This beautiful farmhouse was newly constructed and sits between the sea and mountains of the south of Catalonia, Spain.  The house is decorated in the French country style. Borrow the best looks from this house for your own home.  Below we offer three suggestions that will give you the biggest impact for gaining the French country look in your [...]]]>

This beautiful farmhouse was newly constructed and sits between the sea and mountains of the south of Catalonia, Spain.  The house is decorated in the French country style. Borrow the best looks from this house for your own home.  Below we offer three suggestions that will give you the biggest impact for gaining the French country look in your home.

1. Old Plastered Walls

Old Plastered walls will give you an old world look automatically.  Nothing will change the appearance of your home MORE than a faux wall finish.  While there are so many finishes to choose from, it doesn't have to be complicated.  Today there are a large range of concrete/ plaster molds that are available to FAKE a stone wall in your home.  ALSO, applying plaster that is mixed with paint can be an easy faux finish that  any person can make.  It doesn't have to be complicated.  Consider adding texture to your smooth walls to give a inexpensive-comparable look to stone walls.

Consider adding texture to the walls using joint compound. (It is important that you test this look on a sheet of wood before applying it to your walls to see of you like the appearance before adding plaster. Practice makes perfect)  Simply apply a thin coat (1/4" thick) of compound to the wall, using the flat edge of the joint knife. A thicker coat of plaster might crack and fall off, so working with thinner coats is ideal.   Experiment with creating various surface textures. Use a broom to create a striated, or a paint brush to create texture in the plaster.  Experiment with textures that look genuine.  When the textured surface is complete, let the wall compound dry for about 24 hours.  With a paintbrush, apply pale-pink semigloss paint to the wall.   Apply two coats of paint to seal the drywall compound. After your wall has dried, apply a glaze onto the wall with a wide paintbrush. Your glaze should be a slightly darker color of the paint color on wall.  A very light muted  yellow mixed with glaze would also make a terrific glaze.   Simply paint the glaze on, and wipe off the excess glaze with a cotton cloth.  The glaze will collect in the crevices giving the appearance of an aged look.

A large amount of faux plaster stone molds are available.  Plaster is pretty inexpensive, making this project very affordable.  The only down side to these molds, is it will take you a long time to make enough to cover a wall.  If you are patient and willing to put in the hard work, I cannot imagine how b

To read more details about this beautiful home, visit Campagne Decoration.

19th Century French Iron Metal Folding Daybed Berkshire Home & Antiques

2. The Use Of Metal

In French decor, metal is a very important element, especially iron. One very easy way to incorporate forged iron is with curtain rods and curtain hold-backs.   Modern hardware can be traded out for iron hardware.  This simple improvement [...]]]>

19th Century French Iron Metal Folding Daybed Berkshire Home & Antiques

2. The Use Of Metal

In French decor, metal is a very important element, especially iron. One very easy way to incorporate forged iron is with curtain rods and curtain hold-backs.   Modern hardware can be traded out for iron hardware.  This simple improvement can make all the difference in a home.

Take a good look at your lighting.  Often times, you can quickly fix ceiling lighting simply with spray paint.  Rust-oluem produces a wonderful spray called Oil- Rubbed which gives a wonderful metallic bronze finish that looks genuine.  Rustoleum also produces a spray that simulates aged iron.  For under 20 dollars you can make over much of the metal in your home with inexpensively.  Adding a good primer can ensure that your finish lasts several years.  After trying a dozen of primers, I have found when it comes to covering metal, that using an automobile primer has been what has worked the best for me in the past.  Finding a primer in black is not an easy find.  Although Rustoleum produces an auto primer that works quite well.  Auto paints can be very very toxic to breath in.  So it is best to do spray painting outside, as well it is imperitive to wear a proper safety mask to ensure that your lungs are protected.  This is a great way of improving some of the little details around your home which will make a big impact.

Iron shelves can be put above doorways, or under kitchen cabinets for a very rustic appearance.  Use iron shelving in your bathrooms for extra storage.  The color and texture of the iron adds a touch of boldness that metals used nowadays don't  have.

-Cast Iron Bird Knocker $13

-Esschert Design Quarter Round Etagere Plant Rack $134

-Esschert Design Cast Iron Wall Shelf with Hooks $52

-Esschert Design  Cast Iron Game Wall Hook $54

-Esschert Design XH61-AR Large French Urn $101

-Esschert DesignBird Large $13, Sitting Iron Bird, $13

-Esschert Design Boot Rack/Scraper for 2 pairs of boots $79

-Esschert Design DB56 Cast Iron Welcome Sign $19

-16" Decorative Flowing Scroll Bathroom Towel Holder $60

-Elizabeth Narrow Towel Rack $49

-Set of 2 Vintage French Antique Silver Vanity Mirror Home Decor $64

-30.75" Weathered Wooden and Iron Bistro Table with Scroll Accents $279

-27" Black Iron Leaf & Scroll Lantern-Style Table Top Candle Holder $151

-Counterflory Recipe Book Holder $33

-Secrets du Potager Herb and Flower Dryer $18

-Secrets du Potager Harvest Baskets, Set of 3 $74

-Cast Iron Shoe Scraper with Brush $53

-Cast Iron Umbrella Stand $86

- Large Wasp Trap with Decorative Cast Iron Holder $35

-Cast Iron Wall Mount Hose Holder $46

-Half Round Cast Iron Wall Planter $41

Other Interesting Ideas :

- Iron Jardiniere Planters

-Ornate French Chateau Style Brown Iron Desk Clock $38

-Iron Wall Hook Home Decor $13

-Palazetto Fleur Cast Aluminum Bistro Set Color - Antique Wine $219

-Secrets du Potager Wire Mannequin Display Figure $181

-Esschert Design USA ZB16 Glass Cloche $54

-Esschert Design OZ13 Old Zinc Finish Round Table $133

-Esschert Design USA BR03 Bird Hook Bracket $15.48

-Set of Three White Metal Flower Pots In Metal Saucer $16

-Esschert Design USA White Metal Bucket with Wood Handle $16

-21" Antique-Style Vanity Mirror with Two-Tier Tray $74

-Set of 3 Open Design Birdcage-Inspired Wire Urns with Finial Lids $140

-36" Giant Wire Mesh Hanging Three-Tier Wall Shelf Rack $230

3. The Use Of Clay

Another material we often see in French styled estates is the vast use of clay.  Pottery brings an old look to our modern homes instantly. Consider buying over-sized clay potting containers and line them up out side in a row.  These large scale pots look great at the outside of an entry [...]]]>

3. The Use Of Clay

Another material we often see in French styled estates is the vast use of clay.  Pottery brings an old look to our modern homes instantly. Consider buying over-sized clay potting containers and line them up out side in a row.  These large scale pots look great at the outside of an entry way, or in the entrance to a garden.  Use them as a focal point in the middle of your flower garden for an architectural look.  Use metal forms to create manicured bushes.   Adding plants in the house with clay pots is a sure way of bringing that old world touch into your home. Paint and stencil your clay pots to customize your decor inside and outside.  Rocks are quite popular and are used instead of extensive lawns in the countryside of France.  Adding iron patio furniture outside looks great and also weathers terrific over the years.

-Cortez Pedestal Bowls - Set of 3 $106

-Abydos Small Vase $34

-Rosemary Herb Pots Set of 3 - $43

-Roman Tall Vase $82

-Set of 3 Clay Green, Blue and Yellow Lidded Jar Canisters 16" $139

-11" Decorative Distressed Rustic Ceramic Pitcher Vase with Metal Handle $79

When we think of French interiors, we think of pale blue, gray and white, yet French decorating isn't just one a one-color palette. Pink, salmon, and coral are often associated with the Rococo period and was in fashion until the end of the 18th century. Today we don't see many interiors [...]]]>

French Painted Pink Commode

When we think of French interiors, we think of pale blue, gray and white, yet French decorating isn't just one a one-color palette. Pink, salmon, and coral are often associated with the Rococo period and was in fashion until the end of the 18th century. Today we don't see many interiors based on these colors alone, and I ask myself why? Pastels are some of the most beautiful colors that a person can work with, and yet most of us gravitate towards the neutrals such as the gray and beige tones. I think for the most part, many of us are scared to use color, because we don't know how to incorporate color.

