| French furnishings & accessories covers a wide range | | | | chairs and ottomans in over-stuffed French inspired |
| of styles and periods, but what has stood the test of | | | | fabric. Wooden pieces such as writing desks are often |
| time is French country decor due to its beauty, | | | | whitewashed to give that distressed look. Once in |
| traditional inspiration, and mix and match design. | | | | place those special pieces in the form of accessories |
| Additionally, they are easy to replicate if original pieces | | | | such as antique book and old-fashioned paperweights |
| can't be found. | | | | can be prominently displayed. |
| When one looks at a French country home one finds | | | | For many finding the desired decor may be a |
| that the walls are very welcoming. This is achieved | | | | challenge, but is actually easier than expected. Flea |
| through various techniques. The objective is to provide | | | | markets and specialty boutiques can produce major |
| a backdrop for the many treasures and finds one | | | | finds in styles like shabby chic which can easily be |
| come across in their lifetime. French signs, distress or | | | | refurbished. Additionally, some antique shops even |
| antique frames that are filled with photos in black and | | | | specialize in this style of decor. In today's market, much |
| white or sepia, and even garden trellises can all | | | | can be found online as well where auctions, sale sites, |
| enhance the look of wall space to achieve that | | | | and other types of bidding sites can provide the |
| country look. | | | | perfect finds necessary to complete the look. |
| Shelves are a must in any French country inspired | | | | It's important to remember when putting a look |
| home. They add character and contrast as well as | | | | together that French colors and patterns are unique. |
| provide much needed storage for those treasures that | | | | Pastel colors are often accented with pops of bold |
| require display space. Often they are made of a | | | | color. For example, many of the wallpaper patterns |
| whitewashed wood that are surrounded with crown | | | | and wall colors will be in white or cream which is then |
| molding that is bold, ornate, and filled with intricate | | | | accented with bold colors in reds, blues, or blacks. |
| distinguished designs. This is the perfect place for | | | | Additionally, gold and rusty metals provide additional |
| those etched glass canisters, fresh cut flowers, and | | | | contrast to any decor. Patterns are often busy so |
| finials that are distressed when painted. | | | | must be used with an editing eye. Picnic scenes and |
| The furniture is key in that it would make little sense to | | | | gardens of flowers are commonly used to help French |
| go to the trouble of creating that perfect country style | | | | furnishings & accessories make any guest feel |
| only to have bold contemporary furnishings filling the | | | | welcome. |
| space. The French country style, instead contains side | | | | |