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Modern french provincial decor


French Provincial Style Decor Guide

Today I want to talk about a French decorating theme known as the French provincial style. This home decorating style is very popular in the countryside of France. While it’s closely associated with French country decorating, I think this style is much more feminine and country chic.

French Provincial Style Decor

The essence of French provincial decor lies in its embracing different genuine French themes that fall between comfortable and homely and outrageously luxury styles. The features common to this style include decorative elements, captivating symmetrical designs, and classic colors.

While it is a mix of country-style lifestyle with opulent panache, today it comes with lighter colors, the latest touches, and polished designs. Find out more about this elegant decor style in the following lines.

What is the French Provincial Style?

This style is famous for being able to complement both informal and formal spaces. The casual forms of this decor style can be seen in present-day French farmhouse-style homes. These homes feature a perfect balance of comfy elegant fabrics, dominance of whites, and unsophisticated country textures. Stones, raw wood, bricks, and exposed beams are accents commonly found on the exterior and interiors of these homes.

@lydialifes

The origin of the French provincial decor dates back to the 17th-18th century when such decor was common in the southern side of France. During this period the furniture makers living outside Paris would work to reproduce the embellished furniture found in Paris. However, due to the lack of proper materials and tools, these furniture makers could not recreate the same output. That is the reason why furniture belonging to the French provinces missed out on the minute details and provided a more rustic and distressed look instead of thorough elegance.

Here are some characteristics common to the French provincial decor that you can use for getting innovative with your home interior style.

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French Country Armoires

Armoires can be described as enormous storage furniture pieces used for storing away anything that you don’t want to be seen including linen, clothes, old TV set, etc. French country armoires are a great example of French country style furniture, and superbly blend function and form in a pleasing way.

@lunatiques

These look of large furniture pieces are mellowed down by the sophisticated French touch. Armoires used in French farmhouse decor are made using natural wood with intricate carvings that embalm a personality in them. Other armoires are painted over time, and when the paint peels off, these pieces reflect a pleasing distressed look. Another option is to go for whitewashed wooden furniture pieces that feature French country decor.

Furniture ideas would include beds with cane back, sofas that are beige tufted, vintage wooden beds, Louis armchairs, pedestal tables that are round in shape, and wooden wardrobes with large mirrors.

Vintage Gold Mirrors

Mirrors are significant in the French provincial decor because they (apart from reflecting your image) come in frames to reinforce the French provincial style, and because they magnify the airy and breezy aspects of provincial homes.

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Your focus should be on ornate gold-edge French mirrors with eye-catching accents like vintage metallic mirrors. The aim is to make the mirror more of an artwork than a piece with a reflective surface. Additionally, you may include a number of small-sized mirrors to accentuate the overall look, but a big gold mirror with a vintage look will do the job for you. Place them elegantly in locations like drawer chests, headboards, or even tables to create a classy but simple look.

Embroidery Fabrics

One important feature of French provincial decor is the use of embroidery. This skill was taught to female members of society at that time so that every household would include some unique, intricate, and captivating patterns. To keep in line with this theme you must opt for heavily embroidered fabrics. Everything from your curtains and pillows to linens and bed sheets needs to be embroidered. To accentuate this feature, you can opt for lacework on your fabrics. This too was commonly found during the 17th-18th century.

Chateau Saint-Calais Cecilia Garroni

Gray Blue Wall Paint

When speaking of colors, this style finds its inspiration in the French countryside decoration. The provincials were unable to afford colorful articles found all over the continent, most of the colors they adopted were from what they saw around them. That is the reason why pastel and soft shades are common to this theme.

In French provincial decor, the walls must be painted in pastel and soft shades of colors like beige, gray and blue. An interesting twist to add both these colors would be to split the wall coloring into two parts, with the upper half painted in either white or gray, and the lower half (that measures up to the height of the chair rail) painted in dark blue or red. If you go for white instead of gray, you can opt for tones like stone, cream, or ivory. For the blue, go for midnight blue, aqua, or cornflower.

