Ideas for a French Provincial Interior Design

Furniture

• Furniture of the French Provincial style was curved, carved and either finished to a dark stain or painted a light ivory and heavily varnished. Curved legs, curves on the backs of chairs, and curved fronts on chests are definite elements of this style. The crowns of armoires and mirrors were curved and carved with inlays of paintings or marquetry. Gilding was ever-present, and this is one of the elements of the period that can easily be transferred to today’s home. Mirrors, bedside tables, coffee tables and lamps are items that can be painted to replicate gilding, and wood-framed chairs with upholstered seats will better suit the style if painted ivory and slightly distressed.

Colors

• The palette of the style takes its colors from a garden in summer, but the bright colors are muted for use in the home. A typical interior color scheme starts with butter yellow, adding rose pink and leaf green for accents. Dark wood floors and soft colored walls complete the backdrop. Replicated Aubusson or Chinoiserie area rugs, both known for their floral patterns, are readily available now and are the rug of choice for this style.

Fabrics

• Fabrics of the period were often plain but of high quality; for example, silk, fine wools, delicate lace and fine tapestries (used as wall hangings). Fabric patterns of the French Provincial style were mostly floral. The process of printing patterns on fabric was invented during the reign of Louis XV and, while expensive, gave the gentry printed fabric for use in drapery and upholstery for the first time. In today’s version of this style, soft floral prints are used sparingly, as covers for detached seat cushions on occasional chairs or accent pillows on sofas. Man-made fiber alternatives to silk and wool are reasonably priced and much more serviceable for today's home.

Window Treatments

• Window coverings typical of the style are shutters, both inside and outside the window and painted white or off-white, and drapery functioning on wood rods with rings. Tie-backs hold the drapes open, and the leading edge is often embellished with tassel fringe or luxurious trim.

Accessories

• When bringing this style into the home, accessories will add impact and reinforce the theme. Tassels hung on door and drawer handles draw attention to the piece of furniture while adding a hint of luxury. Hand-painted flowers or birds on the front of furniture work well with the summer color scheme, and displays of fine porcelain vases on mantels or bookshelves are reminiscent of the "wealth on display" feel of the original era. Old, very ornate picture frames, repainted and gilded, are a wonderful way to add a bit of whimsy to this style.