French country decorating is casual and cozy, and the rural French family room is intended for recreation, family gatherings and long conversations in front of the hearth. But you don't have to move to Provence to experience the French countryside. You could recreate it by using French country in your family room, and have a gathering place that feels comfortable, warm and homely.

French country decorating is rustic, yet with a simple elegance. Color schemes tend to compliment and bring to mind the gardens and countryside, and space is used warily to keep things cozy, but uncluttered. There is no one right way to use French country decor, but here are a few guidelines to get you on track.

Furniture
Furniture in the French country family room appeals people to live in and get comfortable. Generally, there will be one large piece, such as a gently worn armoire, complimented by smaller items such as a table and ladderback chair, storage trunk, or bookcases. Seating is casual, with traditional upholstered chairs mostly mixed with a comfortable, more contemporary sofa.

You could reconstruct this look by choosing a large, soft sofa in a warm color. You may cover an existing sofa with a simple slipcover, and drape quilts or throws overtop. Fill the sofa with comfortable throw pillows which have French country decor motifs, like bumblebees or toile. Polished, stained or whitewashed wooden frame chairs, with complimentary fabrics, put in additional seating. Add a rustic, low coffee table or an ottoman, and a slightly old fashioned cabinet, armoire or buffet.

Floors
Wall to wall carpeting is normally not seen in French country decorating. Floors are normally wood, stone or natural tile. A mixture of old, new, patterned and plain rugs add warmth to the floors and help to define the space. If you do want a big rug or carpet, pick one made from natural material like sisal or coir.

Accessories
Wrought iron chandeliers and lamps add rustic light. Traditional items, such as old trunks, may be used as decorative items or as side tables. A big, ornate mirror, hung opposite the window, will reflect the outdoor light into the room and create a sense of space. Antique 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 notice while wandering through Provence, hence visualize natural materials and outdoor motifs.

Most of all, French country decorating is rustic, warm and inviting, with relaxation and family comfort in mind. An eclectic mixture of old and new, attractive and simple, neutral and bright tones and natural textures all combine to create a family room which looks casually graceful and is the perfect background to both curl up and read a book, and entertain family and friends. Have fun with it!

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