French cottage living rooms

23 Stunning French Country Living Room Decor Ideas

Looking for French country living rooms to inspire you as you decorate your French farmhouse home? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with the most beautiful French style living rooms you can find online.

When it comes to the living room, you want to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere for your family and guests. The living room is where you’ll spend your time hanging out with your family and friends, watching TV, and having endless conversations. At the same time, you want it to match your taste, aesthetic, and home decor style.

The French country decorative style is all about blending the comfort of a country home with the elegance of French design. We hope these living rooms will inspire you as you go about decorating your perfect French country living room.

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Let’s go over some of the key elements of a French living room.

Cream Walls and Patterned Curtains

Here we have a real French chateau located in the French countryside! It’s open, spacious, and has some great French country decor elements. From the creamy walls to the patterned curtains, the frame of this room is warm and cozy.

@provencepoiriers

Antique paintings hang on the walls, ivory sofas surround the teal tufted ottoman which serves as a French coffee table, and the space is centered around a vintage, oriental rug. The space is illuminated by a crystal chandelier. This room is definitely upper class and would be best for older residents without children.

Crystal Chandelier

Here we have a somewhat Americanized French living room with some key decorative elements placed in the American countryside. The central crystal chandelier is a great focal point. In the background, two gold mirrors lean against the wall. The sofa itself is white and minimal in design. The antique-style wooden coffee table holds little votives and a rustic bucket of pink roses! It’s a nicely done space, even if it is a bit overly ‘French’ looking.

@frenchcountrycottage

French Blue Striped Throw Blanket

I love how this space has been decorated using French whites, but I especially love that fringed blue striped linen throw blanket in the corner! The French love their stripes and this blanket is quintessential of their decor style.

@shabbyfufu

Round Marble Side Table

How cute is this round marble table reminiscent of a real French bistro table that you would dine on at a brasserie in Paris? I actually own this table and I will say it’s even more stunning in person! You can buy it here.

@decoratinglife.ca

French Vintage Coffee Table

The coffee table is a key element of the living room. This dainty vintage white coffee table epitomizes French furniture design. I like that it was left quite bare except for a small bucket of flowers. It helps the space feel airy and uncluttered! The beige slipcovered sofa adds a bit of warmth to this space.

tidbits-cami

Glass Door Cabinet

This faded blue glass door cabinet is a great storage piece for a French living room. It opens and closes using the signature French iron turnstile. Inside, antique books and decorative objects are sparsely placed on the fixed shelves.

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Wood Armoire

This wooden armoire holds lots of things you may need around the house. From extra pitchers to spare linens, there’s a ton of ways to make use of an antique armoire like this one. If you’re looking for a great French storage cabinet, check out our post on the best French country armoires with charm.

lovegrowswild

Keep a wicker basket and a wooden tray on top to add height to the area and fill up dead space. This home has a tufted neutral sofa and a country white side table in their living room. Honey wood floors keep the space looking cozy.

Gold oval Louis mirror

A gold oval wall mirror in this bright white living room is the perfect French touch for the wall. Other gold accents are found throughout the space like those gorgeous gold side tables with marble tops. Lots of French white linens laying on accent chairs and sofas make this space feel heavenly! We have a few Parisian mirror recommendations online.

@ivorylanehome

Gray Sofa

For a more rustic French look, go with dark browns and gray sofas like this living room decorated with a darker, mountain vibe. Exposed wood ceiling beams and thick wood furniture make this space feel very outdoorsy! Trip to the French Alps anyone?

@sanctuaryhomedecor

Louis Accent Chair

The Louis chair is a classic French accent chair design that you must incorporate into your French-inspired home!

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Orange Sofa

I like how this space isn’t afraid to make a bold design choice like adding an orange sofa to the mix. The two ginger jar table lamps on either side add to the uniqueness of the space. Antique art and upholstered French accent chairs neatly finish off this traditional French country space.

@airellesgordes

Floral Accents

The French love their florals and you can almost never have too many flowers in your living space! Hold them in glass vases, pitchers, and urns – you’ll be glad you did!

@shabbyfufu

Oversized Wall Clock

A rustic wood wall clock will help you keep track of the time as you spend your days lounging on your French cabriole sofa.