The Rococo developed in the early part of the 18th century in Paris, France as a reaction against the grandeur of Baroque where most of the pastel tones came into fashion. If you enjoy the bold shades of scarlet, cerulean, pacific blue, or shamrock green, consider working with the sibling colors such as seashell pink, peach, sea green, mint and sky blue as your main color shade in your home, while incorporating the bolder colors with accessories. The combination of pale blue and coral are great matches for one another.

-In this picture we see a combination of a pastel pink with an ice blue.  Both colors look terrific together.

-Fushia table cloths are paired with cinnamon and  saffron in a French Provence cafe

-Menton Provence shows wonderful architecture in shades of coral and pink.  Shades of blue in the sky and ocean work so beautifully together.

-Ceiling arches in the Royal Arcade in London. Brighter orange is paired with peach and gray ornaments. The look is amazing. Go Statue On Ebay is the number one place I purchase my molds. I have found so many great designs that could work on the wall from this store.

-A Courtyard with a fountain in Aix-en-Provence, France shows a building painted in shades of peach with sky blue shutters.

-A village in Provence shows beautiful colors of orange and blue in the architecture.

-Vibrant pinks are seen in the street of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cote d'Azur, France

-Take some color combinations from nature.  Combine earthy oranges with punchy greens in your interior color choices.

-Here is an excellent example of using three base colors in a room.  The rule many designers go by is using no more than three main colors.  In this photograph we see that rule play out nicely.  Earthy orange is used as a base coat, followed by a sky blue, and a vibrant shade of orange is used as the second accent color.

-Here we see an unusual combination using pink as the base color, and blue as a secondary color.  Emerald green is chosen for an accent color, nicely fitting in with Provence style.

-Here is a beautiful combination of colors.  Here we see a chapel with lavender field. The chapel is painted in a light peach color with a vibrant color of orange for the roof.  In this instance, lavender and green are accent colors to peach and orange.

-Orange is wonderful when it is paired with dandelion yellow, bone white and copper. Use brighter sunflower yellow with a muted pastel salmon. Muted pastels work nicely combined with electric vibrant colors.

-Consider sticking with the same shade tones for greater impact. Apricot, tangerine, and sienna are all wonderful shades that could play off one another. Consider painting a wall in a light apricot, and layer in painted french furniture in tangerine with copper hardware.

-Salmon and coral pair nicely with pearl gray. Warm shades such as seen in terra cotta can be paired with cooler shades of greens and turquoise.

-Pull together the details of your home in your fabric selections, upholstery and throw pillows. I believe it was Kelly Wearstler who insisted that the pink china she saw displayed in the kitchen of the home she was touring, had to come with the house as an agreement of the sale of the home. Display your china on gold or white sconces and collect several tones of the color that attracts you most.

-Rit Dye includes dozens of dye combinations that I often use to achieve colors in paint mixing. If you have gallons of paint like I do, and useless shades that are no longer your style, this site will help you mix your own paint formulas for painting projects.

Louis XV Commode Painted Wood. Convenient to Louis XV- Proantic Antiques

12 Best Shades Of Orange From House Beautiful Magazine

12 Best Shades Of Orange From House Beautiful Magazine

Gustavian Swedish and Rococo Furniture From Moissonnier

Moissonnier furniture offers you copies of 17th to 19Th Century Antiques

Swedish Paint Color Considerations- House Beautiful -The Paint Colors Issue

House Beautiful Magazine - The Paint Issue

-Rethink pink as an accent color in your house that you can showcase in different ways, other than the wall color. China is the perfect way to display brighter colors. Line them up on your wall using plate hooks. Throw pillows are great ways of adding pops of color on your sofa and beds. Lamps can be painted, and custom shades with fabric to match your interiors can be customized. Painting furniture is the best way to incorporate several shades of color into your home.

-Paint your walls a shade of mango, and layer in frames in copper or gold. Consider painting picture frames a burnt ochre orange, with picture mats that match the wall color. In this picture you see several shades of orange, and a brass pitcher makes a nice centerpiece.
-If you plan on working with a bright color, consider accenting it with either copper or brass. It is amazing what either metals will do for tones of pink or coral.

19th Century French Provincial Louis XV Painted Side Table

19th Century French Provincial Louis XV Painted Side Table

Provence Painted Furniture

-Traditional Colors From The 18th AND Early 19th Centuries-A Selection of Oranges

-Traditional Colors From The 18th AND Early 19th Centuries-A Selection of Blues
-Annie Sloan Chalk Paints -Antibes Green, Barcelona Orange

-The Best Antique Framed Mats. - Get The Look For Your Walls

-The paler pinks are feminine and pretty, while the more intense shades such as raspberry, are dramatic and exciting. Shell pinks find their true complementary shades in the pale, blue-greens, but also work well with the lighter shades of blue and lilac. Use the stronger colors of such as scarlet, Persian red and crimson as accent colors.

-Color-washing the walls is an excellent way to tone down a bright color on the walls. Light gray, or pastel yellow can produce a mottled effect against a bright tone on the walls. The faded, sun-bleached corals also look great on exterior patio walls with terracotta floor tiles and plant holders to give a Mediterranean look.

Louis XV Style Red Lacquer Table

Louis XV Style Red Lacquer Side Table From Hastening Antiques
Serpentine shaped top with carved and gilded chinoiserie decoration over scalloped apron and delicate cabriole legs. Made in France circa 1900.
-Shocking pinks aren't always the easiest colors to decorate around, although they work really well teamed with pastels in the same color tone and greens. Fuchsia pink works nicely with accents of apple green, warm golds and coral pinks. Raspberry and mulberry shades work well with pastel shades. Pale shades of bluish pink are a excellent choices for bedrooms, while the boldest, vivid colors tend to work best on accent pieces such as a painted console table, china on the wall, or seen in paintings with several other pinks combined.

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale, have ren0vated this sensational old world 1700′s chateau that was originally built by an minister who was knighted by Louis XIV.  The home sits in the town of Pau, in south of France and has a distinct French country flavor which can [...]]]>

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale, have ren0vated this sensational old world 1700′s chateau that was originally built by an minister who was knighted by Louis XIV.  The home sits in the town of Pau, in south of France and has a distinct French country flavor which can be seen in the furniture and the architectural choices.

Whether you are re-decorating with French tastes in mind, or a life-long admirer of the Provence style, this house is certainly one to study.

The couple were not afraid of tackling such a magnificent structure, as they were lovers of architecture and interior design. Their restoration preserved all the beautiful details, and gorgeous antiques and decor were found at the local Parisian flea markets which added to the period touches of the home.

Inside, you will see captivating stucco ceilings, and painted plaster walls that are magnificently detailed.  Consider getting the look of their living room by painting your walls a light blue and working with blue and beige furnishings. Demilune tables line the wall in a light painted ivory finish.  Linen is casually draped over the sofas with matching throw pillows.  The furniture makes this room comfortable, yet functional, and still holds to the aesthetic period style of the home.

In this post below we have collected the very best Linen furniture on Amazon with a French flare.  Consider working with all-natural fabrics in your home to achieve that rustic old world charm.

-Linen- Decorating Ideas For Your French Provincial Home

A Swedish secretary in a light blue sits in the corner of the room, and a reclaimed wood coffee table float in between the sofas.  Furntiure is distressed and worn showing years of love and use.

In this picture we zoom in on the country French chair with the velvet upholstery sitting along the wall in the Deleuze's home.  In the post we list a chair made from Currey & Company whom sells a terrific reproduction chair almost identical to Deleuze's chair, listed at 2,138.00.  If that is a bit pricey, consider shopping on ebay under "Country French Chair" and comparable chairs will surface for lower price points.

In the picture the chair seems to have a rich velvet cushion which highlights the blue tones in the antique painting on the wall.  The bright blue also works nicely picking up the hue of the wall color and the painted secretary in the corner.  This painted Louis XV chair has the same rich velvet blue tone seen in the cushions making this fabric a supreme choice for your furnishings.  Velvet is usually rich in color and adds vibrant touch to a muted color palette.

