These French farmhouse style moments are a testament to what hard work and a dream to own a country home in France can bring into fruition. See this post for the full story of Vivi et Margot, a shop born after a young family restored this 150 year old French farmhouse near Bordeaux.

Beautiful French Farmhouse Style Moments {Decor Inspiration}

French farmhouse exterior inspiration…in case you love green shutters! Photo: Vivi et Margo.

8 Secrets to More Authentic French Farmhouse Decor

“Why are you calling them secrets and what makes you an expert anyway?” Maybe they aren’t secrets outside of mainstream America, but one browse around Pinterest, and it would seem there are more than a few inauthentic attempts at the look which can fall flat without studying the genius underneath this design style that makes it so charming in the first place.

1. Bear in mind where French Farmhouse style originates.

 French farmhouse style originates from the lovely landscape of rural France with its hills and valleys. If you can’t travel to the south of France, do spend time online or at the library studying the region to better understand the romance and allure.

2. Mix masters Genius.

 There is often a sense of refinement in French Country homes where a mix of old and new result in interiors which feel balanced and sensible, yet soulful and interesting. Old World charm and collected antiques and family treasures impart a sense of rich character.

3. Mismatch Magnifique. 

Many Americans still opt for matching furniture sets that fall from favor in style after a few years, which would never do for a French farmhouse. The French country approach to furnishing a home is much looser, and the goal is a customized harmonious and unhomogenized look that appears undecorated and not overwrought.

4. Refreshingly frugal and functional.

French farmhouse style is practical since home decor pieces tend to work in a variety of rooms so they can be moved around to function in a flexible way. Since many furniture pieces are weathered, chunky, and not terribly delicate, pieces get better with age and use and work hard no matter where they are put into service.

5. Honoring Nature. 

The French love their gardens and bringing in flowers for home decor and arrange the blooms quite casually. Depending on the region, sunflowers, irises, and poppies are common flowers which flourish in the French countryside.

6. Distressing is Not Distressing.

Since French Country is a style which imparts a sense of age and tradition, scratches, rust, and signs of wear are celebrated. Perfectly new painted finishes or stains do not blend well with antiques and vintage pieces with desirable patina. The same goes for rugs. The French don’t shop for a new rug because of fading or fraying since this look is attractive, and the practical thing to do is to use something until it is threadbare and beyond useful. The distress and wear which come from using furniture and objects are honored and exalted in French Country design.

7. Patience, mes amis! 

The French seem always to take a decidedly patient, unhurried, and thoughtful, and not-too-serious sort of approach to their home decor which unfolds over time as family heirlooms are handed down through generations.

8. Trends? Look the other way. 

Instead of following trends and redecorating every decade, the French understand the beauty of timeless and prefer timeworn finishes, patina, and character which results from age and wear. It’s an elegant, sophisticated look which is never contrived or overthought.

How do the French accessorize in their French Country homes?

Houzz reports French Country home decor accents always have a purpose: “Rarely will accessories in a French country room be purely decorative. They usually have an undertone of usefulness: wall-hung plates that can be pulled down for service, jugs and jars that house kitchen staples, baskets that corral plump produce from the garden. Open shelving is a natural partner for this look — everyday items enjoy pride of place rather than languishing behind cabinet doors.”

French Farmhouse Design Inspiration. Photo: Vivi et Margot.

French Country Influence in My Own Home

Our own current home has a Nordic cottage style exterior and timeless interiors inspired by French Farmhouse style and Belgian design sensibilities.

My kitchen (Hello Lovely Studio) 31 Beautiful French Farmhouse Style Moments {Decor Inspiration}

French Country Dining

Maison de Vacances check linens at Vivi et Margot.

French farmhouse and French Country interiors feature a mix of country warmth, sophistication, and simplicity. The decor is not singularly informal, but it’s never too fussy, loud, or froufrou.

Pale Colors

Master Bedroom Dressing Room! We tour it in Part 2, French farmhouse fans!

But. That. Pink! Basket: Vivi et Margot. Photo: @Evgenia.Prinsloo, courtesy of Vivi et Margot.

French Country Baskets

French farmhouse design inspiration from Western France.

Romantic French Country in Houston

I couldn’t leave out this unforgettable living room in Houston!

