French country decor kitchen: 27 Chic French Country Kitchens

27 Chic French Country Kitchens

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Get that je ne sais quoi just right.

By
Hadley Mendelsohn

May 11, 2022

Bjorn Wallander

Whether we’re talking about fashion, food, or interior design, French style is simply iconic. French country kitchens, in particular, make us feel some kind of way. With colors taken straight out of the Provençal landscape, rustic accents, and that general je ne sais quoi, French country kitchens boast effortless elegance. Plus, if you emulate their style in your own home, every day will feel like a vacation in the South of France. Well, maybe not quite, but it’s a close second. So take a mental vacation with these 27 French country–style kitchen tips.

Maura McEvoy

1 of 27

Plenty of Blooms

Fill the room with flowers and opt for antique, classic vases for a French-country look. This geometric floor design personalizes the long, narrow galley kitchen.

Emily Followill

2 of 27

Limewashed Cabinets

Custom limewashed poplar cabinetry and paneling, along with an imperial Danby marble backsplash, create an elegant atmosphere in the open kitchen cabinets in this eat-in kitchen designed by Jeffrey Dungan. The dining area brings in just enough contrast and looks contemporary while still channeling the French countryside.

Laura Resen

3 of 27

Retro-Inspired Appliances

Consider an on-trend yet timeless color combination for a bold kitchen statement. Retro-inspired appliances are great way to balance out the more modern elements and give it a French-countryside feel.

House Beautiful

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Whimsical Embellishments

This barrel-vaulted ceiling provides the perfect softly curved backdrop for the whimsical lavender and pale peach mural by Michael Duté in this French country kitchen designed by Erin Martin. The hood is also spruced up with an original Duté painting. The laidback materials and topiaries keep the sweet, romantic elements of the space grounded and welcoming (and very much channel Provence!).

Savage Gibson

5 of 27

Dainty Accents

Paint the floors a cheerful color, and then reflect it with accent pieces and linens throughout the space, like a skirted vanityty. We can smell the fresh croissants from here.

Simon Upton

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Island Substitute

Instead of an island, opt for a bonus surface space that can function as both a dining table and a prep counter. Wrought iron window frames (with matching pendants), metal grate cabinets, distressed paint, and wicker chairs all contribute to a French country feel.

Paul Raeside

7 of 27

Layers of Neutrals

In this kitchen by Michael Maher in a 1950s colonial revival, several neutral colors and materials are layered for subtle dimensions. Benjamin Moore’s Jute is used on the walls while Farrow & Ball’s Hardwick White is used on the cabinets and trims. The gilt-framed still life painting and chandelier bring a dressier sensibility.

PHOTO: Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

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Eclectic Seating

Mix and match your seating for an eclectic farmhouse feel, and bring in pops of color with antique cabinetry and tableware. The woven pendant lamp adds a coastal flair, too. When it comes to choosing a backsplash, classic white subway tiles will never let you down.

Julie Soefer

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Rustic Accents

Everything in this gorgeous kitchen designed by Nina Magon revolves around the existing cobblestone accent wall. Magon knew she wanted to give the kitchen a French Chaeteu vibe, which she accomplished with a Calcutta marble island, modern gunmetal Gabriel Scott pendants, and velvet cornflower blue stools. These glamorous pieces juxtapose with the French limestone floor tiles, scraggly stone walls, and exposed wood beams.

FRANCESCO LAGNESE

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Market Bags

The kitchen is also a side entrance to this farmhouse, so designer Tom Scheerer secured hooks to the walls with plenty of reusable bags for fresh farmer’s market produce. How French!

Mali Azima

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Dramatic Ceilings

Designer Melanie Turner painted the lower cabinets of the kitchen island Midnight Blue by Benjamin Moore to match the upholstered stools and bring a touch of color. A nailhead trim nods to the rivets on the hood, and pale gray natural stone complements the blue tones, which are warmed up by the gold accents.

FRANCESCO LAGNESE

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Colorful Tiles

Designer duo Thomas Jayne and William Cullem set out to give this kitchen a European country estate aesthetic. Dramatically high ceilings, whitewashed exposed beams, and custom mosaic tiles that gesture to the adjacent mint green room get the job done.

Bjorn Wallander

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Reclaimed and Found Objects

This kitchen is the perfect balance between formal and laidback, thanks to designer Annie Brahler’s skillful layering of antiques. The gilt antique mirror, chandelier, and decorative accents on the vintage demilune cabinets add some frill and pomp, while the reclaimed, distressed wood columns ground the room with an air of history and resilience.

Bjorn Wallender

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A Regal Range

French country can be formal, too: It’s all in the range. The floating kitchen island is a great place to work and also offers extra storage space.

Catherine Kwong Design

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High Ceilings

This French-country-inspired (hello, wrought-iron pendant) California kitchen feels like the perfect balance between classic, cozy, and refined. A light blue hue brings in color without overwhelming the senses.

Paige Rumore

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Slipcovered Seats

The plaster walled kitchen in Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akinses’ Nashville retreat is what designer April Tomlin calls the “hub of the home.” Family members gather around the double islands and get cozy on slipcovered counter stools. Antique light fixtures give it a French country flair. And if you’d rather keep the ceiling space clear but still want in on the hanging cookware trend, take note of this approach and hang them lower in front of the windows instead.

PHOTO: Tessa Neustadt; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

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Rustic Bones

If you don’t want to call the contractor to customize an island in the kitchen, bring in a long wood table that can double as a dining surface. Opt for open shelves for a casual look (and easy access to cookware) that really puts the spotlight on the rustic bones of your kitchen.

Annie Schlechter

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Grand Overtures

A long hanging pendant accentuates the high ceilings and plays on the fancy feel of this kitchen space, yet the farmhouse-style sink keeps it approachable.

William Abranowicz

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Exposed Beams

Just beyond the island is a grand dining area enhanced by exposed beams. The long pendants accentuate the high ceilings, giving it an air that’s equal parts formal and approachable.

Douglas Friedman

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Display Cabinets

Designer and architect Garrow Kedigian gave this NYC apartment kitchen a French country spin with display cabinets stacked with classic china, hanging copper cookware galore, and a cobalt La Cornue stove. And, though you can’t see them here, he also tucked two matching blue stools from the Paris Flea under the island.

PHOTO: Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

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Large Pendants

Here’s a more modern take on the French-country kitchen look. Though it’s contemporary and updated, the accents, like the gilt antique frame and simple greenery, introduce quintessential French-country character.

Paul Raeside

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Antiques

It’s all in the details. Crisp white paint pops against the exposed, aged brick wall. Even the cookware in this nook is perfectly French, as is that framed still life.

Jean Liu Design

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Candelabra Lighting

Balance modern living with classic French country style by installing new appliances and settling on an efficient and simple layout, but then add some rustic-meets-dainty details, like an antique candelabra chandelier. This kitchen by Jean Liu is the perfect case study.

Laure Joliet

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Exposed Beams

This kitchen by Reath Design leaves the bare bones (exposed beams, brick walls, and terracotta tiles) as-is but adds brassy accents, regal linens, and a gray marble sink with beautiful veining.

PHOTO: Tessa Neustadt; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

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Casual Undertones

Keep things casual in your French-country-inspired kitchen. Though there’s plenty of order in this space, it looks super low-maintenance and comfortable. The eclectic chairs in this eat-in kitchen introduce a touch of modern style.

PHOTO: Alexandra Ribar; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Interiors

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Copper Pots And Pans

White painted bricks and stone tile floors are a great starting point for a French-country kitchen. Add wrought-iron hardware and hang copper pots and pans from it to finish things off.

Werner Straube

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Labeled Jars and Crates

Labeled jars and an approachable color scheme accented by polished materials give this contemporary kitchen by Corey Damen Jenkins just a touch of French country–style pizzazz. Use vintage containers or label your own found items, like crates, for a similar look and streamlined storage.

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Hadley Mendelsohn
Senior Editor
Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful’s senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.

28 Chic and Timeless French Country Style Kitchens

Kristin Hohenadel

Kristin Hohenadel is an interior design expert who has covered architecture, interiors, and decor trends for publications including the New York Times, Interior Design, Lonny, and the American and international editions of Elle Decor. She resides in Paris, France, and has traveled to over 30 countries, giving her a global perspective on home design.

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Updated on 08/12/22

Becca Interiors

The decorating aesthetic known in the English-speaking world as French country style is an homage to the charms of the French countryside. While it may be hard to replicate the beauty of the surrounding landscape or the aged patina of a Provençal farmhouse, a rustic thatched cottage in Normandy, or a provincial chateau, architects, interior designers, and home decorators around the world have long sought to transport a bit of the charm and elegance of the French countryside to their own backyards.

The resulting mashup known as French country decor emphasizes an easy take on rustic but refined aesthetics and natural materials, and an embrace of timeless everyday objects. Much of what we think of as traditional or farmhouse style interiors that are so ubiquitous today have roots in French country aesthetics, which can add character to a modern interior, easily translating to any room in the house from the living room to the bedroom or bathroom.

Adding some French country-inspired decor to your own kitchen can help you to add a sense of history, timelessness, and simple beauty to your home, no matter where you live. Check out these interiors that demonstrate how to borrow a bit of French style to make your own kitchen design into the warm, charming, effortlessly chic gathering space it was meant to be.

01
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Use Gilded Finishes

Design by Mindy Laven Home

This French farmhouse-inspired kitchen from Mindy Laven Home is decorated with elegant details like lantern-style pendant lights and scattered paintings with gilded frames on the walls that contrast with the wood beams, cabinetry, and flooring.
02
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Add a Statement Oven Hood

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

This kitchen from Marie Flanigan Interiors has pale neutral tones, natural wood floors, and a monumental oven hood with classical curves that lends the space a French country-inspired vibe.
03
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Collect Copper Cookware

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Alexandra Ribar

This all-white kitchen from Leanne Ford Interiors has a black metal pot mounted to a painted brick wall that houses a collection of copper pots that are as pretty and shiny as they are useful, and will be the last pieces of cookware you will ever have to buy if cared for properly.
04
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Opt for a Butcher’s Block

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

This kitchen from Marie Flanigan Interiors gets some French country street cred thanks to a French-style butcher block placed in the center of the room in lieu of an American-style kitchen island.
05
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Highlight Ceiling Beams

Design by Anne Rae Design / Photo by Jenny Siegwart

The vaulted ceilings in this spacious California kitchen from Anne Rae Design are highlighted by dark stained wood beams that add definition and a refined take on rustic style that adds character to the large, airy space.
06
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Swap the Island for a Farmhouse Table

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Amy Neunsinger

An easy way to add a French country sensibility to your kitchen is to skip the kitchen island and install a farmhouse table instead. This 1920s Los Angeles hunting cabin from Leanne Ford Interiors has a laid back and unpretentious air, channeling French farmhouse spirit with a rustic medium-toned wood table surrounded by simple white chairs.
07
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Decorate with Vintage Tools

Design by Anne Rae Design / Photo by Jenny Siegwart

Decorating your kitchen with utilitarian accessories like vintage or antique wood cutting boards and metal cooking utensils and molds is a simple way to add a sense of history and create a layered feel in a modern kitchen, like this space from Anne Rae Design.
08
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Incorporate Patterned Tile

Design by Charlie Coull Design

Adding pretty patterned tile in soft shades of blue, bentwood bar stools, and vintage-style pendant lights adds a little bit of French country flair to this kitchen from Charlie Coull Design.
09
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Prioritize Natural Materials

Design by Anne Rae Design / Photo by Jenny Siegwart

This kitchen from Anne Rae Design highlights natural materials like wood and stone, with a rustic oven surround and wooden bar stools that add French country finesse.
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Use Mismatched Cabinets

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Alexandra Ribarï»¿

This kitchen from Leanne Ford Interiors channels French country spirit with its mismatched storage pieces including open wood and metal bracket shelving and stacked vintage cupboards with an aged painted patina that add interest and character while providing a place to store supplies and add clutter.
11
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Use Checkboard Flooring

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

This family style kitchen from Marie Flanigan Interiors has checkerboard flooring with an aged patina that looks like it wasn’t installed yesterday, adding an aged patina to a new kitchen.