The living room is based around blues, and the faux finishes found in their bedroom and bathroom give this home a historical presence. The home retains the original floors, and the over sized kitchen has an impressive fireplace from the 1600s that brings warmth to those cold windy nights.  In the dining room, a rustic plank table serves as a long traditional table for friends and family to gather around  for traditional French dining.

-GET THE LOOK: Old World Reclaimed Wood Farm Tables For Your
Kitchen

-Reclaimed Distressed Rustic Wood Coffee Tables Fit In Perfectly With This Style

-29 Of The Best Rustic Iron Hardware For Your Provence Chests

See additional photos at Gilles Trillard's Website , Property’s website: Magie des Lieux. If you like this article, please leave a comment, and pin it on facebook and pinterest, and come again!

How To Recreate A 17th Century French Provence Chateau Look In Your Own Home – Part 2

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Country Home

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Country Home

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

Here we see a new picture of the hallway from a different angle.  Bright yellow has always been a staple color for country French decorating.  Look how the trim is painted in a greenish gray tone.  White is used on the shutters while [...]]]>

Mr Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale Own This Captivating Chateau in France

Here we see a new picture of the hallway from a different angle.  Bright yellow has always been a staple color for country French decorating.  Look how the trim is painted in a greenish gray tone.  White is used on the shutters while the walls feature a deep hue of yellow.  Linen drapes hang on the wall, where an antique bench sits with a white cushion.

Borrow some of these Provence elements of this home for yourself.

If you are looking for great set of candlesticks, check out Jack's Candle Stands from IMAX.

The candlesticks are made of turned aluminum and finished in black sheen.  The candlesticks have a wonderful footed design with incredible shape.  The set of three feature graduating sizes, and would look terrific paired together for an impacting statement.  The dimensions of the candlesticks are 14-20H x 4.75-5.25D and have been discounted to $96 dollars from $175.

Candlesticks sold in sets should always be positioned together for a dramatic statement.  Place them on a bed stand ,console table or any where you need a punch of design.  Add ornate candle sticks in your home to get that primitive feel amongst your modern conveniences.

Commode L.XV d'apres Bernard II van Riesen Burgh, the greatest Parisian cabinetmaker of the XXIIIth century. This model embodies the 'rocaille' style in its most perfect expression.

Commode - Moissonnier Furniture

Other Provence Decor Considerations:

-Buy this set for only $90 Dollars!  3Pc finial set - stone grey & gold leaf

-Thus Foreside prosecco pitcher, certainly looks Provincial!  By Foreside $34

-Make floral arrangements from this lovely set of three round bowl with Feet - Antique Silver Finish $30.  Use it as a candy bowl or to dress up your bathroom.  Store soaps or face cloths for guests.

-America Retold sells a set of 6 dish with cloche Set For $87

-America Retold sells this trophy centerpiece perfect for the center of the table.

- Decorate with this lovely planter which features and antique style garden chicken wire cloche for $32

-The Apollo pedestal is a great distressed stand perfect for an over-sized urn.  Sit it in front of a mirror or a window or at the end of a hallway.  This stand sells for $259

-This Lester Iron Glass Bar Cart is the perfect cart to display your dishware that is too nice to sit behind cabinet doors.  Stack your white table ware and wine glasses on for the perfect display of all your silver and glass accessories.

-Buy this Copperplated Revere Bowl for a centerpiece for $53.00

-Currey and Company Provencial White 4 Light Chandelier sells for $985 Currey and Company has a number of alternatives in this same style.

-These dentiled Platinum Chargers have a period flare.  This set of 4 sells for $23.60.  It is easy to collect, when the price point is so affordable!

-This medium metal cloche makes a great decorating piece for a counter or bathroom bookshelf.  It is for sale for $30

-This terrific console table has so much potential.  It can be painted and distressed to match your interior.  It features terrific detail and is one of the nicest demilunes on Amazon.  Universal Lighting And Decor sells this table for $329

-Decorate the outside of your home with this painted old fashioned watering can, sold for $53

-Imax sells this set of 5 candle-holders that have great painted patina for just over $100.  Imax also sells this set of 5 candle-holder set in rustic wood for $138.  Split them up into different rooms of your home.

-Hang this mini pot holder above your kitchen sink.  It has a metal finish, which fits perfectly into the Provincial decorating scheme.  It is only $20 dollars

-You will adore this lovely set of mini lion bowls.  The set of 6 sells for $10.99

-This topiary two tier large planter is a great planter to line up in a row outside your home.  This great planter sells for $40 dollars

Rustic Provence Decorating Ideas- Mr Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale Own This Captivating Chateau in France

In this photograph, you can see a closer look at the Pavé French terra cotta tile floors with a distinct classic Provencal appearance. Pave Tile Blog, located in Massachusetts, were the first to develop old world French and Italian terracotta tile flooring collections from old world designs.  It is surprising to know that the natural color of fired terra cottta is not naturally brown.  Brown terra cotta tile is usually a result after a treatment of either wax, oil or stain.

They mention that  many Americans are very predictable, when they order stone flooring.  They often stick to a neutral range of beige, cream and gray colors, while Europeans fully embrace the rich earthy colors.

Why is that?

America is a very young country, and much of our architecture is fairly new.  This can be said for most of the country, with exception the east coast where the earliest settled areas have a primitive British colonial heritage with respect to architecture and decorating.

Compare that to Europe.  Europe is much older and the architecture can be seen as very colorful and vibrant.   I have a passion for Swedish interiors particularly because of the painted finishes.  This pinterest board has over 100 pins of different painted buildings featuring the most beautiful period colors.  Take for example Switzerland, which borders France is rich in color.  In this picture you have roof tops with hues of red, and lovely tones of yellow.  In this picture of Austria, you see brighter tones of red, and light power blue in the architecture.

It can be said that when a culture is surrounded by strong colors, they also feel  comfortable decorating around those same tones.  People who lived in the countryside of France often decorated with the colors they saw in their backyard.  Yellow sunflowers, purple Lilac, and the greenery were tones they felt inspired by.

I believe the reason why the western culture chooses more earth tones is the  architecture is based around the same color ranges.  If you look anywhere in America, the color palette is pretty modern.  Concrete roads are gray and beige and architecture is modern rather than antique which you see in Europe.  As a person ventures into the country, more painted homes appear in various shades.

See additional photos at Gilles Trillard's Website , Property’s website: Magie des Lieux. If you like this article, please leave a comment, and pin it on facebook and pinterest, and come again!

How To Recreate A 17th Century French Provence Chateau Look In Your Own Home – Part 3

Mr Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale Own This Captivating Chateau in France

This photo of the Deleuze's home is one of the most captivating pictures taken of the home.

It seems as this room has several tones of peach and orange which happen to be in the same color family.  The soft patina of the fireplace works nicely with the plaster paint tones of [...]]]>

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

This photo of the Deleuze's home is one of the most captivating pictures taken of the home.

It seems as this room has several tones of peach and orange which happen to be in the same color family.  The soft patina of the fireplace works nicely with the plaster paint tones of the wall and drapery.  The grape upholstered chairs add a pop to this interior.  A table is positioned in the center of the room with an accent french caned chair.

You can see how this room appears to be soft and the overall effect is much like you would get with gray, but with a slight hue of color!  The wood floors pick up the carmel tones of the room quite nicely.

In America we are are used to seeing ceiling and trim colors painted in white, so it is natural for many people to feel as though a painted color on the ceiling might be overbearing, but in fact, if the color is soft, and works within the same hues of the room, it actually produces a dramatic, yet subtle finished effect to the room.

-In this room we see a very rustic interior with several tones in the walls.  Colors of gray, beige and white appear in the finish, and if you notice a burnt orange is used on the ceilings.  The look is terrific and fits in with a period effect that you would expect out of a 17th or 18th century building.

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

-Martha’s Dining Room in Bedford features the same color tones as the Deleuze's home in the above picture, yet instead of the peach tones, she uses the color tones of yellow to complete this look which are accented by her bright silver and glass accessories.

-In this post we feature several well designed rooms by Martha Stewart where in one room the ceiling is painted a light blue and the flooring, walls, trim and dishware on the walls are all within the same hue.