31 Beautiful French Farmhouse Style Moments {Decor Inspiration} Chateau Domingue

Cozy Factor

French farmhouse living room. Drapery: Pottery Barn (Beligan Flax Linen drapes). Another Belgian Linen Semi Sheer Option RIGHT HERE. Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Paint color of wood beams: FARROW & BALL French Gray. Oak hardwood flooring.

Dream ride! Basket: Vivi et Margot. Photo: @Evgenia.Prinsloo, courtesy of Vivi et Margot.

Rugged Textures

French farmhouse exterior inspiration…keep reading for the green color of these charming shutters!

Elegant Yet Approachable

Can you smell the lavender? Rustic French farmhouse exterior inspiration.

Shhhhh…the green shutters only look original.. They were custom made locally.

150 year old French farmhouse in Deux-Sèvres. Photo: Vivi et Margot. French Farmhouse Design Inspiration.

Such a romantic dining spot! Tablecloth. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Maison de Vacances check linens at Vivi et Margot.

The French countryside in summer is hard to beat. Photo: Vivi et Margot.

Poolside lounging at a French farmhouse in Western France.

Check Tablecloth (Maison de Vacances Blush Check)…FIND HERE. Outdoor dining furniture: Maisons du Monde (France). Find similar rattan dining chairs RIGHT HERE.

French farmhouse living inspiration. Isn’t the rustic stone amazing?

French farmhouse tablescape simplicity. Check Tablecloth (Maison de Vacances Blush Check)…FIND HERE.

French farmhouse master bathroom. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Flooring is reclaimed antique terracotta tile. Wall Paint Color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Woodwork paint color: FARROW & BALL French Gray. Clawfoot Tub: Hudson Reed: FIND HERE. Find more LOVELY TUB OPTIONS RIGHT HERE.

Love for the Threadbare

French farmhouse kitchen design inspiration. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Check Tea Towel. Artisan Light: Vivi et Margot. Kitchen design by Neptune Kitchens. Kitchen cabinet color (Neptune – Limestone). Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Antique reclaimed terracotta tile floor. Table: Neptune. Chairs: Maisons du Monde (France). Find a lovely farmhouse table RIGHT HERE and similar wood chairs RIGHT HERE. Faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE. For lovely apron farm sink options GO HERE.

Antiques that Function Well

Rustic French farmhouse exterior with green shutters. Photo: Vivi et Margot.

Rugged with the Refined

French farmhouse kitchen design inspiration. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Check Tea Towel. Kitchen design by Neptune Kitchens. Kitchen cabinet color (Neptune – Limestone). Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Antique reclaimed terracotta tile floor. Table: Neptune. Chairs: Maisons du Monde (France). Find a lovely farmhouse table RIGHT HERE and similar wood chairs RIGHT HERE. Faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE. For lovely apron farm sink options GO HERE.

“Undone” and Never Overwrought

Farm sink and French farmhouse kitchen design inspiration. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Kitchen design by Neptune Kitchens. Dish Towels: Vivi et Margot. Kitchen cabinet color (Neptune – Limestone). For lovely apron farm sink options GO HERE. Kitchen faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE.

Ahhhhh, lovely French summer living! Baskets: Vivi et Margot.

Climbing vines on a breathtakingly rustic French farmhouse exterior. Photo: Vivi et Margot.

Girls bathroom. Paint color: FARROW & BALL Middleton Pink No. 245.  Flooring: Antique reclaimed terracotta tile. Clawfoot Tub: Hudson Reed: FIND HERE. Find more LOVELY TUB OPTIONS RIGHT HERE.

Get the Look!

French Farmhouse Decor Inspiration Ideas & Decorating Ideas!

Timeless Decor Furniture & Decor

I appreciate timeless decor that isn’t influenced by what is currently strutting down the runway. It’s not going to look silly a couple of years from now because it has a connection to the past yet remains functional and relevant now.

When I come across a particularly beautiful find which I think many of you would fancy, I tuck it away – and the links have been accumulating so it’s time for the lovely to rain down.

An easy way to convey appreciation for this blog? USE THIS LINK to begin shopping for items (anything at all – not just products mentioned here!) on Amazon to buy what you already intended to buy…it won’t cost a dime extra yet may earn Hello Lovely a few pennies if my link is the first you click!!! Additionally, my go-to source for the best priced items for home is RIGHT HERE, and I love helping you add style and function to your home with thoughtfully selected product recommendations. Thanks so much for your support as you use independently chosen links, many of which earn me a commission.

