Bringing Provence Home: The Biophilic Beauty of Antique Confit Pots

There’s something magical about discovering a piece of history and placing it within our modern spaces—especially when it carries the warmth of a coastal breeze and the richness of timeworn craftsmanship. Recently, I imported a collection of antique confit pots from Provence. As I unpacked each one, I was reminded of how interiors today embrace organic elements, rich with meaning and heritage.

The rise of biophilic design—the idea that we thrive when we bring nature into our homes—has made antiques more relevant than ever. With their sun-kissed ochre, deep browns, sea-washed greens, and soft blues, these confit pots were once used to preserve olives and duck confit in the South of France. Their earthy hues and organic textures evoke a sense of warmth, grounding a space with tones that feel deeply connected to nature. Whether indoors or outside, they are inviting, reminding us of a slower, more intentional way of living.

Today's design edit embraces blending old and new, where antiques seamlessly integrate with contemporary elements.

Design by Athena Calderone - Gorgeous earth tones vessels that have history from throughout the world.

A Design Edit That Transcends Time

The best design is never purely about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling and evoking a sense of place. As a curator of spaces, I’m drawn to pieces that carry history, that whisper of hands that shaped them and lives that once depended on them. These vessels, whether set on a weathered farmhouse table, layered onto a table in the entranceway, or displayed as a sculptural accent in a modern coastal retreat, create a textural and deeply personal look. They remind us of the sun-drenched landscape, a way of living that values craftsmanship, seasonality, and the beauty of imperfection.

A confit pot with crisp white ceramics, raw linen textiles, or a sleek marble countertop strikes the perfect balance—bringing character without overpowering the space. The contrast of timeworn pottery against modern finishes enhances a room’s warmth and depth, making it feel curated rather than contrived.

“Designing with history isn’t about looking backward; it’s about grounding the present in something real, something timeworn and full of soul.”

— MERZE Lifestyle

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these confit pots carry the textures and colors of the coastal landscape itself. The warm browns and rich patina mimic the sunbaked earth, while the soft blues and greens reflect the shimmering tones of the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters.

Their weathered surfaces mirror the raw beauty of rocky cliffs, sandy dunes, and salt-washed shores. Like driftwood softened by years at sea, these pots feel like they have always belonged, effortlessly blending into any environment. Whether placed on a coastal porch, in a garden nook, or within a contemporary interior, they exude a quiet permanence—looking like they have been there for decades or longer.

Bringing the South of France Home

In this photo, my daughter strolls down a charming ancient cobblestone street in the South of France, where our family’s heritage lies. The scene is filled with rustic shops and homes adorned with beautiful pottery, much like the confit pots I have. This image perfectly captures the essence of our brand: a blend of coastal design with a touch of French influence.

The confit pots, with their warm and earthy green, yellow, and blue tones, embody the biophilic and slow living trends that are imIn this image, my daughter walks through a picturesque ancient cobblestone street in southern France, a place that holds deep significance for our family. The area is brimming with quaint shops and homes, beautifully decorated with pottery reminiscent of the confit pots I treasure. This scene beautifully encapsulates our brand’s identity: a harmonious blend of coastal aesthetics infused with French charm.

Confit pots in rich green, yellow, and blue hues embody biophilic design and the slow-living lifestyle, bringing warmth and intention to any space. Their French elegance adds charm and character, whether in a modern home or a seaside cottage. Just as my daughter immerses herself in the beauty of Provence, these pots infuse homes with that same inviting, timeless allure.

The Calm of Coastal Living, No Matter Where You Are

My brand is rooted in the duality of bicoastal living within the U.S., but my love for the coastline extends beyond borders. Provence has always held a deep significance for me—my ancestors journeyed from there to Canada in the late 1600s, and that connection to place runs through everything I do. But you don’t need to live by the ocean to embrace the essence of coastal life.

Coastal interiors in the Hamptons, Malibu, or Charleston embrace a natural, effortless beauty that celebrates aged terracotta, weathered wood, and hand-thrown pottery like these confit pots. Even in landlocked areas, incorporating these organic elements can transport us to the seaside, fostering a sense of peace and grounding.

Imagine an antique confit pot resting on a sunlit terrace, filled with fresh lavender or olive branches, its earthy patina glowing under the golden light. These objects are more than just decor; they are an invitation to slow down, to savor simple moments, and to cultivate a home that soothes the soul.

