How to Decorate a French Provencial Room

Use the colors of the landscape of the rural provinces to set the tone of the room. Mix colors to provide visual impact, avoiding monochromatic themes. Cornflower blue, subtle sage green and ecru provide good examples, according to the website IsearchDecor.

Set out chairs and sofas that are upholstered in fine fabrics, with simple but elegant patterns. The tapestry and brocade of seating may be edged in delicately carved wood framing. Oak, fruitwood, walnut and mahogany were common wood choices. French Provincial furniture employed carved woods with simple patterns and fine finishing. Bedrooms should be dark-colored wood with some carved patterns, but not too intricate.

Place an armoire in the your French Provincial bedroom. The armoire features large in this style of decorating, as country homes had no closets for storage.

Hang formal draperies in the living room and bedroom. Fabrics should be high-quality but understated. Avoid highly ornate brocades or damasks. Allow draperies to hang naturally with simple tie-backs, and with no fussy swags.

Use simple country-style fabrics for windows in the kitchen and family room. Choose prints that are subtle and cheerful, not busy patterns.

Lay muted-tones area rugs with simple designs and good quality construction. Rug colors should pick up other tones found throughout the room

Add accessories that evoke French styling. Gilt mirrors, French prints, statues and landscape prints all provide the country feel, yet retain the elegant feel of court life. Use embroidered pillows and bed linens to add to the French country feel.

Choose simple but elegant light fixtures. Add candelabras in simple designs.