Above, two French farmhouse-inspired spaces in a custom home by Thompson Custom Homes via HomeBunch.
Like seemingly everyone else on Pinterest and Instagram, we’ve become enamored with the “urban farmhouse” style. (Think: Farmhouse sinks, marble countertops, vintage-industrial lighting, and copper accents.) Lately, though, we’re gravitating towards décor that’s just as nostalgic but without that industrial edge. We’re calling it the “French farmhouse” look, a style that combines distressed finishes with flea-market-inspired furniture for a result that’s comfortable yet chic. Here are the key pieces for achieving this unmistakably romantic look:
1. You must have an armoire.
Whether it’s a country château or a Parisian apartment, an armoire helps maximize storage in style. We love the vintage styling of the ABC Carpet & Home French Provincial-Style Painted Armoire.
2. Look for distressed finishes.
Beautifully worn finishes are just one of the reasons why French homes have that certain offhand glamour. The Vintage Neoclassical Style Small Metal Mirror has a gorgeous patina that enhances the dimensional details within the frame.
3. Make a statement with wrought iron.
Touches of wrought iron help “ground” the look, imparting a subtle edge. The easiest place to incorporate this material is through lighting, like the Transitional 10-Light Wrought Iron Chandelier.
4. Add a dash of white.
Though natural woods have their place in the French farmhouse (especially when distressed), whitewashed furniture stylishly walks the line between rustic and chic. A storage piece, like the Vintage Petit French Chest, also appears less “heavy” than it would in a darker hue.
5. Incorporate vintage art.
We can’t think of a better way to quickly add a touch of vintage French style than with this 1950s film poster.
6. Embrace flea market chic.
Old signage, artfully worn fabrics, repurposed materials, and subtle signs of wear can be a great thing. Even in new pieces, you can find that “Brocante” look — like in the graphic detail on the Barclay Butera Kingston Velvet Wingback Chair.
7. Take inspiration from the bistro.
French bistro-style chairs have been on-trend for a while now, but they take on a more timeless character when mixed in with other French-inspired furniture and accessories. The TK Collection French Café Side Chairs would be perfect as an accent in a dining area.