Inside Coco Chanel’s Escape on the French Riviera
In 1928, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel sought a retreat that matched her vision of modern elegance and independence. On the sun-soaked French Riviera, she created a sanctuary that reflected her refined taste and love of freedom. Surrounded by lavender fields, artist friends, and even a clay tennis court, Chanel’s Riviera home became a symbol of her world beyond fashion. Following a meticulous restoration, a new book uncovers the vibrant history of this remarkable escape.
The Birth of La Pausa: Chanel’s Riviera Dream
The estate, known as La Pausa, was built in 1928 on the hills above Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Chanel designed it as a haven that blended Mediterranean charm with minimalist sophistication. Inspired by convents from her childhood, the villa balanced serene white walls with understated luxury. More than a holiday home, La Pausa was an extension of Chanel’s philosophy of simplicity, comfort, and timeless elegance.
A Home for Artists and Thinkers
Chanel’s Riviera retreat quickly became a gathering place for her circle of artists, writers, and intellectuals. Friends such as Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, and Salvador Dalí visited the villa, where discussions flowed as freely as the Riviera sunshine. The estate was not only a private sanctuary but also a creative salon where art, literature, and fashion intertwined.
Lavender Fields and Leisurely Days
Beyond its architectural beauty, La Pausa embodied the lifestyle Chanel cherished. The surrounding lavender fields perfumed the air, while terraces opened onto breathtaking Mediterranean views. Chanel, a lover of sport and movement, had a clay tennis court built on the property, ensuring leisure was part of her daily rhythm. Life at La Pausa balanced elegance with simplicity, blending work, friendship, and relaxation.
The Restoration of a Legend
Over the decades, La Pausa changed hands and gradually lost some of its original charm. However, a recent restoration project has brought the estate back to life, respecting Chanel’s vision while preserving the villa’s architectural integrity. The revived home stands as a living testament to her modern spirit and enduring influence on design.
A New Book Celebrating La Pausa
A beautifully illustrated book now explores the full history of Chanel’s Riviera hideaway, weaving together archival photographs, personal anecdotes, and architectural details. It captures not only the property’s physical beauty but also the spirit of creativity and independence that defined Chanel’s life there. For admirers of fashion, history, and the Riviera lifestyle, it offers an intimate glimpse into the world of one of the 20th century’s most iconic women.
Why La Pausa Matters Today
Chanel’s Riviera escape is more than a story of a glamorous villa. It reflects her pioneering approach to life—fusing work, art, and leisure in a way that remains modern even today. La Pausa is a reminder that true luxury lies not in excess but in the ability to create a world that reflects one’s deepest values.
