The Petit Trianon: A queen’s Private Escape

Tucked away in the vast gardens of Versailles sits a modest château with a rich story. The Petit Trianon was Marie Antoinette’s private retreat, a place where she could step out of the public eye and live on her own terms. While the gilded halls of Versailles reflect royal duty, the Petit Trianon tells the story of a young queen seeking peace, nature, and a sense of freedom.

Originally commissioned by Louis XV for his mistress Madame de Pompadour, the Petit Trianon was completed in 1768. When Louis XVI ascended the throne, he gifted the residence to Marie Antoinette. This personal gesture gave her complete control over the property – a rarity for any queen. At just 19 years old, Marie Antoinette took the reins of the small palace and transformed it into her sanctuary.

Unlike the grandeur of Versailles, the Petit Trianon was intentionally simple. The queen oversaw the décor herself, choosing lighter fabrics, soft colors, and natural materials. She embraced a more relaxed lifestyle here, away from the still formalities of court. At the Petit Trianon, she didn’t need to bow to protocol. She could read, play music, garden, and stroll through the grounds in peace.

The gardens were also redesigned under her direction. Inspired by English landscapes, she asked for winding paths, meadows, groves, and a flowing stream. This was in stark contrast to the symmetrical French gardens of the main palace. Her goal was to create a natural setting that felt more like a country village than a royal estate.

One of the most fascinating additions was the Hameau de la Reine, or ‘The Queen’s Hamlet’. Built like a rustic farm village, the hamlet included thatched-roof cottages, a dairy, and a mill. Though the buildings looked simple, many were beautifully furnished inside. The queen and her ladies would dress in muslin gowns and spend hours here, walking the paths or enjoying meals outdoors. It was her fantasy world – part escape, part expression of her personal taste.

Over the years, the Petit Trianon became a symbol of her desire to step away from the heavy expectations of the monarchy. It gave her space to breathe, to dream, and to shape a world in her own image. Though much criticized in her time, today we see it as a deeply human effort to find peace and identity within the constraints of royalty.

Inspired by Marie Antoinette, our Box 34 is full of luxurious items carefully selected to reflect the queen’s love of comfort, beauty, and personal style. Whether you are passionate about French history, adore all things Versailles, or simply love discovering the quieter corners of French life, this Box was made for you! It’s a celebration of femininity, creativity, and the art of retreat.

Click HERE to order your May Box.