There's a magic to French interior design that feels so chic, without trying too hard. It's an effortlessness - a je ne sais quoi - that homes around the world aim to capture. But what exactly is it that sets these spaces apart?
Some of it, undoubtedly, comes down to the types of buildings these designers have to decorate — the beautiful proportions and original features that are hard to match. 'French design, particularly that of the capital, is characterized by recognizable classical décor at first glance,' Parisian interior designer Fabrice Juan tells us. 'Herringbone parquet floors or plaster mouldings and cornices in the style of the 18th century are very common and allow for unparalleled bridges between past and present.'
Without these features to fall back on, is it possible to really capture the spirit of what makes French modern interior design what it is? We asked interior designers based in the French capital what exactly makes Parisian design what it is, and what we can learn from it for our own homes.
1. The power of the understatement
(Image credit: Heidi Jean Feldman. Design: Lichelle Silvestry)
The secret behind effortless style lies in subtlety. 'Living like a true Parisian goes beyond aesthetics,' explains interior designer Lichelle Silvestry. 'It is a lifestyle characterized by effortless sophistication and refined liveability.'
'At the core of French design lies the understanding that true elegance is about understatement,' the designer adds. It's the essence of quiet luxury — design that's elevated and expensive-looking in its simplicity, not its ornateness. 'Parisians highly value discretion and consider ostentation to be out of touch,' Lichelle says. 'The allure of the Parisian lifestyle comes from the subtle nuances that capture the essence of living well with grace and freedom.'
'Parisians have a natural appreciation for quality over quantity, as well as for craftsmanship and attention to detail,' Lichelle says. 'This is evident in the beloved aspects of Parisian life, such as its food, fashion, and home decor.'
2. The contrast between simple and expressive
(Image credit: Francis Amiand. Design: Elliott Barnes)
Whether dealing with historic housing stock and classical features, or a more modern property, these are spaces that hang on the balance of contrast between old and contemporary, minimalist, but with flourish.
'I feel much of my work promotes a modern Parisian spirit or aesthetic,' says interior designer Elliott Barnes. 'That is to say the interior volumes are very drawn and precise, which then leaves the opportunity to be quite expressive with furniture, art or other decorative items.'
'This play or contrast between clean spaces and more articulate objects allows the possibility to combine differing styles and even scales,' the designer adds. 'Moreover, the interiors stay fresh because the objects can be easily moved around of changed.'
3. Embracing culture
(Image credit: Stéphanie Coutas)
For interior designer Stéphanie Coutas, French interior design is informed by its setting. 'I think we have a “French touch” through our culture, love for art, and our beautiful Haussmann buildings,' Stéphanie says. 'Our architecture is unique and the way we design spaces is inspired by the DNA and history of the city that surrounds us.'
French design is exported all over the world, so if you want to bring a sense of authenticity to channeling decor that encapsulates this DNA, keep an eye out for designs and pieces from heritage and modern French brands.
4. Respecting symmetry
(Image credit: Yvan Moreau. Design: Juan Fabrice)
For some modern interior designers, asymmetry is a tool that separates modern from classic interior design. However, in Parisian design, symmetry in interior design is something that bridges the old and new. 'There's a certain symmetry quite unique to Parisian decors where every element is carefully thought out, such as the design of the ceilings,' Fabrice Juan explains. 'There can also be theatricality or perspective play with the presence of tall double doors that can be kept fully closed, open, or slightly ajar.'
Parisian design isn't without its exuberance either, and part of how culture influences design in the city's home is in how homes are designed to accommodate guests.
'Entertaining with elegance and a zest of irreverence are natural attributes of French attitude and interiors,' says Parisian interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman. 'French art de vivre is all about the festive feeling and lifestyle, mixing the old and new.'
'I had this on my mind when I interpreted the Salon Marie Antoinette at Hôtel de Crillon during the palace’s epic renovation, inspired by the audacity and joy of the irreverent queen,' Aline adds. 'Her best attribute is said to be ’the first Parisian’, a legend who still inspires the world from fashion to design.'
