How to Bring French-Country Design into your Home

Guest Blogger #667, Entry #1585, September 11, 2012

French Country is probably one of the most popular decorating choices due to its versatility and appeal of its refined yet cozy aesthetic. Who wouldn’t want to fill their homes with the feel of the French countryside? Think: the blues of the French Riviera, the rustic browns of time-worn wood, and opalescence of pearls; these all bring French Country style to mind. For ideas visit www.andsotobed.co.uk to view their French style furniture range or whether you live in the heart of the city or on a farm, here are some great tips to help you bring French country style into your home:

Create a French-Country interior in your home

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Gain design inspiration:

Due to the popularity of French Country style, there are numerous decorating magazines on the market that are solely devoted to helping you decorate your homes into everything French.  These magazines are a great source to begin your search for decorating ideas; browse through them and cut out photos of everything that appeals to you.

Visit flea markets and vintage shops:

Flea markets are the Mecca of French Country style. Look for old crystal chandeliers, old mirrors, French settees, crystal doorknobs, rustic wood pieces, and vintage fabrics in damask, floral and toile prints.

Leave wood naturally finished:

It can be so tempting to buy an old antique table or dresser and strip it down, refinish and repaint it – DON’T!  The key to a relaxed, French Country style is to keep that time-worn patina of chipped paint layers, or aged copper. So kick back, put your feet up, and don’t worry about your kids denting the wood – it is all part of the aged appeal of a relaxed French country style.

Slipcovered furniture can bring the French-Country look

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Use slipcovers:

Slip-covering is another great tip to achieve that relaxed yet cozy French style.  Search for old wing chairs at your local thrift store. As long as the body of the chair is in good shape, don’t worry about the fabric – you can slipcover it! The appeal of slipcovers is vast; they are easily washed and can be changed with the seasons or on a whim.

Overall, your best bet to achieving this refined yet casual style, is to go hunting in your local flea markets, thrift stores, fabric stores, and even yard sales. Amass a collection of your favorite rustic finds for an aged French Country home that has a little Joie de Vivre!

For more home decor ideas on Stagetecture, click here.