French country dining: RESENE
Create a state of nature in your home and bring the outside in with this classic French country design.
The classic French country style is a mix of rustic and refined décor that is inspired by the homes of the French countryside. Also known as Provincial style – which is often a more formal look – French country style features natural elements such as timber whitewashed floors, mismatched décor, aged furniture and exposed ceiling beams.
To begin designing your French country space, start with a basic colour palette of lighter wall colours, such as bright whites or pale blues. Resene Duck Egg Blue and Resene Merino work wonders to create a space that is as elegant as it is relaxing.
This dining room puts a contemporary twist on the traditional French country look with walls in Resene Quarter Periglacial Blue, a softly smoke blue with a touch of green. Complemented by the floor in Resene Wan White and accents in Resene Powder Blue, the room takes on a sense of pastel perfection that alludes to French country whilst carving its own path in the modern world.
An easy way to kick start your design is with a subtle colour palette overflowing with warm neutrals – think creamy whites, pale blues and butter yellows. French country style is simple at heart and champions imperfection, celebrating aged décor and mismatched furniture.
French country is all about layering, so be sure to incorporate patterns, including stripes and florals, into the mix alongside classic brickwork and wood panelling. For the French country fanatic, beauty is found in exposure and the obvious tracing of time through elements such as furniture.
To finish the look, incorporate accessories that have a natural connection, such as potted plants and wildflowers. Sprinkle some pops of colour throughout the space with bright ceramics, copper elements and thatch baskets.
PAINT
Wall in Resene Quarter Periglacial Blue, floor in Resene Wan White, bench seat base in Resene Periglacial Blue with Resene Quarter Periglacial Blue, dado rail in Resene Wan White, chairs in Resene Quarter Periglacial Blue, coat rack in Resene Sandspit Brown, bowl in Resene Sandspit Brown, DIY daisy paintings in Resene Periglacial Blue, Resene Quarter Black White and Resene Energy Yellow, large plant pot in Resene Powder Blue.
PROPS
Dining table from Leopold Hall, striped fabric from Spotlight, olive tree from Mitre 10.
