérons faire le nid à l'image de l'oiseau! C'est un voyage fascinant.

[@belindanoonan6217]

This history in this vid is extraordinary. I’m only part way through it and know I have to watch it a few times (my Australian minimal school girl French does not cut the mustard). Reading subtitles and watching the detail at the same time will require a few go’s. To think you have a billiard table that is original and the only one of its kind in France is mind blowing. How could you not have been bewildered four years ago? Chateau Purnon is such an important building for France. Not only for its original structure but also for what has been left behind. As I watch what you are doing, sometimes I literally put my hands to my head and wonder how, HOW, are you able to manage the priorities. Selfishly, I really want to visit one day before I fall off the perch. 😊

Thanks Belinda - a wonderful message! Take you time and watch it often! For us here at Purnon taking our time has enriched our journey immeasurably. We are constantly driven by a sense of urgency to save and restore as much as we can as quickly as possible but, as our architect keeps reminding us, we are reawakening an old lady and we must awaken her slowly!

[@lindalowe5592]

It’s amazing that he can make sense out of the various bits and pieces that could have been thrown away as junk. He’s excellent, of course.

He is amazing - Monsieur Didier has transformed our journey.

[@rosemariedeschenes7013]

So many wonderful treasures and the history behind them. Your architect is so knowledgeable and such a gift to have him guide you.😍😘

We are so thankful to have him guiding us on our journey. Thank you for your message!

Yes, we are so grateful to have his skill and expertise to guide us on this journey!

[@CenturyHomeProject]

we are beginning to start complete renovations on our home. It was built in 1927. We had a tornado hit it in 2017. It was repaired but exposed all the things that needed to be updated and fixed. We’ve learned two things since this. Before you start anything make sure your roof and foundation are 100%. If you don’t do those things things first, everything you do will be not lol

Good luck with your project. It sounds wonderful. You'll enjoy our videos documenting the restoration of the chateau roof and several other roofs around the estate. The foundations of the chateau are fabulous. We do however have an issue with the large Communs ouest (western outbuilding). We will have to undertake a careful study to understand the origins of the structural problem before we can start her restoration. That project is some way off as we progress various other projects already underway. One project at a time!

[@lorassorkin]

The tour of these objects is fascinating, and so exciting that you've keep and can restore all these gems! Thanks for the tour!

We're thrilled that you enjoyed it!

[@hollygolightly8048]

Traveling through these rooms is so eerie. It’s as if those who lived there were suddenly interrupted from their daily lives and fled. Very happy you’ve preserved and restored it. Well done.

Thank you for your message and for following our adventure!

[@annegreen9851]

Loving that I’ve found you ❤ as a history lover this is going to be such a fascinating restoration journey for me to watch 🎉

Thanks Anne - we're glad you've found us. There are many fabulous chateau owners doing wonderful things on KZbin. For us the focus is all about heritage preservation and restoration. We are eager to document a large restoration journey using traditional crafts and techniques and uncovering the social and architectural history of the chateau.

[@kkay2270]

I enjoyed seeing and hearing about all of the amazing treasures of Chateau de Purnon’s past. The priceless billiard table will be amazing to see once restored. I am in awe of the knowledge the architect possesses. This is all so exciting and inspiring.

Thank you for your wonderful message. We are so grateful for the expertise and experience of our amazing architect!

[@guyprot-zq1dz]

Superbe idée de ĺ architecte de ne rien jeter, vous avez des trésors partout 😊😊😊

Oui, exactement! Merci pour votre message.

Oui, exactement! Merci pour votre message.

[@Jen-eo1fh]

Good evening from Australia. Thank you for such an interesting video so much history and beauty. 🇦🇺

You're welcome! Thank you for following our adventure!

[@deepressland7779]

Fabulous and back breaking work for all concerned but you make it fascinating and so very interesting too. You were incredibly lucky to have been able to engage your fantastic architect, he is a legend in his own time!

Spot on! Our architect has transformed our journey with his amazing knowledge and expertise. Thanks for following our adventure!

[@kevnew2277]

Thank you for sharing these types of videos…truly fascinating…the chateau like a mysterious and beautiful grande dame…slowly unveiling her secrets to you (and vicariously, to us)!

Thank you! We're thrilled that we can share our incredible journey with so many interested people from around the globe!

[@idaslpdhr]

That was absolutely fascinating, I am now down the rabbit hole of what is Empire and second Empire, I could listen to your architect for days on end, Amazing

Terrific! We're thrilled it's set you off on discoveries of your own!

