Distressed furniture. Glistening chandeliers. Patterned fabrics. Natural materials. These elements of French country interior design are easy to incorporate at home, and the result is a look that is feminine, rustic and chic. It’s easy to picture French country style in an elegant chateau, but you may be surprised by how well the look can be adapted to modern spaces, especially when a clean, uncluttered effect is the focus. Today we share a few key traits of French country design, from the traditional basics to some unexpected twists…
Curves and Frills
If you’re naturally drawn to ruffles, you’re well acquainted with one feature of French country interior design. Yet the frills may not be as obvious as you might think. Check out the French country-meets-contemporary space below. There’s a definite softness to the room, which includes arched windows and doorways, chairs with rounded backs, and a chandelier filled with curves. Yet the space is anything but cluttered. Yes, French country design can be adapted to fit a variety of preferences! [from Braswell Company]
Patterns used in French country spaces also incorporate their share of curves and frills. In the next featured space, we see matching wallpaper and upholstery. Note the intricate pattern, as well as the ornate details on the furniture, light fixtures and mirror… [from Homesick Designs]
French country furnishings are often rounded rather than linear. There is ample opportunity for curved frames, scalloped edges and gathered fabric. [from Warmington & North]
Elegant Lighting
One sure-fire way to add a dash of French country style to your interior: incorporate elegant lighting. Chandeliers are often the statement pieces of choice, as they are shining counterparts to earthier touches such as wooden beams and distressed furniture. [from Howard Bankston & Post]
One large chandelier can become the focal point of the room, as shown in the home of designer Charles Spada, built in 1652. Then again, this space has many amaing pieces. From the busts on pillars to the quirky vases on either side of the mantel, the thoughtfully designed room reminds us that a few unexpected accessories can breathe new life into French country style. [from Interior Design Files]
Chandeliers definitely add an upscale element to the French country space. However, in many rooms, they are anything but formal, especially when elements such as mismatched chairs and distressed doors populate the area. [from Dreamy Whites]
Another element of French country design: the use of wrought iron accents. The chandelier below is iron rather than crystal, which perfectly suits this kitchen dining area. Also note the use of charming greenery in terracotta pots… [from Amy Birdsong]
Distressed Furniture
If you’re looking for one more signature way to add French country style to your space, try incorporating distressed furniture. Distressed pieces have a worn and weathered look. Whether they are true antiques that have acquired rough edges over time or you’ve taken a piece of sandpaper to your painted desk, the effect is a true lived-in look that creates a sense of comfort. [from Best & Company]
Below we see a distressed chair paired with a weathered dining table. Note the contrast between the table’s white base and the dark wooden top… [from The Virginia House]
Our last featured image is a stylish reminder that clean-lined pieces CAN work in French country spaces. This room features the Cucina Sideboard from Crate & Barrel, which boasts doors with a natural finish. The piece would truly blend well with distressed furnishings while adding a modern touch. [from HGTV.com]
Don’t forget that little details can add a lot to your French country space. Incorporate whimsical elements, such as unusual seashells. Not to mention, a vase of flowers can go a long way when it comes to French country interior design. Happy decorating!
