Whether you are moving to a new home or simply want to give your current space a new look, French interior design can help you create a space that is elegant and inviting. Using classic designs such as herringbone parquetry and damask, you can achieve a timeless look for your living room or bedroom.
Toile
During the Colonial Era, French toile became widely used in America. In fact, Ben Franklin was the first American to popularize toile. In the mid-1800s, toile became very popular in England and France.
By the end of the eighteenth century, toile was a very expensive product, mostly for the wealthy. It was considered a luxury item, because it was expensive to make. It was also time-consuming to produce.
Toiles were initially made of cheap, unbleached muslin fabric. They were decorated with murder scenes and other gruesome events. They were used as drapery around beds and on clothing. They were also used to test patterns for tailors.
Trompe l’oeil
Using the technique of trompe l’oeil in french interior design can create an illusion of space. It is a style of painting that is typically used in photorealism, but can also be applied to other surfaces.
A classic example is Richard Haas’ mural for the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami. The six-story painting made the wall appear as a giant archway to the ocean. The sky was ridden with birds and a waterfall. The mural is now damaged.
Another famous trompe l’oeil painting is Masaccio’s The Holy Trinity, which depicts Christ, Virgin and St John the Baptist. He incorporated the surroundings of Santa Maria Novella in the work.
Herringbone parquetry
Whether you are renovating a home or a commercial property, installing a Herringbone floor is a great way to add a sense of luxury to your space. Its timeless beauty makes it a wonderful statement for guests and customers.
The origins of this classic pattern date back to Ancient Roman times, where it was used on roads. During the Middle Ages, the pattern was reserved for royalty and upper classes. In the 1600s, it symbolized sophistication and elegance in France.
Today, this classic style is making a comeback as a trend in furniture. In modern interior designs, it is often combined with modern furniture to create a cohesive picture.
Rustic wood
Typically, rustic interior design focuses on raw materials. This includes items like natural stones, reclaimed wood, canvas, and burlap. It also emphasizes comfort.
The color scheme used in a rustic interior is typically muted earth tones. This is an effective way to create a warm, welcoming space.
Another effective way to achieve a rustic feel is to add plants to the room. Potted herb gardens are a good example. You can also plant twigs for wreaths. You could even use dried flowers as decorative accents.
Adding texture is also important in a rustic style. You might want to consider incorporating wood walls or a wood ceiling.
Mid-century modern
During the 1950s, mid-century modern French interior design became a popular style amongst home decorators. This style is characterised by clean lines, muted colour palettes, and simple forms. It is often enhanced by original artwork and innovative accents.
One of the most influential designers of the 20th century was Charlotte Perriand. Her designs were rejected by Le Corbusier in 1927, but she persuaded him to reconsider. She was convinced of the power of good design and worked with him on a variety of projects. She is considered to be the most important French designer of the twentieth century.
Symbolism
Symbolism in French interior design is a style that is characterized by nonchalance, lightness, and chic. It is based on classical references, but it is also influenced by contemporary art.
During the late 19th century, symbolism in painting and literature grew up as a reaction against naturalism. It strove to elevate the humble over the ideal and to promote the importance of imagination and spirituality. Many writers were influenced by symbolism, including W. B. Yeats and Wallace Stevens. Some were naturalists who later became symbolists.
Several important literary publications were founded in the 1880s. These included La Vogue, Le Symboliste, and Mercure de France. Some of these literary publications were edited by Alfred Vallette, Pierre Louys, and Paul Adam.