[@sus8e462]

Wow! Would love to see what historic treasures are found in all of those trunks, too! The chateau, country, and rest of us--are so lucky you are able to take on her challenge--and at a time you can share the stories with us so (relatively) easily! Thank you!

Alas, the trunks were empty! But beautifully crafted reminders of the elegance of an age now passed. Thank you for following our journey.

[@ManWhoLovesTheMary]

This was so enriching to see and learn about all these semi-preserved and more than salvageable pieces of history. I’m in the middle of reading Les Misérables by Victor Hugo right now and a lot of these treasures were crafted BEFORE the book was written and BEFORE the events spoken about in the book happened. It’s so amazing the hidden, untouched elements of so many of these items, too. To know THE year that the bedframe niche was put together!! I can’t even. I love this channel.

Thank you for your message. We're thrilled that you are getting so much pleasure from our channel. Enjoy!

[@cjpowers9330]

I must say that the way in which you speak of this grande dame of château architecture as though she was a living presence is both endearing and uplifting. I enjoy your narrative of bringing her back from the precise of no return. Even if I disagree sometimes, it is done so with caring albeit knowing it’s difficult to take in criticism sometimes. I wish you continued successes and look forward to the progress made.

Thank you for your warm message and we're thrilled that you are enjoying our journey!

[@cjpowers9330]

@it’s been a real pleasure.

[@blanchedevereaux5403]

I must admit, I am so envious that you got to find so many treasures from the past! I love history, and the idea of finding things from a few hundred years ago, would be a dream for me. ❤

We love uncovering and interpreting these discoveries. It feels like we're giving these objects a second life. Thanks for your message and for following our journey.

[@blanchedevereaux5403]

Thank you so much for your reply!

[@Travelling_Jonoberries]

What an marvellous find, the Architect has a very keen eye and great knowledge as you would expect from being involved with the Palace of Versailles. Though your road will be load the rewards will be unmeasurable for France on the 40,000 other Chateau’s spread all over France. Thank you for this opportunity, take care be safe and God Bless you both 👍😇🙏🇫🇷🏰

Thank you for following our journey!

[@belindanoonan6217]

Wasn’t expecting another video so soon. How fab.

There is so much happening at the chateau at the moment and we want to share as much as we can!

[@simonwalker8300]

Another fabulous episode, the depth of knowledge of your architect is amazing, no wonder he's the head at Versailles. Great job getting him on your side. Personally i'm looking forward to the day that i get close to your comprehension of French, quite envious. S

Thank you for your message. We're thrilled you enjoyed the tour. We are fortunate to have him guiding us on this amazing journey.

[@SteveAbrahall]

So many layers, so much amazing information and history! How do you assimilate all of that, document it all, incorporate it (you know 200 years of decorations from the same room?) and do you restore and manage the Chateau as a museum or something more contemporary like a giant guest house, or a historic hotel? The 2 of you are so brave in taking on this project - it's like how deep does the rabbit hole go! Thanks for sharing all of this.

Thanks for your message and questions. The first step in our restoration journey is to complete a 'diagnostic study' with our architect. This document considers all the heritage elements and the current state of the section of the estate that we are focussing on. These studies can be quite lengthy but they allow us to synthesise all of the historic information available (such as the chateau archives), as well as the observations of experts etc. This document serves as the blueprint to then plan the preservation and restoration works with our team of skilled artisans. We're not aiming for a museum in the traditional sense as we need a home that we can live in (with modern electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, bathrooms etc) but we want to reach that objective with the utmost respect for heritage. By heritage we mean the original 18th century construction and decoration of the chateau but also respecting and understanding the waves of modifications that have occurred over the chateau's life. This journey is complex and fun - by researching and investigating we come to understand changing life-styles and tastes. And we get to make choices based on what we uncover. There is no simple answer to several of your queries but rather it comes down to judgment and we are supported by people with incredible skill and experience along the way. We hope that answers some of your questions - thank you for following our journey!

[@michaelbuchholz2164]

Very important and ultra rare finds. Especially the fabric remnants. So you have the possibility to reproduce them. Luckily the former owners " hoarded" that old stuff. 😊

[@ddfromcalgary2348]

Fascinating! Thank you for allowing us along on your journey! Also, the completed wing of the chateau looks so crisp - it's wonderful! 💐💜

Thanks for following our adventure. We are looking forward to sharing further progress!

