Inspired by the rolling French countryside, the French country guise is understated yet refined. It’s not hard to see why those with a sense of style from across the UK are mirroring the look with distressed furniture, layered fabrics and neutral colour palettes.  

This style appears welcoming in autumn and winter and fresh in spring and summer so it’s a look which can be amended all year round. Here’s how to introduce into your home.

Faded charm

Use fabrics in neutral colours such as whites, nudes and beige and team this with some warm coloured throws and cushions in winter. Opt for vintage wallpaper to create a feature wall, cornflower blues, warm reds and pastels all go well with off white or beige furniture. 
To create the perfect French country bedroom select linen pillowcases with hand crocheted edges or ruffles. Use stone and light wood rather than marble and mahogany, this style is all about letting the light in with items faded and worn.

Well worn

If you have a chunky dark piece of furniture, it’s easy to make it appear distressed. To prepare the wood, spray and clean with sugar soap then use Owatrol ESP, available from Brewers. Following this, select a Chalk Paint which is water-based and formulated specifically for painting furniture and floorboards. Allow two coats so you can shade. You’ll also require a layer of wood-finishing wax to allow the paint to absorb. Finally to create the ‘shabby chic’ look rub glass paper on the naturally softer areas, you’ll have a worn piece of furniture as a result.

Vintage rose

With your space now looking light and airy it’s time to bring in some pastels. Look for old vintage baskets, wrought iron shelves and distressed wine boxes then fill with fresh or fake roses in creams, dusky pinks or light mint. 

French script 

In terms of accessories, try adding a hint of French calligraphy to really put a stamp on the style. Subtle French script cushions or framed script or sheet music will complement the neutral tones. If you would prefer adding more texture, this calligraphy rug.from iLiv really makes a delicate French Country declaration. 

Home sweet home

French Country works well in kitchens and bathrooms too. Think roll-top pedestal bathtubs, elegant towels and off-white walls to create a luxury bathing setting. To mimic a French country kitchen, team light painted units with wooden worktops. The focus of the room should be a light worn or grainy dresser complete with ornate bronze or metallic handles. Try adding wire grille panels to give it a real live-in feel. Bon apetit!
To discover more about iLiv’s co-ordinating fabrics and wallcoverings, download our online brochure now.