French country decorating is informal and cozy, and the rural French family room is meant for relaxation, family gatherings and long conversations in front of the hearth. But you don't need to move to Provence to feel the French countryside. You can re-establish it by using French country in your family room, and have a gathering place which feels comfortable, warm and inviting.

French country decorating is rustic, yet with an understated elegance. Color schemes tend to compliment and evoke the gardens and countryside, and space is utilized carefully to keep things comfortable, but uncluttered. There is no one right way to make use of French country decor, but here are a few guidelines to get you started.

Furniture
Furniture in the French country family room entices people to nestle in and get relaxed. Normally, there will be one large piece, like a gently worn armoire, complimented by smaller items such as a table and ladderback chair, storage trunk, or bookcases. Seating is informal, with traditional upholstered chairs often mixed with a comfy, more contemporary sofa.

You can recreate this look by selecting a large, soft sofa in a warm color. You can cover an existing sofa with a plain slipcover, and drape quilts or throws overtop. Fill the sofa with cozy throw pillows which have French country decor motifs, such as bumblebees or toile. Polished, stained or whitewashed wooden frame chairs, with complimentary fabrics, add additional seating. Add a rustic, low coffee table or an ottoman, and a slightly aged cabinet, armoire or buffet.

Floors
Wall to wall carpeting is generally not perceived in French country decorating. Floors are usually wood, stone or natural tile. A combination of old, new, patterned and plain rugs add warmth to the floors and help to define the space. If you do need a big rug or carpet, choose one made from natural material such as sisal or coir.

Accessories
Wrought iron chandeliers and lamps add rustic light. Aged items, such as old trunks, can be utilized as decorative items or as side tables. A large, ornate mirror, hung opposite the window, will reflect the outdoor light into the room and make a sense of space. Old style garden tools, multicolored earthenware pottery, candles, wooden roosters, sunflowers and books fill the shelves and add interest. French country decor evokes the things you would see while strolling through Provence, so think natural materials and outdoor designs.

Above all, French country decorating is rustic, warm and homely, with relaxation and family comfort in mind. An eclectic combination of old and new, attractive and plain, neutral and bright tones and natural textures all combine to create a family room that looks casually elegant and is the wonderful backdrop to both curl up and read a book, and entertain family and friends. Relax with it!

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