@willowbloomhome

Pale yellow sofa

If the rule of thumb is to stick to just one statement piece per room, then this pale yellow floral upholstered sofa is certainly the one!

@rarecorners

Gingham Pillows

Ever since French actress Brigitte Bardot wore her famous gingham skirts and dresses in the 50s, gingham fabrics have been incredibly stylish according to the French. You can use them on your throw pillows, as seen here. Don’t limit yourself to just green either, I’ve seen cute gingham decor in red, blue, pink, and even yellow!

@simplyfrenchmarket

Patterned Wallpaper

Patterned wallpaper will instantly make your space feel more upscale and more French. It should be in contrast to the color of your sofa, or subtly bring it out, as seen in this living room with sage green French furniture. Antique wall portraits and a painted wood coffee table help to round out the space.

Conde Nast Traveller

Tufted Accent Chairs

Tufted furniture is very old-world European and fits in perfectly with most French interiors. You can use tufted accent chairs like these in pairs or on their own, too!

fadedcharmcottage.blogspot.com

Gold Accent Chairs

These singular gold side chairs are used as extra seating in this white French living room – a bold design choice that adds warm in an otherwise cold, wintry space.

@white_and_faded

Straw Basket Bag

This classic French fashion accessory is also great to leave as decoration in an empty corner of your living room. The deconstructed French accent chairs nearby give this room an intentionally unfinished, casual look.

Shop the best French straw basket bags from Wayfair, Etsy, or Anthro.

@somuchbetterwithage

Tufted Ottoman as Coffee Table

Many country living rooms use ottomans as coffee tables. You can use trays on top to create a flat surface and hold flowers, candles, books, and more. This tufted ottoman holds the family’s treasures, showing off their personalities and style.

Designthusiasm

Louis Arm Chairs

The Louis arm chair is such a versatile piece of furniture! Their feminine forms are balanced out with a rigid rectangular marble coffee table in this beautiful French country living room.

Vintage Sofa and Gold Leaning Mirror

A vintage cabriole sofa and a gold leaning wall mirror complete this charming European living room. A straw basket filled with market flowers sits on the floor. I can only dream of how fresh this room must smell!

@frenchcountrycottage

White Slipcovered Furniture

Lastly, white or gray slipcovered furniture is very popular in French country homes. Having ample seating for a large family or for entertaining guests is very important when it comes to French living room design. You never want your space to feel cramped or crowded. Oversized, comfortable slipcover furniture helps you achieve the right balance of coziness and practical style.

@white_and_faded

I hope these French country living rooms inspired you to live your best French life! As you can see, there are a few core elements to French country decorating, but you can also experiment and mix it up with your existing home architecture and decorative style. There are many ways to get the charming French look in your home. Don’t be scared to try something new!

More French Country Decor Ideas

If you love decorating at home with the French country style, you’ll love these other related articles on our site.

French Country Beds
French Country Offices
French Country Side Chairs
French Country Kitchens
French Country Mirrors

Let us know your thoughts on these living rooms in the comments below!

French country living room ideas :10 ways to add timeless elegance

(Image credit: Sims Hilditch )

French country living room ideas are renowned for their enduring elegance. With an appreciation for the rural landscape at its heart, French country is a style which has been bringing timeless charm and an air of romance to interiors for centuries.

Rustic yet comfortable, and elegant yet practical, living rooms decorated in the French country style boast a relaxed, lived-in look and are characterised by gentle neutrals and faded colors paired with a wealth of natural materials. Linens in floral, striped and checked prints lend that all-important soft touch, while antique furniture and time worn pieces bring depth and character.

Whether you're looking to redecorate, or simply introduce a few French-style finishing touches, we've rounded up a beautiful array of living rooms ideas which are perfect for those that adore the French country look.

French country living room ideas

If you're looking to create a French country living room then you're in luck as it’s an easy look to recreate. 'It doesn’t rely on closely coordinated accessories, matching suites of furniture or lots of designer pieces,' explains fabric designer Vanessa Arbuthnott. 'Instead, its eclectic, mismatched style is all part of the charm.’