[@maximhollandnederlandthene7640]

Looking foreward to see all old funiture and rooms are restored. 🤗

[@MHCQ3]

What an astounding trove, and what a pleasure see and learn so much about what you were able to save.

Thank you for following our journey!

[@bethbleas8378]

The bed with the columns.. ! I think there is an early wallpaper that goes with it!

[@hubertphilippe7719]

Chaque vidéo illustre votre détermination et votre vigilance pour sauver ce bijou qu'est Purnon dans toutes ses dimensions.. Votre recherche sur le mobilier stocké dans les greniers est remarquable, elle vous guidera pour remeubler cette magnifique maison dans l'esprit du XVIII ème, son âme d'origine, mais aussi en lui redonnant les traces des siècles et des générations qui ont succédé aux bâtisseurs de votre splendide domaine. Un fois encore bravo à vous et aux talentueux architectes et artisans qui vous accompagnent dans ce spectaculaire et courageux projet, pour redonner à Purnon tout son esprit "français". Quel bonheur de vous voir agir.

Merci encore un merveilleux message. Vous avez parfaitement saisi l'esprit de notre restauration. Nous sommes très reconnaissants d’avoir le soutien et l’expertise de notre extraordinaire architecte et artisans.

[@karenyuile3446]

Fredrick is amazing! So much knowledge about the pieces and amazing that these have been kept.

Thank you for following our adventure!

[@pennythompson5850]

I was riveted through this whole vlog! What a wealth of information and I was in awe of the architect's knowledge and how he recognized and explained all the treasures. Watching your chateau come to life again is so rewarding to watch and how proud you must be to make it all happen. No doubt and architect of his stature will lead you through this process brilliantly 🙂

Thank you for your message. We are so thrilled to have Monsieur Didier's expertise and skill to guide us on our journey.

[@andreelux4016]

I admire you devotion and work tremendously. Thank you

Thanks for your message!

[@charlotter.morrill6503]

What a gift to us all to be able to follow the restoration of this very old and beautiful chateau!

Thank you for sharing our adventure!

[@zuzisam]

I just just discovered your channel, spent like 2 hours just going through your videos. You are doing incredible work, it's all very informative which I so appreciate. Immediately subscribed, thank you so much for keeping history alive

We're thrilled that you've discovered us! Enjoy - thank you for following our journey!

[@randyfloyd560]

❤ With every new discovery it's like hearing a distinct voice from the past. Continued success!

Indeed - in a way we feel that Chateau de Purnon is whispering to us through the centuries. If we listen closely we can hear her many messages! Thank you for following our journey.

[@randyfloyd560]

Thank you for sharing your journey! Your dedication and hard work show through with each episode.

[@annegreen9851]

I am currently a Patreon to two Chateau’s and you might become my third’ not that I was looking for a third Chateau to support but I think supporting you is going to be worth every penny if only for the wonderful french building knowledge I’m clearly going to learn ❤

We may be be a tad biased but we would welcome your support! Regardless, we are thrilled that you're enjoying our KZbin videos.

[@leahgannon5030]

Fascinating!👩🏼🫶🏽🙌🏽👍🏼

Thank you for following our journey!

[@maryjanekolesar8325]

I LOVE that M. Didier told you not to toss anything because his trained eye can recognize peices and their usage but also reconstruct where and what rooms they cane from. Wonderul that former owners also kept unwanted treasures; so much to later harvest from 😉 Ah, I gather a "Bouchant" stopped fireplace drafts? Wow, magnificent treasures ❤ Fascinating.

Thanks for your comment and interest. Yes, it stopped chimney drafts.

[@zeenatbaer138]

I look forward to your videos every week. I can only imagine how overwhelming your first days at the chateau felt, yet with each discovery your resolve has strengthened and shows me how right, and brave, you were to follow your hearts. ❤

Thank you! A wonderful message.

[@annettesharrock1236]

Wow am in awe of all the artifacts that have been left and so very old. Am so glad that you have kept them to hopefully be restored back to their formal glory, Merci for sharing. Very interesting😘

Thank you for your message. Yes, it was great advice to save it all and now we can go through it carefully with the archives and inventories and the benefit of the extraordinary experience of our architect.

[@robinbrandt1856]

This has to be the most interesting chateau restoration channel out there. The attention to historical detail is wonderful and incredibly interesting to learn about.

Thank you for your message and for following our journey - we're thrilled that you're enjoying our adventure.

