Peaceful & Pale European Country Inspiration & Contemplative Quotes

2024! Happy New Year, friends. I hope the holidays were gentle with you, but even if they were not, visual calm awaits. Soothing comfort from European country homes and gardens, quiet color, and rustically elegant glimpses are ahead. I find it hard to believe that today marks Hello Lovely’s 15th year! (Blogging began for me in 2008, and January 1, 2010, was the start of this particular blog.) So much has changed, yet here we are still exploring ideas for more timelessly tranquil interiors (homes as well as hearts). Peaceful & Pale European Country Inspiration & Contemplative Quotes brings photos to soothe, design ideas to choose, and quotes to move.

Elegant French country inspired living room by Marie Flanigan Interiors. Limestone fireplace, neutral colors, gilded lighting, and potted tree. #livingrooms #elegantlivingroom
Marie Flanigan Interiors – Peaceful European country inspiration photos as well as decorating ideas

Photos: Haven In and The Flying Dutchwoman unless otherwise noted

Peaceful European Country Inspiration

At this moment, my husband and I are in the desert where my senses are filled with the spiritual splendor of pink sunsets, grand mountains, succulents, cacti, and Southwest wonder.

Storybook charm of a stone exterior of French farmhouse guest house at Provence Poiriers. #frenchfarmhouse #stonefarmhouse #provencehomes
Provence Poiriers – See more of the main house in THIS

Every trip we make here to visit family finds us dreaming of making a home in this region. We actually bought a vacation home that we renovated, enjoyed for two years, and sold, but our lives were still too busy to truly relax while here.

Fairytale French farmhouse style stucco house exterior with magnificent antique limestone around arched front door - Reagan Andre Architect - appeared in preview issue of MILIEU magazine, 2013. #frenchfarmhouse #pamelapierce #annetteschatte
Reagan Andre Architects – Milieu

Now that we are inching closer to retirement, the itch is back to create a getaway where the sun is dependably shining and wearing flip flops in February is a thing. So this visit over the holidays has been about capturing a vision for the next chapter.

My family members who live in the area are big entertainers…they frequently host friends and family and come alive with a crowd. But me? I’m too easily over-stimulated and stressed by big gatherings and visits.

Kaira Jewell Lingo spiritual quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #spiritualquotes #personalgrowthquotes

Both of us live with health conditions which make it critical to be intentional about diet, lifestyle, and stress-relief. So it is important we create a plan that supports our wellness goals and comfort.

Provence Pretty

Balance is so important in a relationship where one is introvert-ish (me) and the other is extrovert-ish (him). A golf course community makes good sense so we have been exploring them. Since the homes in a planned community are often all pretty much the same, enchanting custom exteriors and interiors like these take on fresh beauty:

Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance
Rustic shutters and lovely Old World details – Haven In (see also: Convent to Villa for more).
Yung Pueblo quote about letting go, peace, and presence on Hello Lovely Studio. #yungueblo #peacequotes

Oh, this historic chateau near Provence (Villa St-Saturnin) in the heart of the Luberon National Park!

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez
Provence architecture and design inspiration – The Flying Dutchwoman. Crumbling stone, weathered antique doors, and climbing vines create romance in the Gulf of St. Tropez village of France.

Are there details to note from the simple sophistication and breathtaking landscape in the South of France we can apply to our own little paradise?

Rustic and elegant: Provençal home, European farmhouse, French farmhouse, and French country design inspiration from Chateau Mireille. Photo: Haven In. South of France 18th century Provence Villa luxury vacation rental near St-Rémy-de-Provence.
Provençal home, European country, French farmhouse, and French country photos from Chateau Mireille – Haven In. (Psst. This 1700s South of France getaway near St-Rémy-de-Provence is lovely indeed!)

We’re dreamers here, so why not even if it is only the color story and textures!?!

Inspiration from a European Country Bath

While we actually demo’d red tiles in our own Georgian not too long ago, I would have left them had they been ancient terracotta ones from France with this gorgeous patina:

Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance
Elegant French country bath with herringbone-patterned terracotta tile floors – Haven In.

However, tile can be not at all comfy underfoot for me and my issues. What appears visually peaceful may not be a treat to actually use and experience. I loved how our full gut and DIY renovation of the bath in our former home felt, looked, and functioned.

In fact, I went for a similar fresh, modern European country look in our current house. I’m still tweaking and will share photos once I feel more confident.

Color is soooooo important to capture a peaceful zen-vibe in your bath. The existing original primary bath in our home was wall to wall chocolate brown tile, and I just felt completely depleted and sad enough that I used the bath down the hall instead.

