Timeless Design is one of those terms that seems a little subjective, but there are spaces that remain relevant throughout the decades and even centuries.  The ballroom of Château de Chenonceau in France is one of those spaces. Today we’re looking at the elements that enable certain spaces to withstand the test of time.  

For years I’ve seen images like this of Châteaux de Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the Cher River.  The chateau is so enchanting from the outside, that to be honest, I never gave much thought to what the inside might look like.  So it was more than a pleasant surprise to discover that it looks like this!

The bridge portion of Châteaux de Chenonceau was enlarged under the direction of Catherine de Medici (1519 – 1589) to be used as a ballroom.  Catherine de Medici was one of several influential women who oversaw the expansion and preservation of Châteaux de Chenonceau.  

The historic buildings of France are filled with breathtaking spaces, fine craftsmanship, and ornate details, but they often feel very specific to the period during which they were crafted.  I appreciate the beauty, but can’t fully relate to the style of the period.  

But when I entered the ballroom of Châteaux de Chenonceau, the light and airy space was a surprising departure from the other rooms, and it was easy to imagine how this design could transcend the centuries and feel relevant today.  The essence of the design could be adapted to a hotel ballroom, the foyer of a gracious home, or a chef’s kitchen. So let’s take a look at the features that contribute to lasting beauty and elegance.

 

A Classic Color Combination

The color scheme of Châteaux de Chenonceau might be referred to as black and white, but it is actually more subtle shades of slate grey and creamy white, a combination that rarely feels dated.  The checkerboard floor is made from slate and limestone tiles and is the strongest graphic element in the space. This classic combination of colors has been used by designers through the decades to create a crisp graphic effect.  One of my favorite examples is the elegant fashion design of Coco Chanel, often seen in black and white, and made from woven tweed textiles that lend depth and complexity.

 

 

In this dining room by Lisa Sherry Interieurs, a black and white color scheme helps bridge a classic space with modern furnishings.  The crisp architectural details, all in shades of white, are the perfect backdrop to emphasize the graceful silhouette of these black cantilevered chairs.

Repetition

There is something about the repetition of elements that has a soothing effect.  At the Chenonceau ballroom, there are 18 window bays that create a rhythm with pools of natural light.  These window bays alternate with smaller niches filled with topiary. The wood ceiling beams repeat on a smaller scale and are broken up by graceful black metal chandeliers that contrast against the whitewashed ceiling.  The chandeliers are elegant in their simplicity, and one of the few decorative elements in the space.  

Human Scale

The long gallery feels more inviting because it’s broken down by elements that we can easily relate to.  For example, the window bays would be the perfect size to step out of the vast ballroom space for an quiet view of the river, or an intimate conversation.  

Connection to Nature

Each window frames a view of the Cher River and the gardens beyond.  In the image above, we are standing in a different part of the chateau, looking back at the east facade of the ballroom.  I believe that connecting interior spaces to the natural world has a calming effect. At Chenonceau, this experience is heightened by the direct connection to the river, as well as the quality of light created when it reflects off the river and bounces back into the ballroom.  

The décor of Château de Chenonceau ballroom is understated, but I found myself wanting to linger and experience the changing light, the framed views, and the overall serenity.  What could be more timeless than that?  

For more information on the fascinating history of Châteaux de Chenonceau and the women who oversaw its expansion and preservation, refer to this resource: Châteaux de Chenonceau Visitor’s Guide.