Ahh the elegance, grace and beauty of French Country design and decor! Also known as “French Provincial” or “French Country Cottage” style, is inspired by the rural provinces of France, particularly areas like Provence. This style is known for its warmth, charm, and simplicity that channels the natural beauty and casual elegance of the French countryside. If you have always wondered what sets this design style apart then you’ve come to the right place! Here are some defining elements and characteristics of French Country design and decor, along with some of my personal style pairings!
The style incorporates raw materials found in the French countryside, such as limestone, wood, wrought iron, and clay. These elements can be found throughout a home often times in design, such as with iron light fixtures and railings and clay pottery. But you might see these used in architectural features as well, such as wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and terracotta tiles.
My personal favorite element of French Country interiors are the soft, muted color palette that you’ll find in them. Inspired by the natural landscapes of the countryside, soft creams, earthy browns, sunny yellows, faded blues, and gentle greens are popular colors. Lavender, which grows abundantly in Provence, also inspires shades of purple. Muted colors add a peaceful aura within a space, used on walls, furnishings, drapes, and of course in paintings.
Furniture and architectural features often have a weathered, time-worn appearance. This gives spaces a rustic, lived-in feel, reminiscent of old country homes. Toiles, plaids, and florals, especially those depicting rural or pastoral scenes, are common patterns. Textures come from natural materials like burlap, linen, and chunky woolens. French Country furniture is often sturdy, functional, and inviting. Antique pieces, especially those that show a bit of wear, fit perfectly in this setting. Furniture might have carved details and is often oversized and comfortable. Comfortable does not mean messy or dated! Over-stuffed feather filled cushions covered in an off white linen on a curved wooden frame is the most elegant style of chair, in my opinion.
The decor includes items that appear to be collected over time, like pottery, earthenware, and porcelain. Old books, woven baskets, and vintage clocks are common decorative items. Chandeliers, often made of iron or adorned with crystals, are a staple lighting choice. Gardens play a big role in the French countryside, so it’s common to see fresh or dried flowers in vases, pots of lavender, and even topiaries in a French Country home. The use of herbs, both in cooking and decoration, is also popular.
In kitchens, open shelving is a hallmark of the French Country style. It displays dishes, pottery, and glasses, emphasizing a homey, lived-in feel. You will find beautiful copper pots and pans in a French country kitchen, most likely also displayed on open shelving or hanging racks. My favorite color for displayed dishes in a kitchen is white or cream: timeless, elegant and a perfect complement to any color scheme.
From furniture to architectural details, gentle curves and intricate carvings are often present, adding an elegant touch to the rustic feel. Often in French Country spaces, each design element feels like artwork on its own. It’s important to keep balance and not allow statement pieces to overshadow each other. Wrap the more intricate and artistic furniture finds with a solid fabric to allow the curves to take the spotlight. Keep the background a neutral color with the same shade on the curtains as walls if there are multiple artistic pieces in the same room. This can help your space in the same way a solid cream mat helps balance a painting in an ornate frame.
In essence, French Country design is about balancing the old with the new, the elegant with the rustic, to create a warm, charming, and inviting space. The style invites you to take a deep breath, relax, and savor the simple pleasures of life.
