When we talk about French interior design, we refer to different stylistic trends that have developed over the centuries, each with its own unique charm.
French charm, which is in fact a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity, is synonymous with elegance, finesse and refinement.
The characteristics and trends for a chic French home decor are:
Discreet elegance
The French style is famous for an elegance that can be defined as sober, because it is manifested in the use of high-quality materials, but without ostentation. The design tends to be refined and sophisticated, but with a certain lightness.
The furniture is often elegant, but not too formal and maintains an air of chic simplicity.
Use of antique and vintage furniture
In France, there is a great tradition of antique furniture or vintage style. However, it is not limited to antiques pieces, since it includes furniture that imitate the traditional French design, such as those in style Louis XVI or Rococo.
Home decor in a simpler style, such as the one the French countryside (the Provencal style), is also considered.
Neutral and soft colours
The typical French home decoration favours delicate and natural colours, such as white, beige, light grey, taupe and blue.
These colours contribute to a warm, welcoming and luminous atmosphere, perfect for expressing the delicacy and elegance which characterise the French rooms.
High quality fabrics
Fabrics such as velvet, brocade and damask are another characteristic element of the French style furniture.
The curtains and upholstery of armchairs and sofas are often made with soft, refined fabrics, which create a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere.
Details and home accessories
Details are essential in the French interior design style. Chandeliers and forged iron lamps add a touch of luxury, while decorative mirrors with golden frames are another typical element.
Vintage or antique objects, such as wall clocks, ceramic vases and paintings, are home accessories that enrich the environment and make it more personal.
Provencal style
Another trend of French interior design styles is the Provencal style, which is characterized by a more rustic and relaxed atmosphere.
The light, washed or patinated wood furniture, as well as the floral or checkered fabrics, make the home environment fresh and relaxing, typical of the country houses of Provence.
A style that communicates warmth and hospitality, perfect for those looking for a more natural and simple interpretation of the so-called French charm.
A touch of nature
French style’s refinement is also expressed in the way the room is decorated with fresh flowers, potted plants and natural details like dried branches.
The inspiration is to create floral compositions that seem to be directly “picked” from the garden, evoking the atmosphere of a French country house.
Parisian style
The typical Parisian style is one of the most iconic and appreciated styles among the various modern interior design styles. It is a mix of sophistication, minimalism and a touch of irony, with particular attention to detail and with an air of “nonchalance” which characterizes the French capital.
This style of home decor does not follow trends, but it adapts and it reinvents itself continuously, making its versatility and ability to combine modern and vintage elements its strong point.
Wooden floors and tiles
Whether it is an elegant Parisian apartment, a house in the Provencal countryside or a more contemporary room, wooden floors are very common in all types of French houses, especially natural wood or wood with waxed finishes that enhance its beauty.
The wood effect tiles from Novoceram in the Abéa, Hirati and Oaka collections are ideal because they offer a clean and sophisticated design that can be easily combined with any type of furniture.
Alternatively, the decorated tiles of the Osmose series can be used both in the Provençal and Parisian styles, helping to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Finally, the marble effect tile from the Adage range can be chosen for floors and walls of a living room or a sumptuous rococo style bathroom.