"The hallmarks of a quintessential Parisian apartment are decorative applied molding on the walls, herringbone floors, marble fireplace mantel with a gilded mirror above, and usually a statement pendant or chandelier,” says Melissa Sanabria, founder and principal of Sanabria & Co., which specializes in historic home ...
"The hallmarks of a quintessential Parisian apartment are decorative applied molding on the walls, herringbone floors, marble fireplace mantel with a gilded mirror above, and usually a statement pendant or chandelier,” says Melissa Sanabria, founder and principal of Sanabria & Co., which specializes in historic home ...
Ornate crown molding, ceiling medallions, parquet flooring, and wavy glass windows are all common sights in a French home. To hone this look, honor the original architectural details in your own home.
Although the French does have an attraction for chic all-white interiors, color is how they can connect the old and the new gap. In french interior design, the only rule is that… there are no rules. Combine colors, time periods, and any design style that speaks for you.
French people like streamlined furniture with marble or glass tops. The French style of furniture is dominated by wood and original fabrics. The equipment has numerous decorations and carvings. Tables, chairs, chests of drawers, armchairs or consoles are equipped with bent legs.
At the beginning of the twentieth Century, Art Nouveau made its debut in Paris, where curved shapes, contrasting materials, and various colors were widely used. After the Great War, Art Deco replaced it, dominating Paris architecture with straight lines and discreet decoration. neo-Haussmann and neo-classical styles.
Part of the mastery of French dressing is mixing casual pieces with more formal pieces so you never look overdressed or underdressed. A crisp pair of white sneakers that can be paired with skirts or elevated trousers instead of a fancier heel is the perfect example of this high-low type of styling.
The French style developed, in the 18th century, into a very skillful synthesis of materials in which bronze and porcelain played an important part. Furniture was elaborately mounted in bronze with a marble top and was often decorated with porcelain plaques, as well. Clocks were made from porcelain vases.
French country style is defined as a mix of rustic and refined decor inspired by homes in the French countryside. It's characterized by antique furnishings, ornate details, weathered finishes, warm neutrals, rustic patterns, and soft colors. The result is timelessly elegant, yet comfortably lived-in.
Practically speaking, this casual-chic style is often achieved by mixing casual affordable pieces with more tailored items. It's never about things being overly precious or fancy (except maybe when it comes to handbags).
Rarely flashy, French interiors often boast a sense of lavishness with hints of brilliance via jeweled accents, ornate filigree detailing, antique chandeliers and wall sconces.
Key features of Parisian decor include vintage, vintage, and more vintage. Embrace the charm of vintage decor, allowing the natural aging of materials to shine. Incorporate old-world elements that add character, such as vintage furniture, antique decorations, and patina finishes.
In contrast to U.S. residential construction, which uses primarily wood framing, approximately 80% of homes in France are built with traditional concrete block construction methods and bricks, including newer techniques such as cast-in-place and precast concrete.
French interior design typically incorporates a muted colour palette. Neutral colours like beige, cream, and grey dominate the walls and larger pieces of furniture. These calming hues create a sense of serenity and provide a perfect backdrop for more vibrant accents.
French Country homes typically feature steep roofs, asymmetrical facades, and a mix of natural materials like stone and wood. They often include elements such as wrought iron accents, exposed beams, and decorative shutters.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of many French buildings is the tall second story windows, often arched at the top, that break through the cornice and rise above the eaves. This unusual window design is especially noticeable on America's examples of French provincial architecture.
The Parisian Life, also known as Interior d'un Cafi (also spelled Interior d'Un Café, literally meaning "Inside a Café"), is an oil on canvas impressionist painting made by Filipino painter and revolutionary activist Juan Luna in 1892.
Paris is known for its gorgeous, imposing monuments. These iconic structures, often an exemplar of a particular era in architecture, are one of the city's instantly recognizable elements. The preeminent of Paris's landmarks is the Eiffel Tower.
The French national motto “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” reflects the core values of French society. Equality and unity are important to the French.
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Introduction: My name is Msgr. Benton Quitzon, I am a comfortable, charming, thankful, happy, adventurous, handsome, precious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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