-In this picture by Martha Stewart she features copper tin molds with a coral salmon colored linen table cloth.  The walls are painted several shades lighter within the same color family.  The trim is painted in an off gray, not white for a period effect. We see the contrast in the green bottle for staging purposes.  In real life, green glass would add some shine and contrast against the peach tones.

- This photo from House Beauiful features a wonderful entry way in shades of blue.  We see several shades in the wall and trim paint colors.  Color is brought in by the lovely display of hats, and the contrasting color tones in the mud boots.  The picture frames add a touch of white.

-Create a chair railing by simply using painters tape and several shades of paint.  In this photo we see a painted door with an exceptionally pretty choice of pinks.  The door and the bottom trim match, while black is used as an accent color splitting the two areas up.

-Likewise in this photo, painters tape can be used to create this look.  If you have always dreamed of ceiling to floor framing, this should give you inspiration, as all you need is paint.  Use paint colors that are darker or lighter than the ones in the photo,  the effect is terrific!

-How about Green?  Pair together green and light blue for a terrific contrasting effect.  Here we see incredible architectural detail with a painted effect.  The result is spectacular!

- Here is a brilliant room painted in a bright green.  Pay attention to the the ceiling.  The mint green is just as great as white, and blends in nicely into the interior.  Lighter shades of the same tones can be just wonderful for a room!

We don't have to be afraid of color.  The photo of the Deleuze's home shows a room in the lighter Rococo period colors with a pop of brighter color in the upholstery.

Color needs to be executed with precision to get the right tones that give a period effect.  Although it doesn't need to be complicated.  The way I determine my color range for a particular room is to start with the prodomenant tones that currently exist in the room.  Consider buying a sample of the paint color you wish to put on the walls, but in the darkest hue of the prodoment color in the room.  Then use several jars of different amounts of white and black paint to achieve the colors you are most attracted to.

In this series of pictures you can see how white is added to a paint color to get a particular lighter color tone.  Purchase a sample size of the paint at your local hardware store, and a small sample size of white and black.  The sample size will allow you to paint a few accessories as you decide the color that best works in the room.  Paint a slightly darker shade for a vase, urn, candle sticks and so on.

I believe the reason why there is such an excitment for Annie Sloan paint is because her paints seem to be more on the historical side of color tones that have been found in the past.

I believe that the public wants fewer colors that just work well, than 1500 choices of flouresents, and dulled down tones that are hit and miss.

I find so many people confused as they walk into hardware improvement stores looking at paint samples only to second guess themselves when they get home because it doesn't look right.  Paper and Paint also detail historical color tones that have been collected from a company before they closed shop.  In this pinterest board, you can see many colors from the years of 1650 and 1850.

See additional photos at Gilles Trillard's Website , Property’s website: Magie des Lieux. If you like this article, please leave a comment, and pin it on facebook and pinterest, and come again!  Don't forget to follow me on Pinterest and Facebook. 

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

Aurélien Deleuze and his wife, Pascale's 17th Century French Home

Spring and Summer is just around the corner, and many people are looking to re-work their existing furniture.  More people are being drawn to implementing lighter colors in their home, especially when it comes to painted furniture.  Yellow is a really terrific color choice, and there are [...]]]>

French Provincial Yellow Painted Marbleized Console Table - Christies Auction $4,798

Spring and Summer is just around the corner, and many people are looking to re-work their existing furniture.  More people are being drawn to implementing lighter colors in their home, especially when it comes to painted furniture.  Yellow is a really terrific color choice, and there are so many ways you can dress up a piece of furniture if you plan on painting it yellow.

The key to French Provence decorating is to start with good boned furniture.  If you have the lines and the shape of the Louis XV styles, you can do wonders with paint and furniture appliques.

This chest featured at Christies is one of the prettiest, if not the best piece of furniture painted in yellow I have seen.  The color combinations that are employed on this chest are sensational.  Butter yellow, and light gray paint used to highlight the details of the console table and work beautifully together.

In some areas around the flowers, it appears to be that the appliques are whiter than others which gives the appliques a 3 dimentional apperance.  This pieces appears to have some natural distressing around the painted areas adding depth to the overall look.  Painting the top of the table brings the eye to differentiate the apron of the table and the table top.

One of the best features of this table are the flower and swag furniture appliques.  There are many wood furniture appliques on the market today which feature historical designs which you can hammer on to your furniture.

I have written several articles on this subject.

-My Hand Painted Burl Wood Chest With Hand Made Appliques

-Look at the handles on this chest.  You can add extra detail to your handles as well using molds

- Wreaths - Not A Mold, but an applique. $5.95

-Laurel Leaves Mounts- Gold Plated Metal $36.

-Mini Flower Plaque- Possibly could be used as a furniture applique.

In this article, Create A Mind-Blowing Feature Wall For Just Pennies Using Plaster Molds I explain the difference between push molds and plaster molds.  Both techniques are thrilling, and I promise you, that you will love molding after trying it just once.

-This is a great little piece that could be used on furniture. $12.

Push molds are certainly the way to go to create floral appliques if you want to create a look like the French Provincial console from Christies.

-Flower Flexible Push Mold For Resin Or Clay $3.95

-Lion Head- $3.75 Add a ring and make your own Lion Pulls.

-Flower Flexible Push Mold For Resin Or Clay $3.50

-Oak Leaves- Really Excited About This!  $3.00

-French Leg Mounts -$67

-Beautiful Large Scale Swag $22

-Little Oak Leaves and Acorns Clay Push Mold $2.50

-French Bow Mold- Perfect For Many Projects $3.25

-Little Holly Leaves- This has a lot of potential $3.25

-Fancy Leaf Embellishment Mold - $3.75

-Lilly of The Valley Mold- $3.50

-Rose Floral Appliques- Perfect for adding some extra detail around handles.

-Double Leaves- $2.25 Perfect For Furniture.

-Cluster of Leaves- This could be used as a ornament for French legs.  Often times they are seen hammered on to the top of the legs.  Use two of these upside down, or just one.

French Provincial Painted Diminutive Armoire from Christies $1,500

French Provincial Painted Diminutive Armoire from Christies $1,500

Bouquet Furniture Applique Mount - Do It Yourself Chic $30

Gold Ormolu is another outlet for furniture appliques.  If you are wanting more of a genuine historical look, Ari's Ormolu will have all those high-end furniture appliques.

Do it Yourself Chic also has a number of wonderful furniture appliques including the French styled swags you see on much of the antique French furniture.

-Pediment Mold- Could be used on furniture.  Cast only the detail of the mold, not the backing.  From Go Statue.

French Provincial Furniture Ideas From Photographer Bieke Claessen

The kitchen walls in a traditional French home are  often made from brick or stone.  Consider trowling some plaster on the walls, or consider making your own  stone out of plaster for pennies which can save [...]]]>

French Provencial Furniture Ideas From Photographer Bieke Claessen

French Provincial Furniture Ideas From Photographer Bieke Claessen

The kitchen walls in a traditional French home are  often made from brick or stone.  Consider trowling some plaster on the walls, or consider making your own  stone out of plaster for pennies which can save you thousands when you plan on re-deocrating. Dry herbs can be displayed in the kitchen and at the same time fills the air with their smell.  Iron has always played an important look in the rustic countryside of France.  Consider adding decor with metal elements, such as baskets which can hold linen napkins, faux fruit, or extra silverware.  The table is an important part of Provence styled decorating.  Painted furniture mixed with raw wood will  you complete the look.

French Provence Provincial Cane Dining Chairs

The Noah Dining chair will fit gracefully in a home that has a classic and soft aesthetic. If features a cane back that has been brought back to life and a beautifully tufted seat cushions for comfort. This chair features a cane back, and a lose seat cushion - Sells for $429

French Provence - Provincial Dining Furniture- Distressed Rustic Gray French Painted Furniture

The Napoleon collection faithfully captures the romantic feel of vintage, painted furniture from the French countryside. Featuring gently curved frames made of solid hardwood, brightly colored then rubbed down on the edges. Adds a soft splash of vibrancy to any setting. The Louvre arm and dining chairs are accented with a cane back. The chair is made of kiln dried hardwoods , and constructed using Chinese Joinery .  Webbing placed in the seat for support, and hand-painted and hand-distressed for that special French appeal.  New, sells this Louvre dining chair for $299

French Provence Furniture- The Baltic Dining Room Table

The Baltic dining table features a natural rectangular surface and an elaborate based. It would make any dining area stand out because of it's beautiful natural elements. The table features a Kiln-dried hardwood frame. The finishes are hand applied and sanded repeatedly. The top of the table is coated with a lacquer top coat or wax. New sells this for $1,499

The most important room in the house is the kitchen and the same is said for  the French Provencal look. The kitchen is where most of the entertaining is done in the home, so it makes sense to invest in quality furnishings where you spend hours of your time.

