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French Country as a Style

There isn't much written on the French Country style, and so it seems that almost anything goes, as long as it is blue, yellow and white. I found that information to be of little help in explaining what makes a French Country style different from other 'country styles.'

Influences

The French Country style is influenced by a number of things. The first thing a Frenchman told me is 'if it isn't beautiful, it isn't French.' The French taste and culture has been heavily influenced by the Court of Louis XIV, the Rococco and Baroque styles. It also has allowed itself to be molded by the beauty of the countryside and its love for French heritage- as opposed to English royal heritage.

Curvature

Curves and well proportioned lines make up a great deal of what it means to be French Country. The tall, elongated styles of Art Nouveau are hinted at in the legs of pieces that are nearly Queen Anne, but not quite.

Old Wealth

Age and richness, with a well-worn and used look, from which the shabby chic got much of its inspiration from, is crucial to the French Country Decor. It is a sign of 'old wealth' or patrimony, which is the basis of the social situating in France.

Height

Very tall ceilings and tall French windows, bring a bright and breezy atmosphere to a home, and each furniture piece in the room must stand up to, and look beautiful in that light.

Architecturally Sensitive

Recently an interior decorator friend, in France, told me that the 'new movement' is to highlight the architecture of any room, including windows and doors, and to accentuate the height of the ceilings. She sees a preference for white in these features. Any furniture piece placed in the rooms must reflect and enhance the architectural surroundings it is in; those things aren't simply 'blanks' to show off what you put in your home.

Simplicity

Simplicity is key, a piece must stand by itself. The piece can be ornate and curvy, but it must not clash with the surroundings. It cannot be with other ornate pieces, unless there is no distraction.

Out In the Country

In French country homes, the lines are similar of every piece. Angled or curved table legs mean that the chairs must reflect that attractively. Strength and woodgrain are desirable features out in the country, and nothing, absolutely nothing, can look or be 'cheap.'