When it comes to creating a warm and inviting living space, the French certainly know a thing or two. Their country living rooms are renowned for their timeless elegance and effortless style. If you’re looking to bring some of that same charm and sophistication into your own home, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of traditional details or prefer a more lived-in look, there’s something here to help you create the perfect French country living room.
One of the key features of a French country living room is the focus on softness and romance. Instead of installing grand chandeliers or ornate details, French country living rooms often feature more gentle and natural elements. Soft patinas, carved wooden furniture, and lots of neutral colors can bring a sense of calm and tranquility to the space. Whether you choose bold patterns or opt for more subtle fabrics, the choice is yours.
Another way to add timeless elegance to your living room is by bringing in touches of nature. Whether it’s through the use of botanical prints, floral fabrics, or simply adding some fresh flowers to the room, nature can help to create a sense of tranquility and serenity. Neutrals such as creams, whites, and gentle yellows can work beautifully with these natural elements, adding a touch of warmth and softness to the space.
One designer who knows how to create the perfect French country living room is Caroline Inchyra. Her fabulous fabrics, such as those from the Arbuthnott range, are a popular choice when it comes to creating a timeless and elegant space. The fabrics feature traditional patterns and silhouettes that work well in French country living rooms, adding a touch of sophistication and charm.
When it comes to creating a French country living room, there’s no need to limit yourself to a certain style. French country living rooms can be traditional and elegant, or more relaxed and lived-in. The key is to choose pieces that you love and that work well together. Whether it’s through the use of decorative details, elegant fabrics, or the installation of a fabulous stone fireplace, there are many ways to create a French country living room that is both stylish and welcoming.
So, whether you’re a fan of the grandeur and romance of traditional French country living rooms or prefer a more relaxed and lived-in look, there’s something here to inspire you. From elegant fabrics to decorative features, these French country living room ideas are sure to help you create a space that is both timeless and inviting.
French country living room ideas
A French country living room is a perfect combination of elegance and warmth. This style is often characterized by its traditional details and gentle color tones, alongside the use of natural materials such as stone and wood.
One way to bring the French country style into your living room is through the use of fabrics and wallpaper. Opt for beautifully patterned fabrics with designs that evoke a sense of romance and enduring charm. Vanessa Arbuthnott and Inchyra are renowned designers that offer a great selection of fabrics that will bring a touch of France into your home.
Another defining feature of French country living rooms is the use of antique furniture with rounded shapes and patinas. Instead of opting for sleek and modern pieces, consider incorporating vintage pieces that have a lived-in feel. This will add a sense of grandeur and timeless beauty.
When it comes to the color palette, French country living rooms often focus on soft, neutral colors such as whites, creams, and gentle yellows. These colors create a calming and welcoming atmosphere that is characteristic of the French countryside.
In addition to the use of fabrics and furniture, lighting also plays a crucial role in creating a French country living room. Instead of modern, minimalist lighting fixtures, opt for chandeliers and lamps with intricate designs and antique finishes. These pieces will add a touch of elegance and charm to your space.
One way to introduce the French country style into your living room is through the use of striped wallpaper. Whether you choose vertical or horizontal stripes, this pattern adds a sense of sophistication and visual interest to your space. It works beautifully as a focal point on one wall, or you can use it to cover the entire room for a more dramatic effect.
To complete the French country look, don’t forget to add some accessories and decor pieces. Vintage mirrors, botanical prints, and woven baskets are all great options to enhance the overall ambiance of your living room.
In summary
- Choose fabrics and wallpaper with beautiful patterns and romantic designs.
- Opt for antique furniture with rounded shapes and patinas.
- Use soft, neutral colors such as whites, creams, and yellows.
- Consider chandeliers and lamps with intricate designs and antique finishes.
- Introduce striped wallpaper as a focal point or throughout the room.
- Add vintage mirrors, botanical prints, and woven baskets as accessories.
By following these French country living room ideas, you can create a space that is both elegant and welcoming. Whether you’re looking to bring a touch of French grandeur or create a more lived-in and relaxed atmosphere, this style is sure to bring enduring beauty to your home.
1 Layer delicate prints in soft colors
When it comes to creating a French country living room, furniture with delicate prints in soft colors is a must-have. These gentle patterns and tones bring a touch of France to your space, without overwhelming it.
One way to introduce delicate prints is through upholstery. Choose fabrics in soft colors like pastel blues, greens, pinks, or yellows. Opt for traditional patterns like florals, toile, or stripes – all of which are commonly found in French country interiors.
A great way to add softness to your living room is by using fabrics with a worn-in, lived-in look. Look for fabrics with a slightly faded appearance or ones that have a textured feel. The fabric should feel comfortable and inviting, as if it has been loved for years.
Caroline Arbuthnott, a renowned fabric designer and director of a fabric company, suggests using fabrics with a feminine touch. She says, “Soft colors, gentle patterns and fabrics with a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ bring romance and timeless appeal to a space.”
For a more traditional French country look, consider using upholstered furniture with carved wood details. These pieces add an element of elegance and sophistication to your space. You can also mix and match fabrics to create a more eclectic look.
When it comes to window treatments, opt for lightweight fabrics like sheer curtains or linen. These fabrics allow natural light to filter through beautifully, creating a soft and airy atmosphere. You can also layer curtains with a heavier fabric, like velvet or silk, for added depth and texture.
Another way to incorporate delicate prints is by adding accent pieces like pillows, throws, or even a tablecloth. Choose fabrics that complement the overall color scheme of your living room and feature intricate patterns or designs.
To add a touch of elegance, consider installing a chandelier as a focal point in your living room. Chandeliers are a classic feature in French interiors and instantly elevate the look of any space. Choose one with crystal or glass droplets for a more luxurious feel.
Remember, when layering delicate prints in soft colors, it’s important to create a balanced and cohesive look. Mix and match patterns and fabrics that work well together, and don’t be afraid to add a pop of color or a bold print to create visual interest.
By incorporating these soft colors, delicate prints, and textured fabrics, you’ll be able to achieve a timeless and enduring French country living room that is both elegant and inviting.
2 Embrace rustic textures and natural materials
When it comes to creating a French country living room, embracing rustic textures and natural materials is key. This style is all about a lived-in, timeless elegance that brings warmth and comfort to the space. Here are some ideas to help you achieve that look:
1. Limiting the use of synthetic materials:
Avoid using too many synthetic materials in your living room. Opt for natural fibers such as linen, cotton, and wool for upholstery and curtains. This will give your space a more authentic and rustic feel.
2. Choosing the right fabrics:
Consider using fabrics with traditional patterns and soft colors. Designer fabric choices like Inchyra and Arbuthnott offer a range of elegant options that capture the timeless appeal of French country style. Think about using check patterns, subtle florals, or stripes to bring a touch of nostalgia to your space.
3. Emphasizing texture:
Rustic textures and patinas can add depth and character to your living room. Consider including textured elements such as stone fireplace surrounds, exposed beams, and weathered wood furniture. These details will bring a sense of history and authenticity to your space.
4. Bringing in natural materials:
Introduce natural materials like wood, rattan, and wicker into your living room. This can be done through furniture pieces, such as coffee tables, side tables, and chairs. These materials add warmth and a touch of nature to the space.
5. Installing a chandelier:
A chandelier can be a statement piece in your French country living room. Look for a chandelier with an elegant, traditional design that complements the overall style of the space. The warm glow and grandeur of a chandelier will add a touch of luxury to your room.
By embracing rustic textures and natural materials in your French country living room, you can create a timeless and lived-in space that exudes elegance and charm.
3 Choose faded floral fabrics
When it comes to creating a French country living room, incorporating faded floral fabrics is a must. These fabrics add a touch of timeless elegance and bring a sense of history to the space.
Yellow hues are often seen in French country decor, and using faded floral fabrics with yellow tones can be a great way to add warmth to your living room. Pairing these fabrics with soft, neutral colors and elegant textures works well to create a cozy and inviting space.
One way to incorporate faded floral fabrics is by using them for upholstery. Whether it’s for a sofa, armchair, or ottoman, choosing a faded floral fabric can instantly transform a piece of furniture and create a focal point in the room. Caroline Inchyra Interiors and Vanessa Arbuthnott are two designers that offer a great selection of faded floral fabrics that would be perfect for this style.
In addition to upholstery, faded floral fabrics can also be used for curtains or window treatments. Opting for gentle patterns that bring in subtle colors and tones can help to soften the space and add a touch of femininity. These fabrics can also be paired with more ornate chandeliers or lighting fixtures to create a sense of grandeur.
- Choose faded floral fabrics with yellow tones for warmth
- Use them for upholstery to create focal points in the room
- Opt for gentle patterns for curtains or window treatments
- Pair with ornate chandeliers for a touch of grandeur
Overall, incorporating faded floral fabrics into your French country living room will add a touch of timeless elegance. The softness and patinas of these fabrics, alongside their gentle colors and patterns, work together to create a space that is both inviting and visually pleasing. So go ahead and embrace the beauty of faded floral fabrics in your living room design!
