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:
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.
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.
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 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.
Lana Harris is a Chicago native who is a second-generation real estate professional. She was introduced to real estate at a very young age while attending open houses with her mother who is a broker. She honed her skills assisting in property searches (back in the thick, Multiple Listing Service book days,) and using map reading skills to help plan property tour sequencing. Lana’s love of working with people and delivering strong customer service led her to the retail sector, where she developed her management skills at MC Sports, Ann Taylor, and Adidas. She and her husband moved to Utah in 2008 to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, and she began her real estate career here in 2015. Most recently, she was a VP of sales for a large team; she thrives on challenges and is determined to overcome obstacles to achieve results for her clients. Lana and her husband enjoy their three large dogs, skiing, camping and paddleboarding.
