Romantic French Country Bedrooms: Are You Prepared to be Amazed?
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For a look that is timeless and elegant, evoke the charm of French country decor in your bedroom. From furniture to wall colors to accessories, discover easy ways to create the perfect romantic bedroom makeover with these simple but effective French country decorating ideas.
Since French Country style is the #1 search that brings visitors to my blog, and also the most romantic of all design styles, I’m sharing with you 14 elements of romantic French Country bedrooms.
For the French, the goal of decorating a living space is to reflect the values it strives to convey. Much like Marie Kondo mantra of only keeping items that bring you joy. With that in mind, I’ve gathered amazing real life ideas from Instagram to share with you, including a DIY tutorial for a wall sconce (#2) , a dreamy lit à la polonaise (#13), and modern French Country Style (#4) ideas.
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Romantic French Country Bedroom Essentials
In today's French country style, there is usually an understated, refined look that is often reminiscent of shabby chic, modern farmhouse, and English cottage styles.
Essential elements of a bedroom in today’s French Country Style include:
Armoire <<<—CLICK TO JUMP TO PHOTOGRAPH EXAMPLE
Blue and white color palette and/or subtle tones of cream and white
Burlap toned (or grain-sack) pillows
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Real Life Examples of These Essential French Country Bedroom Elements:
1.Blue Gingham and Floral Patterns
French country bedrooms should have airy, feminine touches that instantly create a romantic atmosphere. To accomplish this look, bring in repeating floral patterns in any fabric and color of your choice - quilts, curtains, pillows and wall art are the perfect mediums to work with. Soft textures such as velvet, lace and sheer fabrics can also add texture while providing an inviting ambience. Don’t be afraid to play with these elements until you find the right balance for your bedroom.
This charming French country bedroom is called “Chambre Audrey,” from @provencepoiriers blog.
Le Mas des Poiriers is a Luxury Family Home Rental featured by Veranda, Town & Country, Brides, Fortune and People magazines.
Erin from @betweentheporches shared this room for Wallpaper Wednesday, and I agree that the floral wallpaper in the nook really makes the room!
Who wouldn’t be delighted to book this room for a getaway?
Follow Le Mas des Poirers @provencepoiriers for more gorgeous images of their property.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Blue gingham is a hallmark of French Country style, and it looks beautiful against the white walls and crisp, clean white bedding.
Remember, French Country comes from the country folk, and reminds us of pastoral life.
Pastoral mood
Floral pattern in wallpaper
White walls
Wood Floor
Feminine
Toile is also another popular pattern for French Country style.
“History Lesson: Toiles were actually first produced in Ireland, in the 1750s, though they quickly caught on in France, where they became known as toiles de Jouy. Toile is French for “cloth,” and Jouy was the town near Versailles known for manufacturing the fabrics.” 1
Photo: World Of Interiors 1994 Chateau De Morsan
BONUS: Above, a bedroom from Château de Morsan, which is a spectacular French fortress that stands in the shadow of the forests of Normandy.
This is another example, for you to study, that highlights the use of gingham.
The matchy-matchy gingham is contrasted with a red and white floral for the lining of the bed hangings (a la Polonaise in French).
SHOP THE LOOK
2. White-Washed Woods and Weathered Woods
Antique pieces are a great way to add a sense of history and character to your home. Consider distressed finishes for more traditional furnishings for an antique feel. Instead of purchasing brand-new furniture, try buying vintage items from secondhand stores or flea markets—it’s a great way to create a unique look without breaking the bank.
Check out Kathy from @r.house’s DIY tips for making your own antique wall panel light sconces (in caption next to the above image).
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Weathered wall panel light sconces
White-washed antique bed table
Wrought iron day bed
Fresh flowers
Tones of white and cream
Wood floor
3. Wrought Iron Accents
Choose antique wooden four- or five-poster beds, rustic armoires, dressers with curved legs, humble nightstands and other period inspired pieces. Mixing these items with wrought iron accents brings in the rustic side of French Country style.
Below, what at first seems like a confection of ruffles and gilt on closer inspection reveals the measured hand of designer James Howard.
It is one that recognizes the romance of a flounce but knows precisely when to say when.
Notice the simple, but significant, use of wrought iron for the bed and chandelier.