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12
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Highlight Original Features

Design by Jessica Nelson Interior Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography

You might not live in a French country farmhouse, but embracing original features in your home is one way to channel some timeless Gallic charm no matter where you live. In this kitchen renovation, Jessica Nelson Interior Design turned a dark kitchen into an open and airy space, exposing the original brick chimney that adds character to the kitchen and the dining room on the other side of the wall.
13
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Keep It Rustic

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

Chunky wood ceiling beams, a stone-topped wood island, and a row of copper pots hung above the kitchen sink window add rustic charm to this kitchen from Marie Flanigan Interiors.
14
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Bring on the Bistro Bar Stools

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

A pair of classic French bistro bar stools sitting side-by-side at the end of a peninsula creates a cozy seating area in this kitchen from Marie Flanigan Interiors.
15
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Use Industrial Light Fixtures

Design by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Keyanna Bowen

Simple industrial-style pendants, a framed painting leaning casually against the backsplash, and an oversized vase filled with flowering branches adds some refined rustic charm to this timeless modern kitchen designed by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design.
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Add a Bistro Table

Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors / Photo by Julie Soefer

This kitchen corner banquette from Marie Flanigan Interiors introduces some classic French style into a modern American kitchen thanks to a marble and iron bistro table and some industrial French metal Tolix-style chairs.
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Use a Wooden Island

Design by Jessica Nelson Interior Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography

In this kitchen from Jessica Nelson Interior Design, a French-style wooden two-tiered work table with turned legs adds charm to the space while retaining the function of a modern kitchen island.
18
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Change the Conversation

Design by Jessica Nelson Interior Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography

This white, modern American kitchen from Jessica Nelson Interior Design serves as a neutral background that allows French-style details like cross-back wooden bar stools and a crystal chandelier to take center stage.
19
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Layer in Some Natural Elements

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Alexandra Ribar

In this kitchen from Leanne Ford Interiors, dark wood open shelving and vintage-style metal brackets provide a space to house everyday items, decorative objects, and flowers that bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Add some lavender and you can pretend that you picked it from the field outside your window in the South of France.
20
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Mix Old and New

Design by Jessica Nelson Interior Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki Photography

In this kitchen from Jessica Nelson Interior Design, original brick walls, an antique-style chandelier, and vintage-style French country bar stools add character to the all-white kitchen with its modern cabinetry and finishes.

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21
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Use Rustic Baskets

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Max Kim-bee

Leanne Ford Interiors added some French country flair to a Pittsburgh home with rustic hardwood floors and a row of woven baskets on the lower shelf of the kitchen island that add storage and texture to the room.
22
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Try Herringbone Wood Floors

Design by Kate Marker Interiors / Photo by Margaret Rajic

Rustic wood herringbone floors, white-washed brick walls, and a wood-based kitchen island are some of the details that preserve a sense of authenticity in this historic home renovation from Kate Marker Interiors.
23
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Hang a Curtain Under the Sink

Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Reid Rolls

In this country cottage from Leanne Ford Interiors, a curtain casually hung beneath the vintage farmhouse sink hides clutter while adding an old world sense of charm and ease.
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Use Brick Flooring

We Are True Home

We Are True Home chose a thin brick floor tile that lends a new kitchen an old world European-style feel.
25
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Texturize the Walls

Lobster and Swan

While it’s impossible to recreate the centuries-old patina of an old French farmhouse, you can help to create a time-worn feel by forgoing crisp white walls and adding texture to the wall using layers of chalk paint and wax or another perfectly imperfect finish like this homey kitchen from Lobster and Swan.
26
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Install a French Range

Design by Basic Projects / Photo by Kate Towill

Basic Projects turned a dark and cluttered kitchen in Charleston, South Carolina into a clean and classic oasis that mixes old and new. The designers replaced wood tops with marble, added a farm sink, and installed a classic Lacanche range in dark green that brings the classic Made in France vibes.
27
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Mix Styles

Design by Brexton Cole Interiors

This bright white kitchen from Brexton Cole Interiors has French touches like a farmhouse table with a matching bench and a midcentury modern chair on the end and French rattan bar stools that reflect the mix of styles and periods that embody the French country aesthetic.
28
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Embrace Imperfection

Lobster and Swan

This rustic kitchen from the UK’s Lobster and Swan would look just as at home in the French countryside, with its mix of simple, natural materials, open shelving, mismatched tableware, simple industrial lighting, bentwood chairs, and lightly rumpled linen curtains that have an effortlessly chic appeal.

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(Image credit: Rupert Bevan/Devol/Jo Henderson)

French country kitchen ideas are characterised by their classic appearance while still being able to embrace new trends and tastes. Its versatility and enduring elegance makes it unique among all the other kitchen ideas and styles out there.

A huge farmhouse table for gathering around, an armoire for housing china and glassware, open shelves displaying stoneware and canisters in neat rows, and shining copper pans hung above a stove are all quintessential elements of the look.

‘A typical French country kitchen is rustic but always chic. Using a mixture of organic materials, old and new furniture and exposed stone, creates a convivial and warm feeling. A perfect place for preparing typical French cuisine,’ says Tom Howley, design director at Tom Howley .

French country kitchen ideas

The ethos of French country design is not too dissimilar from English country kitchen ideas. Channelling soft styling and practical elements mixed with organic materials like wood and stone, the country kitchen is a space designed for you to spend time with your family, enjoying good food and company. The French flair is seen in a more muted palette with a rustic edge, accentuated by French vintage finds and antiques.

‘To create a French country feel in a kitchen, we would typically use a color palette made up of easy whites punctuated with gentle pastels. Rustic elements like rough plastered walls, wooden furniture and wooden floors boards also feature heavily, often arranged in a way that feels like it has evolved over time,’ says Louise Wicksteed, design director for Sims Hilditch interior design.

1. Add color and character with a patchwork of tiles

Photography/David Cleveland

(Image credit: Future)

Add a backsplash of colorful rustic tiles at the back of the stove or behind the sink to bring color and naive charm to the space. There are plenty of backsplash ideas for kitchens that would be perfectly suited to French country kitchen ideas.

‘French country kitchens often feature large sinks with beautiful traditional taps and encaustic tiles that add a wonderful element of color and pattern,’ says Tom Howley.

Even in neutral kitchen ideas, colour still plays a significant role in bringing character to the space. Here, an otherwise utilitarian kitchen has been brought to life with an artistic tiled backsplash. Curated from an array of hand painted tiles in a warming green and cream colour palette. Search out designs with a hand-cut and hand-painted look for an artisan feel that enhances the rural-style setting, and accessorise with chunky chopping boards and fresh herbs tied in bunches.

2. Make a feature of a wooden kitchen island

(Image credit: Rupert Bevan)

An island dominates a kitchen’s design, and therefore it must work hard to earn its generous footprint. When designing a kitchen island also think about kitchen island seating ideas and kitchen storage ideas to maximize its usefulness.

This wooden island, expertly crafted by Rupert Bevan , makes a feature of the wood’s caramel tones and is paired with a generous marble worktop for a touch of luxury. A marble divider keeps the integrated appliances from view. Behind, rows of blue and white plates and hand painted delft tiles add provencal flair.

3. Celebrate the architecture of your home

(Image credit: Dan Duchars)

If you are lucky enough to have stone walls and wooden beams in your kitchen, be sure to celebrate them. Leave stone walls exposed to provide a character backdrop to cabinetry and open-shelving. Pair with practical and decorative elements collected at vintage fairs and brocantes to add flair to your French country kitchen ideas.

4. Choose a reclaimed dining table for heritage flair

(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)

The table is a centerpiece of French country kitchen ideas so ensure it is not overlooked. A workhorse used for everything from prep to serving and dining, it should be a sturdy piece that is able to withstand everything you could possibly throw at it. Opt for a reclaimed design, rich in heritage and personality and pair with rattan backed chairs for added country charm.

5. Curate a display on open-shelving

(Image credit: Design by Leanne Ford Interiors Photography Alexandra Ribar )

Open shelving is a great way to combine storage and décor and there are lots of kitchen shelving ideas from which to choose. However, the balance between laid-back and cluttered can be hard to achieve. Be careful not to overwhelm your shelves. Start with a few pieces that you want to store; this might be a sugar bowl, some dishes or a chopping board. Then add pieces that bring colour and texture to the look. Finally finish with a bouquet of forage wildflowers, artfully displayed in repurposed vessels. If you have room, consider backing the display with a freestanding mirror to accentuate the sense of space and depth, as seen in this kitchen designed by Leanne Ford Interiors .

(Image credit: Devol)

The stove is a vital piece in every kitchen, not only is it essential for cooking but it also makes a prominent mark on your interior design. In French country kitchen ideas, French design is a must, especially when it comes to range cookers. Lacanche have been making their signature pieces for nearly two centuries, combining technological expertise with chic design. This eye-catching chrome range cooker is the hero of this kitchen designed by Devol , and sings against the navy tongue and groove panelling and matching cabinetry. A hanging display of copper pans completes the country style.

(Image credit: Divine Savages)

If you want to make a bold statement in your kitchen, but still want to honour the French country style, then let your design decisions be guided by nature. Wallpaper ideas are a great way to add color and pattern to an otherwise neutral space, and, so long as it is paired with hard wearing backsplash ideas for kitchens can be a great addition.

‘Combining this flora and fauna inspired wallpaper with naturally weathered oak counter stools and reclaimed parquet flooring creates a real country feel to this light and airy kitchen. The country aesthetic is further enhanced by the use of a subtle sage paint on the traditional cabinetry.’ says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of Divine Savages. ‘Our beloved Crane Fonda wallpaper features the elegantly fabulous Grey Crowned Crane strolling amongst lush palm trees reminiscent of the French Riviera.’

There are plenty of kitchen wallpaper ideas that are guaranteed to bring color and interest into your French country kitchen ideas.

8. Hide away modern details in antique furniture

(Image credit: The Refined Group/Werner Segarra)

Embracing traditional kitchen ideas doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your modern luxuries. In this kitchen designed by The Refined Group, a French-inspired Armoire strikes a classical silhouette against the back wall of this kitchen-diner. However, all is not what it seems as its vintage façade hides a television, wine fridge and bar storage, helping to maintain the French aesthetic.

9. Integrated antique-style brassware for added warmth

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

Adding warmth to the scheme, antique-style brassware brings with it a heritage charm that is perfect for a French-style country kitchen interior. Paired with wooden worktops and a white ceramic sink it sings in the sunlight.

10. Opt for delicate window dressings for a country look

(Image credit: Dan Duchars)

It can be hard to dress a kitchen window, even with so many window treatment ideas from which to choose . Unlike other rooms of the home where privacy is a key, in a kitchen, durability and decor are more prominent factors. For a classic French look neutral linens are a popular choice. Yet on the other hand, blinds offer a canvas onto which you can inject character and personality, perfect for a country scheme.

11. Lay herringbone wooden flooring for an elegant backdrop to your scheme

(Image credit: Our Food Stories/deVOL)

When deciding on the right kitchen flooring ideas for your French country kitchen, think rustic and characterful, opting for natural materials. Warm wood kitchen flooring creates the perfect backdrop to a French country kitchen design. Laid in a herringbone pattern, it works to visually elongate the space while adding texture and contrast to the scheme.

12. Focus on the color scheme

(Image credit: Case Design/Remodeling)

While there’s always an exception to the rule, French country kitchens ideas and palettes tend to be focus on paler tones.

‘The space between traditional and elegant is where most French country kitchens fall,’ says Larry Greene, president of Case Design/Remodeling in Indianapolis. ‘You have free reign to use lots of bright whites and weathered neutrals – these colors will complement any rustic stone accent or warmly toned farmhouse-style cabinet that you choose.’

Another traditional combination to tune into is blue and white. ‘This can look particularly beautiful as a patterned, country-inspired backsplash – as in the above Cape Cod kitchen. It’s also commonly used as color inspiration for kitchen islands and the surrounding cabinets.’

13. Bring on baroque styling

(Image credit: Kellie Burke interior design)

For a look that’s more manoir than rustic, it pays to pile on the decorative details.

‘French country kitchen ideas can create a warm, inviting space. It’s an instantly historical reference that imbues a European casual, textural experience with rustic baroque carved embellishments,’ explains Kellie Burke , an award-winning designer based in Connecticut.

‘Typically, think of walnut, cloaked in thick chunky layered paint, done in multi-tonal, highly distressed, neutral pallet. Habersham Home is my go-to expert in this layered historical luxe cabinetry.’

14. Layer your look

(Image credit: The French Design Formula)

The most instinctive, creative interiors never look off-the-peg; there’s a sense that the style has evolved over years.

‘French country kitchens ideas have a formula for livability, offering a layered look that ages well,’ explains Denver-based interior designer, Jaqueline Chavanu of The French Design Formula . ‘Upon entering a French country kitchen, you instantly feel at home, with comforts that are both relaxed and refined.

‘Elements include light oak wood matte finished flooring or limestone floors, which create a timeworn look.’

15. Turn up traditional touches on cabinetry

(Image credit: Case Design/Remodeling)

The French country kitchen look references period styles for some of its classical, decorative details.

‘‘French country cabinetry takes more inspiration from traditional furniture than the sleek and minimal cabinets you might find in a modern-styled kitchen,’ says Larry Greene, President of Case Design/Remodeling in Indianapolis.

‘Most traditional French country kitchen ideas include detailed range hoods or crown molding, while the modern version prefers accents that are just as functional as they are eye-catching.’

16. Add a refined touch

(Image credit: Sarah Barnard)

‘French country kitchens ideas are at once casual and refined. The timeless elegance, muted color palette and functionality of a French country kitchen make this style a client favorite,’ says New York interior designer, Phillip Thomas .

‘I always like to say that good design is in the mix – that push and pull – whether it be high mixed with low, or traditional mixed with modern. A French country kitchen is just that. Textures mixed with shiny elements, muted creams and cornflower blue mixed with rich reds or yellows, natural or white-washed wood tones with marble countertops, elegant but not fussy.’

17. Take a tip from chic cafés

(Image credit: Case Design/Remodeling)

‘French scroll light fixtures, cafe-style chairs at the countertops, and decor with an antique appearance can all give you the French country style that you want,’ says Indianapolis-based interiors expert, Larry Greene of Case Design/Remodeling.

