Villefranche-Sur-Mer – Old Town – Rare Architect-Designed House with Private Terrace, just Steps from the Sea

Property Description

CO-EXCLUSIVE LISTING – In the heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer’s Old Town, just a few metres from the seafront, this remarkable townhouse stands out for its distinctive architectural identity, generous proportions, exceptional natural light and private terrace — a true privilege in the historic centre.

Located on the corner of a picturesque square and opposite a charming vaulted passageway leading directly to the seafront, the property enjoys a privileged location, within immediate proximity of restaurants, cafés, shops, the market and the port.

Arranged over three levels, the house offers 118 sqm under the Carrez Law and approximately 160 sqm of interior and exterior space in total, including ancillary areas as well as a private terrace of approximately 25 sqm. It comprises five main rooms, including two large double bedrooms, together with a spacious multipurpose room.

Upon entering, the ground floor reveals a superb vaulted room with traditional stone walls, benefiting from beautiful natural light. Its character, proportions and architectural treatment make it a genuine living space in its own right, offering numerous possibilities for use: artist’s studio, office, library, creative space or occasional guest bedroom.

Originally designed by architect Robert Capelier, the house was subsequently transformed as part of a carefully considered contemporary renovation. The entrance and staircase notably reflect the aesthetic influence of Jacqueline Morabito. The impressive polished-concrete staircase connecting the different levels is one of the property’s defining architectural features, while certain pieces of furniture and decorative details also evoke the world of Eileen Gray.

The middle level is dedicated to the sleeping area and features two spacious double bedrooms, both with extensive built-in storage and full-height double French doors with safety railings, allowing exceptional natural light to flood in. They offer charming views over the narrow streets, rooftops and church of the Old Town. Two bathrooms complete this level, together with a large built-in bookcase on the landing.

The top floor opens onto a generous living space combining a recently redesigned and fully equipped kitchen, a dining area and a living room. Offering nearly 40 sqm of main reception space, this bright and welcoming area extends naturally outdoors through large full-height French doors opening directly onto the terrace.

A true extension of the living area, the approximately 25 sqm private terrace, finished with traditional terracotta floor tiles, is one of the house’s most remarkable features. Spacious and sunny, it includes numerous generously sized planters, offering the possibility of creating a genuine Mediterranean garden, or even a private vegetable garden, right in the heart of the Old Town.

The materials have been carefully selected: marble floors in the main living areas, polished concrete in the circulation spaces, traditional stone and original architectural elements create an elegant dialogue between the historic character of the building and a refined contemporary aesthetic.

Modern comfort is ensured by the recent installation of a fully integrated reversible air-conditioning system, as well as fibre-optic internet and Wi-Fi throughout the house. Fully electric shutters further enhance the property’s comfort and security.

Another particularly rare and practical advantage in the historic centre is that vehicles can access the property directly in front of the house, considerably simplifying everyday life, whether for groceries, deliveries, moving or maintenance work.

A truly distinctive property in the heart of Villefranche-sur-Mer, where architecture, history, contemporary design and the Mediterranean art of living come together just steps from the sea.