Grey rattan patio chair with cushion: FIND HERE.

Pretty, Timeless & Tranquil Settees

1. Low Cost Striped Settee: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

2. Another Low Cost French Country Loveseat: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

3. Higher Priced Louis Loveseat: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

4. Highest Priced Blue Stripe Settee: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

Lovely Display Cabinets

5. Highest Priced China Cabinet: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

6. Moderate Priced Display Cabinet: FIND HERE.

7. Moderately Priced Rustic Curio Cabinet: FIND HERE.

8. Low Priced China Cabinet: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

Martini Table Finds

9. Highest Priced Martini Table: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.  Timeless Furniture Finds & Timeless Thoughts.

10. Moderately Priced Black Martini Tray Table: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed.

11. Low Priced Round Martini End Table: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.  Timeless Furniture Finds & Timeless Thoughts

12. Lowest Cost End Table: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed.

Pretty Headboards

13. Highest Priced Wingback Bed: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

14. Moderately Priced Tufted Headboard: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed.

15. Moderately Priced Nailhead Trim Upholstered Headboard

16. Low Priced Panel Headboard: FIND HERE.

Scandinavian Inspired Timeless Dressers

17. Highest Priced Swedish Style Dresser: FIND HERE.

18. Higher Priced Dresser:FIND HERE

19. Moderately Priced 4 Drawer Dresser: FIND HERE.

20. Low Priced Dresser: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed!

French Inspired Timeless Chandeliers

21. Low Priced French Country Chandelier: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed!

22. Another Low Priced 6-Light Candle Style Chandelier: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed!

23. Moderately Priced Aidan Gray Chandelier…certainly lovely indeed!

24. Highest Priced Aidan Gray French Farmhouse Chandelier: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed!

Beautiful Beds With Timeless Style

25. Low Priced Canopy Bed: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed!

26. Moderately Priced Upholstered Canopy Bed: FIND HERE…certainly lovely indeed!

27. Higher Priced Upholstered Panel Bed: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed!

28. Highest Priced Upholstered Canopy Bed: FIND HERE...certainly lovely indeed!

From my home to yours, I leave you with this simple
vignette on my farm table and a Navajo prayer:

My Kitchen. 31 Beautiful French Farmhouse Style Moments {Decor Inspiration}

Peace to you right where you are.

~michele

Color of custom kitchen cabinetry in French farmhouse kitchen: Neptune Paint – Limestone

Charming Check Linens in a French Country Kitchen

Maison de Vacances Aqua Check Linens.

French farmhouse kitchen design inspiration. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Baskets: Vivi et Margot. Artisan Light: Vivi et Margot. Kitchen design by Neptune Kitchens. Kitchen cabinet color (Neptune – Limestone). Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Antique reclaimed terracotta tile floor. Table: Neptune. Chairs: Maisons du Monde (France). Find a lovely farmhouse table RIGHT HERE and similar wood chairs RIGHT HERE. Faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE. For lovely apron farm sink options GO HERE.

Maison de Vacances Aqua Check Linens.

French Farmhouse Design Inspiration: Interior Paint Colors

Paint colors for interiors throughout this French farmhouse: FARROW & BALL.

Woodwork, doors, and beams: FARROW & BALL French Gray.

FARROW & BALL French Gray. A soothing green grey. French Gray is really much more green than grey, but characterfully flits between the two depending on the light and time of day. Taking inspiration from French design and wallpapers used in the 19th century, it creates the most relaxed of rooms. This soothing hue is perfect for exterior woodwork and a particular favourite for front doors in our matte Exterior Eggshell, or garden furniture where it sits seamlessly amongst the greenery.

Interior walls: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001.

FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. A grey based white. This cool white is both strong by name and strong by nature. One of our Contemporary Neutrals, the subtle urban feel of its light grey undertones add a contemporary twist to period homes, while staying in keeping with modern properties. Pair with Skimming Stone, Elephant’s Breath and All White in any combination for an effortlessly cohesive scheme.

Ceilings: FARROW & BALL All White. No. 2005.