‘Don’t shy away from wrought iron or copper, either – they’ll add French country flair to your kitchen and give you permission to go antique shopping and go bold with drawer pulls, faucets and the range hood. Make sure, whichever finish you do choose, that it doesn’t overwhelm the rest of the design. ’

18. Mix your finishes

(Image credit: Kellie Burke interior design)

French country kitchen ideas are a chic amalgam of high-end design, complemented by raw and rustic finishes. This kitchen by interior designer Kellie Burke, for example, places ornate cabinetry within a barn-style setting.

Heavy beams are offset by a scrolled island. A lime-washed finish on the kitchen is contrasted with the faded paint on the ceiling. And antique statues are set against sleek appliances and smart fabrics.

It’s an approach common in country decorating ideas, given an extra touch of French flair.

19. Make the stove the star

(Image credit: The French Design Formula)

A gleaming range cooker is the Chanel handbag of the French country kitchen – a timeless, statement piece that elevates any look. Indeed, it’s a staple of country kitchen ideas in the US, too.

‘A range that is the centerpiece of the kitchen,’ agrees Jaqueline Chavanu of The French Design Formula. ‘Alongside this, there should be lots of prep space to cook, with honed marble, quartz, or reclaimed wood countertops.

Decorative elements complete the look. ‘I look for “treasure” finds, such as antique ironstone dishes, copper pots, antique china and artwork,’ says Jaqueline.

20. Take your French country kitchen outside

(Image credit: Adrian Briscoe/Future)

‘French provincial style has been on our radar for quite some time now, says Texas-based interiors expert,’ Stefan Bucur, from Rhythm of the Home . ‘There are some fundamental features that all French country kitchen ideas share, whether we’re talking about original rural buildings in France or revival versions in the United States.

‘Traditional French country kitchen designs include arched windows, warm color schemes and patterned designs, while the typical materials used for the facades of the homes are brick or stone. Those characteristics give French country kitchen ideas a feeling of texture both indoors and outdoors.

‘Whether we’re talking about an independent outdoors summer kitchen that was built for the purpose of enjoying nature – another strong element of the French country style – or the main kitchen of the home, the style balances traditional and some rustic elements with a good dose of sophistication to make the design feel more elegant. Because there is such a strong focus on texture the colors are usually chosen carefully to be harmonious with the natural surroundings.’

21. Look to nature

(Image credit: Sarah Barnard)

It’s time to go au naturel when you’re considering your French country kitchen ideas.

‘Warmer colors rooted in nature work best for painted cabinetry,’ explains Sarah Barnard , an LA-based interior designer who has created numerous French-style kitchens. ‘For darker palettes, I prefer deep earthy tones of green or warm mushroom grays – colors you may find on a forest floor during a quiet walk. For lighter tones, milky whites and shades of dove feel bright and familiar and can soften the space. ’

Sarah has an interesting take on a key kitchen feature.

‘Because range hoods are often so decorative and focal in a French country-style kitchen, I like to think of them similarly to statement jewelry. They should be beautiful and exciting in their own right, but they should also speak to other elements of the space and help bring the kitchen to life.’

Antique or patinated metals work well, either as a complete hood or as accent detailing. ‘Similarly, decorative stone and wood can be an attractive option, though I suggest avoiding anything overly ornate or austere – there should still be an approachable quality,’ Sarah says.

22. Go Gallic in a butler’s pantry

(Image credit: The Refined Group)

This gorgeous monochrome butler’s pantry exudes French charm. Taking chic white cabinetry as the starting point, the scheme features matt black café-style glass racks and a complementary pendant light.

Gleaming silverware and fresh roses upgrade this simple galley into the epitome of Gallic style.

23. Use stone as a splashback

(Image credit: Kasha Paris)

This stunning kitchen by Parisian design duo Alon & Betsy Kasha of Kasha Paris harnesses the original stone of this period property to create a simple rustic look.

Keeping the decor in similar tones creates a serene setting that blends contemporary style with rustic authenticity.

24. Repurpose Champagne baskets for storage

(Image credit: The Refined Group)

‘We use traditional French baskets in our schemes to create scale and height,’ explains Phoenix-based interior designer, Dana Lyon, principal designer of The Refined Group . Placing them on the top of cabinets draws the eye upwards, emphasising a high ceiling while also adding natural texture that brings refined rusticism to the scheme.

25. Decorate with plates

(Image credit: Kasha Paris)

Don’t restrict your love affair with French cuisine – or rather, crockery – to the table. Ceramics picked up from yard sales, markets and brocantes bring a delightfully informal style to your French country kitchen ideas as well as bringing polka dots of bright color to a white decorating scheme.

26. Create a freestanding feel

(Image credit: The Refined Group)

‘Integrating antique piece as cabinetry provides a sophisticated country look,’ says Dana Lyon from The Refined Group, which created this kitchen scheme.

Here, fabric panels inside the glazed cabinets shield the contents from view, simplifying any visual ‘clutter’. Taken with basketry and brick flooring, the look successfully melds refinement with authentic French country style.

27. Inject a touch of Provencal blue

(Image credit: Kasha Paris)

The color associated with the Mediterranean and the South of France brings a classic Provencal look to a country kitchen. Keep the look light by using this strong blue as an accent color in tile and accessories, or go bold and paint cabinets in the shade.

28. Aim for a chic country look

(Image credit: Rebecca McAlpin Photography/Glenna Stone Interior Design )

‘French country is an elevated, elegant style with perfectly aged woods, curved silhouettes, and soft colors,’ says Glenna Stone from Philadelphia decorators, Glenna Stone Interior Design .

‘Like so much of French style, it walks the line of effortlessness without tipping into messiness. It’s the home design equivalent of a beautifully tailored coat paired with a scarf that’s undone just enough to be chic but not sloppy.’

When you’re translating this look to your own French country kitchen ideas, think about pairing rustic timber beams and painted wooden cabinets, with chic marble or quartz countertops.

‘We designed this stunning kitchen with exposed beams, leathered quartzite countertops veined with blue, and a hand-cut glass mosaic tile backsplash that incorporates blues, grays, and hints of white,’ says Fuscia.

29. Consider a limestone hood

(Image credit: The Refined Group)

Setting a range cooker within a chimney breast is a classic touch when you’re establishing your French country kitchen ideas. But you can elevate the look further with your choice of material.

‘We like to use antique limestone fireplaces as the hood surround as it adds an authenticity and an architectural element,’ shares The Refined Group ‘s Dana Lyon.

30. Add glamor with marble

(Image credit: Kasha Paris)

In a smaller French country kitchen, refined surfaces elevate the space – think marble backsplash, polished wood flooring and a smart but neatly sized range cooker. This design by interior design firm Kasha Paris puts all the elements in place for a chic but compact space.

31. Include copper accents

(Image credit: Mark Lohman/Alison Kandler Interior Design)

‘When I’m creating a French country kitchen design, I’ll use copper or brass instead of nickel or chrome,’ says California-based interior designer, Alison Kandler . ‘It instantly adds warmth to any kitchen.’

Lighting is an attractive way to include these rich metallic accents. You could also use copper pans, brass handles and hardware, and decorative accents to add this classic French touch to your cooking area.

32. Incorporate antique furniture

(Image credit: Rett Peek/Clive Christian Furniture Co)

The elegant shapes of antique furniture add a touch of refinement to a rustic-style kitchen – even one as elevated as this design by Clive Christian Furniture Co .

Here, the curved wooden chairs echo the color of the polished wood floor, bringing both warmth and sophistication to the scheme.

Oliver Deadman, head of design, Clive Christian Furniture says, ‘A French kitchen is typified by the immediate feeling of the space being one of familiarity but in equal measure elegance. Featuring our Architectural cabinetry collection, this design by interior designer Heather Hungeling , echoes this sentiment.

‘Traditionally hand painted, French style kitchens predominantly adopt an off white or cream base accented by warm tones to soften the palette, creating a balance between geometry and structure and a touch of femininity. Though we are a British cabinetry designer and maker, the sentiment of timelessness is something I would say we share in this space, which this kitchen and Heather’s design brings to life.

Interior Design by Heather Hungeling.

33. Display art creatively

(Image credit: Mark Lohman/Alison Kandler Interior Design)

‘Buy vintage art at flea markets, sticking to a theme if possible, such as dogs, flowers or landscapes,’ suggests interior designer Alison Kandler. ‘I like to use art in unexpected places, such as under upper cabinets to hide electrical outlets and add color and charm.’

34. Hang antique doors

(Image credit: The Refined Group)

‘Incorporating antique or reclaimed doors into a French country kitchen scheme makes it timeless,’ suggests Dana Lyon from The Refined Group.

Look for glazed doors and beautiful detailing to bring the refinement of the French look. By leaving woodwork bare, you will retain a rustic aesthetic that takes the formality from grander designs. Part of the charm is the visible knots and marks of time.

35. Create space for elegant dining

(Image credit: Rebecca McAlpin Photography/Glenna Stone Interior Design )

‘Compared to other country styles, French country is the sophisticated older cousin who mixes vintage pieces with new and makes it look soft, livable, and fabulous,’ says interior designer Glenna Stone.

‘This kitchen space includes a breakfast area with chairs featuring handwoven rope backs and cream upholstery paired with the client’s vintage dining table.

‘Overhead, we added an unfussy chandelier in antique brass with black shades for that “just enough” feeling.’

36. Mix old and new effortlessly

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)

A key idea in French country kitchens is to mix old and new pieces.

‘Collect vintage items, such as French enamelware or old wicker baskets, and use them to create a colorful display,’ suggests interior designer Alison Kandler.

(Image credit: Rett Peek/Clive Christian Furniture Co)

For a French country look with a hint of haute couture styling, look to add decorative details to your cabinetry and trim.

Beaded cabinet door fronts, ornate mantels, kick plinths and pillars all give a more refined look to country kitchens.

‘A French kitchen is typified by a feeling of familiarity and elegance in equal measure,’ says Oliver Deadman, Head of Design, Clive Christian Furniture.

‘Featuring our Architectural cabinetry collection, this design by interior designer Heather Hungeling echoes this sentiment. Traditionally handpainted, French-style kitchens predominantly adopt an off-white or cream base accented by warm tones to soften the palette, creating a balance between geometry and structure and a touch of femininity.’

38. Find your flair for color

(Image credit: Mark Lohman/Alison Kandler Interior Design)

Although the French palette is often thought of a subdued, the country look can be bolder and brighter – just think of classic Provencal linens.

‘Don’t be afraid to mix in bold colors,’ agrees interior designer Alison Kandler. ‘I always start with a multicolored fabric that inspires me. I pull out all of the colors and create a palette.’

This expert approach is easily replicated when you’re refining your own ideas for your French country kitchen look.

39. Focus on patina

(Image credit: Ty Cole/Bespoke Only)

Mix historical and modern styles to create a layered, lived-in French country look.

‘In a newer kitchen with modern cabinetry, you can achieve this by using patinated hardware, handmade stoneware and antique furnishings,’ says Torre Lisi from New York design firm, Bespoke Only , which worked on this project by architect Simpson Jacoby.

Open shelving is a considered way to display your favorite pieces. Not a fan of the open look? Opt for glazed cabinets instead when you’re planning your French country kitchen ideas.

40. Be brave with tile

(Image credit: Mark Lohman/Alison Kandler Interior Design)

A strong tile design is a quintessential element for a French country kitchen and a great idea when you have a large area to cover.

Be brave and don’t be afraid to choose a graphic design that will add interest to your scheme – in a soft palette, it won’t overwhelm the room. You can pick out the key color and paint your island or peninsula in the same shade.

Taking the tile up from counter to ceiling creates a coherent, modern rustic look.

41. Switch to wall lights

(Image credit: Ty Cole/Bespoke Only)

‘To enhance a relaxed, French rustic atmosphere, we prefer to use wall sconces in lieu of less flattering overhead light,’ shares Torre Lisi from Bespoke Only. ‘This softens the light quality and creates an ambient glow perfect for slow, country living.’

Wall lights can be used to illuminate the dining table. ‘The heart of any French country kitchen is the dining table,’ explains Lisi.

‘We like the idea of finding a salvaged table and mixing up the seating with vintage bistro chairs and a bench. This creates a casual, communal vibe while promoting the sharing nature of country-style dining.’

42. Take a free and easy approach

(Image credit: Future)

Even if you’re creating your new French-style kitchen from scratch, it should look as if it’s evolved over time, with an eclectic mix of pieces that could have been passed down as heirlooms, found at a country brocante, or repurposed from another room.

If the main kitchen features fitted cabinets, aim for at least one standout, freestanding piece.

‘Dishes and utensils may be stored in an armoire – the large wooden cupboard, originally used as a linen store, found in nearly every French country home,’ says Henrietta Heald, author of La Vie est Belle (Ryland Peters & Small). Glazed doors or doors with chicken-wire panels allow the contents to be kept in view.’

43. Add a luxe touch

(Image credit: deVOL)

Just because your French country kitchen ideas focuses on rustic style doesn’t mean it can’t feature a little chateau chic – in fact, it’s this contrast that adds just the right element of je ne sais quoi.

French country kitchens often feature large decorative canopies over the hob and elaborate, decorative light fixtures in vintage brass or iron.

Consider suspending an oversized pendant light or antique chandelier over a timeworn farmhouse table for the perfect high-low design mix.

