For most people, thoughts of the countryside in France and Provence conjures up images of sunshine and lavender fields. There are many elements which together form the decorative style of French countryside, however the overall appearance is always one of old world, rustic charm. This type of decorating style looks particularly great in country farmhouses, but can work in almost any environment. It can make the gloomiest of rooms into one filled with a warm and welcoming ambience.
When choosing the colours of the soft furnishings, walls and furniture, you have quite a few options that will fit in nicely with the French countryside style of decoration; from soft gold tones and sunny yellows, burnt rust and fiery reds, to bright greens and cobalt blues, you can use almost any warm colour within this style.
To make these beautiful tonal palettes stand out and look their best, try using dark wood furniture to accentuate the boldness of the soft furnishings or wall colours. Natural materials are an essential aspect of making this style of decorating come to life. Plastered walls with a whitewash finish, beamed wooden ceilings and roughly stained furniture will add to the simplicity and texture of this particular style. Stone floors are another option which, with a colourful rug thrown over them, will bring everything together.
One or two key pieces can transform a room; for instance wood baths for a truly rustic bathroom, or a beautiful stone fireplace with a heavy wooden mantelpiece would look spectacular in the kitchen or living room. Teamed with some ceramic or stone tiles and a clay hearth, your home will become a warm and welcoming place to be.
Bespoke or even vintage furniture pieces which have beautiful raw wood, carved decorative aspects and curved panels are an excellent addition to this style of home. Wood baths can be handmade and are a special piece that will last for years to come. Of course, an armoire is one piece of furniture that will most certainly add a charming French feel to any room it is in.
In terms of dining furniture, keep the stained finish matte or with a dull wax; a large round table with some hand carved detailing would be perfectly in keeping with the French countryside style. Chairs with some colourful cushions tied on will add to the look, but remember to keep them in the same tonal palette as the rest of the room.
Aside from stone flooring, there are a few other options available to create that rustic feel. Old wooden boards, brick or even clay can all work very well; the most important thing to keep in mind is the creation of a charming and old world atmosphere.
The most traditional interiors in the French countryside style have an abundance of contrasting, but complementary, colours and textures. For instance, white washed ceilings and plastered walls contrast beautifully with rough wooden rafters and printed fabrics with colourful images will set off the wooden furniture very well. When it comes to fabrics, stripes, checks and plaids look wonderfully rustic and play a key part in making a room appear welcoming and warm.