French country design: 4 key elements to know

by Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D. 10/02/2022

French country design style is inspired by the elegant and idyllic lifestyle of the French countryside. This style creates a perfect balance between elegance and comfort by combining refined features with more practical, weathered aesthetics. If you're interested in this style and ideas for how to use it in your home, here are the basics:

Colors

The color palette used in French country design is inspired by the natural landscape. Therefore, you can expect plenty of neutrals like gray, beige and soft brown. You will also find low-saturated earthy hues like sage green, lavender, baby blue and pastel pink. While the goal of a French country design is to be elegant and soft, pops of color add a welcome dynamic to the space.

Toile print

One essential piece of the French country design style is Toile de Jouy. The term refers to a lightweight fabric featuring intricate pastoral motifs and imagery. They can include everything from floral designs to entire scenes depicting people, animals and idyllic farm life. You'll find toile print on accent pieces like throw pillows, but also in major elements like window drapes and bedding.

Weathered wood

It's essential to include some weathered elements with the elegant and delicate aspects of French country style. The most common examples are woods stained with various neutral washes and furnishings with a heavy patina. These textures create a more homey and comfortable aesthetic and will keep a French country space from becoming too formal.

Botanical imagery

Botanical details are crucial to French country design. Imagery depicting flowers and plants creates a connection to the outside landscape and adds detail to otherwise simple pieces. Hand and other ceramics are an excellent way to bring botanical imagery into your design. You can also use delicately embroidered accent pieces and botanical wall art.

About the Author
Author

Allan Wulff, MBA. Ph.D.

Hello and thank you for visiting! Selling or buying real estate is very serious business! I provide extraordinary results! Prior to real estate I was President/CEO of a number of area technology companies, Vice-Chairman of the INOVA Hospital Association and have been a long time member of the Association for Corporate Growth. With a broker’s training and experience, you get more than just a realtor agent. My negotiating skills and astute problem solving capabilities, honed by executive experience, have proved extremely effective for my clients in achieving their dreams and real estate goals in this current complex and fast paced market. As a long time Northern Virginia resident my experience will benefit you whether you are buying a home or selling a home or are a returning client checking out the many homeowner resources my associates and I offer. Buying a home? I look forward to helping you select the home of your dreams by taking time to listen to your needs and desires. Selling a home? My real estate expertise and many effective marketing programs will give you the exposure and edge you need to sell your home quickly for top dollar. Testimonials. I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve you and hope you take advantage of the valuable resources I provide. Come back to visit often! I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods in the area. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your real estate goals. Sincerely, Allan Wulff