4 Keep it simple
If you’re looking to create a French country living room that is timeless and elegant, it’s important to keep the design simple. French country style is all about romance, and this can be achieved through the use of fabrics, textures, and gentle color tones.
When it comes to the living room, incorporating stone or ornate features can add a traditional touch to the space. However, it’s important to balance out these elements with simple and timeless furniture pieces.
One way to keep the design simple is through the use of fabric. French country interiors often feature lots of fabric, whether it’s in the form of upholstery, curtains, or even wallpaper. By installing fabric panels on the walls, you can create a soft and feminine look.
Another way to keep it simple is to introduce furniture with clean lines and minimal ornate details. This can help create a more enduring appeal within the space. Look for furniture pieces that have a timeless and elegant feel, such as rounded silhouettes or gentle stripes.
When it comes to paintwork, opt for soft and neutral tones that can help bring out the natural beauty of the room. French country living rooms often embrace a more nature-inspired color palette, such as muted greens, blues, and creams.
If you want to add some grandeur to the space, consider installing a chandelier. This can bring a touch of elegance and femininity to the room, while still keeping the overall look simple and timeless.
There’s more to French country living room ideas than just vanessa, and by keeping it simple, you can create a space that is both fabulous and elegant.
5 Furnish with distressed pieces
One of the key elements of a French country living room is the use of distressed or weathered furniture pieces. These pieces add a touch of rustic charm and a lived-in feel to the room.
The director of Caroline Paterson Interiors, a renowned designer, suggests incorporating distressed furniture into your French country living room. She explains that the subtle patinas and worn finishes of these pieces add an elegant and timeless appeal to the space.
When choosing distressed furniture, look for pieces with traditional shapes and details. Often, these pieces will have intricately carved legs or rounded silhouettes that add to their grandeur.
Caroline Paterson also recommends incorporating distressed furniture alongside fabrics inspired by nature. This can include floral patterns or stripes in soft yellows and gentle blues.
One excellent choice for distressed furniture is the Inchyra collection from Arbuthnott. This collection offers a range of sofas and armchairs with beautifully distressed paintwork and gentle colors. The fabrics used are luxurious and durable, making them a great choice for a French country living room.
If a full set of distressed furniture is too much for your space, you can also introduce distressed pieces as accent pieces. This could be a distressed coffee table, side table, or cabinet. These smaller pieces will still add that lived-in look while limiting the focus on distress.
In summary, furnishing your French country living room with distressed pieces is a great way to add a touch of elegance and charm. Whether you choose to go all out with a full set of distressed furniture or incorporate smaller accent pieces, the worn finishes and subtle details will add a timeless appeal to your space.
6 Showcase architectural features
When it comes to creating a French country living room, it’s important to highlight the architectural features of the space. This can be done with the use of wallpaper, something that’s often seen in French country interiors.
One way to showcase architectural features is to use a statement chandelier that complements the overall design. A chandelier adds a touch of elegance and brings attention to the ceiling, acting as a focal point in the room.
Textures are another important element in French country living rooms. Elegant fabrics, whether it be for curtains, upholstery, or throw pillows, can add a touch of softness and femininity to the space. Instead of bold colors like reds and yellows, French country living rooms are known for their neutral and more lived-in tones.
Great shapes and architectural features can also be introduced through furniture pieces. Look for rounded silhouettes and details that add a sense of romance and classic charm.
Vanessa Arbuthnott, a renowned fabric designer and the director of Vanessa Arbuthnott Fabrics, suggests bringing in more architectural details into the living room. She advises installing additional features such as wall paneling or decorative moldings to enhance the overall elegance of the space.
Caroline Inchyra, a leading interior designer, also recommends using traditional French country elements in architectural features. Whether it be through the use of a fireplace, exposed beams, or stone walls, these elements help to create a sense of warmth and coziness within the living room.
7 Decorate with ornate wallpapers
When it comes to adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your French country living room, ornate wallpapers can be a focal point that brings timeless grandeur to the space.
Installing wallpaper with rounded shapes, intricate patterns, and delicate details can create a sense of femininity and romance in the room. Choose fabrics that have lots of textures and colors to complement the wallpaper and add depth to the overall look.
A renowned choice for French country interiors is the Inchyra wallpaper collection by Caroline Van Ness. These wallpapers feature subtle patterns and soft colors inspired by nature, bringing a gentle and beautifully lived-in feel to the room.
Consider using wallpaper with delicate floral prints or stripes that mimic the silhouettes of furniture and chandeliers commonly found in traditional French country homes. This touch of elegance and femininity works wonderfully within the French country style.
