Home » Design » Interior styles » Interior in Provence style
Living roomDesignInterior in Provence styleKitchen and dining roomHallwayInterior styles
Belyaeva Irina
22538 Views
Provence style in the interior is a romantic design direction for those who see sophistication in simplicity. Provence is a romantic area on the Mediterranean coast. Beautiful landscapes, a warm climate and the spirit of authentic France have served as inspiration for poets and artists for centuries. The naturalness of the interior design and the measured leisurely pace inherent in the European provinces formed the basis for the spectacular Provence style. Floor, ceiling, walls - find out how best to design them later in the article.
No. 1. Origins of style
Today, the Provence style is considered a French version of the rustic country style. In the 19th century, the inhabitants of French cities, tired of the constant bustle, sought a calmer and more measured life. The craving for comfort, combined with admiration for the Provençal landscapes, gave birth to a new interior style. At first it was used only to decorate country houses, then it spread to French city apartments, and later it went beyond the country and conquered the whole world.
To understand what the main feature of an interior in the Provence style is, just look at a few photos of the region of the same name or admire the paintings of artists. Endless lavender fields, the beauty of the turquoise sea, the bright sun, under the rays of which everything becomes a little faded, the indescribable aroma and time that leaves its mark on everything around - this is Provence. It is not difficult to guess that the style also involves the use of natural shades, lavender and turquoise. The rooms should have a lot of light and fresh flowers.
Ideally, a Provence style house should reflect the life of several generations. there should be traces of time on the furniture and decoration . The interior should be discreet, made in pastel shades, peaceful and conducive to relaxation. This style is not for everyone. It is best used by owners of large houses and apartments; in small rooms it is more appropriate to use only a few of its touches. Provence style is suitable for adult family people who, when they come home, want to relax and unwind.
No. 2. Provence style color palette
The Provence style is inspired by the beauty of nature, which is why the shades used are predominantly natural. All colors should be muted, as if slightly faded - contrasts and bright color spots are not welcome. The main colors of the style are white, cream, milky, sand, beige and other light pastel shades. Speaking about such a romantic style, it is a little inappropriate to remember physics, but it will have to. Everyone knows from school that light shades better reflect and diffuse light, and this is exactly what is needed for a Provence-style interior, which involves an abundance of light.
Along with neutral light tones, slightly faded lavender, turquoise, light blue, light blue, olive, pink, lilac and light green shades are used. Marine colors are also welcome, but they will look most appropriate in the interior of a bathroom.
Situation
After finishing the exterior of the house's façade and renovating the inside of the rooms, the French-style interior is complemented with furniture and decorative items. Furniture in the Provence style for a country house is not only beautiful, light, but also multifunctional. These can be open shelves for decorative decorations, cabinets, drawers for storing linen and blankets, built into the bed, glazed sideboards and cabinets for storing dishes. The color scheme of the furniture is chosen in the primary colors characteristic of the Provence style. Furniture is preferably made from natural materials.
Forged elements in furniture are another constant attribute of the Provence style. Bronze metal and metal components with a copper coating look especially advantageous in a country house. To decorate a room, you can choose either all-metal forged furniture or combined frame materials (for example, a combination of wood and metal).
Upholstery of upholstered furniture in Provence style is done in light, pastel colors. It is typical for a French interior to use textiles with bright floral patterns; embossing in the shape of flowers on upholstery fabric to match the main textile is also acceptable.
No. 3. Wall decoration
If the color scheme of the room should reflect the imprint of the sun, then the decoration and pieces of furniture should show the mark of time. In addition, when choosing a material, it is also necessary to take into account the requirement for its naturalness:
- the best choice would be textured plaster with imitation of chips and abrasions;
- painting the walls is a win-win option , but you must comply with the color scheme requirements;
- some of the walls can be sheathed wood panels, which are either painted in Provence colors or simply varnished to preserve the natural shade of the wood;
- brickwork It looks especially good around the fireplace, but is suitable for decorating any wall in the apartment. Often, designers deliberately leave a small gap in the brickwork when plastering walls, imitating the effect of antiquity;
- for finishing wet areas, use tiles of a natural shade without shine or stone;
- one of the walls in the living room can be painted by hand, depicting a typical Provençal landscape or floral pattern;
- a fresco can decorate one of the walls in the living room, bedroom or hallway ;
- Wallpaper is not usually used, but if you are a fan of it, you will choose canvases with a floral pattern.
Houses located in Provence have a special view from the window. No matter how hard you try, you can’t repeat it here, but there is a way out - one of the walls, for example, in the living room or kitchen, can be decorated with photo wallpaper depicting a lavender field , a neat French street or another typical landscape.