Wicker and Cane Furniture

The use of cane furniture is casual but elegant in this theme. Since the French provincial decor focuses on a welcoming, rustic and natural, and soft color palette, white-colored cane furniture blends perfectly with this style. White-colored cane furniture pieces provide sophistication and charm to the French interior style, boosting the aesthetic appeal of the overall decor.

@diego_delgadoelias

A white Louis-style side chair works to imbue simplified elegance and glamour into your room. This is how you can balance function and style perfectly, which is a trait of this decor theme. Other ideas include distressed white cane chairs for the dining room or kitchen (with a neutral palette and colorful accents around these furniture pieces), and a white-colored cane bed to add period style and opulence to your bedroom.

Toile Wallpaper

The French provincial style decor always includes some toile wallpaper which gives a room a fanciful feeling. From de Gournay to reproductions, you can find some stylish toile wallpaper to decorate the walls of your French provincial home.

Linen Textiles

The trend of French provincial decor is rooted in natural and countryside environments, which is why linen is commonly used on furniture and textiles for this particular theme. The French have been proudly producing quality linen for centuries to supply to the entire world.

@rayboothdesign

Linen slipcovered furniture and linen bedding are great ways to infuse the French provincial style element into the decor of your house. Consider opting for linen bed sheets with textured and natural crumples to complement your weathered timber. Go for natural, softer shades of bright colors to contrast the dark wood color of the surrounding furniture.

Crystal Chandeliers

There’s no better way to illuminate a French provincial home than by using an antique crystal chandelier. These vintage lighting fixtures give a touch of elegance to any room they appear in.

@cat_in_france

French Country Decorations

Choosing the most appropriate decorations can accessorize your French provincial decor the right way. Think of beautiful French rugs to cover the floor space while providing warmth to the space. Light colors are great for combination with the rest of your home decor. Flowers are amazing decorations that perfectly suit the French provincial style. Either opt for fresh flowers or top-notch dried flowers to keep your home decorated all year round.

@cat_in_france

Opulence can be showcased with the addition of family pieces and heirlooms, or antiques to reflect the history of your home. Other decorative accessories that you can add are wall clocks (large), small clocks for the cabinets or table, candlesticks, chandeliers, fruit bowls, etc. However, remember that no matter what decorations you use to accessorize your home, it should include the distressed look signature of the French provincial decor.

Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of the classy French provincial style for home decor. All you have to do is prioritize a distressed and weathered look, specific furniture type, and a natural, soft palette that is key to this theme.

French provincial style: the 10 key elements of the aesthetic

People often think French provincial style can't be incorporated into a modern home, but when the key design elements of the aesthetic are properly understood, it's absolutely achievable.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, local furniture makers in the South of France began imitating the ornate furniture being produced in Paris at the time, using the more affordable materials they had available to them. The French provincial "country" style pieces became more widespread after World War I, when soldiers returned home, inspired by the look of the rustic, country homes they'd seen in the South of France.

Because the French provincial style (sometimes referred to as French country style) combines ornate carvings, mouldings and decorative wrought iron with simple textures and sturdy furniture, it can be a confusing style to re-create. The main thing is that it focuses on combining beauty and elegance with rustic, country style features.

To help you style a French provincial house, here are 10 key elements of the French provincial aesthetic.

1. Rustic wood

This dining area oozes both the simplicity and sophistication that is consistent with French provincial homes. Simplicity is drawn from the rustic wooden dining table and padded chairs, while the use of natural timber flooring and a refined colour palette oozes a classic charm.

The dining table was made by the house builder James Hartley is a raw timber, and featured in Melissa Penfold's French-inspired country house. Photographer: Abbie Melle | Stylist: Jodie Gibbons | Story: Country Style

2. Natural warm tones

Selecting a colour palette for a French provincial style home involves drawing inspiration from nature. Popular colours for a French country interior are on the spectrum of white, neutrals, greys, creams, blushes and light blues.

The interiors of this Queenslander home definitely align with a French provincial aesthetic, with the rustic use of wood, ornate chandelier, and neutral colour palette. Photographer: Kara Rosenlund | Story: Country Style

3. Parquetry

Parquetry is a quintessential feature of a French provincial style home. The most common way to lay parquetry is in a herringbone pattern, although there are many other patterns. For example, the French country style home of interior designer Melissa Penfold features a more elaborate flooring pattern, in French oak.