44. Pick a natural palette

(Image credit: Neptune)

Think France and you think glorious landscapes and delicious cuisine, both of which inspire the country’s kitchen decor.

Color schemes look to the natural landscape – stone, slate and clay, accented with soft pastels – or to deliciously rich tones of mustard, saffron, claret and olive.

‘Architecturally, a French country kitchen often features rough, natural finishes such as exposed stonework, which adds to the rustic feel and is further enhanced by earthier tones and warm neutral colors,’ says Simon Temprell, interior design manager at Neptune .

‘This look suits rich but muted shades such as sage, earthy reds and warm cream. Our new Saffron or Olive seasonal shades would work brilliantly, especially when paired with a warm neutral like our Honed Slate.’

45. Celebrate rural architecture

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

You don’t need a converted barn or renovated stables to house a French country-style kitchen, but there’s no denying that original architectural features enhance the eclectic, put-together look.

‘Exposed rafters and stone walls with rustic, timber open shelves are typical features,’ agrees Tom Howley.

Exposing a small area of brickwork or stone, laying the floor with reclaimed flagstones, or adding a chunky stone work surface or scarred and scrubbed butchers block, will introduce a raw and rustic feel if distinctive period features aren’t a part of your property.

46. Include a classic stove

(Image credit: Kasha Paris)

While an English country kitchen might have an Aga or Rayburn range cooker, its French equivalent is likely to feature a stove from Lacanche or La Cornue.

‘The stove is a classic piece of equipment for those who appreciate elegance, as well as traditional and quality craftsmanship in their kitchen. It’s not only a cooker but a symbol of the French lifestyle and gastronomic culture, and is linked to the conviviality of a French country kitchen,’ explains Maxime Gossiome of La Cornue .

For the ultimate French country taste test, Maxime suggests a set of copper pans hung from a bar above the stove, a rotisserie, ‘and, of course, the smell of delicious dishes simmering for the next meal’.

47. Layer up with linens

Photography/Emma Lee

(Image credit: Future)

‘The French country kitchen is always softened with textiles – it makes the space feel more relaxed and homely but employs classic patterns such as toiles and stripes,’ says Ben Burbidge, managing director at Kitchen Makers .

You could keep it simple with a classic French glass cloth or tea towel for drying dishes, or enhance the look with a linen tablecloth (look for vintage linen sheets in brocantes and flea markets), muslin voile at the window, or a curtain instead of a cabinet door front beneath the sink.

48. Make the table the focal point

(Image credit: Kitchen Makers)

Centre stage in any French country kitchen is the table – prep area, dining table, brioche bearer and casserole server…

Unlike traditional country kitchens, where painted chairs are often gathered around the table, French seating tends to be softly polished wood.

Chairs are traditional in style, with rush seats and bentwood or ladder back frames – although a pew seat picked up from a country brocante may well make an appearance.

49. Channel your inner French chef

(Image credit: Figura)

‘The essence of a French country kitchen is its equipment. Rather than being hidden away, the pots and pans, knives, chopping boards and mixing bowls that make up the batterie de cuisine are displayed on open shelves,’ explains Henrietta Heald.

‘These often well-worn items are made from natural materials such as stoneware, wood and terracotta.’ Despite its culinary promise, the look is a million miles from the clinical steeliness of a professional kitchen.

Brass and copper details shine, scrubbed wood and stone add warmth and texture, while those on-display ingredients add tasty pops of color.

50. Add a contemporary touch

Photography/Paul Massey

(Image credit: Future)

French country style can include ultra-contemporary elements, such as concrete work surfaces and metal-framed windows, as much as traditional-style elements.

‘This mix-and-match, retro-chic approach is the essence of country kitchens in France,’ confirms Maxime Gossiome of La Cornue.

‘Think of it as balance between essential elements such as cabinets, pots and pans, elegant details including family silver and crystal glasses, and an atmosphere of welcome. Ultimately, the kitchen is a place to share meals – and great moments – with friends and family. ’

What is a French country kitchen?

French country kitchens are characterised by an informal elegance,’ explains Ben Burbidge, Managing Director at Kitchen Makers.

‘Cabinetry and furniture tends to feature curves and scrolls, while kitchen designs make use of a broad range of materials anchored around wood and stone. These materials have a feeling of strength, honesty and simplicity but are honed to produce a decorative, chic finish,’ explains Ben Burbidge, Managing Director at Kitchen Makers.

‘Elegant yet humble, these devices make the kitchens feel unmistakably French, with the use of local materials, traditional designs and a considered colour palette.’

What colors suit a French country kitchen?

‘Natural, restful colors such as greys and shades of white are very typical in French country kitchens,’ explains Tom Howley, Design Director at Tom Howley.

The further south you go and the warmer the weather gets, the richer and bolder the colours become. ‘Yellows, blues and terracotta colours are traditionally used in the Provence region,’ Tom says.

What is the difference between French country and US or English country kitchen decor?

‘French country kitchens are often less “put together” than English kitchens,’ says Simon Temprell, Interior Design Manager at Neptune. They put a Gallic accent on traditional kitchen ideas.

‘French design relies on “found” pieces and an informal look, with freestanding items that hark back to the past, such as traditional brass taps, honed marble draining boards, Belfast sinks, vintage and antique accents, toile fabric, and dark wood furniture. English country style can often seem more polished, with a cleaner aesthetic and lighter colors.’

Andrea has been immersed in the world of homes, interiors and lifestyle since her first job in journalism, on Ideal Home. She went from women’s magazine Options to Frank. From there it was on to the launch of Red magazine, where she stayed for 10 years and became Assistant Editor. She then shifted into freelancing, and spent 14 years writing for everyone from The Telegraph to The Sunday Times, Livingetc, Stylist and Woman & Home. She was then offered the job as Editor on Country Homes & Interiors, and now combines that role with writing for sister title homesandgardens.com.

With contributions from

Holly ReaneyContent Editor and Sub-editor

30 French Country Kitchen Ideas

Add a Kitchen Sink Window

Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Give your space an airy feel and welcome the relaxing sounds of nature by installing a window near the kitchen sink. This is a simple way to bring in light while staying true to the warm and classic feeling of a French country design.

Mix Tile and Wood

Stacy Zarin Goldberg

White subway tiles and wood accents make for a kitchen that’s equal parts modern and rustic. Use tile for the walls and wood for your shelving to bring character to a sterile space.

Keep That Brick Wall

Audrey Hall

If your home comes with an interior brick wall, don’t let it ruin the design. It brings a vintage and unique look that can enrich any modern decor.

Opt for Wood Countertops

Getty/ Andreas Von Einsie

If you’re unsure how to incorporate natural materials into the kitchen, using wood for the island and countertops is an easy and visually-appealing option.

Craft a Traditional Dining Area

Mike Garten

Try copying this kitchen’s aesthetic, with its wide dark-painted windows, a charming dining table set and a coffered ceiling that only complement’s it’s country-like appeal.

Mix and Match Wood Tones

Annie Schlechter

Give your kitchen an authentic and rustic look with white-washed wood or whitewood. Plus, the process is simple and budget-friendly.

Include Copper Accents

David Tsay/ Otto

Incorporate copper accents into the space —such as the lighting, sink faucet, or drawer and cabinet handles.

Hang Pots and Pans

Victoria Pearson

Save your cabinet space by hanging pots and pans above the kitchen island. This will add to the space’s rustic charm — especially if they’re copper cookware.

Decorate With Vintage Artwork

Lindsay Salazar

Add antique art to the walls — similar to this look by House of Jade Interiors. Think pastoral paintings, eye-catching mosaics and classic historical portraits.

Install a Pendant Light Over Your Sink

Annie Schlechter

While it’s not necessary to bring an abundance of light to a kitchen with a window by the sink, hanging a retro pendant can easily help you achieve a French country feel.

Design Coffered Ceilings

Sian Richards

Coffered ceilings can give your kitchen depth, offering the appearance of sunken panels for a historic look.

Hang Candelabra-Style Chandeliers

Stacey Brandford

Design the space with baroque carved embellishments — such as these candelabra chandeliers — for a memorable and elegant aesthetic.

Weave in Green

Jane Beiles

Kelly Mittleman and architect Mark Finlay designed this quaint Connecticut country kitchen with a stylish shade of green that matches the wood tones and creamy whites featured throughout the room.

Embrace Arched Ceilings

Annie Schlechter

While many may choose to vault their ceiling in the family or great room, opt to do it in your kitchen instead.

Try a Traditional Range Hood

Thomas Kuoh

Range hoods not only add light above your stove, but they also add to the kitchen’s welcoming atmosphere for family and guests.

Add Rustic Bar Stools

Jason Hartog

If you can’t decide what kitchen island seating to choose, try round wood counter stools. They provide the perfect amount of contrast to white decor.

Consider a Star and Cross Floor Design

Add Rustic Accents

There is something unique and historic about a star and cross patterned floor. Play up your kitchen’s French country appeal by balancing the look with an oversized kitchen island in a rich wood tone.

Incorporate a Vintage Rug

Monica Wang

Rugs can create an intimate and cozy feel to any space — the kitchen included. The right one, especially an antique design, can add a rustic touch to modern decor.

Set Up a Country-Style Stove

Laura Moss

A ceiling isn’t the only spot that can boast an arch. Consider an arched stove for an instant focal point.

Design With an All-White Look

Courtesy of Benjamin More/ John Bessler

A creamy white interior enhances any style you’re trying to replicate. It’s a simple way to make a design scheme feel light and airy.

Store Your Books in Your Island

Lisa Romerein

Using your island’s shelving for books gives the kitchen a homey feel. Plus, it’s guaranteed to make the space a favorite spot for family and guests.

Add Pops of Color

Gridley Graves

Believe it or not, French country-inspired kitchens can be full of rich and bright hues. While the rest of the space may have traditional details that represent the aesthetic, don’t be afraid to drop in pops of color.

Display Nature

Lina Ostling/Folio

This style is all about natural elements, and nothing is more natural than florals and greenery from your backyard. Decorate your kitchen with all of your favorite blooms and plants to pull your kitchen together.

Get Creative with the Backsplash

Lisa Romerein

Create a striking focal point with your kitchen backsplash. Think natural stone additions, like marble or slate, for a traditional look.

Install Antique Lighting

Lauren Rubenstein

Go for a pendant light that’s elegant and relaxed enough to fit the space. We’re thinking Persian white wall sconces and fixtures with bell-shaped shades.

Use a China Cabinet

Eric Roth

Adding your china cabinet to the kitchen is a no-fail design choice. Fill it with books and an array of your favorite accents to give the cooking area a living room-like feel.

Welcome the Outdoors

Arnt Haug/Look-foto/Getty Images

If an outdoor kitchen isn’t part of your setup, show off the door leading to your backyard. You can never have too much sunlight and fresh air.

Install a Sliding Ladder

Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Boost your kitchen’s visual appeal with a shelved section for your cookware and spices. Install a wood ladder (similar to the ones used at libraries) for easy grabbing.

Arrange Woven Seating

Abby Murphy

Rattan or wicker seating isn’t just for the outdoors. Test the trend with kitchen island stools that warm up a predominantly white space.

Think Monochrome

Miki Duisterhof

Take a cue from this kitchen and embrace a monochromatic look. This calming shade of blue is the perfect counterpoint to the blonde wood countertops.

Mariah Thomas
Assistant Editor
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content.

22 French Country Kitchen Ideas

Becca Interiors

While we can’t all have the good fortune of spending our mornings collecting lavender and herbs from the back garden and running to the boulangerie for fresh croissants, we can bring a bit of that signature Provençal style to our kitchen. You know what we’re talking about: that breezy, lived-in, vintage look—occasionally accented with a hint of Parisian glitz—that brings a certain je ne sais quois to every home it touches.

Ready to dive into the aesthetic? From small changes, like easy vintage décor accents, to major investments, like iconic French appliances, here are 22 French country kitchen ideas that will instantly transport you overseas.

01
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Design: Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo: Rebecca McAlpin

Allowing the original framework of a home to shine through is a wonderful way to showcase its character. Added bonus: in an open floor plan, beams can also allow for a sense of cohesion between different living spaces.

“They add definition without feeling heavy or bulky,” Pennsylvania designer Glenna Stone says, who created this kitchen. “They’re a natural and graceful part of the design.”

02
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Bespoke Only

Blame it on centuries of royal reign—no matter how rustic a room might otherwise be, it often still incorporates a hint of Old-World opulence. An antique crystal-embellished chandelier adds that touch of fanciness, and the colors will play nicely with other patina-ed metals you incorporate into the rest of the space.

03
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Rikki Snyder

There’s no rule that says a French country kitchen can’t have a bit of color. But, the style is generally thought of as something that celebrates the old, and an easy way to do that is to use a patterned sheet or favorite piece of fabric as a tablecloth. It’ll give new life to something that’s otherwise just taking up space in your linen closet and make dinner clean-up a breeze—double victory.

04
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The Grit and Polish

When a separate mudroom isn’t a possibility, a simple peg rack is the perfect place to drop off bags of fresh produce from the farmer’s market, or even to hang the apron and sun hat you wear outside to dig in your vegetable garden.

05
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Design: Glenna Stone Interior Design; Photo: Rebecca McAlpin

When done in natural shades of wood, craftsman details like the Square Island Post shown here will help the permanently placed elements of your kitchen feel like classically crafted furniture from another era—and give a homespun air to even the newest of new builds.

