French Country Decorating -- How To Plan An Informal, Inviting French Country Family Room
French country decorating is informal and cozy, and the rural French family room is destined for recreation, family gatherings and long conversations near the fireplace. But you don't have to move to Provence to feel the French countryside. You can restructure it by using French country in your family room, and have a gathering place that feels comfortable, warm and inviting.
French country decorating is rustic, yet with an understated style. Color schemes tend to compliment and bring to mind the gardens and countryside, and space is utilized carefully to keep things cozy, but uncluttered. There is no one right way to use French country decor, but here are a few guidelines to get you started.
Furniture
Furniture in the French country family room appeals individuals to live in and get comfortable. Normally, there will be one large piece, like a gently worn armoire, complimented by smaller items such as a table and ladderback chair, storage trunk, or bookcases. Seating is casual, with traditional upholstered chairs mostly mixed with a comfortable, more contemporary sofa.
You may reconstruct this look by choosing a large, soft sofa in a warm color. You could cover an existing sofa with a plain slipcover, and drape quilts or throws overtop. Fill the sofa with cozy throw pillows which have French country decor motifs, like bumblebees or toile. Polished, stained or whitewashed wooden frame chairs, with complimentary fabrics, add additional seating. Add a rustic, low coffee table or an ottoman, and a slightly traditional cabinet, armoire or buffet.
Floors
Wall to wall carpeting is normally not observed in French country decorating. Floors are usually wood, stone or natural tile. A combination of old, new, patterned and plain rugs add warmth to the floors and facilitate to define the space. If you do want a large rug or carpet, choose one made from natural material like sisal or coir.
Accessories
Wrought iron chandeliers and lamps add rustic light. Old fashioned items, such as old trunks, may be used as decorative items or as side tables. A big, ornate mirror, hung opposite the window, will reflect the outdoor light into the room and make a feel of space. Antique garden tools, colorful earthenware pottery, candles, wooden roosters, sunflowers and books fill the shelves and add interest. French country decor evokes the things you would notice while strolling through Provence, so consider natural materials and outdoor designs.
Above all, French country decorating is rustic, warm and inviting, with relaxation and family comfort in mind. An assorted combination of old and new, attractive and simple, neutral and bright tones and natural textures all combine to create a family room that looks casually elegant and is the perfect backdrop to both curl up and read a book, and entertain family and friends. Have fun with it!
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