Inspiration
Design
Melbourne homeowner Joanne Howell has created her own corner of France in the suburbs – with the help of Monier’s terracotta tiles.
Like the immensely popular Hamptons style, the rapidly growing trend of French Provincial style homes also has an enduring feel. Elegant in style, simple in execution, this style of house is a mix of character-filled details and classic chic.
The inspiration
Inspired by French country residences and the traditional French chateau, the French Provincial design has symmetrical proportions, a soft neutral colour palette, curvaceous timber detailing and a slate or shingle-style roof.
Paired with interiors that include natural and rustic timbers, worn surfaces and natural fabrics such as linen and cotton, this style of home won the approval of Melbourne’s Joanne Howell who was looking to build her new ‘forever home’ in the suburb of Templestowe.
Howell designed her new home herself, inspired by the French provincial style after months of planning that included trips to display homes as well as hours of online research.
“There is a lot of choice out there,” she admits, “but I did spend time researching and deciding what I wanted.”
The home
Situated on an acre, the home is surrounded by formal landscaping. Howell says the house is built on generous lines, with five bedrooms, including a study, all designed with Howell’s growing family in mind.
The roofing choice
Howell chose a Monier flat Terracotta Tiles in Titan from the Urban Shingle range, a rich dark metallic shade that cleverly complements the softer, warmer shades of the exterior render in Colorbond Evening Haze by Dulux.
Because the roofing material is terracotta, the luscious, dark hue won’t fade, even in Melbourne’s capricious weather. Monier’s Terracotta roof tiles are guaranteed for 50 years, making them the perfect choice for a forever home. Maintenance is minimum, while colour retention is maximum.
“I’ve always wanted terracotta,” explains Howell. “The durability and the quality are important to me. I also wanted a flat profile, which I think is more elegant and suits the French Provincial look.”
“I chose the A-Line ridge capping for a streamlined finish to complete the look I wanted.”
About Terracotta Urban Shingle
Monier’s Terracotta Urban Shingle tiles are contemporary in style, delivering a flat and seamless roof profile. Featuring all the premium Terracotta characteristics, including a modern selection of colours, Urban Shingle has a unique rolled nose, making it ideally suited to the Hamptons and Mid-century modern home designs. Urban Shingle Roof tiles afford quality, style and elegance to your home.
Find a display home to see Urban Shingle in real life.