06
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Milk and Honey Life

Vintage and second-hand furniture are a key part of the country look—the more mismatched, the better. In lieu of a coordinated dining and shelving set, opt to collect pieces over time from flea markets, or in this day and age, Facebook Marketplace. The pieced-together look will help your kitchen feel like it has a story to tell.

07
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The Grit and Polish

Shiplap may feel more synonymous with Waco, Texas than the French countryside—thanks, Chip and Joanna—but it’s still a pretty way to add farmhouse texture to a white kitchen. For a more elegant take on the trend, install the boards vertically instead of horizontally.

08
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Becca Interiors

Pure white isn’t the only true neutral out there, folks. For a country kitchen that feels a touch more contemporary and multi-dimensional, play with warm shades of tan and light gray.

09
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Milk and Honey Life

The French are all about good eats—and we want to bring that mantra to a French country kitchen for sure with designated pantry space. This rustic take by Milk and Honey Life features a reclaimed wood door that opens to reveal plenty of space for your cooking and baking essentials.

10
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Ashley Montgomery Design

Coziness is hard to conjure in a sparsely decorated room. To that end, don’t be shy about letting some of your favorite kitchen items and collectibles take up shelf space. After all, a kitchen is nothing if not a space for memories.

11
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Pure Collected Living

Nooks and crannies in the cabinetry are an essential part of the charm of a country kitchen. For a dose of traditionalism, incorporate a plate rack. The old-school style will allow you to display your favorite everyday china, or, at the very least, make dishes easier to grab while you prep dinner.

12
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Keyanna Bowen

Nothing says French-style—or invites guests to sit and stay awhile—quite like a bistro chair. Serena & Lily is responsible for the beautiful style shown here, which can be ordered in six shades.

13
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White Sands

Does it get any more country classic than an apron-front sink? No, no it does not. But there is a reason beyond aesthetics why the style is so popular: the extra-wide, extra-deep size makes it easier to handle a haul of pots and pans all at once.

14
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Britt Design Studio

Light blue is a signature component of Provençal style—probably because it matches the delightful hue of the sky in the French countryside. If you’re looking for a French-inspired way to add a little color to a kitchen, this is a wise choice.

15
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Whittney Parkinson Design

Thanks to its brilliant sheen and impressive heat induction, copper cookware has been a staple of French country kitchens for centuries. For a luxe farmhouse touch, hang your best pieces on a pot rack right above your range.

16
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Tyler Karu

High-contrast color palettes work in a country-inspired design when there’s something to soften the edges. The rounded cross-inspired pattern in this tile does exactly that—and, because it’s spread throughout the space, you’re instantly cocooned in its homeyness.

17
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Julie Blanner

LaCornue and Lacanche, pictured here, are the creators of two of the most iconic styles of French cooking appliances. While installing a range from one of these brands in your kitchen won’t guarantee a Julia Child-worthy coq au vin, it can probably help you get pretty darn close.

18
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Dreamy Whites

Diehard Francophiles know that French ironstone is the ultimate kitchen collectible. The unembellished, simple white design is beloved for its durability and timelessness.

19
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Design: The French Farmhouse Market; Photo: Jennifer Hayward

Layering a variety of vintage cutting boards in a kitchen is a go-to interior stylist trick for adding texture and warmth to an all-white space. Copy the move to bring an antique appeal to your own cooking quarters.

20
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Simplicty for Designs

Is it just us, or do the beautiful pendant lights in this kitchen feel like something straight out of Belle’s provincial French village in Beauty & the Beast? But, while the lantern shape and heavy chain feel Old-World, the open siding is fresh and architectural. That fusion makes the design an ideal way to bring a hint of French country style into a more contemporary kitchen.

21
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Design: White Horse Design Firm; Photo: Rachel Roshani

The bold check pattern brings cheeriness to any surface it graces and is typically available in a wide range of hues. For a sweeter take on the country look, go with something spring-y and pastel.

22
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Reena Sotropa

Well-weathered metals are a lovely touch for any space as lived-in as a kitchen. To up the rustic quotient when picking out your hood, opt for a cooking vent with brass accents and a more traditional wide-to-skinny shape.

How to Decorate Your Home Like an Über-Chic French Girl

20 Ways to Create a French Country Kitchen

By Brittney Smart | Published on May 25, 2021

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If you love style that is warm, comfortable, and beautiful all at the same time, you’re likely a fan of French country designs. A French country kitchen is no different – in a place that has historically been the working-horse of the home, the kitchen designed in a French country style evokes a familiar, friendly feeling of traditional and somewhat simple life.

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Some elements of a French country kitchen are also found in a farmhouse-style kitchen but don’t confuse the two. While farmhouse is clean-lined and tends toward a bit more contemporary version of rustic, French Country is all about a light and airy feeling that is a little feminine and definitely elegant, even if it’s not formal.

What Are the Main Style Elements of a French Country Kitchen?

It’s about the Countryside

The main inspiration for this style is right there in the name. The design of homes outside of the main cities is less formal and ornate. The style might include traditional features but in a more relaxed way. Often French country style is drawn from the style found in the region of Provence.

It’s Rustic But Still Elegant

French-style is always elegant but the country version adds a rustic twist. Instead of the fussier, ornate detailing and gilded elements found in more urban design, a French country kitchen will include toned-down versions. The overall feeling will be comfortable and lived it, yet have an air of refinement.

Nature Plays a Big Role

A French country kitchen uses plenty of natural materials and generally has a neutral palette. Exposed beams on the ceiling, stone elements – maybe even for the floor – and subtly distressed paint finishes give the entire kitchen a slightly weathered feeling. The accents will come in the form of botanical motifs and textiles that incorporate Provençal graphic prints.

A Warm Color Palette

Whereas farmhouse style uses a predominantly white or off-white palette with few colors, French country kitchens are all about warmth. While the base color may be a shade of white or cream, the rest of the kitchen focuses on warm shades of blue, red, yellow or green. Overall the goal of color in a French country kitchen is to create a warm atmosphere that fits the style

Plenty of Curves Ahead

Skip the more angular pieces associated with farmhouse style when creating your French country kitchen. Chair silhouettes, moldings and accents are generally curving and not linear. Experts say that Louis XVI chairs are the perfect example of French country style and are most associated with it. The rounded seat and back combine a wood frame with a comfortable seat. Remember that while the furniture may be distressed and have an aged feeling, the style is still all about comfort.

Lots of Patterns

The patterns traditionally found in French country homes are a must for a kitchen in this style and are generally used on textiles for the table, for example. Some of the most common ones are gingham, plaid, toile and stripes. Decorations and motifs typically represent elements that you’ll find in the Provençal countryside: roosters, sunflowers, insects, olives and lavender

A Focus on Accessories

Minimalists beware because a French country kitchen will be big on accessories, which tend to span the range of old and new. Antique finds are mixed with colorful pieces and rustic baskets to create a lively but elegant space.

French Country Kitchen Design Ideas

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Soft, pale colors are typically used in a French country kitchen, largely because these are colors taken from a provincial landscape. Think warm, soft, muted hues in earthy tones.{found on suemurphydesigns}.

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The color palette of a French country kitchen tends to be soft and subdued. Because cabinetry tends to take up the most visual space in a kitchen, using warm surfaces and muted tones on the cabinets is a must for an authentic French country feel.

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Crown molding framing the top of the kitchen’s cabinetry is often a component of the French country kitchen, adding a beautiful traditional element.{found on canterburydesign}.

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Skirted cabinetry, particularly under the sink, is a traditional country- or farmhouse-style décor detail, and it can be found in French country kitchens as well.{found on faraboverubies}.

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It makes sense that a décor style that takes its cues from countrified natural scapes would incorporate natural materials into its design. Stone, brick, and wood surfaces are plentiful in the French country kitchen.

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Evocative of the times when large families and guests would gather around, French country kitchens will (whenever space permits) incorporate a large kitchen island. This not only aids in food preparation activities, but it also provides space for bringing lots of people together, guests and hosts alike.

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Furniture-type details on the kitchen cabinetry and/or island increase the warmth and comfort of the kitchen itself. Warmth and comfort. These are the essence of what a French country kitchen aspires to have.{found on reaumeconstruction}.

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An island is indeed an important component to the French country kitchen. One way to highlight the feature is to make it a different color than the rest of the kitchen. Keep the same warm, muted palette, just add a contrast for visual interest.

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Although the French country kitchen has few contemporary tendencies, as far as décor goes, there are still some subtle ways to introduce a more modern feel. For example, using darker woods or painted surfaces on, say, the island combines with the lighter surfaces of the rest of the kitchen in a more modern aesthetic.

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A French country kitchen will often, although not always, incorporate a farmhouse- (or apron-) style sink into its design. Even amidst other elegant touches, this simple sink form looks perfectly at ease.

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A luxurious detail but one that makes sense with the large-gathering focus of a French country kitchen is the wall-mounted pot filler faucet, installed above the stove. This is a traditional feature that has disappeared in standard kitchens, but it’s quite useful for the family chef!

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Traditionally, the hanging of cookware overhead was a purely functional decision. Today, the strategy of copper pots on display in the French country kitchen gets as much applause for its gorgeous form as for its function.{found on montanaaveinteriors}.

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Outdoor- or lantern-style lighting is used seamlessly in a French country kitchen, due largely to its rustic, organic, yet hard-working aesthetic.

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French country kitchens play upon the history of families gathering around the fireplace by designing stoves and/or other cooking spaces that are reminiscent of fireplaces. This is accomplished in a variety of ways, including the use of brick or stone around the stove, an archway, or decorative hood, for example.

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Unique, decorative (and functional!) hoods abound in the décor and design of a French country kitchen. And even if they didn’t…you couldn’t ever go wrong with a gorgeous copper number like this one.

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For an automatic warm, country feel, use beadboard (or tongue-and-groove) facings on vertical surfaces. Ideas for beadboard placement include cabinet doors, kitchen island walls, or even the backsplash.{found on deborahgordondesigns}.

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They don’t have to steal the show, but iron details (think cast iron or wrought iron touches) in a French country kitchen are a must. Iron appears to be used on much of the lighting here (the pendant lanterns and lighting flanking the kitchen sink), and it finishes off the whole look.

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Exposed ceiling beams are not always possible to incorporate into the kitchen decorated in French country style. They are not necessary for a successful warm, stylish look, either, but the exposed wooden ceiling beams are certainly icing on the French country cake!

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A warm and welcoming feel is one of the main components of a French country kitchen, although it is a harder one to quantify. Incorporating a variety of textures and textiles while keeping the color palette warm and light is a good rule of thumb.

Kitchens in the style of country and Provence: interior design in the photo

Contents

1. Similarities and differences
2. Country interior features
3. Provence design features
4. Color palette
- 4.1. Country colors
- 4.2. Provence colors
5. Kitchen design
- 5.1. Country kitchen finishing
- 5.2. Kitchen decoration in Provence style
6. Furnishings
- 6.1. Country style furniture
- 6.2. Provence style furniture
7. Decorative details
- 7.1. Country style
- 7.2. Provence style
8. Video:

What the modern metropolis lacks is rural silence, naturalness, naturalness. Therefore, designs that embody closeness, unity with nature – ethnic styles – Russian, Scandinavian, English, and other folk styles, become popular in creating kitchen interiors.

Rustic styles make the home cozy and romantic

Similarities and differences

Country – a common, collective name for all the folk, rustic styles that embody the rural life of different countries. With this understanding, subspecies are distinguished:

Shabby chic;
Russian Country;
American version – ranch;
Alpine chalet;
Tuscan;
French Provence.

French Provence makes the kitchen very light and cozy

In this perspective, Provencal design is part of all rustic styles, but more often it is distinguished from similar ones.

Important! The task of the designer when designing a kitchen in a folk style is to combine the charm of rural life, common life with the conveniences of modern life.

Rustic styles fit perfectly into the modern interior of a city apartment

Country interior features

Common features of the design of all areas of stylization of folk life are:

Characteristic color palette – colors close to natural. They are selected dim, discreet.
Absence of bright, contrasting patterns.
Natural materials in the decoration of the room, furniture, synthetic materials, plastic are unacceptable, metal is allowed only in the form of wrought-iron furniture, copper and brass parts.
Abundance of textiles, handicrafts – curtains and tablecloths, rugs, embroidery.

American or English country style with plaid and traditional patterns

In general, country design is the interior of a village dwelling, in each of its manifestations it reflects the national features of the country it represents. The Russian village is characterized by homespun rugs, embroidered tablecloths, curtains, for shabby chic – a small floral pattern, the effect of aging, exquisite decor elements.

Rich colors combined with natural materials create a fresh mood

Lightness, naturalness are important for country music – there is no hint that something was created on purpose in the interior. I thought about a rough brick wall – which means that it needs to be made of brick, however, processed and painted.

Stylish country style kitchen

Not allowed in a vernacular style kitchen:

Glossy, shiny surfaces, details;
Chrome trim;
Plastic and other finishing materials, objects;
Modern decor.

