by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: January 05, 2013

There are several French country styles, depending upon the architecture of the home, and the height of the rooms. Different regions of France have their own peculiarities, though the general presentation of French country style breaks into two categories, either being the style found in traditional stone built cottages or the taller buildings which would have been the home of the master trademan or Maitre. The latter have tall ceilings and thus lend themselves to the Louis IV style furniture which is elegant in nature, while the cottages would be very homely but typically French country style, which is easily distinguished from the interiors of other European countries. The French have a particular taste for the way their homes look, though having chosen the style of home based on the size and height of rooms, the country style is achieved as follows:

The tall country home

Fashions have changed over the years, and many of the traditional stances taken by homeowners of tall houses have changed with it. For example, wallpapers are much more subtle, if used at all, and painted walls in softer tones are much more in keeping with today's French country style for the taller home. Pale is the key word when it comes to creating authentic looks which reflect the fashions of French country style. For example, wall colorings blend discreetly with soft and sumptuous furnishings which are equally pale, but which give contrast to the backdrop of pastel walls. Heavy draperies are limited to bedroom areas, with other areas presented to gain as much light as possible with white lacy curtains or simple nets allowing light to flood into the home.

The modern and chic style of furnishing country style tall houses is to ensure that nothing detracts from the natural elements added after the decoration is finished. Pastel shades help to give more credence to focal points which are simple to create with bouquets of flowers that are not overpowering. Less is more, though the warmth of the French interior decoration in this style of house depends upon fabrics and throws, quilts and upholstered chairs in muted colors.

Pictures are popular in this style of home and normally give historic reference to the family within that home, or will be images of the home exterior. Parquet flooring is popular with this style of home, though tiling is not amiss and has been used in many modern French country homes.

The long-re

These are the homes of the majority of French country people. The French long house

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