A Little Chaos

King Louis XIV entrusts André Le Nôtre with the monumental task of designing the Gardens of Versailles. Faced with numerous significant projects, Le Nôtre seeks the help of skilled landscape designers to share the burden of this grand undertaking.

Sabine de Barra arrives at the palace grounds for her interview with André Le Nôtre. During their discussion, she impresses him with her independent design philosophy, advocating for distinctively French landscaping instead of classical approaches.

Despite her innovative ideas, Sabine is dismissed by André, who insists on strict adherence to traditional landscape order. She acknowledges his expertise but feels the sting of rejection, questioning the creative limitations imposed on her talents.

Sabine's designs come to André’s attention due to his assistant's keen observations. This revelation prompts André to reconsider her abilities, leading to a fortuitous visit to her home where he is captivated by the wild beauty of her garden.

Inspired by Sabine's garden, André assigns her the project for the outdoor bosquet ballroom at Versailles. Together, they begin to innovate with fountains and strategic landscaping, reshaping André’s initial vision for the site.

Sabine presents a groundbreaking idea to use a reservoir to recycle water for the fountains. This approach alleviates the financial burden of a fresh water supply and showcases her ingenuity amidst the challenges she faces.

As the project progresses, Sabine forms friendships with the King's brother, Duc Philippe d'Orléans, and his wife Elizabeth Charlotte. These connections help her find acceptance within the often hostile environment of the royal court.

While seeking solace in the gardens of Château de Marly, Sabine unintentionally meets King Louis XIV, whom she initially mistakes for a gardener. Their free-spirited conversation allows the king to admire her candor and heart, sparking intrigue.

André's relationship with his wife Françoise grows tumultuous as she fears losing his affection to Sabine. Françoise warns André against pursuing any indulgence with Sabine, reminding him of her feelings of betrayal amid his rising success.

A violent storm strikes Versailles, coinciding with Françoise's sabotage that floods the construction site. Sabine fights against the surge to save the project and narrowly escapes disaster, showcasing her determination and bravery.

André confronts Françoise after discovering her glove at the site, marking the collapse of their fraught relationship. This act of confrontation is pivotal, leading André to reevaluate his future and connection with Sabine.

Introduced to the royal court by the Duc de Lauzun and the King's mistress, Marquise de Montespan, Sabine is gradually embraced by her peers. During a heartfelt sharing of personal tragedies, she finds solace and camaraderie with the other women.

Sabine is formally introduced to King Louis XIV, presenting him with a symbolic Four Seasons rose. This moment deepens their connection as they discuss the complexities of beauty and existence, further enchanting the King.

Outside Sabine's home, André waits with anticipation, leading to a tender moment of intimacy upon her return. They share confessions of loss and guilt, paving the way for a newfound emotional bond amid their personal struggles.

The sun shines brightly on the grand opening of Sabine's breathtaking bosquet garden at Versailles. As the King arrives to celebrate, the vision of fountains dancing and the music fill the air, solidifying Sabine’s artistic triumph and shared journey with André.