How to Decorate With Provencal Style

Provence has helped set the standard for French country decorating both in and out of France. This classic country style features earthy neutrals paired with vibrant shades of yellow, green, blue, red and purple. Creating Provencal country style in your own home is easy with the right colors and furnishings.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Walls and Floors

1. Apply a plaster or stucco finish to walls to mimic the Provencal style of homes in the South of France.

2. Paint walls a cool white or pale Provencal shade for a subtle, aged look common in French farmhouses and chateaus.

3. Cover floors with earthy terracotta tiles. These tiles are easy to keep clean and stay cool during hot weather.

4. Add a colorful rag rugs to anchor seating and dining areas.

Furniture

1. Upholster sofas and chairs in vibrant Provencal prints. Mix large and small florals with a paisley print.

2. Mix and match wicker and upholstered pieces for an informal, yet elegant, look.

3. Pair a formal dining table with chairs that feature woven rush seats and gently curving.

4. Select an iron or brass bed frame with simple lines as a focal point in the bedroom. Paint it a vibrant Provencal color, such as apple green or lavender purple.

Windows

1. Filter natural light with delicate lace panels or cafe curtains.

2. Make long drapes from traditional Provencal printed fabrics, which include paisley, floral and geometric designs.

3. Hang wooden shutters indoors for an old world look.

4. Use plain wrought iron or wood curtain rods rather than anything too ornate.

Tips & Warnings

• If the view out your window is great (and private), skip the curtains all together.