French Country Furniture

French country furniture is a combination of rustic elements and elegant details that result in a warm, welcoming, comfy look and feel. Sharing many similarities to shabby chic, vintage or country style cottage furniture, French country style draws inspiration from the French countryside, specifically the region of Provence. Old World influence makes this furniture style cozy, comfortable and irresistibly charming. French country style combines graceful details with the rough, raw elements of the rustic. The result is undeniably romantic, with a refined presentation that is modest and appealing.

French Country History

During the 1600s, King Louis the XIV of France made it his mission to renovate the Palace of Versailles in the latest styles that would be loved by all. He brought in the best to style the palace in a luxurious fashion. Over time the masses came to adore the extravagant style of the palace, and they emulated it in their own homes using furniture they could afford mixed with worn pieces already in their homes. The style that developed included furniture that supported every day living but wore a sophisticated look. This was the beginning of French country style, and it took root and developed during the 18^th century. The goal was to achieve a rustic elegance while maintaining comfort.

Features of French Country Furniture

There’s a perfect balance to French country design, using the ornate in a way that’s relaxed enough to be warm and inviting instead of over the top. It embraces neutral colors and natural characteristics, making solid wood French country furniture an ideal centerpiece. It also factors in rustic appeal that celebrates a laid back look—creating the perfect lived in space.

French country furniture adapts easily to a variety of décor themes. French country pieces do not have to be paired or matched for this style to work well. From country cottage to grand estate, the flow of elegant curves combined with a homey, lived in appearance works beautifully. French country rooms blend old and new items as well as fancy and simple ones together with a unique charm. Placing vintage thrift store chairs or an antique hutch with a new solid wood table works just fine for French country. Distressed finishes that incorporate the look of aged wood are often used as they present a look of wear and use that’s warm and welcoming.

French country features include:

• Strong and solid framework with craftsmanship that supports daily living
• Relaxed yet sophisticated look
• Comfortable
• Mixture of old and new
• Distressed finishes for an aged appearance
• Fancy items blended with simple ones
• Extra frill is fine
• Flowing lines add interest
• Charming rustic look

DutchCrafters handcrafted French country furniture offers a cheerful welcome throughout the home. Shapely curves, solid wood and distressed finishes succeed in creating the ideal French country blend. Soft, graceful and elegant along with plenty of comfort factor, this is furniture that offers a warm welcome in any room. Bring the comfort and charm of the French countryside to your home.