The Power of Objects with Meaning

In a world driven by fast trends, there is something profoundly comforting about surrounding ourselves with items with a soul. Confit pots, once a staple of French kitchens, now find their way into modern interiors, bringing with them the essence of a life well-lived. They are not merely decorative; they are a reminder to live more intentionally—to embrace the beauty of imperfection, to find joy in simple rituals, and to create spaces that nurture rather than overwhelm.

A well-edited home is not about perfection; it’s about harmony. Styling a confit pot alongside natural woven baskets, a soft linen throw, or a tactile stone vase adds dimension while reinforcing a connection to nature. The key is to let these elements breathe, allowing their presence to evoke warmth without cluttering the space. Thoughtful placement—whether on a rustic dining table, a minimalistic shelf, or even by an entryway—invites a sense of welcome and belonging.

How Designers Use Confit Pots in Modern Interiors

Antique confit pots have been highlighted in renowned design publications for their ability to blend history with modern aesthetics seamlessly. According to Architectural Digest, utilizing functional kitchenware, like antique ceramics and confit pots, as decor adds utility and visual appeal, particularly in open shelving designs that balance function and style. Similarly, Chez Pluie offers insights into creative ways to incorporate these antique pieces, from serving as rustic vases to forming captivating centerpieces that anchor a room with timeless charm.

Photo and designed by Chez Pluie Provence

The juxtaposition of a rustic, timeworn confit pot with its rich patina against the sleek lines of a modern bookcase adorned with carefully curated decor from far-reaching corners of the world creates a striking balance—where old meets new, history meets contemporary, and the depth of warmth it brings to the design is nothing short of stunning.

Ways to Style Confit Pots in Your Home:

As Centerpieces

Grouping confit pots of varying sizes and colors creates a striking focal point for a dining table. Filled with fresh flowers and candles or left empty, they bring a rustic elegance to your space (Chez Pluie).

As Rustic Vases

Using confit pots as vases for fresh flowers or branches enhances the biophilic connection, blending history with organic beauty (Chez Pluie).

Antique confit pots are beautiful and delicate vessels traditionally used to preserve food. However, their porous clay makes them unsuitable for holding water, which can cause them to crack. If you want to display flowers in a confit pot, place a smaller vase or container inside the pot and fill it with water. This will allow you to enjoy the beauty of the flowers without damaging the pot.

Here are some tips for displaying flowers in antique confit pots:

Choose a vase or container smaller than the confit pot's opening.
Ensure the vase or container is clean and dry before placing it in the confit pot.
Fill the vase or container with water and arrange your flowers.
Place the vase or container in the center of the confit pot.
To help hold the vase or container in place, add decorative elements, such as moss or pebbles, to the bottom of the confit pot.
Enjoy your beautiful floral arrangement!

On Open Kitchen Shelving

Displaying confit pots alongside functional ceramics and cookware transforms everyday items into art, embodying a balance of practicality and aesthetic appeal (Architectural Digest).

Interior Design by Far Studio; Styling by Kristi Hunter; Photo by Brian Wetzel

Whether you're styling an open-shelving moment in a breezy coastal home, adding warmth to a mountain retreat, or simply dreaming of Provence from afar, these pots carry more than just aesthetic value—they carry a sense of belonging. And isn’t that what we all seek in our homes?

My timeless favorite is this confit pot. Its clean white body and rustic brown base bring effortless charm to any space.

This particular confit pot holds a special place in my collection. I love its clean lines, beautifully textured white body contrasts with the earthy brown base, and effortlessly complements any setting. This is my go-to piece when I want to create a floral arrangement. Whether placed on my kitchen countertop or styled on the living room coffee table when guests come over, it serves as the perfect vessel for a quick yet stunning decor moment.

Bringing Provence Home: The Biophilic Beauty of Antique Confit Pots is about more than just decorating—it’s about creating a home filled with warmth, character, and timeless European charm. These French antique pots, with their earthy textures and rich history, embody the essence of biophilic design, seamlessly blending rustic elegance with modern interiors. Whether curating a French country aesthetic, enhancing a coastal-inspired home, or incorporating organic decor elements, confit pots add a sense of history and belonging.

Perfect for kitchen styling, coffee table decor, or as a vintage vase for fresh florals, these versatile vessels reflect the beauty of slow living and sustainable home decor. By integrating Provence-style antiques into your space, you can cultivate a home that feels effortlessly chic, deeply personal, and inspired by the timeless appeal of French and Mediterranean interiors.