FARROW & BALL All White. No. 2005. A totally pure white All White is exactly what it says! Unusually, it contains no other pigment except for white, creating the softest most sympathetic colour without the colder blue undertones of a brilliant white. One of our Contemporary Neutrals, All White pairs seamlessly with Skimming Stone and Strong White for a warm scheme with a slight edge. For a clean and almost graphic finish, contrast with fresh, strong tones like Pitch Black and St Giles Blue.

Girls’ Bathroom: FARROW & BALL Middleton Pink No. 245.

FARROW & BALL Middleton Pink No. 245. A delicate pink. Our prettiest and most delicate pink was named after the discerning colourist, Catherine Middleton. This light pastel tone is fresh and uncomplicated, especially when contrasted with All White for a gently playful feel. Try pairing our Middleton Pink with Great White for a slightly cleaner urban finish.

Paint color of  shutters: TOLLENS Vert Olivier (satin) purchased at Castorama.

This is a traditional French exterior paint color very popular in France.

French farmhouse shutters light medium green paint color: TOLLENS Vert Olivier.

Shopping & Resource Guide

French farmhouse kitchen design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed! Photo: Vivi et Margot. Check Tea Towel. Artisan Light: Vivi et Margot. Kitchen design by Neptune Kitchens. Kitchen cabinet color (Neptune – Limestone). Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001. Antique reclaimed terracotta tile floor. Table: Neptune. Chairs: Maisons du Monde (France). Find a lovely farmhouse table RIGHT HERE and similar wood chairs RIGHT HERE. Faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE. For lovely apron farm sink options GO HERE.

French Farmhouse Kitchen

Kitchen Floor Terracotta tile: for flooring in kitchen, mud room, and bathrooms: 200 year old reclaimed terracotta tiles sourced from a stone yard in Angers.

FIND A UNIQUE terracotta lookalike PORCELAIN TILE WITH AN ANTIQUED APPEARANCE YOU MAY LOVE: RIGHT HERE.

Kitchen Design: custom by Neptune Kitchens.

Cabinet Paint Color: Neptune – Limestone.

Kitchen hardware: Rejuvenation.

For butcher block countertop options, SEE THIS and for apron front farm sinks, GO HERE.

Kitchen Faucet: Cuissimo. Find similar…RIGHT HERE and HERE.

Pot Filler: Kingston Brass…FIND HERE.

Kitchen farm table: Neptune. Find a lovely one RIGHT HERE and more options HERE.

Kitchen chairs: Maisons du Monde (a French online store similar to Target).

These dining chairs are very similar!

Charming and rustic 150 year old French farmhouse in Western France. Photo: Vivi et Margot.

Exterior

Shutters: Custom-made and new, made locally.

Patio Furniture: Maisons du Monde (France). Find similar rattan dining chairs RIGHT HERE.

See this full bathroom tour in Part 2. Fully renovated French farmhouse bathroom with clawfoot tub. Draperies: Pottery Barn (Beligan Flax Linen drapes). Find a Belgian Linen Semi Sheer Option RIGHT HERE. Photo: Vivi et Margot. Rug: Rejuvenation. Relaimed antique terracotta tile flooring. Paint color on door: FARROW & BALL French Gray. Wall paint color: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001.

 French Farmhouse Bathrooms (see more  of them in Part 2!)

Towels, Soaps, Accessories: Vivi et Margot.

Clawfoot bathtubs and faucets: Hudson Reed: FIND HERE. Find more LOVELY TUB OPTIONS RIGHT HERE.

Window Treatments

All Drapery: Pottery Barn (Beligan Flax Linen drapes). Find a Belgian Linen Semi Sheer Option RIGHT HERE.

French Farmhouse Master Bedroom

Rug: Rejuvenation.

Bed: Maisons du Monde.

Chandelier: Maisons du Monde.

Cremone Bolt on Door: Signature Hardware…FIND HERE

Skylight: Velux…Find Here.

The beauty continues in PART TWO of the tour right here.

You will love the French farmhouse shopping nirvana that is

Vivi et Margot!

And do visit their instagram RIGHT HERE.

Peace to you right where you are.

michele

p.s.

Don’t miss the exceptionally beautiful TIMELESS EUROPEAN COUNTRY HOUSE TOUR of Chateau Domingue’s founder, Ruth Gay!