Modern French renovated bath with Louis style arm chair holding basket of towels, column side table with plant, and vintage clawfoot tub - Hello Lovely Studio. Walls are SW Repose Gray. #swreposegray
Hello Lovely

Now the color story is pale and peaceful (above).

Wendell Berry poem THE PEACE OF WILD THINGS on Hello Lovely. #wendellberry #peacepoetry
Rustic and elegant: Provençal home, European farmhouse, French farmhouse, and French country design inspiration from Château Mireille. Photo: Haven In. South of France 18th century Provence Villa luxury vacation rental near St-Rémy-de-Provence.
Provençal villa, European country and French design influences from Château Mireille – Haven In.

I’ll never live in a grand chateau, yet I can borrow creative ideas that capture the spirit. Pea gravel, for example! We plan to cover cracked-up, buckling cement in an enclosed courtyard in our backyard with pea gravel. A small or large European country courtyard need not be just a dream with a little vision.

French Gustavian Cottage

When the architecture and finishes are this gorgeous, does it even matter what objects move in too?

If your own entry is lacking, how might you use color, texture, and interest to set a peaceful mood for entry to your home.

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

(And just a reminder – I’m not suggesting you invest serious time and cash into a showy entry for visitors. My thoughts are centered on creating beauty to enhance everyday life!)

Cheryl Richardson healing quote about listening on Hello Lovely Studio. #healingquotes #listeningquote
Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance
Isn’t the facade breathtaking (Haven In)? This historic chateau near Provence France (Villa St-Saturnin) is located in the heart of the Luberon National Park near the medieval village of St-Saturnin-les-Apt.
Etty Hillesum inspirational quote and spiritual wisdom prayer on Hello Lovely. #prayers #spirituality #judaism

Inspiring European Country Textures

Would waking up to this ever get old?

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

I suppose that’s the beauty of timelessness and romantic charm – they can comfort us in seasons of uncertainty and change. And we know these things will always be with us in life!

Rustic and elegant: Provençal home, European farmhouse, French farmhouse, and French country design inspiration from Château Mireille. Come score ideas for a Timeless and Tranquil European Country Inspired Look. #europeancountry #interiordesign #frenchcountry

Part of the loveliness in this collection is how you can sense the passage of time. There’s a growing appreciation for time as we age and more deeply realize the fleeting nature of all things.

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

Rolling with the waves of change becomes so important. Self-awareness, spiritual practice daily, and learning new ways to become resilient are key.

An inspiring Apache Prayer on Hello Lovely Studio. #prayers #apacheprayer #inspirationalquote #gratitudequotes

A fondness for the past and nostalgia are different than a deepening gratitude for what has withstood storms yet shelters the living still.

Organic Softness With Rugged Stucco

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

While I can’t seem to live with red, oh I love it for folks who can!

Jillian Pranksy personal growth quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #spiritualjourneyquote #inspirationalquotes #spiritualquotes

What is it about that South of France sunlight and ochre tones with lively greens?

Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance

I’m so grateful to have soaked up this time in the Southwest where things are still growing and flourishing. When I return home, the bare trees and grey skies have plenty to teach me, but a bit of sunshine will remain in my heart.

New Build With Ancient European Country Materials

Thank goodness for visionaries among us who transform dreams into shelter.

Stunning Old World style French country staircase with limestone (Chateau Domingue) and antiques from France. Ruth Gay's home in Houston! #frenchcountry #frenchstone #rusticelegance #staircase #oldworld

Chateau Domingue – also SEE THE HOME TOUR. Euro country interiors, Provence photos to inspire, French gardens, and also peaceful interior design images.

Jamia Wilson freedom quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #spiritualityquotes #personalgrowthquotes #freedomquotes

Oh the beauty of luxe elegant simplicity. Textures, romance, quality-crafted livable luxury, and timeless curated collections that will never fall from favor.

French Nest Interior Design Co. dining room is serene, spare, and timeless. #diningroom #frenchcountry #interiordesign
Tranquil and timeless dining room by The French Nest Co Interior Design.

If you have renovated or built a home, you know about the hundreds of design decisions. The easy thing is to reach for what is trending or readily available in the market.

Luxuriously elegant and rustic French farmhouse kitchen with stone sink in island and rugged wood shelves flanking range - Shannon Bowers in MILIEU. #frenchkitchen #frenchfarmhouse
Shannon Bowers via Milieu magazine. French country decorating inspiration, lovely Provence photos to inspire, French garden beauty, and also, interior design images to soothe and enlighten.

What a testament to devotion when you follow your heart instead.

