Timeless French Provincial Living

This impressive Red Hill French Provincial estate by Manteena captures the enduring appeal of French Provincial architecture while responding to the needs of modern family life.

This home has been planned to feel generous without losing warmth. Formal lounge and dining rooms provide a refined setting for entertaining, while the expansive open-plan kitchen, living and dining area creates a relaxed centre for everyday life. From the entry, sightlines extend through the billiards room to the alfresco, firepit and pool beyond, giving the home an easy connection between indoors and out.

Curved Archways Create Flow and Softness

One of the home’s defining architectural features is its extensive use of curved openings. Far more than decorative elements, these archways bring softness to the interior, guiding movement between spaces and introducing a sense of rhythm throughout the home. Their graceful form reinforces the timeless elegance associated with French Provincial design while creating a more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

To achieve a seamless finish, Intrim’s SK91 skirting boards have been paired with custom curved SK91 architraves that perfectly follow each opening. The consistent use of these moulding profiles creates visual continuity throughout the residence, helping to establish balance, proportion and architectural depth.

Designed for Connection and Entertaining

The entertaining spaces are designed to feel connected and inviting. A billiards room complete with a wet bar forms a natural transition between the interior and outdoor living areas, opening onto a generous alfresco and a striking sunken firepit overlooking the pool.

Throughout the home, American Walnut joinery introduces depth, warmth and richness, balancing the scale of the residence with a more intimate feel. Decorative lighting and concealed feature lighting further highlight the architectural detailing, creating atmosphere and interest from day to night.

A dedicated theatre, gym, two home offices, private lift, basement parking and traditional Puja room further demonstrate the home’s thoughtful planning. Each space has been considered to support the way the family lives, from daily routines through to large-scale entertaining.

Where Classic Elegance Meets Contemporary Comfort

While inspired by traditional European architecture, the home delivers all the benefits of modern living. Hydronic in-slab heating, integrated home automation and a whole-home audio system extending into the landscaped gardens provide comfort, convenience and functionality without compromising the home’s timeless aesthetic.

The result is a residence that successfully balances grandeur with liveability. Through thoughtful planning, warm material selections and the considered use of architectural mouldings, the project demonstrates how classical design can feel both refined and highly practical for modern family life.

Build: Manteena Residential

Photography: Adam McGrath