In the rolling countryside of central France lies the enchanting village of Charroux, a place where time slows down, cobblestones whisper history, and now, where you can quite literally sleep inside a masterpiece. In a remarkable feat of imagination and craftsmanship, sculptor François Lassere and his daughter, artist and dinosaur bone restorer Elsa McCallister, have brought Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic painting “Room in Arles” to life, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind Airbnb experience.
This extraordinary project is the fruit of months of meticulous research, artistic vision, and hands-on creation. The father-daughter duo have reconstructed Van Gogh’s room in astonishing detail within a private apartment in Charroux, one of France’s officially recognised “Most Beautiful Villages.” What was once a simple guest room is now a vibrant, three-dimensional replica of the Dutch master’s most intimate painting.
The space is more than just a room—it’s a portal. As guests step through a discreet entrance in a modern cottage, they’re greeted not by the usual comforts of a countryside getaway but by the brushstrokes and hues of Van Gogh’s vivid imagination. The wooden bed, the tilted chairs, the sunlit colour palette—all lovingly crafted to match the painting's character. Even the walls mimic the thick, textured strokes typical of Van Gogh’s style, creating a truly immersive experience.
Inspired by the letters Van Gogh wrote to his brother Theo, Lassere ensured every element stayed true to the artist’s own words: a simple, restful space filled with colour and warmth. The bed, though visually rustic, is, in fact, a plush 160x200 mattress designed for modern comfort. A cleverly disguised screen plays art-themed visuals, blending seamlessly with the decor.
But the experience doesn’t stop at aesthetics. The stay includes access to a private mini-museum dedicated to Van Gogh’s life and works. From detailed reproductions to personal correspondence and interactive displays, visitors are invited to explore the mind behind the masterpiece. It’s not just a night in a painting—it’s a full immersion in the world of Vincent Van Gogh. To round off the experience, guests are welcomed with a traditional apéritif featuring regional delicacies. And, as a keepsake, every visitor receives a small original artwork—proof that art follows you home in this extraordinary place.
The Van Gogh Room officially opened to the public at the end of March 2025 and is already drawing attention from art lovers and curious travellers across the globe. Located at 4 Boulevard de la Chaume du Vent, it offers a full set of modern amenities, including a kitchen, lounge, bathroom, terrace, and private parking—so guests can enjoy both the comfort of a boutique stay and the thrill of artistic fantasy.
While Van Gogh’s room might be the highlight, the village of Charroux in France is a destination worth exploring in its own right. With its medieval lanes, flower-filled squares, and artisan shops, Charroux feels like a page out of a storybook. Visitors can wander past ancient stone houses, visit local craft studios, or sample the famous Charroux mustard made using traditional methods. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the village’s ramparts or a stroll through lavender-scented gardens. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a romantic retreat, Charroux offers a truly timeless escape.
"Talent is the audacity that others don’t have,” is the quote that greets you at François Lassere's website. Lassere, born in 1960 in Chamalières, France, is a self-taught artist renowned for his innovative approach to sculpture and painting. His work transcends conventional boundaries, blending disparate styles and materials to evoke deep emotional responses. Lassere's unique artistic philosophy, termed "Oppositionism," involves juxtaposing contrasting elements—such as hyperrealism with abstraction—to create harmonious compositions that reflect the complexities of the human soul.
In his sculptures, Lassere often combines delicate forms with powerful symbols. A notable example is his series, where feminine hands, crafted with sensual elegance, support the formidable skulls of tigers or the sharp claws of dinosaurs. This fusion of softness and strength challenges perceptions and invites contemplation on the balance between vulnerability and power.
Beyond his sculptural achievements, Lassere has been recognised for his contributions to the arts, receiving accolades such as the Gold Medal from the Academy of Rome in 1998. His works have been exhibited internationally, including in France, Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States. Operating from his studio in Charroux, one of France's most beautiful medieval villages, Lassere continues to push the boundaries of art, aiming to touch the soul of each observer.