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez
Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. Crumbling stone, weathered antique doors, and also blooming vines create a romantic sight in the Gulf of St. Tropez village of France.
Kim Thai healing quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #healingquotes #inspirationalquotes #newyearquotes
Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance

This post contains affiliate links which I hope you will use since they won’t cost you a penny extra yet may earn this blog a small commission.

That European Country Spirit in the Marketplace

Hello Lovely French Château Mirielle in Provence! Old World style interiors and charming gardens in Provence. #provence #chateau #interiordesign #gardendesign #vacationvilla #luxuryvilla #luxurioushome #frenchcountry #countryfrench #frenchhome
Elizabeth Lesser change quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #changequotes #transformationquotes #elizabethlesser #newyearquotes

Whimsical Interest in a French Country Dining Room

Cheerful greens in a dining room of a luxurious villa in Provence, Chateau Mireille. #frenchchateau #diningroom #frenchcountry #greendecor
European country inspiration photos and ideas for capturing a peaceful look.
Elizabeth Gilbert quote about change and transformation on Hello Lovely Studio. #changequotes #personalgrowthquotes #spiritualityquotes
Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez
Deborah King spirituality quote about unmasking truth on Hello Lovely Studio. #spiritualityquotes #transformationquotes
Rustic and elegant: Provençal home, European farmhouse, French farmhouse, and French country design inspiration from Château Mireille. Photo: Haven In. South of France 18th century Provence Villa luxury vacation rental near St-Rémy-de-Provence.
Inspirational quote and faith quote about the soul on Hello Lovely Studio. #faithquote #inspirationalquote #christianity #soulquote #quotes

South of France Countryside

Simple sophistication merges with Old World charm and breathtaking gardens in this South of France paradise retreat for travelers.

Provence retreat! Inspiring French country interiors, enchanting gardens, and rich architectural details in a historical and luxurious vacation rental from HAVEN IN. #provence #frenchchateau #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #interiordesign #architecture #european #counrtryhouse #havenin #rusticelegance

What a garden view! This historic chateau near Provence France (Villa St-Saturnin) is located in the heart of the Luberon National Park near the medieval village of St-Saturnin-les-Apt.

Elegant, refined, and masterfully designed, this classic kitchen with farm sink and arched window has design by Matthew Quinn/Lauren DeLoach from Atlanta's Designer Showhouse 2017. Farrow & Ball Light Blue handpainted cabinets. #farmsink #FrenchCountry #lightblue

A kitchen in Atlanta (Southeastern Showhouse 2017), not France. See this kitchen by Matthew Quinn and Lauren DeLoach

Closet dressing room with terracotta tile flooring in elegant 18th century Provençal French farmhouse Château Mireille. Photo: Haven In. Chateau Mireille in St-Rémy-de-Provence.
Cheryl Strayed quote about learning and stretching on Hello Lovely Studio. #personalgrowthquotes #spiritualityquotes

French Inspired Kitchen With Stone

Rustic elegant French country kitchen with stone and pale color palette - The Strand, Dana Point - Ohara Davies Gaetano Interiors - Richard Powers Photo. #frenchkitchen #stonerangehood
Ohara Davies Gaetano Interiors (Photo: Richard Powers)
Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

Above: St. Tropez rustic design provides inspiration for dreamers of romantic interiors and exteriors.

Encouraging quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #inspirationalquotes #quotes #encouragement #personalgrowth
Breathtaking French country living room with stone fireplace and pale blue walls - Ohara Davies Gaetano Interiors. #frenchblue #frenchlivingroom
Photo: Richard Powers – Ohara Davies Gaetano Interiors
Iron staircase with curves in 18th century Provençal home - Chateau Mireille. Photo: Haven In.  This villa is a vacation rental near St-Rémy-de-Provence. #frenchcountrystaircase #frenchstaircase #frenchchateau

An 18th century Provence chateau’s curvy iron staircase…lovely indeed!

Rustic French Country Doors in Provence and gorgeous curb appeal with climbing vines, crumbling stone, and weathered age. Photo: The Flying Dutchwoman. #provence #southoffrance #exteriors #weathereddoors #rusticdoor #frenchcountryside #summerinfrance #frenchcountry #frenchfarmhouse #frontdoor #sttropez

I hope these blissful moments with inspiring architecture, lovely textures, and rich character and history brought a sense of peace and wonder to your heart.

See THIS for a gorgeous study of textures and layering.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

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White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
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2 Comments

  1. Susan
    January 2, 2024 / 10:26 am

    I really enjoyed looking at these photos on a cold winter’s day. You included some more wonderful quotes, too – thank you!

    • Michele
      Author
      January 2, 2024 / 5:03 pm

      Thanks so much for cozying on down here today – Happy New Year!

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Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing