Elegantly Rustic inspiration continues in this post inspired by the French farmhouse reimagined by Charlotte of Vivi et Margot. We will consider resources, color stories, textures, European country philosophies, and paint colors to learn the magic behind the mix. Visit the shop Vivi et Margot to find French homeware bliss!
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
Elegantly Rustic French Farmhouse Inspo
Soft Tranquil Colors: Welcoming & Friendly
The opposite of a quiet color story? Lots of formal dark, deep, moody colors that feel less than friendly.
Neutrals, whites, and pastels often play a starring role in French country interiors because they lend themselves to a peaceful mood and a sunnier atmosphere.
I mean – doesn’t the image with the beautiful pastels above feel sunny, light, and delightful?
There’s something so warm about French limestone which is anything but cold.
The warm gold of the reclaimed stone walls sets a sunny tone while adding so much texture. Notice there aren’t bold “pops of color.” Rather, the contrast is low, lending a calm mood.
Elegance With Approachability
Color can truly soften, transform, and bring elegance to otherwise rustic design elements. For even more ideas for adding rustic elegance, do see THIS.
Light colors come forward but also quiet the overall composition.
I became particularly aware of this transformative quality when we were renovating our current home.
I was tasked with painting dark brown trim white in many rooms, and the effect is dramatic.
Fussy and formal becomes friendly and casual.
These outdoor scenes from a dining area in this farmhouse near Bordeaux also inspire with an understated, hushed color story.
The curves of the rattan chairs and a welcoming round table also feel friendly. They are similar to the grey kubu chairs I have shared from my own home:
I’m also partial to thse beauties:
They just scream SUMMER and invite us to slow down and relax, oui?
Love the pea gravel look of a French farmhouse garden or patio? We recently added a ton of the stuff to a secret garden on our property.
The old buckling concrete basketball court had seen better days. Now it can take on a fresh identity.
More Glimpses of Vivi et Margot’s Farmhouse
The practical sensibilities consistent with French country living are so appealing because they support philosophies of timelessness, sustainability, and humility.
So many aspects of modern living are excessive or wasteful so it’s helpful to have models of the alternative.
Get the Look!
Even fresh flower arrangements are not over-thought or overdone. The simpler the better!
Interpreting European Country In My Own Home
When I discover beautiful finds I use in my own home, I love to share them. Here’s a bedroom in our former home with French inspired touches such as the Paris print and curvy headboard.
Even though the statement wall in our bedroom was rustic reclaimed wood, the hushed color keeps everything more quiet and less rugged.
A Louis style chair and a vintage clawfoot tub in our bath add elegance to be enjoyed every single day.
This loveseat looks so sumptuous and would work in a variety of spaces including a smallish apartment.
There’s something magical that happens when you combine more rustic pieces with elegant ones.
Luxurious bedding on a country style bed elevates the look and more importantly, the feel of a retreat.
Beautiful Display Cabinets
Don’t you love how a cremone bolt adds instant age and elegance to a cabinet?
Which one do you prefer: the arched top or straight?
I can’t decide!
French Farmhouse Design Inspiration: Interior Paint Colors
It can be tricky to know where to start with paint colors even when you have decided on neutrals and French farmhouse style. Start with samples and take your time!
But which samples?
Consider some of these options provided by Charlotte of Vivi et Margot:
Woodwork, doors, and beams: FARROW & BALL French Gray
Americans tend to think white is the only color trim can be, but it can be interesting to use an atmospheric color that slightly contrasts with lighter walls.
Interior walls: FARROW & BALL Strong White 2001
Despite the name, Strong White is a muted light grey (see more light gray options in this).
Ceilings: FARROW & BALL All White 2005
Ceilings and/or trim could be this color:
Girls’ Bathroom: FARROW & BALL Middleton Pink 245
Pink paint colors are not the easiest so take your sweet time!
Paint color of shutters: TOLLENS Vert Olivier (satin) purchased at Castorama.
This green is a traditional French exterior paint color very popular in France…see THIS for ideas for green paint colors.
French Farmhouse Kitchen Resources
If you love the look of the antique, reclaimed hex kitchen floor tile, check out this hex tile with a gorgeous finish!
Find the first installment with more rustic elegance and resources HERE. You will adore the French farmhouse shopping nirvana that is Vivi et Margot!
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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