Reclaimed Dining Room Tables- Rustic French Country Provence Tables- Old World Decorating

Le Havre Dining Table-Elm Wood: W98.5 x H30 x D35.5 $2,949

Reclaimed Lumber Coffee Table $1,499

Le Domaine Nohant situated at the heart of Berry France sits a captivating Chateau built at the end of 18th Century. Chateau de Nohant was the home of the brilliant French romantic writer and journalist Lucile Aurore Dupin, otherwise known as George Sand.  Her first independent [...]]]>

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

Le Domaine Nohant situated at the heart of Berry France sits a captivating Chateau built at the end of 18th Century. Chateau de Nohant was the home of the brilliant French romantic writer and journalist Lucile Aurore Dupin, otherwise known as George Sand.  Her first independent novel, Indiana, was written  in 1832, she went on to write thirty-seven more novels as well as various plays.

Sand  (1804-1876) was also known for her shocking lifestyle, and well known famous lover, composer Frederic Chopin. Leaving her husband in 1831, she moved to Paris where she sported men’s clothing, smoked cigars and had various affairs with men, the most famous being Chopin.

When Napoleon III made  himself Emperor, Sand retired to Nohant, where many summers were spent writing and composing. Frederic Chopin lived at Nohant with Sand, between 1839 and 1847, where he composed the majority of his masterpieces.  Chopin composed some of his most brilliant music in George Sand’s family chateau at Nohant.

Art & Decoration originally featured these photos in their magazine.  Today, tours are given through the Chateau and gardens at Nohant.  See Sand's writing nook and actual desk where she composed most of her famous works. Enjoy the chateau’s garden—classified by the French Ministry of Culture as a Notable Garden of France, and a forested path that  leads to her family plot where the lady herself is buried.

Amongst all the photos, this picture featuring a carriage in front of entrance of George Sand's manor house in Nohant, France, is the most beautiful. Another view of the dining room shows the esquisite furniture of the home.  We home this classic 18th century home will inspire you with your decorating choices.

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

French Provence Decorating - Home of French Novelist George Sand

Picture Credit Helen McCoy- This commode has the most beautiful bronze pulls and escutcheons. America’s International Fine Art and Antiques Fair, West Palm Beach, FL, 2007  Provenance  Grenoble, France

Jean-Francois Hache (January 10. 1730 - August 19. 1796)  was a member of [...]]]>

French Louis XV Commode François Hache (1730-1796) of Grenoble

Picture Credit Helen McCoy- This commode has the most beautiful bronze pulls and escutcheons. America’s International Fine Art and Antiques Fair, West Palm Beach, FL, 2007  Provenance  Grenoble, France

Jean-Francois Hache (January 10. 1730 - August 19. 1796)  was a member of a famous dynasty of 18th century cabinetmakers that included his grandfather, Thomas, and his father, Pierre. The Hache family played a major role in France for over a century.

Jean-François Hache (1730-1796) is probably the most famous of the Hache craftsmen. In 1756 Jean-Francois made a four-month stay in Paris, where he was very much influenced by the Louis XV style and particularly by the work of Jean-François Oeben.

Jean-Francois was also known for his mosaic inlays, and bold and unusual geometric inlaid forms.  Throughout the eighteenth century the workshops of the family Axe were recognized as the most talented craftsmen, cabinet makers in the region, working exclusively for larger families.  Today, the pieces of furniture  made by the Hache family are in high demand.

Check out more pictures of Jean Francois Hache's work here.

For More Pictures Of This Restored 15th Century Home........

Old World Decorating Styles- Reclaimed Wood Dining Tables

Zentique sells two really fabulous reclaimed tables that would fit into any French Styled Provence or Tuscan home. The Le Havre Dining Table is made from reclaimed elm wood. [...]]]>

Tuscan Italian Looks -Beautiful Old World Decorating Ideas

For More Pictures Of This Restored 15th Century Home........

Old World Decorating Styles- Reclaimed Wood Dining Tables

Zentique sells two really fabulous reclaimed tables that would fit into any French Styled Provence or Tuscan home. The Le Havre Dining Table is made from reclaimed elm wood. It measures W98.5 x H30 x D35.5 (inches), and sells for $2,949.00. The Nantes Dining Table is also made from recycled elm wood, and sells for 1,825.28.

Old World Furniture & Decor Ideas - Rustic Dining Table From Veranda Magazine

This lovely rustic Styled Dining Table was found on Greige Design Blog

Tolix Chairs From Decoracion Facilisimo

Tolix chairs have been tremendously popular this last year, and in fact have been for the last several years.  The chair itself has never really gone out of style.  These chairs have been seen painted white, black, red, rusted out, and painted in bright vibrant paint colors.

The tolix chair [...]]]>

Tolix Chairs From Decoracion Facilisimo

Tolix Chairs From Decoracion Facilisimo

Tolix chairs have been tremendously popular this last year, and in fact have been for the last several years.  The chair itself has never really gone out of style.  These chairs have been seen painted white, black, red, rusted out, and painted in bright vibrant paint colors.

The tolix chair was designed by a Frenchman in 1907, by the name of Xavier Pauchard.  His very first chair looked remarkably similar to those chairs we see all over the magazines today.  Pauchard used galvanization which is a process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron, in order to prevent rusting.  The most common method in current use is hot-dip galvanization, in which steel parts are submerged in a bath of molten zinc.  Galvanizing is also favored as a means of protective coating because of its low cost, ease of application and comparatively long maintenance-free service life.

The tolix chairs are being re-produced by the top furniture companies and are being featured in almost every design magazine world wide.  They are being photographed both indoors and outdoors, and being used as a regular dining chair, and doubled as a patio chair.

Almost Like the Classic Tolix Chair, This French Bistro Chair is only $129!

Almost identical to the Tolix chair, this French bistro dining chair is the perfect chair for your home.  Leave it in its metal state or paint it with a paint formulated for metal for the perfect shade that will fit with your existing furniture.  New, sells this chair for only $129.  Much like the Tolix chair, this Declan dining chair has all the good looks of industrial furniture with a new unique look.  This chair sells for $275

Contrasting elements are a nice fit for the Opera dining table. With a round metal top and a detailed wooden base it is equipped for a queen. All finishes are hand applied and sanded repeatedly.  Coated with a lacquer top coat or wax.  The Opera Dining Table sells for $1,399

The Rockwell Collection Iron Table

The Rockwell collection features an industrial aesthetic with a unique blend of iron and distressed wood. The collection features working gears and moving parts on select pieces. The iron is torched with fire, and then a black wax is applied. This is a molded reproduction of antiques.  This very special table sells for $1,899

French Provence Furniture Ideas - The Rockwell Adjustable Table

The Rockwell Adjustable Table in 36' $849, The Rockwell Adjustable Table in 24' $459

Poplar Estate Cart Cocktail $429

Rustic reclaimed style cart cocktail table featuring metal corner caps with large bolt detailing, heavy metal wheels, natural plank style detailing reminiscent of an old industrial cart and a by gone era. The perfect choice to add a bit of fun and nostalgia to your decor.  Another version of this railroad cart, selling for $749

Attractive Iron Coffee Table - Perfect For A Provence Home

The Square Coffee Table is made of reclaimed Elm wood which lies on top of its metal base. Modern meets vintage in both elements featured throughout this coffee table. The elm's design is dispensed with characteristics that are organic and original. The top of this table features reclaimed elm wood, in a parquetry design with metal bases and stretchers

Additional Interesting Items

Cassanova Wine Table- This great table is made from old wood. Put your wine in the bottom, table top is wood banded in metal, and roll it around to where you want. Just an all around great piece for $1,499

Element Sideboard - Function meets unique design in the Element collection. The occasional collection is crafted of iron and steel that features an antique nickel finish. $1,699 Other Pieces in the Collection, Element Tall Cabinet, Element Media Console, Element End Table

The Hudson Console is a piece of furniture that has a lot of versatility. Natural finish on walnut wood, two drawers with metal hardware, metal frame $1,599

Sitcom Crank Metal Coffee Table in Mocha by Sitcom $480

European Watering Cans with An Antique Finish. $70

The Palma Coffee Table is a perfect table for a rustic Provence styled home.  The table is constructed of solid, reclaimed elm. The whitewash finished table is a compelling piece that fits in both a rustic or contemporary living room space. The table is made of recycled elm wood with a whitewash finish.

