French style home decor is all about bringing an “older” feel into a contemporary space. French style focuses on the quaint, charming essence of rustic living, with touches of nature and bright imagination. The “neckerchief” is a big part of French decorating, as it is a timeless classic that provides an antique look without the high price tag. French style decor ideas also place emphasis on the very basic, functional simplicity of old-fashioned country life. Drawing inspiration from the timeless, simple beauty of the old, traditional French countryside, and emphasizing individuality and simplicity, French style home decor ideas have grown in popularity over the years.
If you’re interested in renovating your existing home to take advantage of the unique charm and character of French style interior design, you’ll want to pay special attention to the flooring. Whether you choose a parquet, linoleum or tile, be sure to pay close attention to color and texture. Try to find products made from authentic materials (without any filler or resin) that will age to the French countryside’s unique rhythms. Floors in French country style are often textured with pebbles, tiles and cobblestone, while walls are often painted with earth tones or with muted floral designs.
One of the main attractions of French style interior design is the use of rustic handmade lampshades. As you browse through lampshades, you’ll notice that many are hand painted with flowers, landscapes or other decorating elements. There are even lampshades decorated with birds and wildlife. These lampshades are usually covered with lace and feathered embellishments, allowing you to layer the elements to create a layered look. In addition to using hand painted lampshades, you can purchase modern reproductions that feature hand painted patterns, beads and metal trim.
An important part of the French country style is the use of natural materials. A white and gold chandelier is a great way to accent your rustic French country rooms, while complimentary colors like burgundy and purple can add depth. You might choose to cover your walls with pictures of barn animals or other whimsical images. The flooring in the rustic living room can be made from stone or ceramic tiles, while fabric covered floors are another great idea.
If your French style interior design theme calls for natural elements, one big accessory you won’t want to miss is the French toile bedding collection. Although it is typically associated with France, toile was also used by royalty throughout Europe, as well as in Victorian England. Today it’s still popular, thanks in large part to its timeless elegance.
The decor in French homes tends to be colorful, warm and luxurious. In many cases it takes inspiration from the French countryside. In such homes, the architectural details are often unique, with ample use of lanterns and lamps, and French Country kitchen tables and chairs are particularly at the forefront. One of the most important elements in the French style interior design is the use of color; both in the accessories used around the home and in the colors that are used in the paint on the walls. Use warm pinks and purples for the furniture in your rooms, but tone them down with the use of cool blues, greens and whites.
Just as important as the paint on your walls is the lighting in your home. The fixtures you use for your lighting should be able to blend in seamlessly with your French furnishings. You can find louvered lighting that will work perfectly with your French country decor, or you can use regular light fixtures. A great idea is to place an antique globe on your countertop, which will serve as a focal point for any room in your home. French country enthusiasts will love to place their favorite French toile photos on lampshades and table lamps.
If you want to get a jump-start on your French home decor ideas, why not go online and check out some antique shops? Many antique shops carry furniture and bedding in the French style, which means you won’t have to go searching for these items yourself. Instead of spending hours shopping around stores, you’ll spend just a few minutes browsing through what antique shops have to offer. If you’re lucky, you may even find a rare piece that you can add to your own home.
