If classic French decor is a little too formal for you, lighten it up with traditional French country decor. There are still enough of the regal touches--well-crafted furniture, artisan-made accessories, cherished antiques--to keep the look sophisticated, with a touch of Old World charm. However, there is a more inviting feeling with the country look, featuring comfortable furniture, eclectic juxtapositions and integration of nature and natural light.
Palette
The traditional French country palette begins with natural materials. Wooden beams, stone walls, tile countertops and unfinished or lightly stained wood are common. Walls may be pale, but they are rarely plain white. Creamy antique white, with a matte, distressed finish, would be more appropriate. Mustard yellow or cool gray are other possible neutrals for walls.
However, French country also features bold colors, typically on accent walls, textiles and accessories. Paint a wall cornflower blue and add a painted trim, using stencils, of fleur-de-lis. In the kitchen or dining area, add a splash of color with muted olive green or mustard yellow.
Faux finishes, hand-painted borders, vintage wallpaper and faded fabrics are other favorites in the French country palette. A quick coat of antique whitewash gives furniture, walls and accessories that appropriate vintage look.
Furniture and Textiles
Traditional French country-style furniture is often made of solid wood that has a lightly stained or painted and distressed finish. Look for classic design elements, such as a ladder-back chair, an armoire with scrolled details, a four-poster bed or a bistro-inspired set of chairs and table.
Textiles, cushions and upholstery often feature the classic French country images of vines, wildflowers, red roosters, fleur-de-lis, faded florals, stripes, paisley and toile, a type of design that features a repeated motif against a white or yellow background. The rustic farmhouse look is appropriate in a traditional French country interior, achieved with pieces such as a large wooden dining room table, bench seating or a solid round coffee table.
Accessories
Bring the garden indoors and you will achieve the fundamental look of traditional French country design. Hang plants near doorways and windows to create flow between your interior and your garden. Leave windows bare, or cover them partially with cafe-style curtains in translucent cotton fabric.
Invest in some beautiful pieces crafted in and inspired by the French countryside, such as hand-painted tile murals of flora and fauna or wooden garden art. Display wildflowers and leafy vines in buckets, bottles, pitchers, glasses and vases distributed throughout your home. Fill a painted ceramic plate with ripe grapes or an earthenware bowl with persimmons for a burst of natural color.