Magnificent pair of birch-wood bergere arm chairs, circa 1920s', each features caned back and sides, molded frame, carved crest with flowers, the caned seat with fluted apron raised on four cabriole legs ending in scroll feet.

Assaf Antiques is located in New York City's famous Antiques [...]]]>

French Louis XV Birch wood Pair Bergere Chairs, Circa 1920s'

Magnificent pair of birch-wood bergere arm chairs, circa 1920s', each features caned back and sides, molded frame, carved crest with flowers, the caned seat with fluted apron raised on four cabriole legs ending in scroll feet.

Assaf Antiques is located in New York City's famous Antiques Row on Atlantic Avenue in the heart of Brooklyn. They have been in business for 31 years and mainly deal in American, English and Continental antiques including furniture, lighting, artwork, decorative items and accessories. They have of the largest collections of antiques in the New York, most of which will slowly be added to Ebay, so do check back to their ebay page often.

French Louis XV Commodes

Exquisite pair of French Louis XV commodes/night stands circa 1920s' with inlaid marquetry, shaped beautiful colored marble tops over two drawers fitted in bronze handles and escutcheons, raised on hipped cabriole legs with ormolu mount. Great condition. They can be used as entry hallway or night stands or side tables.

Exquisite Great size walnut country French server,turn of the century,rectangular scalloped top with molded gallery over one middle drawer fitted with utensil compartment  flanked by two small drawer  fitted with brass handles,the scalloped bottom shelf to match the top with scalloped apron is supported by shaped support,the whole is raised on four short cabriole legs.Great Height! Completely finished with the best quality work.

Inlaid Marquetry French Louis XV Style Parlor Table

This magnificent French Louis XV style parlor table is mahogany with an intricately inlaid marquetry top consisting of a leaf and floral motif over a background of burled elm, rosewood and "tiger" mahogany with ogee beveled edge and bronze beaded trim. The apron and legs have a pencil inlay and the curved legs and feet are decorated with bronze ormolu.

French Provence Furniture

Beautiful French style hand carved set of eight side chairs, turn of the century. With scalloped back rest, spring seat over four fluted legs. Newly upholstered.

Exquisite French Louis XV style walnut coffee table, circa 1920s', with slightly shaped circular tops molded apron, raised on four cabriole legs. Completely finish! Very elegant table. Please see images for details.

Elegant walnut French style nesting tables ,Circa1920s'.top table with leather and the bottom tables with solid walnut top,each features a scalloped top razed on cabriole legs ,completely finished in perfect condition.

Elegant French-Louis XV pair of walnut side tables, turn of the century with rectangular top over, slightly carved all around apron raised upon four cabriole legs.  Completely refinished.  Please pictures for detailing.

Fabulous French- Louis XV two seated bench with armless, turn of the Century, with scalloped Frame, padded backrest, the shaped seat is raised on two cabriole legs in the front and two splayed in the back, completely refinished and Newly reupholstered in colorful fabric, spring cushion!

GAP interiors featured Anne Fowler's stunning French styled home  who, after five years living in Gers, which is located in the Midi Pyrenees region of France moved back home to Cotswolds UK.  Her partner, Alan Lloyd and herself restored a three-storey Cotswold stone building into the home of their [...]]]>

Alan Lloyd & Anne Fowler's Stunning French Decorated Home

GAP interiors featured Anne Fowler's stunning French styled home  who, after five years living in Gers, which is located in the Midi Pyrenees region of France moved back home to Cotswolds UK.  Her partner, Alan Lloyd and herself restored a three-storey Cotswold stone building into the home of their dreams.  The home which had formerly been a stationery shop became their own oasis.

Alan Lloyd & Anne Fowler's Stunning French Decorated Home

In one of the bedr00ms sits a painted antique french armoire in a brilliant yellow.  Yellow is one of the most popular historical colors that are seen in classic French countryside decorating.  All Provencal looks are inspired by the landscape of France, so when you think of decorating;.... think of the middle of summer, and you will always hit the mark.

The people at the time, and still today are captivated by the French countryside, and so much that they want to bring the outdoors inside.  Saturated colours such as green, blue, purples and yellow and golds are of Provence taste. Yellow sunflowers, and massive fields of yellow colza flowers are seen in Toulouse, in the south of France must have been what sparked the taste in the yellow paint colors we see all over Provence.

Ochre was a popular coloring in France during the time of the French Empire, and many French citizens living in foreign colonies would import a great deal of ochre clay from France to make their new lands feel like home.  Today the color of yellow is still one of the most popular colors to decorate with, along side blue, purple and green.

Lighter Muted Yellows With Pastel Blue Shutters and Brighter Deep Blue Colors Found in the Awning- Corey Amaro's Blog

How To Decorate With Yellow:

1.  Use Muted Yellows with A Combination of Blues.

Corey Amaro took pictures around Provence, (which she lives) and found many shades of blue and yellow.  In this photograph above we find a muted yellow as the base color, with light colored pastel blue shutters and brighter deeper saturated blue found in the awning.

Use a lighter muted yellow on your walls.  Choose a dulled down yellow and accent it with mustard yellow.  Rusty brown can be used in your hardware, potting containers,  and old world rusted out lamps.  Use a rusty old urn and feature moss green toned plants for a very old world appearance.

Textured walls with textured plaster often found at your local hardware store will give you the presence of a stone and plaster appearance often seen in France.

Add in the light blue color with your painted furniture, or upholstery.  Using the color scheme of the the muted yellow as your base, you can then focus on bringing the the array of muted blues into your home.  Base your entire living room set around the lighter shades of blue and perhaps add in a few throw pillows in the brighter saturated ocean blues will give a nice balance to your home.  Following the scheme of these three color tones will give a beautiful French Provence look to your home.

Classic French Provence Yellow Orhre Painted Chest

The Parma Chest features a signature acorn with fleur de Lis motif.  The overall design features a ochre yellow with woodlands red fleur de Lis motif finished on a four drawer parma chest.  The chest also features pendant hardware and measures 33"H x 18"D x 36"W.  This chest gives all the looks of classic Provence painted furniture.  Guild Master sells it for $1,167

How To Decorate With Yellow For A French Provence Look

18th century, Yellow Provencal Picture Corey Amaro's Blog

1.  Use Brighter Toned Yellows with Muted Blue Accent Colors.

Again in this photograph we see the same color scheme but reversed.  Brighter tones of saturated yellows are paired with muted blues.  Paint the walls a bright yellow, and add in lighter blue painted french furniture.  In this scheme paint colors include light and bright blues, muted greens, true reds and yellows and soft shades of these colors.

-Consider growing bright red poppies in your garden.  The garden strawberry was first bred in Brittany, France, in the 1750s.  Consider displaying faux strawberries , crab apples or green Grannie apples in apothecary jars.

French Provence Painted Furniture

1 Emily Console Table $199- Add French-inspired flair to your home decor with the Emily Console Table. Expertly crafted from wood in an antiqued finish, this no-fuss table features storage and is the perfect way to display your home accents. Crafted of wood for years of lasting beauty.