Parquetry flooring is a common design element of French provincial style. Photographer: Felix Forest | Story: Belle

4. Statement kitchen island

As the heart of the home, a French inspired kitchen will have a central island, often in a similar shade or finish to the rest of the cabinetry. Take cues from this gorgeous island bench in which features classic panelling and marble top. The overhead, hanging pots and pans is also a trademark design element of this style.

Classic French provincial style runs all through Willow Farm homestead, from the rustic kitchen, to the dining room with mismatched chairs and fresh foliage and to the master ensuite that features reclaimed French doors opening onto the garden. Photo: Brigid Arnott |Story: Country Style

5. Armoire

The white wardrobe towards the back of this living room in a provincial style country home is known as an "armoire."

While historically created for storing arms, it is now more commonly used as a wardrobe, or like the owner of this home, as a place to keep precious china. A typical way to delineate a wardrobe from an armoire, is that they tend to feature ornate carvings.

A guestroom that looks like a European holiday. With a French antique armoire and wall mirror brought back from the UK, this rustic room looks like it's been here forever. The white curtain, linens and neutral tones give an early feel to this otherwise glamorous, beach villa in Palm Beach. Photographer: Felix Forest | Stylist: Imogen Naylor | Story: Belle

6.

wrought iron

Another common element in French provincial style homes is wrought iron. The twisting, ornate metal is often combined with marble and timber elements in furniture, used as a stair railings and in low-hanging chandeliers.

Wrought iron candlesticks were also very common, and add a touch of sophistication and strength to French provincial style.

A cantilevered stone stair with a wrought-iron handrail still looks modern more than 30 years after this harbourside home in Sydney was built. Photographer: Abbie Mellé | Story: Belle

7. Gold accents

Brass gold and warm tones are favoured by French provincial homes, like the antique mirror and sconces above the mantle in the living area of this pastry chef's Parisian apartment, which bring warmth to the white and grey tones throughout the home.

Ornate gold mirrors are another common element in French provincial style homes. Photograoher: Joanne Pai | Story: real living

8. Cabriole legs

Originating in ancient China, cabriole legs on furniture resurfaced in France in the early 18th century, and today, is one of the most instantly recognisable features of French provincial style furniture.

With the main leg of the furniture curving outwards, and the foot curving inwards, the design is said to be influenced by animals natural form.

The antique hallway console with cabriole legs in this Palm beach villa is the perfect place for coffee table books and styled accessories. Photo: Felix Forest | Stylist: Imogen Naylor | Story: Belle

9. Exposed beams

As exposed timber is commonly used in French provincial homes, leaving timber beams in the ceiling exposed is also a trademark of French inspired rustic country homes.

The vaulted wooden ceilings, along with the French doors, stone fireplaces and architraves were all elements that drew homeowner Amanda to this stately French-inspired country home in the Southern Highlands of NSW.

In the main sitting room, one of a pair of c1940 Genovese iron and crystal chandeliers hangs above a stone and iron-framed coffee table from The Country Trader. Photographer: Abbie Mellé | Story: Belle

10. Antique furniture

For those with more modern homes who can't incorporate parquetry flooring and exposed ceiling beams into their aesthetic design, there are still ways to incorporate French provincial style. Namely through antique furniture and decor. Interior architect, Phoebe Nicol is extremely deft at bringing together the old and the new in her projects, as well as sourcing pieces for The Vault, her antique and vintage furniture store.

The master bedroom of this elegant Sydney home by Phoebe Nicol is carpeted in pale pink and furnished with burl walnut bedside tables mixed with bronze French Empire lamps, a burl walnut chair and gilt mirror. Photographer: Dave Wheeler | Story: Belle

Shop French provincial furniture

Oatley mango wood pedestal dining table, $1319 (usually $2299), LivingStyles
Every French provincial style home needs a sturdy timber dining table. This design from LivingStyles is constructed with solid mango wood and features an ornate base consistent with the French provincial style. SHOP NOW.

Vintage French five-light wrought iron floor lamp, $2107.47, 1st Dibs
Layer lighting in your home with a vintage, wrought iron lamp from France. Iron naturally develops a rusty patina as it ages, which will create a lived in, timeless look. SHOP NOW.

