Assembled from the countrysides of Provence, French country style can be found in the roomy farmhouses of the French peasants, tradesman, and shopkeepers. The no-nonsense approach to farm life is seen in its furniture. French Country design features large pieces with casual, often painted, finishes. The furniture is often distressed, with worn edges and surfaces, for a old, antiqued look. The imposing size and solid features of French Country pieces like kitchen tables, large armoires, and hutches means that that it needs to be accompanied with soft accents. This article will discuss some of the traditional ways to add French Country accents to your home.

Color

Color is important to achieving a French country look. One of French country’s most popular color combinations is blue and yellow. In addition, light amber browns, reds, pinks and rusts, and natural greens are also important. Cool grey or black pieces should be kept for smaller accents, with the exception of black or dark grey ironwork, which is a typical feature in French country kitchens, for example, in a baker’s rack. Be sure that whites, a favorite color used in both French country furniture and decor, are soft and creamy, not a harsh, stark or “cool”, blue-based white. This will make your look more authentic, as well as make the blending of different pieces easier.

Woven Items

Weaving helps to soften the heavy look of much of French country furniture. French country style has the ability to be sturdy and substantial without looking heavy, and weaving is one of the ways that balance is made possible. Weaving or caning can be found on the seats of kitchen or dining room chairs, while netting can be seen as a replacement for cabinet faces on hutch, armoire, or breakfront doors. Look for pieces with wire-mesh netting for style and visibility of collections and dishware you want to display. Woven accent pieces, such as baskets, are also great ways to soften the room.

Paint

Painted furniture in white (remember, soft or creamy whites) or light colors is another element of French country style. Furniture or wall paint colors can be chosen out of a magazine, at your local paint store, or even off of a favorite material, piece of upholstery etc. Most paint stores have color matching technology so that selecting and blending your rooms colors is a breeze. Be sure that you do not get a glossy or high sheen paint. Matte paint is preferred on furniture. The highest level of gloss advisable is eggshell.

Fabric

Printed fabrics can bring out the unique nature of French Country design. These fabrics can range materials that are printed with scenes of country farm life, to bird or farm animal prints, to the geometric flourishes and designs of Provence on patterned tablecloths with a deep jewel colors. Raw silk or even muslin fabrics are also used to drape pieces such as large armoires or heavily framed mirrors. This helps to soften the whole room and give it a light and airy feel,

Accenting beautiful and sturdy French Country furniture can bring out its unique style and grace even more, creating a home with a beautiful French country atmosphere.

Author Bio: Click here to learn more about French country furniture. Andrew Hallinan is the owner of Tampa Search Engine Optimization company, and is Tampa Bay’s leading Search Marketing Specialist.

Category: Home Management
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