Alex O'Brien
Home & Garden

Get the look: French provincial interiors

Chic and cosy, French provincial-style interiors are a reflection of the homes in Provence in the South of France in the 17th and 18th century. Inspired by the landscape, sprawling farmhouse tables, stone floors and rough plastered walls, think a neutral colour palette combined with rustic finishes, ornate details, vintage pieces and a mix of wood, metal, wicker and rough, almost unfinished materials.

Today this style remains on-trend and will certainly make any space look light, airy and welcoming. These style tips will allow you to bring a touch of the look into your home in an elegant manner.

1. Feature an elegantly carved cabinet like this offering from IKEA (1), $698. You’d always find these in the kitchens and dining rooms in a French house during this period.

2. Adding hints of metallic, statement pendent lights and whites rather than creams can modernise the look. This candle (7) from Target, $8.40, is the perfect way to add a touch of the provincial look and offering a modern edge.

3. When choosing textiles, look out for traditional prints that take their cue from nature. Cottons or linen materials with a white and beige colour scheme work best. We love this cushion (4) by Linen House, $34.95. Lamps, like the linen shade (2) on this one from Fantastic Furniture, $25, are another way to introduce more texture to your interior.

4. For a modern look, mix vintage-feel pieces like this clock (3) from Target, $65, with modern furniture like this IKEA table and set of four chairs (5), $585. While the set has a French provincial feel it is not as detailed and thus adds a modern touch.

5. A great deal of the charm of the French provincial style is how inviting and personal it looks. Accessorise your home with rustic baskets, old copper pots, beautiful ceramics, wrought iron and fresh flowers. Tableware, like this gorgeous bowl (6) from IKEA, $3.99, is a great way to ensure your setting shows attention to detail.

 

Tags:
home, interior, French provincial