Understanding French country design

by David Hayes 03/20/2024

French country design style is inspired by the elegant and idyllic lifestyle of the French countryside. This style creates a perfect balance between elegance and comfort by combining refined features with more practical, weathered aesthetics. If you're interested in this style and ideas for how to use it in your home, here are the basics:

Colors

The color palette used in French country design is inspired by the natural landscape. Therefore, you can expect plenty of neutrals like gray, beige and soft brown. You will also find low-saturated earthy hues like sage green, lavender, baby blue and pastel pink. While the goal of a French country design is to be elegant and soft, pops of color add a welcome dynamic to the space.

Toile print

One essential piece of the French country design style is Toile de Jouy. The term refers to a lightweight fabric featuring intricate pastoral motifs and imagery. They can include everything from floral designs to entire scenes depicting people, animals and idyllic farm life. You'll find toile print on accent pieces like throw pillows, but also in major elements like window drapes and bedding.

Weathered wood

It's essential to include some weathered elements with the elegant and delicate aspects of French country style. The most common examples are woods stained with various neutral washes and furnishings with a heavy patina. These textures create a more homey and comfortable aesthetic and will keep a French country space from becoming too formal.

Botanical imagery

Botanical details are crucial to French country design. Imagery depicting flowers and plants creates a connection to the outside landscape and adds detail to otherwise simple pieces. Hand and other ceramics are an excellent way to bring botanical imagery into your design. You can also use delicately embroidered accent pieces and botanical wall art.

About the Author
Author

David Hayes

 Welcome to my website, your number one source for Winchester, Arlington, Cambridge, Belmont, Reading, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, Somerville, Burlington, Boston, Brookline and surrounding towns.  

Purchasing real estate should be an exciting yet seamless experience. Helping Buyers and Sellers with their real estate needs is what I love to do. My skills, experience and knowledge help me to make the real estate process as successful as possible for my clients. I am a full time, full service Realtor, as well as an experienced investment property owner, who enjoys working with both seasoned and first time Buyers and Sellers. My business is state-of-the-art and I continue to invest and use the best technological tools available. I consider Real Estate a collaborative profession. We will partner together to find the home of your dreams.