[@jaysmith8199]

Fascinating! That billiard table is only the second found in the world...... and Versailles doesn't have an original! 😉 I hope that you can have the room and table restored as it is such an important part of the chateau history 😊

Thanks for your message - it's such an amazing discovery. We are carefully considering our plan for its restoration

[@irenebibes4941]

Wow, that was fascinating. I could listen and watch for hours to that! Thank you.

Thrilled you enjoyed it!

[@wmomente]

What a gem !!

He's incredible - we learn new things every time he picks something up!

[@JG-qt3pn]

What a treasure trove. Lucky you. That billiards table!

Thank you! Yes, the table is wonderful - a real piece of chateau history.

[@denisedixon4028]

I would be in Heaven cleaning the furniture and sewing with some of the Fabics that were used in Purnon ,the historical pieces that have been found are something that only happens in most of our dreams .The part of the roof that is done is looking fabulous and to see it up close must be stunning .

Thank you for your message. We feel very privileged to be able to gently touch history with our hands. And yes, each time we admire the restored portion of the chateau we can see how far we have come already with the help of so many experienced people.

[@svrufus8979]

Bravo for what you are doing and again for sharing it with us !

Thank you! We're thrilled you're following our journey.

[@murwyn]

The billiard table, what an incredible find

Indeed. We can't wait to carefully restore and return her home!

[@Skattie]

Well done all❤

Thank you! We have the support an expertise of some amazing people.

[@estavoyernathalie9433]

Fabuleux, je suis admirative de ce château ! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

Merci beaucoup pour votre message!

Merci beaucoup pour votre message!

[@cherylmessaros2552]

Loved the "lesson".

Thanks for following our journey!

[@emorel48]

What an absolutely fascinating tour!

We're thrilled you're following our adventure!

[@toddlarkin5620]

What an extraordinary tour of the furnishings sorted into different rooms. M. Didier's seemingly effortless pronouncements on dates and attributions reminds me of the time I was conducting dissertation research on portraits at Versailles in 1997-99 and M. Salmon would pull out a ring of skeleton keys and take me through private interior cabinets and identify which were originals and which were copies. It's an unforgettable experience when you're in the company of an expert.

Sounds like a wonderful privilege to experience such an extraordinary place in such an exclusive way in the company of such a knowledgable person. Exactly how we feel at Purnon! Thank you for following our adventure!

[@toddlarkin5620]

@ So grateful to have stumbled on your site! Preservation, evocation, or full restoration is serious business, and you have great instincts for proceeding carefully and methodically.

[@claudiamann7111]

What an amazing treasure. You are so lucky that they were all put in the attics. Having such a fancy architect is wonderful. Thank you so much for sharing.

In a way we were lucky that the Chateau was neglected for so long. Often these treasures would have been cleared out long ago (for example, if the roof had been restored decades ago). And you're quite right - we are so thankful that we engaged the incredible Monsieur Frederic Didier to guide us on this project. We have learnt so much from his experience and expertise. Thanks for you message!

[@carolinetaiano7151]

Absolutely fascinating. Thank you for the wonderful interlude in my day. Can’t wait to see Purnon in September ❤

Thrilled you're coming for les Journees du patrimoine - the perfect time to see the chateau. Make sure you come and find us amidst the activity of the weekend. We look forward to meeting you. Thank you for following our journey!

Thank you for your message. Thrilled that you're coming for Les Journees du patrimoine. Amidst the activity of the weekend, make sure you find us to say hello - we look forward to meeting you!

[@carolinetaiano7151]

@ ooh yes I will. I’m bringing 8 others too. They’ve listened to me waxing lyrical about Purnon and wanted to join in.

We hope the reality matches the sales pitch!!

[@lynneevans739]

So lucky to have such expert help and knowkedge

We are incredibly grateful to be guided by his expertise and experience. Thank you for following our journey!

[@lilleyprescott2448]

the roof and exterior look absolutely incredible, especially the roof what beautiful lines .

Chateau de Purnon is an elegant treasure. We're thrilled you're enjoying her refined beauty.

[@lilleyprescott2448]

my father was part of a group of artisans and carpenters and they took an old house and there was a competition on who would fix what room. The results were great , and it was done on their dime. Did you ever think about starting a volunteer program where artisans with the right credentials can come and either fix the room they stay in or provide other rooms for different artisans. someone who can do the china. linens, fix the rugs . there are tons of people who would love to help I am sure. . Everyone comes on their dime, you guys either provide food and places to shower and use facilities or get locals to open their homes or refer them to local hotels, hostels. ect. if you don't want them on your property and just provide food during the day. even hire someone with experience in dealing with volunteers to volunteer. lol the largest generation in history has money and are just retiring. If you can stomach the boomers they have money and time.