Lighting
A very good idea is to use elegant, airy-looking lamps. They are usually decorated with openwork forged elements that reproduce the appearance of ivy or grapevine. Lampshades can be made of fabric or glass, but in both cases it is advisable to paint them with floral designs. To decorate lighting fixtures, it is recommended to use porcelain and wooden parts resembling flowers or candlesticks. The main middle area of the room is illuminated by the rays of a large ceiling chandelier, which contains several light bulbs.
Such lighting devices are installed:
- on bedside tables;
- on desktops;
- near armchairs, tables, sofas;
- on the walls at the entrance to the house.
No. 4. Floor finishing
It is advisable to use natural boards painted white or another light shade for finishing floors. It’s even better if there are small irregularities on the tree, which should convey a trace of time. It is important that they do not interfere with free and safe movement.
To save money, you can use any imitation of solid wood. For example, parquet or laminate. The effect, of course, will not be the same, but if you follow the color scheme, it will turn out well.
It is also possible to use terracotta tiles with a slightly wiped surface. Preference is given to large format tiles. In the kitchen, you can put a small rug with thick short pile on top of it.
Floral interior design
It is known that Provence combines sophistication coupled with simplicity. The main element is the floral pattern, which can be seen in the upholstery of upholstered furniture, curtains and decorative pillows.
Door and hallway furniture in a similar color scheme in a country house
The obligatory accent is flowers - rose and lavender, which embody the beauty of the Provençal village. They can be traced not only in decorative elements, but also in the decoration of premises. For example, wallpaper with delicate flowers or a floral pattern on ceramic tiles. Since the French province is famous for its natural beauty, this style involves an abundance of living plants in artificially aged pots placed around the house. You can decorate the living room with cute bouquets of wildflowers and dried flowers. Ivy branches hanging from the walls also look very interesting. For indoor plants, give preference to bluebells, violets and hydrangeas.
No. 5. Ceiling finishing
The ceiling decoration also uses natural materials in calm shades without gloss. The ideal option is plaster, smooth or textured. You can replace it with paint, and if the surface of the ceiling is not very good at all, then a stretch ceiling will do, but choose only a matte, plain canvas.
If the height of the ceilings allows, then you can decorate them with wooden beams, but do not choose too dark colors - a beige or light brown shade will be most appropriate.
Many faces of fabrics
Just like furniture, French Country fabrics create an artful, eye-catching potpourri. The quintessence of this style is the veil, but you should not neglect other materials, checkered and striped, floral and plain. Textured fabrics such as linen and matlasse, as well as famous French tapestries, add tactile interest to the room.
No. 6. Furniture in Provence style
The requirements for naturalness are put forward not only for decoration, but also for furniture. In the Provence style, there is no place for chrome and plastic parts, chipboard and MDF - here preference is given to wood, rattan, cane and forging with fabric upholstery in a small floral pattern. The main decoration of furniture is its age . It is necessary that anyone who enters has the impression that this chair or chest of drawers has served for several generations.
It is clear that not everyone has antique furniture at their disposal, so you can look for individual items at flea markets and antique stores. It will be cheaper to age modern furniture or purchase interior items stylized in Provence. Remember that aged furniture does not mean broken and crumbling. All elements must be in perfect condition, functional and strong.
Preference is given to sophisticated furniture made of wood, rattan or forging. It is painted in the characteristic colors of the style, using floral patterns and the same delicate textiles. A large antique chest of drawers or wardrobe will become the center of the interior of the largest room in the house, and a low coffee table will decorate the seating area. It is best to take a dining table from solid wood and complement it with chairs with soft cushions.
If somewhere in the country house, in the attic or in an old apartment there was a closet left over from your grandparents, and you were sorry to throw it away, then it’s time to restore it a little and turn it into the center of the interior in the Provence style. Such a family heirloom will add that necessary touch that is characteristic of this style.
Whisper of time
In a style that is a reflection of longevity and tradition, new furniture and accessories will seem somewhat alien. Provence requires a little rust and dust. Items should look as if they have faithfully served a person for many years.
Avoid shiny metal in favor of wrought iron, bronze or pewter, which is fine if the metal items show dents and other signs of frequent use. It’s not a big deal if there are slightly worn bedspreads or pillows with scuff marks in the house.
This cozy room looks like every item in it has a story - it's like the coolest second-hand collection ever. Even on new objects the presence of centuries-old dust can be felt. The shabby wood of the legs looks great against the background of faded fabric colors.
No. 7. Light
Remember that Provence is a sunny region, and you will understand how to organize the interior. The rooms should be as bright as possible. It is ideal to arrange floor-to-ceiling windows, but often this is not possible, so ordinary windows can be decorated with decorative moldings to make an ordinary window more like a French window.
It is better to frame the windows in white wooden frames . Without this decoration it is difficult to imagine a Provence style interior.