Jasie dining chair in weathered oak, $599, Temple&Webster
Maintain a classic look while tapping into one of the most popular interior trends of the moment: rattan. Upholstered in natural linen, these chairs will add a touch of glam to a rustic table setting. SHOP NOW.

Oakdale cross leg dining bench seat, $519, Early Settler
Make sure there's room for everyone at the table by opting for a bench dining seat. This one is crafted from solid American oak with a sturdy cross leg design for added stability. Plus, if you love the idea of having a bench on either side of the table, Early Settler are currently offering 50% off a second item. SHOP NOW.

Fern arch mirror in bronze, $561.60 (usually $624), RJ Living
French provincial style looks best when honest, rustic materials like timber are contrasted against finely made statement pieces with touches of shimmer. This mirror features a contemporary arched silhouette, yet will fit right into any French provincial inspired home. SHOP NOW.

Piped linen duvet cover set in White and Navy, from $375, Cultiver
Linen and French provincial style go hand-in-hand. Opt for neutral shades with striped detailing for a laid-back yet totally elegant look. This quilt cover set is made from 100% French flax linen and has been stonewashed for ultimate softness. SHOP NOW.

French provincial toulouse rattan headboard, $1039, Temple&Webster
Simple and modern, yet totally timeless, this bedhead will make you feel like you're holidaying in Provence each night. Its carved timber frame has even been finished with a subtle vintage distressing technique to give the rustic aesthetic. SHOP NOW.

Related

Provence style in the interior: refined simplicity of the French country - Ottoman

Provence style is a provincial French style related to light, southern styles. It reflects the age-old traditions of French country houses and the imperishable beauty of the Cote d'Azur. Provence, or “French Country”, is very popular with people who seek to bring a touch of rustic charm to their interiors, while maintaining the elegance of a French home.

Contents:

  1. Distinctive features of the Provence style in the interior of the apartment and house
  2. French country colors
  3. Wall, floor and ceiling design
  4. Curtains, textiles and flowers
  5. Furniture
  6. Bedroom interior design
    7. Provence in the interior
  7. Provence in the interior of the living room
  8. Bathroom
  9. Provence in the interior of the nursery
  10. Corridor
  11. Interior of a country house in Provence style

The style got its name in honor of the region of the same name in the south of France, famous for its picturesque seascapes, heady aroma of flowers, streets bleached by the bright sun and spicy cuisine. In the 17th century, representatives of the bourgeoisie, in an attempt to get away from strict classical lines and the bustle of the city, began to settle in a remote province. Inspired by local beauties and measured village life, they equipped their new homes simply, but at the same time elegantly.

The Provencal style in the interior gained extraordinary popularity in Europe in the 19th century. First of all, he attracted by the atmosphere of simplicity, peace and naturalness inherent in the village. And today, the atmosphere of French country music still fascinates many with its unique energy, conducive to relaxation and rest from the daily hustle and bustle. If you want to fill your home with light Mediterranean charm, comfort and harmony, Provence style is the best choice for both a country house and a modern city ​​apartment. nine0003

Distinctive features of the Provence style in the interior of an apartment and house

Interior design in the Provence style is permeated with the freshness of a salty breeze, the piquancy of Provence herbs and the intoxicating aroma of lavender. It combines the charm of provincial coziness and comfort with antiquity and luxury. In many ways, it is in tune with the country style, with a barely perceptible sophistication of the French estate. So, what characterizes the Provence style?

Provence interior design features:

The French Provence style in a modern interior is characterized by an abundance of light and warm, natural tones. This seemingly rustic style has long ceased to be the prerogative of only country houses and has become an integral part of urban dwellings. nine0003

Everyone can bring the atmosphere of Provence into their home. To do this, it is not at all necessary to arrange a major overhaul or redevelopment. It is enough to add some distinctive interior details and create the necessary associations with the help of natural fabrics, natural materials and light colors with small splashes of bright colors.