2 Ashley Painted Console Table $103 Unquestionably stylish, the Ashley Painted Console Table goes hand-in-hand with most all types of furniture. Place the console table behind your sofa with lamps or use it in an entryway to colorfully welcome guests to your home. Available in two colors. Quality construction for long-lasting use and beauty. 32.5"Hx33.5"W

3 .Louisa Accent Table -Take your decor in a fun new direction with the unique styling of the Louisa  Complements the French Provence home decor styles. Actual size is 30.25"Hx21.5"W

Louis XV Sofa Southern Accents Oct 2001 Suzanne Rheinstein

Provence Furniture is often left in its natural state, or painted for a country feel.  Provence styled upholstered chairs featured linens and natural comfortable fabrics that you could put your feet up in. Farmhouse tables were functional for preparing dinners and had smooth tops from the years of use.  Dining chairs were designed to be beautiful yet functional. Homes had a distressed appearance showing good times over the years.

Provence style is an upscale romantic version of relaxed country living. Furniture is comfortable, and interiors are not stuffy and formal, but relaxed and casual. Furniture that was seen in Versailles was duplicated for the country but in relaxed fabrics.

Collecting Louis XV styled furniture will go a long way to create this look for your home. Seating should be soft and comfortable. While many people opt for plain linen fabrics others invest in the classic floral patterns found in traditional France.

Grange is known for their hand-finished furniture, which is also available in a  range of colours which reflects the Provence style.

France is the world's number one tourist destination, and known to be one of the most beautiful places of the world.  One of the most visited regions is the area of [...]]]>

Grange Provence Red Dining Table

Grange is known for their hand-finished furniture, which is also available in a  range of colours which reflects the Provence style.

France is the world's number one tourist destination, and known to be one of the most beautiful places of the world.  One of the most visited regions is the area of southeast  France known as Provence. The south of France region of Provence is internationally renowned for its scenery, artists, and beautiful architecture showing a colorful history.

Provence has been known for its renowned for its herbs and its aromas. Some of the best soaps, and beauty products come from France.  In the springtime, the countryside releases the fragrances of thyme, rosemary and lavender.  In the spring the apple and cherry trees are in full bloom, while in the autumn, the grape harvest is underway and the vines are just beginning to take on their fall colors.

Among the beauty of France, and unique boutiques that offer endless shopping,  France is known for their cuisine.  Herbs, Garlic, olives and fresh garden vegetables serve the base of many flavorsome dishes offered in the south of France. During any time of the year you can enjoy gourmet food and fine wines which the region of Provence France is well known for.  Encounter a wide range of restaurants in the  region, ranging from sidewalk cafes to award winning cuisine level of dining.

Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence

Pick from a number of different Provence sets from the acclaimed Le Cadeaux brand known for their colorful patterns that have a distinct old world French style.

Column 1

1. Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence 16pc Set-8 salad + 8 dinner plates $209

2.Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence Blue 12InchPlatter $16.99

3.Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence Blue Background 12InchPlatter $24.99

4.Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence Tray $34.99

Le Cadeaux Fleur de Provence Blue 16 Piece Set $209

12 Piece Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Drinkware Serving Set, Blue $89

Column 2

1.Benidorm - Le Cadeaux Melamine Cereal Bowl $12.49

2.Benidorm - Le Cadeaux Melamine Solid Plate Set of 4 $61.99

3.Benidorm - Le Cadeaux  16pc Set-8 salad + 8 dinner plates $209

4.Benidorm - Le Cadeaux Dinnerware Tray $34.99

Benidorm - Le Cadeaux Melamine Clip Set $32.99

Benidorm - Le Cadeaux Melamine Salad Bowl $28.99

Column 3

1.Malaga Red - Le Cadeaux Dinnerware 16pc Set-8 salad + 8 dinner plates $209

2.Malaga Red - Le Cadeaux Dinnerware 12InchPlatter $16.99

3.Le Cadeaux Triple Weight 9 Piece Dinnerware Set, Solid RED $149

4.Malaga Red - Le Cadeaux Dinnerware Tray $34.99

12 Piece Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Drinkware Serving Set, Red $89

Malaga Red - Le Cadeaux Dinnerware Cereal Bowl $12.99

Le Cadeaux Triple Weight 9 Piece Dinnerware Set, Solid Green $149

Drink Ware Sets:

1.12 Piece Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Drinkware Serving Set, $89

2.12 Piece Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Drinkware Serving Set, Yellow $89

3 12 Piece Le Cadeaux Break Resistant Drinkware Serving Set, $89

There has been more of a public draw towards rustic natural wood furniture without the heavy lacquer or polyurethane finishes. Many people are gravitating towards the unfinished furniture with all natural stains that look worn, rustic and embody a and antique old appearance.

If you [...]]]>

Natural Raw Wood French Provence Chest Hanbel French Commode featured on Decompras Elmueble

There has been more of a public draw towards rustic natural wood furniture without the heavy lacquer or polyurethane finishes. Many people are gravitating towards the unfinished furniture with all natural stains that look worn, rustic and embody a and antique old appearance.

If you like this look above, you may really enjoy bleached pine furniture.

The dresser above is featured on Decompras Elmueble is made of natural oak and tends to embrace the elaborate stylings of Provence furniture.  Instead of the prominent gilt hardware featured on classic French furniture, Provence style gravitates towards the rustic iron which works nicely on this piece.

French Provence Drawer Hardware Ideas

A. Classic Hardware Drop Pull-Oil Rubbed Bronze $13.50

B.Classic Hardware Drop Pull Oil Rubbed Bronze $16.43

C.Bosetti Marella Louis XV Brass Handle Pull,Antique Brass Distressed $8.50

For More Brass Styled Hardware see this post.....

Classic French Provence Choices:

1.Classic Hardware Knob Oil Rubbed Bronze $6.27

2.Classic Hardware Drop Pull Natural Rust $25

3.Classic Hardware Drop Pull Distressed Antique Brass $14.50

4.Classic Hardware Pull French Antique Gold $10.71

5.Classic Hardware Drop Pull Antique Brass $14.71

6.Classic Hardware Pull French Antique Gold $15.26

7.Classic Hardware Ring Pull French Antique Gold $9.74

8.Classic Hardware Drop Pull French Antique Gold $17

9.Liberty Hardware Pull Kentworth $22.93

10.Liberty Hardware Pull Kentworth $22.93

Oil Rubbed Bronze Hardware Paint

Rustoleum produces an amazing spray paint that takes on the very looks of all the high end Oil Rubbed Bronze hardware. Ebay has some of the best selection of french hardware lots, and if you find a lot that you love why not spray the hardware to look like the high end oil rubbed bronze french hardware?

If you like the look of the old rubbed bronze hardware, and have a dresser with good looking hardware that you want to update, consider purchasing the Rustoleum Oil Rubbed Bronze. I have had great success with it through the years. It particularly looks great with rustic barn colors, natural woods, black and really primitive colors. I think you will enjoy it as much as I have.

Here are some of the projects I have used it with in the past:

Dresser 1 - Striped Colonial With Sprayed Hardware

Hutch 2- Painted Black Hutch with Sprayed Hardware

Colonial Dresser- Painted Black Sprayed Hardware

Dresser With Sprayed Hardware- Look how I sanded around the brass hardware after the Oil Rubbed spray paint has dried, to reveal more of the shape of the hardware.

Additional Rustic Hardware For Countryside French Homes:

1. Cast Iron Large Gate Door Pull Set Of 6 $30

2.Bosetti Marella Classic Series Ring Pull, 1.97-Inch Diameter, Old Iron or Brass $7.

3.Bosetti Marella 1800 Circa Brass Round Knob, Oil Rubbed Bronze $7

4.Bosetti Marella Louis XVI Brass Drop Pull Oil Rubbed Bronze $10

5.Classic Hardware Appliance Pull Antique Brass $147

6.Classic Hardware Knob Natural Rust $10

7.Classic Hardware Card Holder Distressed Antique Brass $6.38

8.Classic Hardware Knob Natural Rust $16

9.Classic Hardware Hinge Natural Rust $13.50

10.Classic Hardware Card Holder Oil Rubbed Bronze $4.33

Classic Hardware French Provence Style

Classic Rustic Ring & Bin Pulls:

1.Classic Hardware Bin Pull Distressed Antique Brass $12

2.Classic Hardware Ring Pull Distressed Antique Brass 10.82

3.Classic Hardware Card Holder Distressed Antique Brass $7.68

4.Classic Hardware Bin Pull Distressed Antique Brass $5.30

5.Classic Hardware Ring Pull Distressed Antique Brass $4.76

6.Classic Hardware Knob/Plate Distressed Antique Brass $9.