While part of the enduring appeal of the French country decor is that there's no real recipe, there are some recurring themes, so to help you get inspired we've rounded up some beautiful ideas alongside some tips from the experts.

1.

Layer delicate prints in soft colors

(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)

The palette and prints you use can have a big impact on the look and feel of a space. Renowned for being relaxed and elegant, French country living rooms tend not to include vibrant or dramatic tones, but instead are characterised by their myriad soft colors inspired by nature alongside gentle floral prints.

‘French country decor ideas focus on a look that's soft, rustic, elegant and casual. The style incorporates traditional freestanding furniture, lots of wood and exposed stone walls, and a penchant for off-whites, soft blues and yellows,’ explains Vanessa Arbuthnott . 'Think softly upholstered or loose covered sofas and chairs in natural linens and gentle florals in neutral tones.'

2. Embrace rustic textures and natural materials

(Image credit: Dan Duchars)

When it comes to French country style, often less is more. Rather than opting for bold prints and vibrant colors, think about embracing aged surfaces and the gentle textures of natural materials. Boasting subtle variations in tone, exposed plaster work makes a fabulous textural backdrop for a French country living room plus it pairs beautifully with the grain of natural timber furniture.

If you're keen to introduce pattern, then consider limiting it to small areas so as not to distract from rustic textures. In this stunning space bobbin chairs covered in linens from Fermoie (left) and Designers Guild (right) bring a touch of pattern without dominating the space.

3. Choose faded floral fabrics

(Image credit: Colefax & Fowler )

Bringing the beauty of nature into the home, floral fabric is the perfect choice for a country living room helping them feel connected with the landscape that surrounds them. The French are renowned for their floral fabrics, from ditsy repeat designs to elaborate prints with urns, ribbons and cartouches and luckily there's a wealth of French-inspired prints available that take inspiration from traditional designs.

A beautiful trailing pattern, this Fuchsia fabric by Colefax & Fowler looks fabulous across curtains and elegant curved armchair in this living room, and helps bring softness and femininity to the space.

4. Keep it simple

(Image credit: Brent Darby)

If you've got a penchant for pretty details, and love French interior pieces such as decorative carved wall sconces; crystal table lamps and delicate lace fabrics, then consider choosing a pared-back all-white scheme to really show them off. Limiting the palette of a room to just one color is a brilliant way to focus attention on delicate details of French pieces as this beautiful space proves. If you're thinking of white living room ideas then be sure to fill the space with elegant shapes and plenty of layered fabrics to bring the look to life.

5. Furnish with distressed pieces

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)

Antique painted furniture bearing time-worn patinas and chipped paintwork are guaranteed to bring character as well as a relaxed, lived-in feel to a living room. Antique shops and flea markets are a good source for vintage pieces. Alternatively, drab brown furniture picked up at low prices from yard sales can easily be transformed into characterful, unique pieces using a simple lick of paint and some distressed paint effects. If you're sourcing pieces to paint don't worry too much about the color of finish – look for pieces with beautiful shapes and silhouettes as this is what will shine through.

6. Showcase architectural features

(Image credit: Sims Hilditch )

If you're lucky enough to have a living room with beautiful original features such as exposed masonry and stone fireplaces then be sure to showcase them within your interior as these aged surfaces are a key part of the French look.

French country interiors, 'have a slightly rustic finish, celebrating rough plastered walls and worn wooden floorboards,' says Louise Wicksteed, design director at Sims Hilditch . 'The interior of Emma’s Wiltshire home is a great example of this, inspired by the Provencal style of the French hotel La Bastide de Marie.'

7. Decorate with ornate wallpapers

(Image credit: Little Greene)

Wallpaper is a brilliant way to instantly change the look and feel of a room. If you're looking for living room wallpaper ideas with a romantic French feel then consider using prints that reference the Rococo style – a movement that first emerged in France in the 1720 – 1730s that is characterized by elaborate ornament.

'French country decor is highly decorative. Patterns that detail more traditional flowing damasks, fleur-de-lys and scrollwork will bring a touch of elegance and rustic charm to a room,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene .

'These patterns will offer a sense of timeless grandeur, creating a trompe l’oeil that draws the eye and can accentuate the height of a room. These designs work well in colors that complement the period, such as soft yellows and blues, pairing beautifully with whitewashed woodwork and parquet living room flooring.’

8. Don't forget the chandelier

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

If there's one piece a French country living room can't be without, it's a chandelier. Elegant and timeless, a statement chandelier can instantly transform the look and feel of a room and makes a beautiful ceiling centerpiece. While there are lots of reproduction designs available, nothing quite matches the grandeur and elegance of an antique crystal chandelier, however, care must be taken when installing.

'It’s wise to remember the practical aspects of safely installing chandeliers. Fixing chandeliers to a ceiling can be a very difficult endeavour; I’ve had to lift floors and put reinforced bars in situ to take the weight of some, so take this into account when buying,' says antiques expert Marc Allum writing for Period Living magazine.

9. Choose plantation shutters

(Image credit: Future)

Synonymous with the south of France, shutters are a common feature of many historic French buildings, so if you're looking for window treatments ideas for a French country living room then plantation shutters are a brilliant option. Boasting faded pastel and aged paintwork, antique shutters are also prized for their decorative qualities, too and can look particularly effective leant against the wall as a characterful backdrop or fitted as wall paneling.

10. Opt for timeless stripes

(Image credit: Future)

From grain-sack style, heavyweight linens to tightly woven cotton tickings, striped fabrics are a staple of classic french decor, bringing a timeless and relaxed feel to living room upholstery. Using a selection of different striped fabrics of the same colorway to upholster chairs is a great way to bring added texture and interest neutral living rooms.

What makes a house French country?

If you're wondering what makes a house French country then the answer is there is no one defining feature – part of the charm of French country interiors is their relaxed, lived-in look created from a mix and match approach to decorating. It is safe to say however that French country is an elegant style that has timeless appeal.

'There is something about French country style and textiles that draws me in time and again, it has a vibe all its own but instantly you know the look,' says Caroline Inchyra, founder of Inchyra. 'I think it is to do with the ability of the designs to be both rustic and comfortable but at the same time exude elegance.'

While the style has no one defining feature, French country interiors are often based on a palette of soft neutral tones and delicate faded colors. Whether introduced through furniture, flooring or wall treatments, natural materials are a key focus within the look as is an abundance of rustic textures and time worn patinas. 'Think about layering color and designs too, keep it eclectic. French style is distinctive but not contrived,' adds Caroline Inchyra.

When it comes to furniture, elegant pieces with curved silhouettes and ornate details are often used to bring femininity and softness – think Louis XVI style settees with scrolled arms, upholstered headboards and white-washed armoires crowned with carved details.

What fabrics make a house French country?

There are many fabrics that work well in French country living rooms. Capturing the romance and beauty of nature, floral fabrics are a brilliant choice for a French country look as they have a timeless appeal and help connect homes with the rural landscape.

Linens in prints like checks, ginghams and stripes are also popular with interior designers looking to channel the French country style as they bring a subtle touch of pattern while keeping spaces feeling restful and relaxed.

'The French use a lot of linen and it does create quite a specific look, that of faded grandeur, effortless style that works no matter how big or small the house,' says Caroline Inchyra.

'Linen always feels as though it has been there forever, there’s just something about it combined with a muted softness and a very subtle color palette, mainly inspired by nature. I think that’s why it works so seamlessly within a country interior, especially as curtains and cushions. Heavier linens can be used as upholstery but not for heavy use.

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

30 photos, rules and tips

Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/768215648940185327/

A particularly refined and elegant French style will appeal to lovers of elegant interiors. Traditionally, the French do not like to flaunt wealth and high prices in their homes. This style originated at the end of the 18th century, in those years the inhabitants of France quickly bought up beautiful and elegant interior accessories. This design option is full of unique originality. Now he confidently conquers the hearts of his new fans and designers. nine0003

We can say that the French stylist in the interior combines features from different styles. So, for example, here you can see the motifs of Rococo, Baroque or Italian style. But nevertheless, this direction looks very gentle and without unnecessary congestion. In a modern version, the style of French dwellings looks more restrained. First of all, you can see here not a certain elegance, but a small deliberate mess. Such a detail, of course, is well thought out and implemented. nine0003

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French style in the interior of the bedroom - 33 photos

Contents

Large living rooms in the French style

A spacious living room is always a great place to implement design ideas and ideas. The French style implies a well-lit room with large windows, as much natural light as possible should get in. The presence of forged parts and upholstered furniture is welcome.

