French country design

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When thinking of French Country design one generally starts thinking of a large country farmhouse in the south of France, specifically, Provence. The French Country design reflects simplicity and typically used easily available materials such as straw, limestone, clay, and wood --- found in the local area.

It's the colors of Provence that are the central focus of French Country design. Soft lavender, Sunflower yellow, deep red, and bright orange, azure blue, white, ranging from pure white to slightly yellow and gentle greens. French Country is about life in Provence --- carefree, relaxed, and unhurried friendly.

loors are typical of the local French countryside. Clay tiles, in shades of pink, honey, or deep brown, are common. So are wooden parquet floors rubbed with white paint to achieve an aged look. Natural reed matting or Oriental, Turkish, or Indian rugs over wooden floors are other options.

French country walls may be lime-washed, timber-beamed, or roughly plastered. Capturing the feel of a country farmhouse. Wall colors are natural in shades of local clay and stone, from mustard to a red, dusty clay color. Wall Stencilling, maybe a wheat shaft or a fleur-de-lis design, is sometimes also used to add interest.

With lighting, think of large bright windows filling the room with natural sunlight. Table lamps should be unobtrusive.

Chandeliers and door hardware are typically rustic iron or distressed brass. Dream of life living on an old French country farm.

Furniture, handcrafted, reflects farmhouse living.. Wooden defines French country furniture style. Large buffets, chairs, tables, and storage boxes, since houses of that era had no closets, large armoires were popular for storing clothes. Furniture makers of the time used walnut and pine --- woods that were local, cheap and plentiful . One of the foremost centerpieces of a French Country kitchen is a large, sturdy, wooden, rectangular, dining table --- lots of space to eat. After all, the kitchen was and still is the hub of activity in a farmhouse, making this table just about the most important piece in the house.

Cotton and lace are the fabrics of French Country design; lace curtains, tablecloths, and pillowcases. Starched damasks and chintz are generally used for upholstery, and floral toile de jouy patterns for draperies. Colors are lavender, mustard, russet, deep cherry, and buff here too.

With accessories, keep it simple and useful for a French Country home. Back in the day, there wasn't much money left for extravagance. Colorful, painted, earthenware; shiny, copper pots; natural, reed baskets; sturdy, wooden wine racks; iron baker's racks are commonly used.

French Country design is great for a kitchen, bedroom, or dining room. Combine natural materials, colors, and simple lines.