Rustic style is best suited to natural materials

Provence design features

Appeared in the south of France, the provincial style welcomes light colors, an abundance of light – if there is not enough natural light, artificial light sources are added. For the Provence interior are characteristic:

Many forgings;
Aged or old cabinets, tables, chairs, keeping traces of time, as evidenced by traces of wear;
Abundance of plants in ceramic pots, wooden boxes;
Wicker baskets, dishes;
Natural textiles – tablecloths, curtains.

White is the most versatile color and fits perfectly into the rustic style concept

Provence is a complete absence of plastic, traditional images of birds, berries, a cage, a strip, decorative ornaments.

Subdued blues and sandy colors are inherent in the interior in the Provence style

Color palette

For folk interiors, the main thing is to emphasize the unity with nature, with the archaic nature of being – hence the definition of the color palette. Bright colors, deep, sharp contrasts, exquisite drawings are absolutely unacceptable.

Country colors

Rural interiors of Russian, American, Italian, most other areas prefer warm colors:

Beige;
Dairy;
Sand;
Honey;
Woody light shades;
Olive;
Light green shades.

English shabby chic often uses shades of ivory, cream, light pink, light blue tones. Russian rustic design is characterized by shades of unbleached linen, gray, sandy tones.

The Mediterranean interior, also related to country, prefers the colors of the sky and the sea – blue, white, blue, beige, milky.

The brightest country is the American version – ranch – from soft white-gray, beige, light green to bottle, terracotta, brown.

Important! Country rejects red, cherry, burgundy shades; shades of mahogany, wenge are not used in the palette.

Colors of Provence

The design of the French countryside is characterized by cool tones. Basic colors:

Cool white;
Dairy;
Lavender;
Cornflower blue.

Blue, beige, milky, gray, pistachio, olive shades are allowed when implementing the Provence design. Pastels are desirable, but in modern interiors this is not a must. Most often, white is used in Provence, it expands the space, but you should not get carried away with white and make the kitchen look like a sterile laboratory.

Olive shades will look good in a spacious kitchen: light colors harmonize well with cream, gray, sand, blue tones, dark olive will coexist in a large kitchen with dark natural wood furniture.

Light pistachio tone has the ability to refresh the space. A light greenish background can be combined with white, pink, blue, light shades of wood. When choosing a pistachio tone for wall decoration, floor, furniture can be not only light, but also dark.

Kitchen decoration

Rural interiors, implying a return to nature, unity with it, prefer only natural materials when decorating walls, ceilings, floors. No plastic panels, stretch and suspended ceilings – only wood, stone, paint.

Country kitchen finishing

The best options for wall decoration in the kitchen space will be:

Painting;
Wallpaper – with small flowers (ideal for shabby), checkered, striped, traditional ornaments are allowed;
Decorative plaster – its roughness will emphasize roughness, homegrown;
Ceramic tiles – it would be nice to decorate an apron in the working area with it, trim part of the wall;
Brick – best used in combination with wood, it is it that is the basis of rural design;
Wood – lining, wood effect wall panels – the ideal choice, the best suited for recreating rural life.

Tiles, chipped tiles, unpainted wood, unevenly painted walls will emphasize originality, become a means of country styling.

For the floor, the choice of wood is implied – better board than parquet, natural stone, ceramic tiles. If a natural board is not affordable, you can use a laminate, and porcelain stoneware instead of stone. It is better to choose a tile with a monophonic natural shades. The ceiling can be whitewashed, this will perfectly match the style of rural life, but if we talk about practicality, then the option of a stretch ceiling is allowed, but only plain – matte white.

Wooden lining – natural or white (in the Scandinavian country) – a good choice. You can choose a combination of whitewash and wooden beams, but both of these options are only acceptable in the case of high ceilings, because the tree will visually (and actually) reduce the height of the kitchen.

Kitchen decoration in Provence style

Wall decoration when creating an interior design Provence dictates the following rules:

No wallpaper. It is better to paint the walls;
It is possible to use textured plaster with subsequent painting;
Stone, wood, brick – for finishing the whole wall, its part. In the conditions of an apartment, it is better to limit yourself to a partial design if you want to fully reproduce the Provencal design.

The ceiling, if the height allows, is better to decorate with beams – light or dark. If the ceilings are low, you can stop at whitewash or stretch matte ceiling.

The floor must be stone – choose tiles in terracotta color, possibly a combination of black and white. You can throw a woolen striped rug on the floor.

Furnishings

All rustic stylizations are characterized by natural wood furniture with a highly visible structure. Carving, forged parts, pieces of furniture are possible. Shiny, glossy surfaces, metal parts in rural variations are unacceptable.

Country style furniture

For a kitchen set, it is better to choose natural solid wood or veneer. Doors can be decorated with carvings, colored patterns, glass inserts. Cabinets are massive to store all kitchen utensils.

Cabinet fronts are often artificially aged to preserve the grain of the wood. Country-style kitchen furniture means a lot of shelves with dishes, jars, jugs.

A wooden dining table is usually placed in the center of the kitchen if space permits, with wooden chairs around. You can choose forged, wicker, for example, rattan. If you want to achieve a complete stylization of the patriarchal village life, put a simple wooden bench instead of chairs, and make the table massive, with a wooden cruciform base.

Important! If you want to emphasize the ease of style – choose “variegated” chairs – different colors and types.

All kitchen appliances (refrigerator, microwave oven) should be hidden behind cabinet fronts or retro style.

Provence style furniture

Provence is characterized by light furniture, you can choose white – with a characteristic wear. Wooden massive cabinets can have doors with glass inserts, panels, carvings. Latticed cabinet fronts are often found in the Provence style. In such a kitchen, slides, sideboards for dishes will look perfect. Necessarily – a lot of open shelves – for jars, dishes, various kitchen utensils. You can put a couple of flower pots. Shelves can be located not only in the cooking area, but also on other walls – above the dining table, for example.

A lot of forged elements – not only massive forging near chairs, tables, but also light ones – on shelves, flower stands, various fixtures, hooks. Metal, copper parts – on the handles of cabinets, dishes. In a country house, wicker furniture will be appropriate – chairs, armchairs, tables.

Appliances are also hidden behind the doors of a furniture set, and if you look through the catalogs of household appliances, you can choose a technique that suits the style, which you can’t hide under the facade – a stove, a hood.

Decorative parts

The abundance of textiles emphasizes the simplicity of rural life. Homespun rugs, mats on the floor, curtains on the windows, tablecloths, napkins on the table, pillows on the chairs make the kitchen sweet in a rustic way. Hand embroidery with folk ornaments, motifs can complement the interior.

Country style

Obligatory nuance – curtains. Cotton curtains with floral, floral patterns, in a cage – orange, green, tied with bows, are attached to wooden baguettes. On the table must be a tablecloth, napkins. Chair covers can be sewn on. All fabrics are used only natural – linen, cotton. No rustic synthetics are allowed.

The perfect complement to rustic interiors:

Wooden chest;
Cuckoo clock;
Antique lamp;
Earthenware.

Arrange earthenware cups and plates on numerous shelves, shelves, hang hand-embroidered cross-stitch paintings on the walls, put a wicker fruit basket, modest field, garden flowers in a vase. If we are talking about recreating the life of the Russian people, a samovar on the table will be an ideal feature, you can put a kettle with a “woman” on top.

Provence style

Provence also loves textiles, small items of comfort. Light curtains on the windows, reaching the window sill, napkins with a lace border, embroidered or patchwork-made pads.

On the dining table there must be a tablecloth, napkins on it, matched to the tone of the kitchen design. On the shelves and walls there are forged candlesticks, flowers in pots, an elegant metal cage with a flower arrangement or a bird. Various trinkets, figurines on shelves, vases with fresh, dried flowers will complement the stylization of the French province. There should be a lot of flowers in the French interior. Definitely lavender.

Dried or in the images – but only her presence will create a complete image of cute home comfort.

Country and Provence are similar, they are the embodiment of the quiet comfort of rural life. The main thing that unites them is that sweet, unobtrusive, soothing atmosphere that disposes to calmness, relaxation, nostalgia, returns from the bustle of megacities to their native roots.

Video:

design, decoration, chandeliers, 100+ photos

Warm and cozy kitchen interior in Provence style will appeal to those who do not like the coldness of modern kitchen design. The entourage, reminiscent of the Mediterranean, even when looking at the photo conveys warmth and saturation with sunlight. Coming from the farmers of the south of France, the design style is very popular today due to its unique atmosphere.

Soft muted shades are suitable for the Provence style: beige, olive, sand, mustard, wheat, lavender, terracotta and brown shades, and they are also suitable for floor decoration; aged items in blue. As bright accents, multi-colored decor, certain wallpapers on a section of the wall or dark furniture facades can be used, but the overall color scheme and basic decoration of the room should be done in calm, as if burnt out colors.

Furnishing a Provencal kitchen

The rustic chic Provence kitchen loves light and texture. In such a room, the walls need a relief finish, for example, ordinary plaster with further whitewashing of the walls or painted wood panels. Excellent finish with decorative brickwork or natural stone.

Walls

The ceramic tiles shown in the photo with a pattern or embossed wallpaper on the walls will come in handy for Provencal cuisine.

You can use liquid wallpaper that forms the original surface of the walls. Classic wallpaper with a medium-sized pattern of flowers or other natural motifs is also appropriate; large flowers and ornaments are suitable only for spacious rooms.

Choosing wallpaper, you can smooth out some of the imperfections of the room due to the choice of pattern, the presence and direction of stripes in the ornament. In any case, it is worth leaving enough space for a rough wall finish, so in this case, the wallpaper around the entire perimeter is not glued. Then the room will be permeated with the atmosphere of French country music and warm rustic surroundings.

Floor

The optimal flooring is parquet or wooden boards, large ceramic tiles. Since the design of a Provencal kitchen conflicts with gloss and shine, floor tiles should have a matte surface and muted shades. However, it is still preferable to use wood, parquet boards or their imitation. The photo shows how wonderfully aged flooring looks in a Provencal kitchen.

Ceiling

Even the Provence-style kitchen ceiling is often equipped with various wooden elements. The photos show that beams can even decorate the ceiling of an apartment that does not need additional reinforcement.

When using such elements, the ceiling itself should simply be finished with white plaster and painted. In a private house, when embodying the Mediterranean style, you should not expose the ceiling to decoration – natural wooden floors will look as harmonious as possible in the interior.

Provence style textured furniture

Furniture plays a key role in designing a Provence style kitchen. Even a small room should contain wooden furniture, preferably with a large number of various drawers, shelves and other things. Provencal kitchen furniture, as a rule, is characterized by high functionality and classic wooden execution – all in the houses of the farmers who gave birth to this magnificent style.

If it is not possible to place furniture made of natural wood, it is necessary to choose the appropriate facades, since the Provence style kitchen is incompatible with modern chipboard and fiberboard. Forged details and decor look great, and multi-colored mosaics and stained-glass windows can be used in the facades.

Cupboards and sideboards for dishes, which may be as high as the ceiling, must always be provided with glass facades, since the furniture should not hide dinner sets from view. It is even better to place open cabinets and shelves on which dishes are easily accessible. Examples of excellent placement of such sideboards and cabinets are shown in the photo.

The French style kitchen is characterized not only by its warmth and light, but also by its functionality to ensure maximum comfort. Therefore, even a small kitchen contains a sufficient number of drawers and shelves, and all furniture is as open as possible for quick access to things.

The table occupies an important position in any kitchen, and even more so in a Provencal one. Necessarily wooden, decorated with all sorts of patterns, while it should look natural and harmonious. The table can be completed with elegant wooden chairs with wicker backs.

Kitchen design in Provence style does not accept the use of glossy and polished furniture. The table, cabinets and shelves should be aged and worn, giving the impression of ancient gizmos inherited from their ancestors. Now on sale are many models with the effect of antiquity, achieved with the help of craquelure. Only such decor “antique” is able to create the right impression.

Natural lighting

French country style is characterized by an abundance of light, so it needs open windows that let in a lot of sun. For a rustic look, the presence of crates on the windows, stylized as wooden frames, is optimal. Now it is easy to order such plastic windows. Light and weightless curtains should not block the path of light. In fact, openwork curtains on the windows are needed only for a country entourage and an abundance of textiles.

In addition to open windows, a chandelier is an obligatory attribute. Of course, electric lighting is required regardless of the design, but chandeliers are an indispensable attribute for a Provencal interior.

Like all other elements of the interior, they can be a bit “uncouth”, rough, but give a lot of light, close to the sun. Expressive chandeliers with wrought iron elements, graceful swirls and an allusion to flowers. Massive chandeliers, reminiscent of antique candelabra with a dozen candles, look great in spacious kitchens, but the ceiling should not be low. The charm is given by the porcelain elements of the chandelier, especially with the image of flowers, which further connects the lamp with the general style of the room.

When combining the kitchen with the living room, the table can be placed exactly under the main light source – this visually creates the correct proportions of the room and ensures uniform illumination of the table during meals. At the same time, chandeliers that are in perfect harmony with country can easily be found among things inherited or at a flea market. The venerable age of the chandelier is very appropriate for interior design, which is confirmed by the photo.

An integral feature is textiles!

Kitchens in the Provence style are distinguished by the use of a large amount of textiles. The table is covered with a cotton or linen tablecloth with a floral print, various napkins. Also, the dining table can be complemented with chairs in light woven covers, which perfectly complements the interior of southern France.