Calm light shades, even natural ones, are chosen as colors for the French style. In such an interior, designers are advised to combine different styles, which is called eclecticism - when the design becomes harmonious, you will see it. Be sure to decorate the living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, cornices and attics - this is a traditional technique. nine0003 Source: https://pin.it/2ADlPEO . pinterest.ru/pin/182325484904627925/Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/345932815137399188/Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/211176670017883082/Source: https://pin.it /ry9lJWgSource: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/576390452320195483/Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/768215648940185327/Source: https://pin.it/4hRnOvKSource: https://pin .it/4uApsj1 Source: https://pin.it/7hk7ExK Source: https://pin.it/7lesSwr

White living rooms in French style

Neutral white is the perfect solution for a refined French interior. When combined with beige or gray tones, you get a light and aesthetic design - which is very important in the living room. A little carelessness and "clutter" will not hurt here - it is important to think through every single detail correctly. Vintage and antique paraphernalia are also welcome, such accessories are considered a French-style chip. Do not be afraid and boldly mix old and new, eclecticism is only approved in this direction. nine0003 Source: https://pin. it/7H9TxfI Source: https://pin.it/63zFRFN Source: https://pin.it/3UDterx Source: https://pin.it/2rXBCyl Source: https://pin.it /10eswACSource: https://pin.it/Ordm5dHSource: https://pin.it/6ClEPHASource: https://pin.it/6GKB6M1Source: https://pin.it/6xuWnxRSource: https://pin.it /4WWU5CZSource: https://pin.it/57pzRbKSource: https://pin.it/5C1e4F9

French-style living rooms in the house

For a country house, the French theme in the living room will be an exquisite highlight. Here, the owners can show their individuality by combining incongruous. Do not try too hard, the living room should have a slightly casual look. It was like she was being rushed. The main rule is the presence of high ceilings, cornices, columns and bas-reliefs. nine0003 Source: https://pin.it/2WcKJaD Source: https://pin.it/G3f3C08 Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin/85709199149018829/ Source: https://www.pinterest.ru/pin /65654107057172992/

French style living room, photo and video

Headings: Living room, French

What associations does the combination of the words “living room in French style” evoke? - First of all, it is something refined, refined and “soft”, but at the same time, simple and comfortable. No harsh shapes or defiant tones. Only smooth transitions, delicate pastel colors, unobtrusive decorations. However, this is a very general description. And how to find out in more detail what the so-called French style is in the interior of a modern living room? Read on. nine0003

If you look at the “Gallery of photographs” of various interiors, then among many other design areas (I.E., minimalism, classic, avant -garde, country style will be at once stand out in a winning way: it invariably attracts attention with its tenderness, harmony of colors, calmness and mood of peace. The colors that usually prevail in the "French" interior are lilac, delicate greens, ever-fashionable white, shades of ivory, etc.

When choosing a French 'destination' style for your living room walls, think about something as simple and inexpensive as paint. It is convenient and, as already mentioned, financially "does not strain", but it looks very beautiful. Plain walls are perhaps one of the best options for a living room, as it allows you to show your imagination and “add life” to other decorative elements of the room. However, many people like the walls "with a pattern" - this is also not forbidden in the framework of a French-style living room. Just remember that there should not be any sharp, too clear geometric, bright patterns here - give preference to “antique” wallpaper - with pretty flowers or other unobtrusive pattern. nine0003

French style in the living room and interior details

What can largely and almost immediately transform the entire interior? Good riddle... - And the answer is very simple! - It's a fireplace! Yes, yes, an ordinary stone-lined fireplace within the living room will look more than picturesque and create an unsurpassed effect! Make your living room original and memorable with this simple secret. By the way, a fireplace does not have to be “natural” - it can be a skillfully made imitation .