You may enjoy:
Image: Veranda Magazine
You can view above that Kim from @savvysouthernstyle used wrought iron several times in her master bedroom. In fact, she repeated it three times: the bed frame, the chandelier, and the drapery hardware.
I love how her bedroom is calm and serene.
One element of French Country style is the tufted chair in the above bedroom. When it comes to tufted furniture, this trend never really goes out of style, so you can easily find tufted pieces from modern retailers if you don't have a huge collection of vintage items to choose from.
Follow Kim @savvysouthernstyle for more decor inspiration from her home.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Wrought iron bedframe, chandelier, and drapery hardware
Subtle color palette - tones of cream
Tufted barrel back chair
Armoire
Linen draperies
Burlap toned (or grain-sack) pillows
4. French antiques
In the modern French Country bedroom above shared by @mudpaint, you see that French antiques add that perfect finishing touch to the room.
Antiques not only offer a sense of history, but sometimes can offer quite a bit of personality, as this chest of drawers does.
The weathered blue is offset by the gilded moldings, then the center is hand-painted with a pastoral scene.
In a modern room, this beauty gets all the attention!
Follow the decorator Cindy @edithandevelynvintage for more inspiration.
While classic pieces are important, don’t be afraid to mix in modern furniture with vintage elements. A sleek and modern armchair can look just as at home amongst antique dressers, armoires, and side tables.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Graceful curving lines
Blue and white color palette
Use of fresh flowers
Burlap toned (or grain-sack) pillows
Feminine
5. Feminine Touches
While certain styles such as French industrial are definitely more masculine, French Country is defined by its femininity. If possible, bring in wooden accents to add a more rustic touch while keeping the overall aesthetic light and airy. By choosing appropriately-sized pieces of furniture, you can create the illusion that your bedroom is much larger than it actually is - this will only amplify its romantic qualities.
Kae Harris from @timeworn_white, below, has certainly mastered romantic, feminine styling.
Whether it is through graceful curving lines, or through lacy textiles, feel free to add your feminine touch.
A few candles always adds to the ambience as well.
Follow Kae @timeworn_white for more home decor inspiration of her all white home.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Tones of creamy white
Feminine
Lacy, gauzy textiles
Weathered woods
Daybed
6. Natural Textures & Elements
Image: @simplyfrenchmarket
To add even more romantic charm to the room, opt to hang French or Belgian style lace panels. (Or in my case, Irish crocheted linens.)
Sheers also allow plenty of sunlight to fill your bedroom, providing an inviting and cozy ambiance. The bedroom above by @simplyfrenchmarket is a perfect example of adding natural textures to your bedroom.
Check out:
Layer on bedding, throws, pillows to create a cozy, finished look to your romantic bedroom.
Follow Mysha @remingtonavenue for DIY, lifestyle, and interior design inspiration.
Elements of French Country Style:
This modern French Country bedroom from Mysha @remingtonavenue showcases a wrought iron canopy bedframe.
Whether it’s wood floors, brick walls, or wooden beams - French Country style is about embracing natural textures and elements.
Here, Mysha has a most interesting wall treatment of brick herringbone with a vertical border, and above an offset brick pattern.
Graceful curving lines in the night tables
Blue accents
“Style Secret: Textural Surfaces. No stainless steel or minimalist tile here — French country surfaces call for visual depth and wear their imperfections proudly.
Cloak the walls in plaster, stucco, stone, or a blend of all three throughout the house.
When it’s applied with a practiced hand, a thick layer of drywall mud can be a less expensive solution to these pricier materials.
If you choose simply to paint the walls, consider a glaze or other treatment that will keep them from feeling flat.
For the floors, slate and limestone, natural wood and tumbled earthen tile all strike the right notes.” 2
7. Graceful Curving Lines
Image: Brooke Giannetti
Natural elements, such as rattan, wicker and sheepskin also work well in French country bedrooms.
Look for curvaceous headboards, woven baskets, poufs crafted from rich leathers and supple hide with natural texture.
The textures of these pieces all contribute to the ambiance of a room that feels like you’re stepping into another time.
The above image was found on the Hello Lovely blog, a highlight from her review of the book, Giannetti PATINA HOMES: Ultimate Beauty and Timeless Architecture.