Thanks for your message. That sounds like a wonderful project that your father was involved in. Difficult to replicate here. All of the interiors of the chateau are fully heritage listed. Therefore, any work must be done under the supervision of our heritage architect. It's not really a project for people to release their artistic urges or for people staying a few days or weeks and then moving on. We will steadily advance the restoration one element at a time working with out team of artisans and doing work ourselves. Thanks for following our adventure!

[@wendyevans411]

Throughly enjoyed your blog,very interesting history,of the passed occupants.Wendy UK ❤

Thanks for your message Wendy. We're thrilled you're enjoying our journey.

[@RonRobertson-lafrance]

I'm just so impressed that so much was kept over the centuries, particularly that billiard table. How fortunate to have M. Didier to recognise and help appreciate all the more what is there. Do you know if there are contemporary paintings of what any of the interiors were like? Or even photographs during the 19th century after cameras were invented? It is such a beautiful building, and the restored roofline makes such a difference. It really is a heritage project, and I'm so glad such a place is in capable hands. It must be a real sense of pride to be saving this wonderful chateau.

Thank you for following our journey! We have no paintings that reveal the interiors of the chateau. We have found several 19th century postcards and photographs but in each case only revealing details from the exterior of the chateau. We are fortunate however to have the extraordinary skills of Monsieur Didier as well as a detailed inventory of the original furnishings of the chateau organised room by room. This document has been vital in shaping our understanding of how each room was originally conceived and then decorated.

[@RonRobertson-lafrance]

@ Of that I have no doubt! How fortunate to be able to have his knowledge behind your endeavours. It's understandable that the images you find are of the exterior only (and certainly that's wonderful, too!), still, it'd be so fun to find something of the interior. But, I know those are really rare. I do look forward to your videos each week!

We're thrilled you're enjoying our adventure!

[@thezmanchar]

I love this place….

We do too! We're thrilled you're enjoying our journey.

[@susanhodgson4893]

Wow what an absolute fabulous journey

Thanks for following our journey!

[@blinkingmanchannel]

The billiard room and table are especially striking to me. Wow! Those time bubbles are amazing! Now I'm dying to hear how you're going to deal with the 700 different mini-projects as you uncover each clue and component. 😂 My OCD is in overdrive just watching you walk through! I have no idea, of course, but I'd be trying to get the preservation folks to put up a big metal building for working the puzzles in parallel! A bed here. A billiard table there. Documents from libraries and other collections that connect to yours somehow. A space for test fitting, and others for collecting photos of cross reference patterns, clues, dates, just a stunning array of ... I'd prolly get lost in the details and never get anything done! Keep going! Fantastic to see each of your updates!

[@amellenthin1]

Fascinating. The textiles alone...You and your team are extraordinarily careful custodians. Thank you for sharing your journey.

Thank you - we are so fortunate to be able to draw on the skill and expertise of such wonderful people.

[@FloridaClay]

Fascinating! And so lucky that so much survived.

Indeed. In a way, it is fortunate that the Chateau was never properly restored. An earlier restoration would have probably resulted in the loss of many of these items when the attic was cleared. Thanks for following our journey!

[@siddembowski2844]

Such a fantastic historic collection to take care of

Indeed - thank you for following our adventure!

[@geurtzlaarmans1]

Dankjewel weer voor de mooie inzicht van de historische meubels van het kasteel wat jullie ons weer laten zien. En de uitstekende uitleg van de architect.👍🏻💪🏻

Bedankt voor je bericht. We zijn blij dat je geniet van ons avontuur!

[@HBADGERBRAD]

I just discovered your channel today and I am so excited to live vicariously through you on this adventure. Having the help of this amazing gentleman and all the treasures he found with as you said a trained eye. Your video is so well done, I really enjoyed myself watching it. Love&friendship from Edmonton Alberta Canada 🇨🇦 😊

Thank you for your message. Welcome! We're thrilled you've found our channel. We hope you have the opportunity to catch up on our amazing journey so far.

[@fbrosseau]

D'excellents exemples de la richesse passée de Purnom. Les explications de l'architecte sont claires pour comprendre et imaginer la splendeur des décors de cette époque. De plus ce passé est documenté par les exemples d'illustrations que vous montrez. Très intéressant.

Nous sommes heureux que vous l'ayez trouvé intéressant et instructif. Merci pour votre message!