Mencoret.com – French country kitchens can feel like they belong in stone cottages in Normandy, but anyone can channel the style with a few simple accents. Grey is a cozy neutral that prevents a kitchen from feeling too sterile, and it pairs well with eggshell blue cabinets.
Adds Classic Farmhouse Appeal to Any Kitchen
Shiplap might be more synonymous with Waco, but this texture adds classic farmhouse appeal to any kitchen. Pair it with natural woods to balance the clean lines of a modern kitchen. Farmhouse design became a huge trend in 2012 thanks to Fixer Upper star Joanna Gaines and it seemed like a fresh, less-frilly evolution of the shabby chic style that had been so popular before. It also tapped into country and industrial styles for its rustic charm.
Joanna has since embraced even more European country styles in her home renovations. In this kitchen, she used a creamy off-white paint (similar to Sherwin Williams Alabaster 7008 pictured above) and white marble countertops. She added modern gunmetal Gabriel Scott pendants to the dining area that balance out the farmhouse feel. Plus, she hung decorative plates from a wall-mounted hutch for a classic French country touch.
French country kitchen ideas often incorporate rustic accents and traditional flair. If you’re in the market for a new kitchen remodel, look for elements like woven pendant lights, antique cabinetry and rustic wood flooring to bring a French farmhouse feel into your home. Although shiplap may be more closely associated with Waco, Texas than Provence, this popular material is still a gorgeous way to add a cozy farmhouse texture to any kitchen. To keep the look from feeling too shabby chic, choose neutral shades of gray that are a little warmer than pure white.
Gives a More Unique Feel to Farmhouse Decor
Farmhouse wall decor adds warmth and texture without feeling overly planned or twee. For example, a still life painting mounted on white shiplap walls adds a bit of rustic style to this cozy bedroom from Ashley Montgomery Design. Repurposing or upcycling materials and objects is another easy way to give your farmhouse decor a more unique feel. My 100 Year Old Home pushed a vintage French flower rack right up against the wall and filled it with bunches of fresh flowers.
For a minimalist look, focus on functional wall decor pieces that serve a purpose. Black metal drop sconces and simple brass kitchen towel rod and hooks help reinforce the classic farmhouse feel in this kitchen from Jessica Nelson Design. Even modern kitchens can get a French farmhouse makeover with the right accessorizing. Keeping things simple with labeled jars, fresh flowers, and woven baskets will give any room country French vibes.
You can also use wood and patterned backsplash tiles to add the look to your kitchen. This gorgeous farmhouse kitchen by Nina Magon features classic white subway tile and Calcutta marble alongside a rounded cross-inspired backsplash. Modern gunmetal Gabriel Scott pendants and velvet cornflower blue stools play off of the traditional style elements.
Inspired by a Cozy French Farmhouse
If you have a lot of storage space, try installing a large weathered Closet Cupboard to add a bit of French country style to your kitchen. This closet is the perfect place to store utensils, plates, and pots. Giving your kitchen a cozy French country-inspired makeover doesn’t have to present a major investment. Antique cabinetry and tableware, like the wrought iron window frames and ceramic pitchers in this kitchen designed by Nina Magon, add both refinement and country charm.
A classic Provencal blue shade adds a touch of the traditional to this updated galley kitchen. Labeled jars and wicker basket storage finish off the look. French country kitchens can often incorporate a touch of red. Tonal reds can be quite pleasing and add warmth to a room that can sometimes feel a little cold or modern. Red accents like chippy pottery and copper cookware can also bring in color.
Gray kitchen cabinets can work in a country French kitchen as well. While white may be the go-to for many modern kitchens, grey can help to ground a room and distinguish French country from American farmhouse style. Whether you’re after a cozy country French kitchen or a clean cottage or coastal look, a white palette can help. Layer that foundation with warm woods (such as butcher block countertops or a natural wood vent hood) and vintage collections and accessories to tie the room together. For example, a collector of nineteenth century original miniatures might arrange a display in a chimney closet (or cupboard) that looks like a miniature room, complete with tableware and vases, books, or a doll house. This is a great way to add personality and bring in a bit of history. We are happy to receive guest post submissions from you.
