Text by Holly Seng
Relaxed yet also sophisticated, French style is loved for its delicate balance of ordinary and over the top. From its incorporation of natural textures and timeworn pieces to gilded accessories and gorgeous chandeliers, the aesthetic straddles the line between simple and elegant. Our French Cottage special issue is on newsstands, and to honor this beloved style, we’ve rounded up 11 of our favorite French-infused spaces. Peruse the looks below and draw inspiration for bringing a bit of French flair to your own home.
Brocante Beauty
Forgotten treasures and vintage finds fill this refurbished 18th-century farmhouse in France. Pieces of the past mingle with newer décor to bring a layered and storied design to this dining room.
Front and Center
Few things come close to the feeling of scoring a rare antique, and this octagonal French barometer is one of a kind. Give the piece the attention it deserves by styling it on its own or surrounding it with other treasures for an eye-catching vignette.
All in the Details
A tone-on-tone striped wallpaper provides a whisper-soft backdrop for this elegant bedroom. Dressed in vintage linens and ruffled pillows, the bed features an exquisite French antique headboard adorned with intricately carved embellishments.
Simply Stunning
Perhaps the most alluring aspect of French style is the effortless elegance it exudes. Limestone floors in a muted checkerboard pattern add depth to this entry hall, while a tapestry brings subtle color to walls painted a crisp white. Pair antique furnishings with contemporary accents to strike a balance between old and new.
Bucolic Charm
Iron chandeliers, Old-World cutting boards and canisters, and an antique farm table nod to the allure of the French countryside in this Alabama kitchen. Our favorite feature is the trio of rooster-back chairs at the island bar. Tour this home and see its many timeworn treasures.
Layers & Lighting
From the glimmer of crystal chandeliers to the gentle glow of a candlelit meal, lighting is key to setting the scene for a memorable gathering. In true French fashion, this setting highlights a cherished collection styled in an open cupboard. For entertaining tips and styling ideas, don’t miss our book pick from @frenchcountrycottage.
Make an Entrance
Vintage doors flank the opening between this bedroom and en suite bath where wood and woven accents envelop the light and airy space with touches of warmth.
Lovely Lavender
The fluttering fields of lavender that grace the French countryside inspire this setting swathed in subtle shades of purple, gray, and green. For a beautiful table that captures all the senses, tie napkins with ribbon, tucking in a sprig of lavender.
Linens & Looms
A pair of antique headboards and footboards, featuring a beautiful hand-stitched floral tapestry, find their home in this guest bedroom. Above the beds, antique lace handkerchiefs are hung as pieces of art.
Symmetrical Showcase
With white oak floors and an antique sculptor’s table that acts as an island, this kitchen is a stunning focal point in this Malibu, California, home. The design’s symmetry ensures the layout plays a supporting role to the featured antiques.
Backyard Bistro
The Dutch-door entry may welcome guests to this garden, but it’s the French café table and chairs that encourage them to linger. Pick up a copy of our French Cottage special issue to see more of this serene landscape.
