Last week, Laurent (our ferronnier) installed the handmade wrought-iron stair railing he created for us. Laurent is a master blacksmith, who works nearby in Vaison-la-Romaine. In November, we spent quite a bit of time with him in his workshop, mulling over the design. Our goals were: lighten up the stairwell (literally) & the den (aesthetically), and make the stairs safer at the bottom. He (and we) drew pictures and looked through his big book of decorative elements to complete the railing. It was a pleasure working with this craftsman and we are delighted with the result! –Dory

This is what the railing looked like when we bought the house - simple, wood slats with no railing after turning the corner. This photo is a good view of the fireplace room - a cozy spot for winter evenings.