French country colors

Provence has the feeling of a hot sea coast. In this provincial style, predominantly soothing, pastel, as if sun-bleached, tones are used. The main colors of the Provence style are soft and tender. Among them, the most popular are:

The kiln-dried clay shade and rich aqua color also deserve special attention. It is important to observe this color palette both in wall decoration and in decorative elements and textiles. At the same time, the furniture should remain a little brighter, harmoniously standing out against the pastel-colored walls. To create the necessary effect of aging and the impression of surfaces scorched by the southern sun, scuffs, irregularities and decorative cracks will help. nine0003

Wall, floor and ceiling design

Plastering is the main method of decorating walls in the Provence style. To get as close as possible to the style, the plaster is applied unevenly, with bulges and roughness. Burnt places and bald spots are an absolute highlight in the interior. Textured plaster will help to achieve the desired effect in a modern apartment or house.

The wallpaper is completely uncharacteristic of a Provencal home. Nevertheless, they can be used for convenience, if desired by the owners of the space. In this case, traditional paper wallpapers embossed under the plastered surface will help to achieve the illusion of a raw surface. The Provence style in the apartment also allows the use of wallpaper with a floral pattern. nine0003

Quite often, a facing board is used for wall decoration. The French interior of a country-style house involves painting such cladding predominantly with white paint. This clearly distinguishes the Provence style from other country styles, where the natural shade of wood is predominantly preserved. The decoration of the kitchen is fundamentally different from the rest of the rooms. Here, natural stone, brick or multi-colored mosaics are most often used for wall decor. In addition, this style is characterized by decorating the walls with stucco molding in the form of branches and vines. nine0003

Doors and window frames - wooden, covered with white paint. They can be artificially aged or decorated with flower painting. In order to maximize the penetration of natural light, interior doors with glass inserts are used. Floor-to-ceiling French doors are perfect for this style. In the design of the apartment, they can be replaced with windows with multi-section frames.

Tiles and wooden boards - classic Provence style flooring. As a rule, light brown or terracotta tiles with beveled corners are used. As for plank floors, they are painted or left unfinished. As well as for walls and furniture, the effect of “aging” is used in the decoration of the floor. French country does not accept carpet, parquet, linoleum or laminate. Provencal ceilings are usually white or painted in light colors. In the design of a country house or apartment with high ceilings, decorative ceiling beams are often used. As a rule, they are covered with contrasting paint. Of course, in a small bedroom with a low ceiling, such a decorative technique will look extremely inappropriate. nine0003

Curtains, textiles and flowers are invariable components of French comfort

The lightness and simplicity of the Provence style can be clearly seen in the decoration of windows. Traditionally, the houses of this region had small windows overlooking the garden. Curtains were not used, because there was simply no need for them. Occasionally, windows were decorated with air curtains, which easily let in air and light. Paying tribute to traditions, it is better to choose weightless tulle, satin, chintz with a small floral print or beads for decorating windows. nine0003

Since the French country style is rustic, natural fabrics prevail in the interior. Cotton, linen, muslin and wool are most often used in decor. Occasionally, elements from bulky fabrics, such as matlassé, can be traced. Textile colors are mostly muted. Creating Provencal comfort, do not neglect floral, striped and plaid fabrics. To emphasize the Mediterranean line of the Provence style, it is appropriate to add shells and even fishing nets to the design. nine0003

In an effort to get as close to nature as possible, French country abounds with live or dried plants. A vase with flowers will undoubtedly add freshness to the interior, saturate it with colorful colors and enhance the feeling of a country house. Use flowers common in the region: irises, poppies, sunflowers, lavender. Along with wrought iron partitions and wooden shelving, a flowerpot with plants can also be used to zone the space. Floral motifs and green leaves will look advantageous on curtains, bedspreads and paintings. nine0003

Provence style furniture

Provencal style furniture combines two facets: elegance and functionality. The main attention is paid to the material from which the furniture is made. Preference is given to light-colored wood: walnut, chestnut, ash, oak. The use of wicker and forged elements is allowed. But it is better to refuse modern materials.