If you prefer a more modern twist, you can opt for wallpapers with bold colors and contemporary patterns. The Arbuthnott wallpaper collection, for example, offers a range of vibrant designs that add a touch of playfulness to the room.
When it comes to choosing the right wallpaper, pay attention to the overall atmosphere you want to create. If you’re aiming for a more formal and traditional look, opt for wallpapers with intricate details and subtle colors. On the other hand, if you want to create a more relaxed and casual space, choose wallpapers with bolder patterns and more vibrant colors.
Remember that wallpaper is not limited to walls alone. You can also use it to cover furniture pieces, doors, or even create a statement wall behind a bookshelf or fireplace. This adds depth and visual interest to the room, making it feel more layered and lived-in.
For a truly French country feel, consider complementing the wallpaper with vintage furniture pieces, weathered paintwork, and plantation shutters. These elements add a touch of timeless charm and enhance the overall ambience of the space.
In conclusion, ornate wallpapers are a great way to bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to your French country living room. Whether you choose traditional patterns or more contemporary designs, they add a timeless grandeur to the space and create a beautiful backdrop for your furniture and accessories. So, don’t be afraid to introduce wallpaper into your French country living room and embrace the charm and romance it brings.
8 Don’t forget the chandelier
When it comes to creating a timeless and elegant French country living room, one element that should not be overlooked is the chandelier. A chandelier can instantly add a touch of luxury to any space, and in a French country living room, it can serve as a focal point that adds to the overall ambiance.
In French country interiors, chandeliers are often made of intricately designed metalwork or adorned with crystals. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste and the size of your living room. A large, extravagant chandelier can make a statement and become the centerpiece of the room, while a smaller, more delicate one can add a subtle decorative touch.
When choosing a chandelier for your French country living room, consider the overall style and color palette of the space. If you have stone or neutral paintwork, a chandelier with bronze or gold tones can complement the natural elements and add warmth. If your living room features brighter colors or floral patterns, a chandelier with crystals or light-colored shades can create a beautiful contrast.
There are many different chandelier designs inspired by French country interiors. For example, the Inchyra Chandelier from Arbuthnott features rounded shapes and beautifully detailed metalwork, while the Plantation Chandelier from Inchyra has a more rustic, nature-inspired feel. Both of these options would be a timeless choice that adds an enduring elegance to your living room.
When installing a chandelier, make sure it is positioned in a way that allows it to be seen and appreciated from different angles. Hanging it above a coffee table or in the center of the room can ensure that it becomes a focal point of the space. Additionally, consider using a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness and create the right mood for different occasions.
Whether you choose a chandelier with intricate metalwork or one with crystals and delicate details, it’s important to remember that chandeliers are not limited to traditional French country interiors. They can also be a stunning addition to contemporary or eclectic spaces.
So, don’t forget the chandelier when designing your French country living room. It’s a feature that can bring elegance, sophistication, and a touch of France into your home.
9 Choose plantation shutters
When it comes to adding timeless elegance to your French country living room, plantation shutters are a renowned choice. These window treatments are not only functional but also beautifully enhance the overall look of the room.
Plantation shutters are often covered in neutral colors, allowing them to blend seamlessly with any decor style. Whether you have a room filled with bold and vibrant fabrics or more subtle and neutral tones, plantation shutters can work well within the space.
One of the best parts about choosing plantation shutters is that they come in a variety of materials, including wood and faux wood. This means you can select a material that matches the existing furniture and fixtures in your room. For example, if you have a stone fireplace or a fabric-covered sofa, you can find plantation shutters that complement those elements.
Another great thing about plantation shutters is that they are not limiting in terms of design details. You can choose shutters with carved accents or opt for a more simple and elegant look. The choice is yours.
When it comes to French country style, the focus is often on fabrics and textures. While wallpaper and fabric-covered walls are commonly used in French country decor, plantation shutters can introduce a new element to the room. Instead of using traditional window treatments, installing plantation shutters can bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
Inspired by the enduring appeal of French country decor, plantation shutters can help bring a sense of romance to your living room. With their timeless design and fabulous details, they add a touch of grandeur and femininity to any space.
If you’re looking to create a French country living room, consider adding plantation shutters to the windows. These window treatments can be used alongside other elements such as rounded chandeliers, vintage-inspired wallpaper, and aged patinas to create a truly authentic French country look.
Whether you’re going for a more traditional French country style or a more modern take on the look, plantation shutters are sure to enhance the overall aesthetic of your living room. So bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space with these fabulous window treatments.