When it gets dark, the required level of light should be achieved by an abundance of lighting fixtures. A central chandelier with several lamps should be complemented by nice floor lamps, table lamps and sconces. Lamps can have elements of textiles, forging and crystal pendants.
No. 8. Textile
Let's start with the curtains. Curtains should emphasize all the features of the interior in the Provence style, i.e. they should be made of natural fabrics, have a calm shade or pattern and be translucent so as not to interfere with the sun's rays calmly penetrating into the apartment and flooding it with light. To decorate window openings, you can choose almost transparent curtains or Roman blinds. Preference is given to natural fabrics , incl. muslin, cotton, calico, linen. Curtains can be decorated with bows, lace, ruffles and even beads. It is better to frame windows with a plain, light-colored fabric. Curtains with a small floral pattern or with floral patterns will also look good. Less commonly used is a geometric pattern (stripe, checkered pattern).
Pillows, bed linen and other textiles can be matched to the curtains. You can choose a completely different material and color, but it is desirable that all textiles be combined with each other and united by some common theme.
You can lay a linen tablecloth on the dining table. A crocheted tablecloth will be a wonderful decoration. In general, hand embroidery and knitting fit very well into the Provence style. To create additional comfort in the rooms, you can use carpets. Preference is given to products with short pile, unusual patterns are welcome. You can also use homespun paths.
No. 9. Accessories and decor
We all know that sometimes it is the little things and trinkets that can add the finishing touch to the interior and give it the necessary mood. To add zest to the room and complete the interior in the Provence style, use the following decorations and items:
- abundance of fresh flowers in vases, pots, on window sills, tables and on the floor. The main interior plant is lavender. If it is not possible to grow a live one, then you can purchase its imitation, and in order to recreate a unique aroma, you can buy a special flavoring agent with rattan sticks, which will provide a subtle, unobtrusive, but recognizable aroma that sets the mood;
- plants can be depicted in paintings, tiles, wallpaper, and also on watch dials. In general, Provence is an abundance of plant and animal landscapes, so do not hesitate to use pictures depicting different flowers, birds, dragonflies, etc.;
- the rooster has become a symbol of France and in particular Provence, so the kitchen interior can be decorated with a cute figurine;
- large wall clocks without any special problems, mostly in a wooden frame;
- forging can be used to frame a bed, stair railings, mirrors, clocks, etc. Forged elements should not be bulky - they should be delicate and delicate;
- dishes a simple form is used, most often it has a white, milky or cream color. The kitchen will be decorated with dishes with floral patterns. Beautiful porcelain and earthenware can be placed on shelves in the kitchen;
- fireplace - an important element of the Provence style, so if there is an opportunity to equip a real fireplace or its imitation, then do not miss the chance. The fireplace can be covered with stone, photos, candlesticks, dishes can be placed on top;
- black and white photographs of ancestors or personal aged photos in beautiful frames will be a wonderful decoration;
- suitcases, chests, bird cages, wicker baskets, lace napkins, painted vases - all this will emphasize the charm and romance of the style.
When decorating a room, you need to be able to stop in time. Although Provence implies a huge number of details and accessories, you still shouldn’t overload the room. Do not forget that all objects in the room must be combined in color, texture and material.
No. 10. Features of the arrangement of different rooms
Provence has never been called a universal style, emphasizing that it is more suitable for owners of country houses or large apartments, but thanks to the discoveries of modern designers, you can breathe French country chic even into a small room. What features should be taken into account when decorating different rooms in the Provence style?
Living room in Provence style
This is a spacious room with large windows that let a lot of light into the room. For wall decoration, it is best to choose textured plaster; a separate part of the surface can be decorated with brickwork. The floor can be finished with solid boards or parquet, and high ceilings can be decorated with wooden beams and a noticeable chandelier.
The main decoration of the room is the fireplace, even if it’s not a real one. It is appropriate to place a soft zone near it. This is a sofa and several armchairs, decorated with a large number of pillows in a faded solid color or with a floral print. All that remains is to lay a nice carpet and take care of the decor. Mirrors, candlesticks, paintings, photos and, of course, flowers are suitable for the living room. If you have an antique piece of furniture at your disposal, then the living room is the best place for it.
Kitchen in Provence style
Provence is an ideal style for the kitchen and dining room, as it is conducive to family gatherings and a pleasant holiday. The French have a weakness for long meals and leisurely conversations, and at the same time they love to admire the exquisite surroundings, which must certainly awaken the appetite and give positive emotions.
