Visit the historic French estate that is home to furniture designer Eric Schmidt and many animals.

A few kilometers from the Fontainebleau forest in the Seine-et-Marne department of France, there is a charming country estate that looks as if it was created by a set designer for Hollywood. Comprising several buildings grouped around a cozy courtyard with two huge moon trees in the center, this place has become home to sheep, chickens, dogs, cats, horses, and two miniature donkeys. There are even beehives with bees here. Welcome to the residence and workshop of French designer Eric Schmidt and his life partner Alexandra Babeanu, known as Sandra.

Although Schmitt is primarily known for his stylish furniture pieces showcased by companies like Ralph Pucci International and Carpenters Workshop Gallery, his creative passion never fades. As a self-taught artist, he continues to work within the long-standing tradition of French decorative artists, using bronze, glass, textiles, and ceramics.

In the living room of the estate, you can see several design works by Eric Schmidt, including:

• Chester chandelier
• Boheme vase
• Chairs Chairie
• Jarre table for Galerie Dutko
• bronze console from Liaigre

Here you can also find a rug from Atelier Shyam Ahuja for Christian Badin, and on the walls hang paintings by Charles-Henri Monover.

According to historical data, the estate calledThe ChapterIt dates back to the 12th century when the lands belonged to Notre-Dame de Paris, which rented them out to farmers and collected tithes, mainly in the form of wheat. It is reported that the original buildings burned down in the 16th century and were later restored. The modern appearance of this place is the result of centuries of repairs and improvements.

The couple already had comfortable housing in a neighboring village, but they often passed by this plot and were interested in it. "This place is almost legendary," he says. When the estate was first put up for sale a few years ago, the price was too high, and they didn't even consider visiting. Upon learning that the property had still not been sold, they decided to take a look and realized it was exactly what they needed. "We were looking for a new project," Schmitt recalls. "We could bring our horses here, build a larger studio, and combine everything in one place." Every detail in this house reflects their love for art and design, creating a unique atmosphere infused with innovation and tradition.