An Ultimate Guide to French Country-Style Decor

Let’s paint a picture. 

Imagine being whisked away to Provence for the summer. Strolling through lavender fields, reveling in the sweet aromas of vineyards, and being completely engulfed in the awing grandeur of the whitewashed manors that pave the roads. Cobblestone streets that create a rhythmic echo of your footfall. Charming markets that line the streets and the distinct serenade of cicadas in the background. Hard to snap out of, right? 

The luxuriousness behind the novelty, offset by the rustic simplicity of its nature, forms a surreal dichotomy, fairytale-like if you will—that makes you feel right at home. And that, beautiful reader, is what makes French country-style decor so addicting.

What is French Country Home Decor? 

Rooted in the notion that the past and present seamlessly intertwine French country-style decor allows a person to create a unique aesthetic that, quite simply, can only be described as breathtaking. Every element whispers tales of rustic romance and timeless elegance. Symphonies of soft, sun-kissed hues that ever so slightly caress walls, creating a gentle warmth. And antique treasures that grace the room with their weathered embraces and graceful curves. 

Simply put, it's the perfect combination of rustic charm and relaxed opulence that gives a person the best of both worlds to create a cozy atmosphere of grandeur. So how do you achieve this look at home?

The Materials

Wood

Wooden accents and furniture are fundamental to replicating the French countryside. Distressed wood, with its aged look, brings a touch of history while also providing a connection to nature. And while it's often used in architectural elements, you can always include wood in dinnerware like platters or cutlery holders. 

Stone

Stones such as limestone, travertine, and ceramic are other staple materials that are reminiscent of the French countryside’s architecture. Moreover, these natural stones create a unique juxtaposition that allows us to connect our interiors with the outdoor landscape, bringing a much-needed earthy feel to the space.

Natural Fabrics

Plush, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and burlap are typically used in table linen, throw blankets, and towels to create a casual elegance and comfortably lived-in atmosphere that is always seen in Provence. 

Cast Iron

Cast iron fixtures and accents perfectly capture the artisanal finesse prevalent in French craftsmanship and add the vintage sophistication that makes us fall in love with French country-style decor.

The Home Decor Essentials 

French villas know how to epitomize the Provencal aesthetic through their home decor. Features like gold-accented mirrors and candle stands, antique sculptures, and ceramic vases filled with artificial flowers exude the essence of generational wealth. At the same time, elements like woven wicker baskets, embroidered cushions, and cast iron Dutch ovens add the rustic allure of Southern France. 

The Colour Palette

French country homes and home decor are known for having neutral, muted colour palettes that showcase that raw beauty and earthiness, as well as the serene and inviting atmosphere of the French countryside. Think creams, beiges, browns, soft, warm pastels, and even terracotta. 

Pops of colours are added through wall art, soft furnishings like curtains and rugs, and decor objects. 

The Textures

One of the main ways French decor is able to convey the casual chic aesthetic is through the use of textures and patterns. 

Heavily inspired by its Mediterranean coastline, terracotta tiles, dinner sets, and even coffee mugs are popular choices in many French countryside homes. Furthermore, patterns like delicate florals, small checks, and stripes infuse the relaxed, lived-in feel of French country interiors.

The Bottom Line

French countryside decor is all about creating the perfect balance between luxury and simplicity to create the ultimate elegantly cozy home that you just don’t want to leave.