10 Opt for timeless stripes
- Stripes are a great way to add depth and visual interest to any space. They can be used on walls, curtains, upholstery, rugs, and even accessories.
- When it comes to French country living room ideas, stripes can bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
- The key to using stripes in a French country living room is to choose timeless patterns that will never go out of style.
- Caroline, the director of a French country interior design company, says, “Stripes are a classic feature of French country style. They add a sense of charm and whimsy to any space.”
- Whether you’re looking to introduce subtle stripes or bold patterns, there are lots of ways to incorporate this timeless design element into your living room.
- One way to use stripes is by installing striped wallpaper on a feature wall. This can create a focal point and add depth to the room.
- Another option is to use striped curtains or upholstery. This can add texture and femininity to the space.
- If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could go for striped rugs or accessories. These can bring a touch of France to your living room and create a fabulous visual appeal.
- However, when it comes to stripes, less is often more. Instead of covering your living room with them, try using them as accent pieces.
- Interior designer Inchyra says, “Stripes can be used to bring a sense of romance and grandeur to a space. They work beautifully with the rounded shapes and ornate carvings often found in French country interiors.”
What makes a house French country
French country style is known for its timeless elegance and romantic appeal. It is a look that is inspired by the grandeur of traditional French interiors, while also incorporating the softness and lived-in feel of country homes.
French country homes feature a blend of ornate and carved furniture alongside more rustic elements. This mix of styles creates a sense of femininity and warmth, while still maintaining a sense of sophistication. The use of traditional fabrics such as toile and Caroline Arbuthnott patterns adds to the overall charm of the interior.
When it comes to colors, French country interiors often feature soft and muted tones. This can include shades of cream, pale blue, sage green, and dusty pink. These colors are used to create a sense of tranquility and elegance within the space.
Textures and patinas also play a defining role in French country style. Textured wallpaper, distressed wood, and stone treatments are commonly used to add depth and interest to the space. The result is a look that feels both timeless and lived-in.
Another key feature of French country style is the use of rounded shapes and elegant silhouettes. Whether it’s in the form of curved furniture, arched doorways, or decorative details, these shapes help to add a sense of grace and sophistication to the space.
Chandeliers are a staple in French country interiors. Whether they are traditional crystal chandeliers or more rustic iron designs, they add a touch of glamour and timeless beauty.
Overall, what makes a house French country is a combination of elegant details, softness, and a sense of romance. The mix of traditional and rustic elements creates a unique and enduring style that is sure to stand the test of time.
What fabrics make a house French country
French country style is all about creating a warm and inviting look that combines elegance with rustic charm. One of the key elements of this design aesthetic is the use of specific fabrics that evoke a sense of timeless beauty and countryside charm. Here are some fabrics that can help you achieve the perfect French country look in your home:
- Plantation fabrics: Fabrics with a plantation look, such as cotton or linen, are highly favored in French country style. These fabrics have a luxurious yet relaxed feel that is perfect for creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
- Fabulous colors: French country style often incorporates a variety of colors inspired by nature. From soft pastels to vibrant yellows and blues, these colors bring a touch of warmth and vibrancy to any room.
- Textures: Adding different textures to your French country decor can help create a layered and lived-in look. Consider using fabrics with textured weaves or those that have a slightly worn appearance.
- Softness: French country style is known for its gentle and rounded silhouettes. When choosing fabrics for upholstery or curtains, opt for soft and flowing materials that will enhance the overall femininity of the space.
- Stripes: Stripes are a classic French country pattern that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether it’s through upholstery, curtains, or throw pillows, incorporating stripes into your decor can add a touch of sophistication and timeless appeal.
- Ornate fabrics: To add more grandeur to your French country decor, consider using fabrics with ornate patterns and designs. Look for fabrics with delicate florals or intricate damask motifs.
- Neutral tones: While French country style embraces a wide range of colors, neutral tones play a significant role in creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. Opt for shades of beige, cream, and gray to add a sense of calmness and sophistication to your space.
- Subtle patterns: French country style is not about bold and loud patterns, but rather about incorporating subtle and delicate designs. Look for fabrics with subtle patterns that can add visual interest without overpowering the space.
There are many designers and brands that specialize in French country fabrics, such as Arbuthnott and Inchyra, which offer a wide range of fabrics that perfectly capture the essence of French country style. Whether you’re installing new curtains, upholstering furniture, or bringing in some decorative pillows, choosing fabrics that embody the French country aesthetic will help you create a beautifully timeless and inviting space.