In addition to light weightless curtains, windows can be framed with curtains. Desirable white and other light colors or a large cage, as shown in the photo.

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By the way, curtains can even be hung on the bottom row of cabinets instead of doors or on a table not covered with a tablecloth. Chandeliers can also contain light-scattering details of fabric design or decor made of plastic disguised “under the fabric” – thanks to this, the ceiling will match the country atmosphere as much as possible. Do not forget about fabric wallpaper, which will add coziness and comfort.

Towels for the Provencal interior work area are best chosen with flowers, olives, lavender – symbols of the homeland of a wonderful rustic style.

Provencal accessories and flowers

French-style kitchen is good for its detail, lots of warm and pleasant little things. The decor is sure to arouse interest: in such an interior it is always a pleasure to find new little things for yourself, previously unnoticed details. Therefore, in the country, natural original materials are good, elements unlike each other, like natural stone or wood. Interior items in the Provence style are little things with their own history that can be looked at endlessly.

Now it is easy to find accessories in the Provence style in stores, including various vases, figurines, candlesticks, baskets, decorative dishes, frames with original drawings, flowers, fruits or vegetables under glass, and more. This decor brings a special spirit to the kitchen environment.

White or cream porcelain sets add country charm to the kitchen. In this naïve rustic environment, enamelware, various ceramic plates with flowers and simple ornaments will get a second life. Dishes should remain visible, displayed on various shelves or niches.

A Provence-style kitchen, lavishly decorated with flowers, takes on an enchanting depth. Provence cuisine decor with bouquets of fresh cut flowers and dried compositions emphasizes the traditions of French country music. Flowers in such a kitchen should be everywhere – the photo clearly illustrates their organic placement in the interior.

A white or light Provencal style kitchen will create a charming atmosphere of southern France even in a city apartment. Ceiling, wall decoration and wallpaper in the old style; aged furniture and dining table with history; kitchen utensils and dishes arranged on open shelves; weightlessness of curtains and small woven accents in the form of towels, napkins and covers; numerous decor of the most bizarre configurations and natural-rustic motifs – all this creates a cozy country corner that takes you to the Mediterranean coast to a cozy village house or apartment.

Country and Provence style kitchens #2019 [Photos of 115+ stylish interiors]

20.10.2019

Cozy country-style kitchen of a private house

Country-style and Provence-style kitchens, interior photos and visualizations of which can be found in abundance on the Internet, are very popular today. To decide when choosing a style for the kitchen, you need to have an idea about each of them. In this topic, two directions will be considered – Provence and country.

Contents:

Country and provence style kitchens
Curtains and curtains in country style
Other country elements
Provence style kitchen curtains and other decorative items
Kitchen furniture in country style and Provence
Other details of the Provencal interior

Country style with beige furniture looks cozy enough in a small kitchen

Provencal style in a small kitchen

Dark furniture with light countertops in country style

Kitchens in country style and Provence

Kitchen design in country style is a collective image of a village dwelling, characteristic of each country. Country has several subspecies:

Russian provincial;
English;
ranch style;
French, called “Provence”.

In other words, Provence is an offshoot of country style.

Country-style interiors suggest warm colors (honey, ocher, wood tones, all greens). The Provence style appeared in the south of France, where it is almost always warm, so cold shades are inherent in this direction, and lavender, white and cornflower blue tones are the main ones.

Kitchen interior in country and Provence style – this is the presence of various decorative ornaments in textiles and wall decoration:

medium-sized rustic flowers;
cage and stripes;
images of berries and mushrooms;
birds;
small peas.

Shelf-coloured straw roller blinds are very suitable for bright country-style kitchen

Spacious country-style kitchen with matching rooster figurine

Provence-style kitchens are lighter than in the country direction, but less bright. Furniture in such a kitchen can be pure white. The same goes for walls and ceilings. Tiles for a Provencal-style kitchen can be selected from a mosaic series or have a terracotta hue.

There must be an abundance of forged elements and stone ornaments on the shelves. The provincial direction in the interior categorically does not tolerate chrome parts, plastic and glass. The latter is permissible only in utensils.

Curtains and curtains in country style

When designing an interior in country style, great attention should be paid to curtains. This obligatory element (if it is chosen correctly) is able to emphasize all the advantages of the design and, conversely, with an illiterate approach, reduce all the efforts of the decorator to nothing.

Curtains with orange or green checkered bows are a typical feature of the country. Floral and floral motifs are acceptable here. But the coloring should not irritate the eye, so it is preferable to focus on natural and natural tones.

To give the interior more believability, curtains in a country-style kitchen should be mounted on wooden baguettes, which can be additionally decorated with ceramic accessories and straw knick-knacks. It is possible that you will have to “hunt” behind the wooden cornices when creating a new image, but their presence guarantees a real retro effect.

Beautiful rustic kitchen

In addition to curtains, any kitchen has tablecloths, napkins and towels, which in this case should be made only from natural textiles. A huge advantage is machine or hand embroidery. In large quantities on the shelves and whatnots should be present:

cups and decorative plates;
bowls;
forged candlesticks;
small flower pots;
wicker baskets;
pictures embroidered with beads or threads on the walls;
photos of rural landscapes.

If the room is decorated in the Russian style, a large samovar on the table or a teapot with a rag doll on top would be very appropriate.

Other country elements

Natural or artificial stone is another element that is used to decorate rooms in country style. Stone can be used to lay out one of the walls, a stove, decorate a work apron, decorate a window or door frame.

The floor can be covered with ceramic tiles or linoleum to imitate natural stone. The floor must be covered with handmade mats.

Since this is a rustic style, LED lighting will be out of place here. Instead of these modern lighting devices, simple incandescent lamps or economical ones with yellow light are usually used. A lampshade hanging from the ceiling or a floor lamp standing in one of the corners will perfectly fit into such an environment.

Small modern country style kitchen with loft style elements

The abundance of open shelves is popular in country style interiors

Appliances in such a kitchen should be built-in. It is masked by the facades of lockers. However, it is not always possible to purchase such equipment, then it is recommended to buy yellowish appliances with antique fittings and handles. In such a kitchen, a massive stove with a hood decorated with various ornaments and inserts would be quite appropriate.

Tip! Owners of small-sized living space can combine the kitchen with the living room, which will solve many household problems at once. Dining and work areas can be visually separated by plasterboard multi-level ceilings with contrasting colors.

Provence style kitchen curtains and other decorative items

Textiles are indispensable when decorating a Provence style kitchen. These can be:

light curtains on the windows;
doilies with lace border;

Modern private house kitchen in country style

Dark furniture looks very impressive

chair and stool covers;
small soft pillows made in the technique of patchwork or embroidered with thread;
linen tablecloth.

It is recommended to avoid synthetic artificial materials. However, if they are present in a minimal amount, they cannot damage the overall impression, but linen and cotton should prevail in the interior.

Stylish lighting in a country-style kitchen

Marble countertop in the design of the kitchen-dining room

The tablecloth must be covered with fabric napkins, in harmony with the overall color scheme of the room. Provence style kitchen is simply unimaginable without all sorts of little things that complement the interior:

small decorative plates;
figurines of porcelain or stone;
elegant antique candlesticks;
cage with birds.

Checkered textiles will perfectly fit into a rustic interior

Aged furniture will help emphasize the Provence style paintings and photographs of seascapes. On the open hanging shelves there should be miniature figurines made of ceramics and stone, vases with fresh and dried flowers and, of course, the symbols of France – a rooster and lavender.

Kitchen furniture in country style and Provence

Furniture sets for a country style kitchen should only be made of natural wood, usually solid wood or veneer. The color of kitchen furniture is often beige or olive.

Sometimes the fronts of cabinets are simply varnished, while maintaining the natural texture of the material. The doors of the sections can be decorated with carvings, colored patterns or glass inserts, through which beautiful dishes will be visible, corresponding to the direction. The dining table should be placed in the center of the room, and stools or chairs should be placed around it.

To make the furniture as close as possible to the provincial village, it is often artificially aged. There is no question of any polishing. If the purchase of a headset made of natural solid wood is not “affordable” for the homeowner, you can buy an imitation with MDF finish. Cabinets and cabinets should be massive and contain a lot of dishes.

Provence-style kitchen, where every element of decor is well matched

The color of fronts and countertops does not have to be monochromatic. In one headset, dark (walnut or oak) and light (pine, beech) material can be successfully selected. However, it should be noted that the lighter the furniture, the more blurred the line between country and Provence. These kitchen styles have slight differences, but still very much intersect with each other.

Country is more like a Russian province, so here you can see all kinds of pottery and straw figurines. For Provence, French motifs are typical, because it is replete with porcelain figurines, embroidery and openwork ruffles.

Country must not include:

cherry;
red;
burgundy;
merbau;
wenge.

Country-style kitchen with island

Designers often use tables with large round tops in this direction, although this is not categorical. Just a round table creates a feeling of coziness and comfort. No wonder the circle is a symbol of a friendly and strong family.

Kitchen furniture in the Provence style

It has already been said above that the Provence design direction accepts the use of both light and dark furniture. It’s time to figure out what it should be in shape and texture.

Modern furniture with complex design features will not fit into such an interior. Provence style kitchen furniture should evoke thoughts of an old French village. Real antique furniture is very expensive, but today on the market you can buy headsets with imitation of antiquity. The aging of the material occurs according to a special technology, which is why it does not deteriorate at all.

You can choose one or the other, but the headset must match the size of the room. For the Provencal style in the kitchen, it is typical to have a separate area in which there is a storage locker and a work table for cutting food. Here the hostess can mess with the dough without interference. But if the kitchen area is small, such an “island” will have to be abandoned, since reducing the kitchen space will create great inconvenience.

Natural wood furniture with wrought iron elements in a country style kitchen

Tip! For a small kitchen, a corner set and a corner dining table are suitable if the family eats in the kitchen. Shelves in the kitchen should be open, but today they are increasingly closed with glass doors to prevent dust from entering.

When designing a Provence-style kitchen, keep in mind that only wood, stone or tiles imitating natural materials will be the best coating for facades and walls. This texture finish should be rough. You can use liquid wallpaper or plaster, which has sawdust in its composition, to cover the walls. If paper wallpaper is glued, it is better to choose matte ones.

Instead of boring dining chairs, you can buy or make your own wicker stools. Very handy in the spacious kitchen will be the presence of a rocking chair. The love of the hostess for needlework will help to find a new life for old chairs and stools. For these pieces of furniture, textile covers should be sewn, the colors of which will correspond to the Provence style.

Furniture in such a kitchen should not only correspond to the design direction, but also be roomy. In this regard, numerous hanging shelves play an important role, on which not only decorations are placed, but also most of the functional kitchen utensils. Of course, large pots, bowls and pans should be hidden in cabinets, and ladles, skimmers, spatulas may well be hung on the walls.

However, any of the pieces of furniture is in the Provencal kitchen, not only because of the functionality, they all serve as decoration. The hanging cupboard not only hides dishes in itself, but is also a shelf, because you can put vases, figurines and other little things that are typical of the French countryside on top of it.

Natural wood furniture is perfect for country style

Kitchens in country style and Provence: photo of Provencal interior details

Lighting in the kitchen should be good, both natural light and incandescent lamps. Provence loves light and warmth, so spotlights can be used here. If there are a lot of such bulbs, you can completely do without a chandelier.

Tip! If the kitchen has a small area, you should not decorate it with brickwork, since such wall decoration conceals space. In this case, it is better to be content with simple plaster. Tiles on the floor should be matte and rough, and laminate should have the effect of old age.

Let’s not forget about living plants, which, in combination with antique furniture, will create an image that is as close as possible to the home of a French village. In such a kitchen, all family members will feel warm and comfortable, the atmosphere is conducive to intimate conversations and tranquility.

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French country style kitchen design

Categories:
All about furniture ² , Kitchens ⁸⁷ , Living rooms ² , Bedrooms ³ , Hallways ²

The French country style kitchen creates a sense of nostalgia and romance with its wonderful aesthetic appeal. Warmth and bright colors make the kitchen the true heart of the home.

When designing a kitchen like this, include some elements of style and function that add authenticity to your design.

Color matters

Vibrant yellows and greens accurately reflect the French countryside. Reds, shimmery blues, as well as golds and oranges are great choices to create warmth and cosiness. Cream-colored walls make the perfect canvas for other colors.

In addition to using the warm yellows, terracotta and reds of French country style, look for other rich hues such as navy blue or dark green to balance out the dark woods. Wrought iron is also found in this style, so decorative iron pieces or light fixtures will complement black appliances. Try wrought iron cabinet hardware. Highlight dark tones by using natural materials such as slate, brick, stone, and granite for floors or splashbacks.

Walls

Kitchen wall design must be second to none. The true atmosphere of the kitchen will be given by rough plaster on the walls, for example, Venetian. It perfectly reproduces the French look in any kitchen where color is added to the plaster itself.

Other faux painting techniques that can add visual texture include faux marble, ragroll, and glaze.

Floor

You might want to use wood flooring, but a stone slab, terracotta or brick floor will give your kitchen a more authentic look.

Fabrics

Linen and cotton are genuine fabric choices. If you want to achieve a more formal style, then choose the veil pattern. In addition to blue, pay attention to red, pink, green, yellow and black shades.