This volume features an interesting collection of homes. They all exude elegant ease, timelessness, and distinct character.
Some might look at this bedroom by @adams.and.elm.home and think it looks more traditional, however, I think it’s a great example of French Country style.
While the black and white Nancy from @adams.and.elm.home uses leans toward Farmhouse, it’s okay to have a mix of styles, which makes a room more interesting. Use a unified color palette or a set of details that make the composition cohesive.
Follow Nancy @adams.and.elm.home for DIY home inspiration.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Graceful curving lines are embraced in the headboard, the nightstand, and even the lampstand’s silhouette.
The floral pattern on the pillows, in my opinion, leans back toward French Country.
Bust on nightstand
Romantic bed cover
8. Fresh Flowers
I can just imagine having coffee or even breakfast in bed here in this room by Rosella Leone from @rosaleone912.
Flowers, especially lavender and roses, are essential elements of French Country style.
Just imagine yourself in a cottage in the French countryside, you open the door to see a field full of lavender.
“Fresh blossoms and foliage should look as though they could have come from a garden just outside the door, arranged casually and without affectation. Choose flowers that thrive in the regions where the style arose: sunflowers, irises, poppies.” 2
The wardrobe of a French country-themed bedroom is easy when considering the vast range of options available. Curtains, throw blankets and quilts crafted from light fabrics such as voile, cotton or linen work best to provide a soft, romantic touch to any room. Accessories such as bedside lamps featuring decorative lamp shades can make a huge impact on the atmosphere - white lace shades will add a touch of elegance to your bedroom without overwhelming it.
Follow Rosella @rosaleone912 for more inspiration.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Fresh flowers, especially lavender, sunflowers, irises, poppies
Floral pattern in bedding
Wrought iron bedframe
White walls
Favorite Fresh Flowers
9. Subtle Color Palette
Stick to whites and light shades of color. A muted cream, powder blue, or light taupe are all good choices. And don’t forget the accessories — lightweight tufted rugs provide softness underfoot while gingham curtains will always signify the ultimate French country style. Plus, didn’t we already say that florals are everything? Add pastel colored flowers throughout your room for a bright pop of color (and all the happiness).
Image: Vincent Leroux
(Above) Ok, this isn’t a residential bedroom, as it comes from an iconic hotel. All the same, there are many details you can copy for your home. Focus on the nightstand lamp, and the wall moldings. The color palette of white, green & pink pastels, and gold is contrasted by the red in the rug border for enhanced interest.
Check out this DIY to create a similar look in your space.
With stunning views of Paris' roofs or the charming Grand Jardin, the details and décor of the Ritz Paris are sophisticated and gracious. How do they say it in French? A certain “Je ne sais quoi.” Detail-oriented, it brings to mind the prettiest, most luxurious Parisian private apartments.
Amy with @masondemings shows us the casual side of French country style with cozy bedding.
While French Country style used to be defined by reds and yellows and blues, modern French Country style is more subtle. You can quickly change your Farmhouse style towards French Country with a rustic, vintage chandelier as a first step.
Follow Amy’s farm life for more French home decor inspiration @masondemings.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
The color palette consists of creamy whites, sandy beiges, taupe, soft pastels etc.
Chandelier
Romantic linen draperies
Antique chest of drawers
Linen bedding
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10. Worn Surfaces
French Country style is a more casual type of decorating, one where it is okay to get the paint chipped, and allow the wear to show on the furniture, all part of the charm.
For this reason, Shabby Chic style plays well with French Country. Incorporating natural materials such as wood, iron, and stone can also be a great way to enhance the decor. Characteristics of the French country bedroom style include vintage furniture pieces with curved legs, shutters on windows, and exposed wooden beams or posts on ceilings. For example, classic wicker furniture with distressed finishes or rustic iron bed frames helps bring an old-world charm to any room. Adding in antique wall mirrors and ornamental chandeliers that are delicately detailed makes a perfect addition to your French country bedroom to give it a complete look.
Follow Amanda from @rosierosechic for more inspiring photos of her home.
