French country style home decorating has become one of the most popular styles of interior design today. In this style of decorating, you will find the charm and natural rustic setting of old farmhouses and country homes. When you think about French country decorating, flower filled meadows and warm sunshine often come to mind. The look is appealing and natural, without too much fuss.
The colors often found in this style of decor are soft green, rust, golden yellow and shades of red. You might also find splashes of pink, blue or even lavender. French country design often coordinates fabric patterns and colors that might be considered “too much” or “busy” in other styles of decorating.
Furnishings
The furniture often found in this popular home decor style is natural looking with a rural quality. Dark woods with a matte finish are well-liked, as are pieces that have been painted white. Furnishings do not have to look perfect, and in fact a few natural nicks or slight wear lends to the appeal. You will often find that wrought iron and antiqued metals blend seamlessly and add to the charm.
With furniture pieces such as a sofa or loveseat, you can either choose to use floral fabrics and add solid throw pillows for accents, or employ solid fabrics with floral accents. Avoid using a floral sofa accented with floral throw pillows, as the look will be confusing. Even though you may use several colors, all should complement or contrast in an attractive way.
Accents and Accessories
No French country decor would be complete without flowers. Wildflowers placed in simple clear or white vases are a perfect touch, as are floral throw pillows and accent rugs. If at all possible, make sure to incorporate antique or rusty iron pieces in to the overall theme. Magazine racks and small tables made of wrought iron are a good addition. You can often find these at flea markets or garage sales.
Curtains can be sheer with a bit of frill or any fabric that adds a bit of a feminine touch. Avoid plain, heavy draperies that can add a masculine feel to the room.
Walls
Soft pastels are great for the walls, and you may even embellish them with stenciled French country motifs like sunflowers, fruits or roosters. Any wall hangings should continue the rural appeal, and pictures framed in antiqued wood or wrought iron make a wonderful focal point.
Chipped pitchers are also a perfect addition to your French country decor. Use an old ceramic pitcher that is cracked or chipped to hold herbs, sunflowers or other natural greenery from the back yard. The idea is to give your home a rural, comfortable effect.
One benefit that many people love about decorating their home in this style is that it is so affordable. Old furnishings, color, fabrics and French country motifs combine to create a look that is inviting and relaxed. No matter what type of decor you currently have in your home, you can transform it to give it the appealing atmosphere of a French country style farmhouse!