Curtains with striped or checkered cushions make stunning kitchen design accents. There are stylish fabrics on the market that use reds, yellows and blacks together in classic French motifs such as sunflowers, roosters, black olives and floral patterns.

Wardrobes

Choose dark and shabby looking wardrobes. The most popular wood options are pine and walnut. Wood countertops have been a popular choice for an authentic country home, but modern materials offer quite a few options that blend contemporary design with past motifs.

Patterns and Ornaments

You have a wide variety of patterns and designs to choose from:
- flower arrangements, from small tiny prints to large and bright ones;
- farm animals;
- herbs such as lavender and rosemary.
Other motifs include fruits, vegetables and the fleur-de-lis, a sign of royalty and nobility. Try mixing several different images or prints in the same space. Don’t forget to frame the walls with some floral prints.

Features

The design of such a kitchen would not be complete without two main architectural features, including exposed beams and a fireplace. The beams should look like they were hewn by hand. The worn effect will give a finished look. The beams should be dark in color to contrast sharply with the white or ocher color of the ceiling and walls.

Instead of a fireplace, place a collection of cast iron cookware against the wall to simulate the effect.

Accessories & Special Effects

Add baskets, dried flowers and herbs (especially lavender) and wicker garlic to your kitchen as accessories. Copper is a popular metal for French cuisine. Use the rack to display your copper pots and pans. If you decide to use more wrought iron in your kitchen, complement it with a farmhouse style sink.

Lighting

Do not underestimate the importance of good lighting in interior design. If you want more light in your kitchen, try adding recessed lights. To increase natural light sources, it is recommended to install a ceiling light.

Aged look

Aged look goes hand in hand with this design. Classics are white furniture and aged chairs in blue or yellow shades. The kitchen table is usually chosen in rustic style. A shabby table can look very cozy.

Curtains

French country style kitchen design is not complete without curtains. Cafe-style curtains are quite informal, with many tones and prints. Blinds will be a nice touch if you have chosen plaster for finishing the walls. Look for blinds that fold in and out against the wall to let in light. Choose a blind color that reflects one of the main accent colors already in use in the kitchen.

Furniture for the kitchen

If you want to create a country-style kitchen and manage on a small budget, choose kitchen sets with MDF fronts imitating expensive wooden fronts.

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Tie it all together

There are many options for fabrics, textures, colors and furniture for the design of such a kitchen. Connect everything to create a cohesive and original design, starting with the color palette. Then choose the elements and textures that will go with it. In no time, your kitchen will look like it stepped out of a picture of a French village.

French style kitchen.

Ideas for design (70 photos)

A French-style kitchen will look decent in a large house and in an apartment with modest dimensions. It is enough to look at a few photos to fall in love with this amazing lightness, smoothness of lines and an abundance of textiles forever. What do you think of this interior design? Designers of the Decorin project offer you ideas for a cozy kitchen arrangement. Choose!

French-style kitchen: distinctive features

In the article “French-style house”, we have already touched on the topic of kitchen design. Today we will try to dwell on this issue in more detail.

French style in the interior of the kitchen is difficult to confuse with any other. As a rule, these are spacious bright rooms with large windows.

Pastel shades are used for walls, ceilings and floors:

beige;
gray;
olive;
blue;
ivory.

An abundance of appliances in such a kitchen is not welcome. Give preference to built-in varieties of hoods, ovens, dishwashers.

There are several main branches of the French style:

Palace. This direction is characterized by sophistication. The whole atmosphere of the kitchen is filled with special energy. Elegance can be seen in everything, down to the smallest detail. This is a luxurious wrought-iron chandelier, a floor covering imitating marble, a luxurious kitchen set with carved details.

Kitchen-cafe. Such an interior charges with cheerfulness and energy. You can convey the charm of France with the help of chairs with openwork backs, lamps hanging on long cords, neutral tones in the decoration of the walls.

Provence (French country). This direction is the epitome of rustic style. The natural energy of raw wooden beams, aged furniture, uncomplicated kitchen utensils that are on display – all these are indispensable attributes of Provence. There must be a lot of cute textile “tricks”. Potholders, napkins, tablecloths, finely patterned window curtains – all this has a place in the kitchen. And be sure to have a round wall clock.

French style in the interior – wall decoration (with examples in the photo)

As already mentioned in the article “French-style house”, wall decoration should be done in discreet colors. The main task is to create a calm “background” for furniture and other decor items.

It can be wallpaper in small patterns. Prints are often chosen, the motifs of which are repeated in furniture upholstery, curtains, chair covers, curtains.

It is also possible to level the walls with plaster and paint them pastel. Choose a slightly pale tone. It should look like the paint has faded a bit over time.

Sometimes textured plaster is used. Here are design examples where one of the walls is not processed. The “live” energy of bare brick brings fresh, dynamic notes to the interior of the kitchen.

A stone wall looks even more impressive.

Really?

French style in the interior of the kitchen involves the use of natural materials. What the Parisian spirit does not tolerate is plastic. If you still plan to use artificial materials for decorating walls or ceilings, choose options that mimic natural ones.

Secrets of interior design in French style. How to decorate the ceiling and floor in the kitchen?

In order to maintain the French style in the design of the kitchen, they try to decorate the floor and ceiling in the same way. Sharp transitions and contrasts are not characteristic of this interior direction. The whole design should be formed into a single ensemble.

Ceilings are rarely made plain and white. The palace style is characterized by stucco molding, wide moldings, a coffered ceiling is allowed. Provence often uses rough wooden beams or their imitation.

In a more modern French style, the use of built-in lamps, various lights, two-tier ceiling structures is allowed. Here is a photo of the interiors. Look how interesting this direction is played.

The French style kitchen floor can be made of:

natural wood;
stoneware;
marble;
floor tiles.

At the same time, the color of the flooring seems to merge with the general interior background.

Furniture – what role does it play in French style kitchen design?

So, the design of the walls and floor is clear. We turn to the choice of furniture. In the French-style kitchen, she plays the main role. Headsets, island tables, open shelves, chairs – sometimes it seems that there is too much of everything. But it is enough to delve a little into the essence of the Parisian style to catch the main point. There is nothing superfluous here. Each element of the decor carries a certain functional and emotional load.

Here are examples of palatial style furniture. There seems to be an aristocratic spirit in the air. Take a look at these noble shades, shapes, exquisite openwork carvings.

Furniture takes up a lot of space and plays a major role. Mirrors are often used. They contribute to filling the space with light (due to reflection). And the mirror inserts are in perfect harmony with the gilding finish.

French country is characterized by tables and cabinets with worn-out (or artificially) paint. In the decoration of facades, you will almost never see flat forms. Only textured surfaces. As a rule, the upper elements of kitchen sets with stained glass. This allows you to flaunt expensive antique dishes.

French country: how to highlight the interior of the kitchen?

What will be the finishing touch in the interior of French cuisine? Sometimes the design is connected, like puzzles, into a single whole completely unexpectedly. It can be:

a homespun carpet carelessly thrown on the floor;
old grandmother’s dishes, which are placed on the shelves for decoration;
light and airy textiles;
red pepper binding hung on the wall.

Here is a tip from the designers of the Decorin project: do not use for design what is alien to you in terms of energy. Focus on decor items that evoke pleasant associations and emotions in you.

What is your vision of a French style kitchen? You went through the basic principles of “building” the design, looked at the photo. Now it will be easy to “collect” your French interior. Take your time, be patient in search of the desired element of decor. Find exactly those lamps, candlesticks or chairs that fit perfectly into the design. A little effort – and you have a trendy, stylish kitchen. And, most importantly – filled with homely warmth.

Country style kitchen design rules (Provence)

Article contents

Country style: design according to the rules
Country-style kitchen: selecting materials and furniture

Country style can rightly be called the most homely and comfortable. This is a laconic simplicity of forms, calmness and comfort. Here, quality factor and rustic charm are in priority, replacing complex outlines and extravagant details.

The country-style kitchen is a balance of fundamentality and restraint, provincial conciseness and modern technology.

Country style can be played in different ways, depending on the chosen country. It can be French Provence, Russian hut, Italian village, etc.

In a Russian hut, log walls, natural wood, a massive stove or its imitation should be present. Country and Russian themes can organically intertwine and harmoniously complement each other. The country-style kitchen interior breathes natural naturalness and refined modesty.

The provincial Italian country originated in the fabulously beautiful hilly areas and the style is characterized by brickwork and natural stone. Small ceramic tiles have become widespread in the design. Only natural materials and a lot of textiles are used.

Country style – purity of materials, perfect cladding and decor. Modern appliances tend to be well-decorated or, on the contrary, act as an accent in the kitchen, where rustic simplicity and innovation are intertwined.

If we talk about the style typical for the south of Russia, then it is distinguished by an abundance of textiles, often created by oneself: towels, tablecloths and napkins.

The furniture is preferably wooden solid and massive. The floors were usually covered with natural materials that are resistant to abrasion and dirt, durable and able to withstand frequent cleaning. Wooden chests were used to store crockery and other kitchen utensils.

One of the common ideas for arranging a country-style kitchen is the central element – a countertop, under which there are open shelves, where kitchen accessories, dishes, baskets of groceries, etc. were conveniently located. To give a more homely atmosphere, objects are hidden by delicate curtains.

Rustic style is characterized by suspended wooden beams, which are also functional. They are used as a place to store pots, pans, etc.

Country-style kitchen: we select materials and furniture

You can recreate the rustic style, focusing on the main distinguishing features of this direction:

favorites of the color palette – natural shades;
kitchen set – wood or imitation of wood motifs;
decor – textiles;
folklore theme.

The country-style kitchen in the photo looks impressive with harmony in the details and a combination of color motifs.

The design is dominated by natural materials, their structure and shades. Wood or natural stone is well suited as facing materials for walls. The priority is pastel calm colors.

The facade of the kitchen set is painted in soft colors that echo the decor in the room. In order to create a rustic style, it is recommended to buy a kitchen in the appropriate design. Today, there are a lot of proposals, and the set with patina looks especially elegant, which advantageously emphasizes the antiquity and deliberate wear inherent in the country style.

It is better to refuse chrome parts and give preference to forged products, wood carvings or modern materials, with the help of which an ideal imitation of natural motifs is created.

The catalog of kitchens, which presents the most relevant solutions, will help you choose furniture. The choice is guided by several criteria:

kitchen set – wooden warm muted shade;
furniture style – a little rough, but as traditional as possible;
functionality.

The highlight of the country style is the presence of stained-glass windows and the maximum number of open shelves on which decorative elements and kitchen accessories are placed.

Another main attribute of a country kitchen is an abundance of textiles. Fabrics in textile design are selected exclusively natural: linen or cotton, batiste or chintz. Drawing – a cage or a strip, floral or plant motifs. It is best to avoid complex ornaments that can overload the space, everything should be cute and simple.

27 Chic French Country Kitchens

28 Chic and Timeless French Country Style Kitchens

Use Gilded Finishes

Add a Statement Oven Hood

Collect Copper Cookware

Opt for a Butcher’s Block

Highlight Ceiling Beams

Swap the Island for a Farmhouse Table

Decorate with Vintage Tools

Incorporate Patterned Tile

Prioritize Natural Materials

Use Mismatched Cabinets

Use Checkboard Flooring

Highlight Original Features

Keep It Rustic

Bring on the Bistro Bar Stools

Use Industrial Light Fixtures

Add a Bistro Table

Use a Wooden Island

Change the Conversation

Layer in Some Natural Elements

Mix Old and New

Use Rustic Baskets

Try Herringbone Wood Floors

Hang a Curtain Under the Sink

Use Brick Flooring

Texturize the Walls

Install a French Range

Mix Styles

Embrace Imperfection

French country kitchen ideas: 50 designs with Gallic charm

French country kitchen ideas

1. Add color and character with a patchwork of tiles

2. Make a feature of a wooden kitchen island

3. Celebrate the architecture of your home

4. Choose a reclaimed dining table for heritage flair

5. Curate a display on open-shelving

8. Hide away modern details in antique furniture

9. Integrated antique-style brassware for added warmth

10. Opt for delicate window dressings for a country look

11. Lay herringbone wooden flooring for an elegant backdrop to your scheme

12. Focus on the color scheme

13. Bring on baroque styling

14. Layer your look

15. Turn up traditional touches on cabinetry

16. Add a refined touch

17. Take a tip from chic cafés

18. Mix your finishes

19. Make the stove the star

20. Take your French country kitchen outside

21. Look to nature

22. Go Gallic in a butler’s pantry

23. Use stone as a splashback

24. Repurpose Champagne baskets for storage

25. Decorate with plates

26. Create a freestanding feel

27. Inject a touch of Provencal blue

28. Aim for a chic country look

29. Consider a limestone hood

30. Add glamor with marble

31. Include copper accents

32. Incorporate antique furniture

33. Display art creatively

34. Hang antique doors

35. Create space for elegant dining

36. Mix old and new effortlessly

38. Find your flair for color

39. Focus on patina

40. Be brave with tile

41. Switch to wall lights

42. Take a free and easy approach

43. Add a luxe touch

44. Pick a natural palette

45. Celebrate rural architecture

46. Include a classic stove

47. Layer up with linens

48. Make the table the focal point

49. Channel your inner French chef

50. Add a contemporary touch

What is a French country kitchen?