Essentials of French Country Style displayed above:
Worn surface on nightstand
Subtle color palette
Floral pattern
Antique mirror
Fresh flowers
11. Decorative Moldings On Furniture, Cabinets, And Walls
Investing in quality pieces and being mindful of the materials you choose for your French country bedroom are essential for creating a cozy and inviting home that has a timeless feel. Pieces with carefully chosen details will bring together the classic yet modern, rustic and exquisite all in one space.
This is another view of the same bedroom as above by @roseirosechic.
Here you can see an excellent example of the use of decorative moldings on her fireplace.
I have added decorative moldings to kitchen cabinets and furniture in my own home, for the French Country flair.
“Why it works: The French tend toward an inborn sense of taste and refinement that keeps this unassuming style from feeling pedestrian.
Guided by instinct and a knack for striking a balance, French country décor always finds its center, no matter how many disparate elements you throw into the mix.
It marries an old-world sensibility with an edge of sophistication that keeps it perennially fresh.” 2
Follow Amanda from @rosierosechic for more inspiring photos of her home.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Decorative moldings
Subtle color palette
Fresh flowers
Chandelier
Bergere chair
Floral and ruffled bedding
Gauzy curtains
Shop The Look
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12. Gauzy Curtains
To perfectly finish off a French country style bedroom, incorporate delicate draperies or sheer curtains to the windows and door openings.
This helps you achieve that airy and whimsical look with an added texture boost.
Be sure to play around with different soft fabrics and billowy styles, such as floor-length panels.
Opt for neutral colors like white or ivory to provide an inviting atmosphere, or choose pale blues or greens to keep within the French theme.
To add even more romantic charm to the room, opt to hang French or Belgian style lace panels.
These textured curtains bring a little shabby chic flair with a traditional feel that perfectly complements the French countryside look.
Sheers also allow plenty of sunlight to fill your bedroom, providing an inviting and cozy ambiance.
Finish up with gilded rods or vintage-inspired holders for the panels and your look is complete!
Gauzy curtains add to the romantic ambience in a French Country style bedroom.
Shelli from @makinghousehome really knows how to make guests feel welcome with fresh flowers and beautiful tray vignette.
Follow Shelli @makinghousehome as she helps other moms achieve the beautiful home they deserve.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Gauzy curtains
Subtle color palette
Wrought iron bedframe
Fresh flowers
Shop The Look
13. Bed Canopy
Add subtle touches of French country design to the bedroom by creating contrast with colors. The bed canopy utilizes a contrasting welt of teal to the pink floral fabric. Pops of teal and turquoise create a look that’s practically straight out of Provence.
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An elaborate canopy like this can define a French Country room, or you can just allude to one with a metal canopy bed frame, without fabric, for a modern look.
Rachel goes into detail in her post about the history of the lit à la polonaise.
Follow Rachel Alexandra Kershaw @imella_design, designer-maker of handsewn couture curtains for luxury homes and country houses.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
A lit à la polonaise aka bed canopy
Floral pattern
Carved wooden fireplace mantel
French antiques
Lacy pillows
Literally translated as "Polish bed," this bed type originated in France and was named that because the drapery on the side, on the canopy, and even on the posts reminded the French of Polish dress.
At one time, rich patrons of mansions and palaces had grand beds like this one in their bedrooms. In many cases, these people received visitors in bed as they were preparing for the day. Stunning pieces of furniture such as these impressed visitors and reinforced the sense of importance of the owner.
14. Chandeliers
Hang rustic yet delicate chandeliers to complete your space and create an elegant atmosphere.
Adding in ornamental chandeliers that are delicately detailed makes a perfect addition to your french country bedroom to give it a complete look.
However, if you’re wanting to go for bolder designs, incorporate ornate chandeliers with gold accents into the room’s lighting system.
In this modern French Country guest room, the bed table, the mirror, and the chandelier all offer us French Country vibes.
This clean and welcoming look is courtesy of @dellsdailydish.
Follow Dell’s home decorating journey @dellsdailydish.
Elements of French Country Style displayed above:
Chandelier
Antique french mirror
Creamy white color palette
Graceful curved lines in bedside table and headboard
Get the French Country Look
Inspired for a refresh? Check out these finds below, inspired by our Instagram bloggers.
People Also Ask:
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French Country is not one of those trendy styles you must worry about. This type of furniture is very versatile and can fit into any room. It also adds warmth and character to a space.