Chests of drawers, sideboards with legs, chairs with carved elements and various cabinets with many drawers are classic Provence interior items. The most common colors are gray and white with elements of artificial aging (scuffs, cracks, chips). Upholstery of upholstered furniture (sofas, armchairs and pouffes) in muted shades with a color pattern. You can add a touch of antiquity to the interior with your own hands by choosing modern, but suitable furniture in design. nine0003

Provence kitchen design

The kitchen is the heart and soul of the home. Today, the Provence style in the interior of the kitchen is one of the most popular for decorating country houses and urban dwellings. Increasingly, elements of Provence are added to the classic interior style, which allows you to dilute strict lines, as well as achieve the desired comfort and atmosphere of hospitality.

Provencal style is characterized by special attention to detail. Therefore, it is very important to fill the bright kitchen with bright accents:

A statuette of a rooster as a symbol of France will add a special charm to the decor of the kitchen.

Provence style kitchen design is not only beautiful and comfortable, but also multifunctional. For example, open shelves, depending on the location, can serve as a decor or be a place to store kitchen utensils. Modern technology is hidden behind facades. A microwave and an electric kettle in such a rustic atmosphere will look a little ridiculous. nine0003

Provence style in bedroom interior

Provence style bedroom decoration is ideal for romantics. Features of the sunny Mediterranean color can be traced in every detail.

Paintings, textiles, flowers and plants are used in abundance to decorate the large bedroom. Pendant lights add elegance. A chandelier with a dimmer is the most convenient and practical lighting option for such a room.

Provence style in the living room interior

The Provence style in the living room is characterized by sunshine, openness and richness. Here, rough walls and shabby furniture are harmoniously intertwined with porcelain figurines, weightless wicker baskets, caskets, "bird cages" and frames with family photographs. Add a rustic feel to using an old teapot, buckets and jugs as a vase or pot for houseplants.

When it comes to living room lighting, the look of the luminaires is very important. As a rule, forged structures (chandeliers, sconces and floor lamps) will look most harmonious. LED backlights and a dot system are taboo for the Provence style. nine0003

Provencal style bathroom

Provence style in the bathroom, as well as in the interior of the whole house, implies an abundance of bright sunlight. Therefore, a window in the bathroom is a must. It can be of any shape and size.

All furnishings and bathroom furniture should be rustic in style. These can be wooden stools and benches with the effect of peeling paint. The color palette of the bathroom furniture consists of white, blue, blue and olive hues with metallic details. Avoid plastic and stainless steel items. nine0003

Appropriate plumbing will help complete the picture: a curved bathtub with forged legs and oval sinks with bronze-effect faucets. The ideal addition would be wooden shelves with wicker baskets for storing hygiene items.

Provence style in the interior of a nursery

Decorating a nursery in the Provence style opens up unlimited scope for creativity. Here you can place a small library or a tea area with the appropriate accessories. nine0003

Pastels are welcome in shades. If the windows of the room face east, it is recommended to design the space in cool blue and lavender tones. For a west-facing room, use a warmer finish. You can also experiment and highlight one of the walls with wallpaper with a floral print or decorative painting.

Wicker baskets for toys will be appropriate in the interior of the nursery. Curtains, bedspreads and pillows should be selected exclusively from natural fabrics. A semicircular canopy at the head of the crib will look quite elegant. nine0003

French country style corridor

Provence is ideal for a small apartment hallway, because its light colors will visually expand the area. A long corridor will also look no less advantageous.

A coat hanger, a bench and a small closet are enough for a minimalist rustic space. An overall floor mirror in a wooden frame will bring even more charm.

Provence style country house interior

Provence style dacha is a win-win combination. Wooden elements, tiles, stone, and brick are at the forefront in the implementation of French country. Metal parts are allowed in the form of stands, candlesticks and furniture handles. A chandelier forged from metal looks rough, but at the same time noble.