The walls of the kitchen can be decorated with plaster, but it is better to decorate the apron with tiles: white, with a floral pattern or with an aging effect. The floor is also laid out with tiles or stones. The dining table is wooden, white. It is decorated with elegant chairs upholstered in textiles with floral patterns. The tablecloth and curtains can overlap, knitted and openwork elements are welcome. It is better to take a set of light, white or cream color, with nice handles. It is better to hide all modern equipment under the facades of furniture so as not to spoil the mood of Provence. A bouquet cabinet with glass doors would look appropriate. On its shelves you can place the most beautiful dishes. It is not difficult to find a ready-made set in the Provence style from almost any more or less large manufacturer, but you can also use assorted furniture with history - then the interior will turn out to be even more authentic.
Don't forget about vases and flower pots, paintings and other accessories. Recipe books, cute spice jars and bottles of oil, vinegar and wine are on display.
Bedroom in Provence style
The bedroom is the room where you can make the most of textiles. The bed can be decorated with a soft lavender-colored bedspread. You can choose a cute floral pattern or plaid pattern. On the sides of the bed you can place white wooden bedside tables, complemented by lamps with textile lampshades. Curtains in a light, turquoise or lavender shade will finally create an association with southern French landscapes.
It is appropriate to decorate the head of the bed with forging, and lay woolen or homespun rugs next to the bed. It is allowed to use wallpaper as decoration, the ceiling remains invariably white, the floor remains wooden. If you wish, you can complement the interior with an antique chest of drawers or a chest, but in the absence of such, just a closet will do. All you have to do is add some cute pillows to the room and hang a few paintings of Provence landscapes on the walls, and you're done.
Bathroom in Provence style
The bathroom is done in light colors. To decorate the walls, use white, milky or cream-colored tiles; you can also take tiles with a plant pattern, or even better, combine these materials. Tiles with a worn effect are a timeless classic of this style. The floor is also tiled, but if funds allow, stone can be used.
It is best to install a full bath. Let it be a free-standing bowl on legs, made in retro style and with a neat floral pattern. If there is not much space, then you can get by with a shower, and you can decorate it with a curtain with a picture of a lavender field. A wooden cabinet with shelves, a wooden bedside table, and wicker baskets are suitable as furniture. The decoration will be a large mirror in an aged frame. Don't forget about lights and accessories. A bouquet of flowers, a cage or a nice watch will not be superfluous, as well as a painting. Lamps can be chosen in the form of candles. Faucets, like all plumbing fixtures, should create the feeling that it was all made centuries ago.
Children's room in Provence style
Provence is perfect for decorating a girl’s room: ruffles, lace, floral patterns, and an abundance of beautiful things will turn the room into the bedroom of a real princess. Use light shades, carpets, openwork furniture, textile lamps and characteristic decor.
A boy’s room can also be furnished in Provence style, because if the entire apartment is designed in the same style, it would be stupid to make one of the rooms sharply different. To create a more boyish interior, use cool shades such as blues and greens. Flowers and ruffles can be replaced with a checkered or striped pattern.
Hallway in Provence style
For the hallway, they traditionally choose a light color scheme, but you can also use less easily soiled shades: lavender, turquoise, olive. It is better to abandon the wardrobe in favor of a vintage wardrobe and several bedside tables. Since the hallway is often a dark room, use as many lamps as possible. The mirror can be decorated with a wooden frame.
Loggia and balcony in Provence style
Light wood or stone trim, a pair of cozy armchairs and a small round coffee table will help create the most comfortable balcony in the world. You can hang roller blinds or Roman blinds on the windows, plain light or with a small floral pattern. The walls can be decorated with paintings of flowers, animals or Provençal landscapes. A vase of flowers or a cage will complement the interior.
Provence for a small apartment
Owners of small apartments need to use only a few style elements so as not to overload the space. A simple light finish can make a room visually a little larger. Finding the simplest light curtains is not a problem. One of the walls can be decorated with floral wallpaper. Select furniture in light colors and decorate with characteristic textiles. A couple of elements in the room can be decorated with forging. All that remains is to hang a few paintings, and the spirit of Provence is already in the air.
Finally, we note how important it is to fill the apartment with the appropriate aroma, so use fresh flowers or stock up on fragrances.
The article was written for the site.
Tags: Apartment design, Interior style
Registration of a suburban area
In order for the atmosphere of the Provence style to be fully felt, one must not forget about decorating not only the residential building, but also the land plot. The landscape can be easily transformed with the help of a small gazebo, an old-fashioned fence with a miniature gate, and wicker garden furniture. Along the gazebo you can plant grapes, which will grow over time, bush roses, lilacs, and wisteria.
The appearance of the house and everything nearby must correspond to the chosen style
If you have space in the garden, you can place a small gazebo or even a summer kitchen near the house
Provence style is preferred by calm people who live in harmony with themselves. These are not necessarily poor individuals; there are also wealthy owners who strive to create a homely environment in their country house, warm, without any luxury. Everything is as simple and convenient as possible.
See alsoGrunge style in interior design