When French Country style is done right, it will never go out of style. The origins of this classic style are so steeped in history, that only a few minor changes might be needed to update to a more modern look. A change in pillows and accents is the most affordable way to update any look.
In America, the traditional colors of red, yellow, and blue together might make a French Country room look dated. If that is what brings you the most joy, though, I say go for it!
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In America, French Country is characterized by neutral colors. If you don't know where to start, select a warm white. You want your color palette to stick to 4-5 hues. Next, pick several additional neutrals such as cream, linen, gray, taupe, chocolate, or black.
If you must have color, I recommend hints of pastels or tones of blue or lavender. (Think Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic, which plays very well with French Country.)
History: American French Country style of the 1980's involved colors such as red, blue and yellow together often featuring roosters.
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First of all, one need not worry about mixing French Country and French Provincial together. Using too much of one certain design movement can make a room dull. Although many (including myself, guilty!) often use these two terms interchangeably, there is a difference between French Country style and French Provincial. There is also differences in these styles depending on if you are in America or actually in France.
French Country style is a more casual style. It is characterized by its use of natural materials such as wood, stone, wicker and wrought iron. It also tends to incorporate elements of traditional European design, including floral motifs and other decorative accents. Keywords: relaxed, simple, welcoming.
French Provincial style is a more elegant style. There is less of a focus on rustic, instead honing in on luxury. Housedigest.com tells us to imagine a mix of "coastal minimal' and "French Regency" to achieve a ritzier style than French Country. French Provincial furniture often features intricate carvings and gilding. The colors and patterns are bolder than it's cousin French Country. Keywords: formal, fru-fru, glamorous.
Final Thoughts
Creating a French country bedroom should be a calming and whimsical process.
Whether you’re a fan of bold blues, delicate floral prints, or the cozy and airy effect of white-washed woods, you can easily incorporate the charming elements of a French Country-style bedroom.
With the right accessories, furniture, and wall colors, you can easily make your bedroom look like it's been plucked out of a classic French countryside.
By combining beautiful blooms, antique pieces, natural textures, and a subtle color palette, you can create a timeless and romantic bedroom.
From canopies to chandeliers, all these elements can be used to create the perfect romantic bedroom makeover.
Don’t forget to ask yourself the Marie Kondo question, “Does this bring me joy?” as you incorporate these 14 essential French Country decorating ideas.
As we embrace the timeless beauty and elegance of the French Country style in our bedrooms, let us not forget the words of Coco Chanel: “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.”
To get the best results, start with a few key pieces and build upon them to evoke the charm of French Country to the fullest. Bonne chance!
Are you a French Country fan looking to create a charming home decor? Look no further!
Here are some additional inspiring articles for you to get ideas from:
Not only will you be saying “Wow!” after checking out my article 51 French Country Kitchen Designs, but you can also get ideas for Thanksgiving with the November edit: French Country Tablescape.
Learn tips for creating a French-inspired home office with a little “je ne sais quoi”, and check out this French Shabby Chic Office Before & After.
If you’re on a budget, we’ve got 10 beautiful Amazon French Country furniture and decor finds that are perfect for any home.
You’ll also love our journey to refresh our Primary Bedroom:
PART ONE (You are here!) Blue French Country Bedroom Inspiration Ideas from Pinterest: Bedroom Makeover
PART FOUR: Blue French Country Bedroom Reveal
Lastly, if you need help finding French country style decor and furnishings, look no further than our “Ask Julie Ann” series, which covers the best Etsy shops for French Country style decor and furnishings.
For beautiful French Country style in your home, these articles are a must-read!
Sources
The Ins and Outs of French Country Decor, 4 Signs You’re Totally Smitten with French Country Decor, https://www.onekingslane.com/live-love-home/classic-french-country-decor/, Alison Hall
So Your Style Is: French Country, So Your Style Is: French Country, https://www.houzz.com/magazine/so-your-style-is-french-country-stsetivw-vs~1787964, Lisa Frederick, 2012-03-26
French Secrets about Home and Décor: L'Art de Vivre, by Lesleigh Kivedo, 2019-12-08, Independently Published
Bed (Lit à la polonaise) | Getty Museum | 94.DA.72
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