There is always something enchanting about French and old European style rooms. The trend is not new because, really, it is not a trend but a classic style that has modified itself over time. For the past few years, there has been a tendency toward it's very feminine incarnation, lots of ruffles, ornate cabinetry and muted lace. Lately, a cleaner more gender neutral version has come about by using sharper lines and adding industrial and rustic materials in varying shades of whites and neutrals. The old world style still holds its key ingredient of mixing many raw and organic textures and the purity of soft whites as if each piece tells its own story. I found these rooms as inspiration for my design board picks this week.
Both of these rooms have the perfect formula for combining the old world elements and modern lines. The danger is making a room like this cluttered or busy. Here are five key ingredients to successfully pulling off this look.
- Wire and Metal with Petina - Add utility items like baskets and wire accent tables. Lighting is less ornate. Stay with a simple shape that incorporates recycled or blown glass as opposed to crystal and fine wired metal instead of ornate ironwork. Hang multiple pendents in a linear group instead of a single centered chandelier.
- Weathered Wood - The wood farm table is the cornerstone of this look, whether in the form of a coffee table or long gathering table, the idea of entertaining and enjoying good company is what appeals most to lovers of French Country style. Rather than a high polished traditional finish choose a white washed stain or reclaimed wood construction.
- Wall Collections and Open Shelving - In each of the photos above the walls are decorated using collections of art or dishes. Subtle framing in washed woods or soft metals and ceramics in uniform patterns create beautiful displays in one cohesive unit. Open shelving with stacked displays of place settings and glassware give the room personality. Keep the dishes all white for contrast against the wood tone.
- Botanicals and Glass - Lovely botanicals and re-purposed glass are kept in groups of a single variety and repeated around the space. They are complimented by the addition of mercury glass, crockery or bell jars.
- White on White - The shabby chic feel of a old European inspired room is found in the upholstery. Slipcovers and layers of white on cream tones are the icing to these heavenly spaces. Don't be afraid to mix tone on tone patterns and textures in several hues of naturals and whites.
French country style gets its appeal through relaxed comfort and old world charm. Add your own family artifacts to tell your own story. The key is layers of simplicity with touches of elegance and history. Au Revoir, Mes Amies!
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