Elmueble featured a Spanish styled home on their site that had all the beauty that we see in the classic Provence styled homes. Inside the home, stone slabs cover the floor, unifying each room. Rustic wooden beams captivate the romance of living with history. Simplistic wall finishes pair [...]]]>

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Elmueble featured a Spanish styled home on their site that had all the beauty that we see in the classic Provence styled homes. Inside the home, stone slabs cover the floor, unifying each room. Rustic wooden beams captivate the romance of living with history. Simplistic wall finishes pair this space down, showing off the french Provence furniture. The kitchen features a minimal appearance with several glass cloches, and glass apothecary jars filled with colorful fruit. Natural linen is used with the drapes, and stone is found in the bathroom giving this house a luxury appeal to an antiquated period style design. This old world style is minimal but emphasizes the true beauty in the architecture and stunningly beautiful furniture.

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Decorating With Stone For An Old World French Provence Look

Suzanne Kasler -Photo Credit Trouvais

Linen is still the most desired fabric for decorators and interior designers alike. Linen is elegant, durable, and simply luxurious. Linen is the strongest of the vegetable fibers and has 2 to 3 times the strength of cotton. Linen is from raw flax, a [...]]]>

Suzanne Kasler Southern Accents Magazine

Suzanne Kasler -Photo Credit Trouvais

Linen is still the most desired fabric for decorators and interior designers alike. Linen is elegant, durable, and simply luxurious. Linen is the strongest of the vegetable fibers and has 2 to 3 times the strength of cotton. Linen is from raw flax, a bast fiber taken from the stalk of the plant. Linen is one of the oldest textile fibers known to man. Over 4000 years ago, it was woven in Egypt and used to wrap royal mummies.Not only is the linen fiber strong, it is smooth, making the finished fabric lint free. does wrinkle easily but also presses easily. Linen, like cotton, can also be boiled without damaging the fiber. From creamy white to light tan, linen can be easily dyed and the color does not fade when washed. Linen also happens to be highly absorbent and a good conductor of heat, but also has the qualities of keeping cool making it an ideal fabric for summer garments.

French Provincial Furniture - French Provence Decorating Ideas -Aurélien and Pascale Deleuze's French Home

French Provincial Furniture - French Provence Decorating Ideas -Aurélien and Pascale Deleuze's French Home

-Linen is also prone to mildew in extreme conditions. Don't make the same mistake that I did and hang drapes in a solarium's that collects water on the windows, because overtime your drapes will collect mold. Linen on the other hand does well in light conditions compared to all other fabrics due to its inherent resistance to UV damage. - Linen easily creases and wrinkles, and tends to hold the wrinkles, so if you don't mind that, it could be lovely for slipcovers. Linen has very little stretch, so be prepared to make your slipcovers a little extra large, as linen will shrink a little. Never put linen in a hot dryer. High heat causes the linen fibers to shrink and break. Consider letting your linen slipcovers dry on a table or on Air dry or tumble.

-Linen should be ironed with a good quality steam iron while it is damp, if you choose to iron at all. The more often linen is worn and washed, the softer it will become. However, if you are looking for a crisp appearance, ironing is a must. Use a steam iron and sprinkle on additional water if necessary to get a smooth finish. Press linen on the wrong side to prevent shiny spots. Use spray-on starch to get a crisp appearance. -Of all the areas where you could use linen, the fabric looks best with drapery, because it doesn't need to be washed as often, which also limits the lengthy pressing sessions.

Consider linen for your drapes. The material looks elegant, rich, yet very natural in appearance, making it a must have for Provence interiors.

Modo Textured 100-Percent Slub Cotton 3-Piece Duvet Sham Set only $54 dollars. Wrinkle Resistant 300-Thread Count Reversible Cotton Duvet Set Stripe- Twin, Full, Queen, and King $45. Safavieh Becca Grey Linen Dining Chair $249

French Provincial Furniture - French Country Caned Linen Chaise

Sussex Beige Linen Club Chair only $454!

This Louis XVI Armchair Only $319!

French Provence Furniture -Maison French Country Natural Linen Rectangle Tufted Ottoman

Maison French Country Natural Linen Rectangle Tufted Ottoman $1150

French Country Weathered Gray Hemp Linen Dining Chair $499

French Provence Furniture - White Linen French Country Cloris Bench

White Linen French Country Cloris Bench $1850.

Linen Pillow Cover with Jute Embroidery $33. Cotton Linen Pillow Cover with Jute & Mother Of Pearl Embroidery Sea Horses Ballard Essential Panel Natural Linen 108 Inch-$99 Springcrest™ Trim Linen Drum Shade $14.99 Maytex Twill Wing Chair Cover $71.24 Williamsburg William and Mary Matelasse Pillow, Linen $51.67 Oval Hardback Natural Linen Shade $30.00 Tumbleweed Faux Linen Sheer $29.00 Progress Lighting Off White Shade 1-Inch $16.00

<A HREF="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fshatteparadi-20%2F8010%2F3ddeaaba-2d5f-4461-ba8c-b9972f15d7e6&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A>Don't discount a vintage trunk the next time you run across one in an antique or second hand store. Decorating with trunks presents limitless opportunities around your home.

There has been countless times where I have run across great looking rustic slatted wood trunks with old fashioned leather straps and have [...]]]>

French Provence Decorating

Don't discount a vintage trunk the next time you run across one in an antique or second hand store. Decorating with trunks presents limitless opportunities around your home.

There has been countless times where I have run across great looking rustic slatted wood trunks with old fashioned leather straps and have regretted not buying them.

Trunks can improve the look in any part of your home.  Stack them in your closets, use them in the living room, or in the kids rooms for their toys.  Consider even using them out in the garage to store excess tools, improving the look in the garage.

Some trunks are more valuable than others.  While some trunks can be found locally for under 20 dollars, others sell for hundreds of dollars.

If you are looking for a special trunk, consider scouting on ebay for something vintage with detail.

Often times these trunks aren't overly expensive. Ebay has a number of spectacular trunks which are very affordable, making it possible to collect a few to stack up tall on a small feature wall.

The brass hardware, and leather straps adds detail to the trunk and is something to look for in a trunk.

Stacking Trunks- Some Ideas For Decorating With Trunks

Many times you can get trunks cheap enough that you can paint the details the color that coordinates with your interior.

Consider a stack of trunks in two tone colors. For Example - consider painting 3 trunks in a blue color range, say peacock, navy, and cobalt blue, and an orange trunk on top to break up the colors. Work with the color wheel to determine the colors.

Consider faux painting your trunks. Buy an overhead projector and copy a pattern on to overhead projector paper and paint on a geometrical pattern that appeals to you.

Make your walk in closet extra grand by setting one aside a wall for a stack of old trunks. They make excellent storage while at the same time looking fabulous.

Set of Four Classy Wood Burlap Decorative Storage Trunks

Exclusive Decor sells a very steam lined set of trunks with burlap and leather details.  If you are wanting a set of trunks that have classic shape and form without any fussy details, these trunks are for you. Get a set of 8 and stack them to the ceiling. Exclusive sells them for $179

Great Deal Furniture also sells this wonderful set of three decorative trunks.  They are also made of a canvas material with decorative printed motifs giving it a very rustic feel.  They sell this set of three only for $74.00

Great Deal Furniture sells a set of four trunks for $115. Their rustic map trunks provide a simple yet stylish solution to storage needs around the house. Accessorize any room with our trunks unique design while providing storage space for any loose items around the house. Each of the four trunk also has easy to open latches and convenient handles for caring.

What makes their trunks so attractive is the red leather material, which adds so much detail to the overall look. The material looks to be a heavy burlap. This trunk is very attractive!

Bombay Jewel sells a set of three decorative storage trunks for $114. These wooden trunks work well as an attractive item in any room of your place. They are not only an ideal storage options but are also perfect to enhance your overall home decor.

Three Wood Metal Unique Storage Trunks

Exclusive Decor sells a set of three beautiful trunks for $179. These trunks look quite a bit more antique than the others. These trunks are made from wood and metal making them more durable. The set of three measure 23", 19", 16"W