Creating an interior in Provence style is not an easy and time-consuming task. But, adhering to the basic rules, you will certainly create an outstanding, cozy and comfortable home that will delight you and your guests. nine0003

We offer to make a virtual trip to the rooms of the magnificent villa La Cavalerie, located in the French region Provence:

Let's see how interiors in the style of Provence on specific examples:

  1. A delightful stone villa in Provence 9000 9000 Use aid simplicity in the French countryside
  2. The Pearl of Saint-Tropez
  3. The new collection of Maisons du Monde "French Traditions"

French style in the interior: materials, finishes and furniture 0 Comments

Each French interior is unique and reflects the individual taste of the owner of the room. But everyone who chooses the French style has common features that are reflected in the decor of their homes. This style is loved for elegance and romance, eclecticism and bright details - and all this without pomp and false brilliance. About the main features of the French style in the interior, as well as how to feel all the delights of the French interior at home, later in the article. nine0003

French interior codes

Marble fireplaces, high ceilings and exquisite moldings coexist in a French interior with modern technology and restraint. How is this possible? The main condition for success is a large bright space and a sense of balance.

The French interior will show itself in all its glory if it is embodied in a room with floor-to-ceiling windows, an attic, a place for a fireplace and slightly aged parquet. But a separate room in an ordinary city apartment, if desired, can be transformed in a French manner. Knowing the four codes of the French interior will help you with this: nine0003

You need to be a real aesthete to turn the chaos from incomplete furniture, antiques and various decor items into a harmonious and restrained bohemian picture. But it is in this negligence, organized with impeccable subtle taste, that the main feature of the French style lies.


Materials and finishes

French interiors work well with a variety of materials, from wrought iron and wood to glass. A clear incompatibility with this style is observed only with plastic and leather upholstery. nine0003

The first violin among the decor materials in the interior in French belongs to textiles. Curtains decorated with tassels and lambrequins, curtains made of silk, organza or taffeta, decorative pillows with floral prints... You can choose the design of curtains and upholstery, the color, texture and pattern of textiles to your taste, but in order for the French style in the interior to really take place, the quality of the materials must be high.

The French are also happy to use textiles for chair covers, various decorative napkins and light canopies over the bed. It is worth noting that the freedom in choosing ornaments and patterns for textiles is still limited: obvious contrasts and overly large patterns should be avoided. Draperies and complex textures of velvet, satin, velor and brocade are welcome, capable of refracting light. nine0003

The decoration of ceilings, walls and floors in French interiors is as neutral as possible. To decorate the ceiling, whitewash or pastel-colored paint is most often used, for walls - wallpaper with an inconspicuous pattern or semi-gloss paint. If you want more brightness, it is acceptable to decorate the walls with chinoiserie-style panels, using half the height of the wall under the panels.

The traditional material for finishing the floor is solid wood of muted shades or herringbone parquet. In the bathroom or hallway, tiles or ceramic granite imitating natural stone are appropriate. nine0003


Furniture

There are practically no rules in the selection of furniture for the French interior. Items can belong to different styles and eras, the more diverse the better. But nevertheless, in this diversity and slight negligence, a single French mood should be traced, which can manifest itself in the slight aging of all objects, patina on forged handles or slightly faded upholstery.

If there is no strength and inspiration for a combination of the incongruous, you can always turn to modern interpretations of the French style with the uniformity of furniture and the presence of characteristic things in the interior: an elegant ottoman, a wrought-iron cornice, a four-poster bed. A guaranteed hit in style is provided by interiors in which there are "their own", truly French pieces of furniture. This is about: nine0003

Decor

It is difficult to overestimate the role of decorative elements in the French style. Every thing in the interior should be interesting to consider, it’s good if all items have their own history. Therefore, in French decor, quality is important, not quantity. nine0003

A 19th century fireplace mirror from a flea market, vintage porcelain figurines, rich lampshades of floor lamps matched to the tone of furniture upholstery, gilded boxes, antique grandfather clocks - all these are the little things that make up the charm of the French interior. Walls can be decorated with paintings or compositions of artificial flowers, and a light screen can be used to zone the space.


French Country

Speaking about the French style in the interior, one cannot fail to mention its provincial version - Provence, or "French Country". The name of the style comes from the southern region of France of the same name. The measured life of the inhabitants of Provence, charming simplicity and traditional French elegance served as the basis for the birth of this special style of country house decoration. nine0003

The main features of the Provence style are similar to the basic principles of creating a French interior. Vintage and bohemian chic have not been canceled, but here lightness, rustic charm, naturalness and comfort, conducive to relaxation, come first.

To achieve a special atmosphere of the French province in the decoration, preference is given to natural materials and natural, sometimes rough textures.

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