Getting the Look of A French Country Kitchen!

December 4, 2019 | Andy Shafer

Let’s start off talking about getting the look of the French Country Kitchen.

Since it’s “Saison de Noël“ let’s talk about the different kitchen design styles that would inspire you this month. The kitchen area is one part of the house that would get very busy this season.

Here we share a few of the top design ideas to help you create that perfect look.

French country style originates in, you guessed it, France! It is a European based style that has crossed the big lake to America. When you think of the French Countryside, you think of sunshine, lavender fields, and fresh blossoms. It is an old-world style that is still fresh and up to date.

Many people would love to design a French country kitchen, but don’t know where to get started. I’m going to give you a rundown on how to design your perfect French country kitchen and home. There are many elements that contribute to the French Country style of home decor.

French country kitchens can be rich and bright with colors like gold, deep red and olive, or natural neutral with granite countertops, furniture-like cabinetry, and wood floors.

The look is always rustic, welcoming, and nostalgic. This look can fit well in newer homes as well as older homes. The French Country style has such a warm and fuzzy feeling that it can fit perfectly into your home as well.

How do the French Country Kitchen Cabinet Styles look like?

I think that a raised panel or full overlay kitchen cabinet door works best for a French country kitchen.

A glaze is often preferred such as the look achieved with antique white kitchen cabinets glazed with light bronze to achieve a naturally distressed look, which is a great choice. It’s almost like starting with the perfect neutral canvas and building from there.

Colors used to decorate in the French Country style come from all over the color wheel:

Beautiful Yellows and Golds,
Bright Reds
Burnt rust, grass Green
Hunter Green
Especially Blue
Turquoise,
Cobalt Blue,
Light Blue,
Aqua tones are often present in French Country style.
Pinks and Whites are also popular choices.
Neutrals break up the colors, like natural woods, black oil rubbed bronze or grey accents.

French Country Materials:

Building Materials:

You will find a lot of reclaimed wood in a French country kitchen. You will usually see granite countertops or butcher block countertops. Natural materials are what you’re looking for. Roughly painted plaster walls are popular, beams as seen below, carved wood furniture detail, and simple textures.

Natural and tumbled stones are typical of the flooring or fireplace surrounds.
Beadboard is a popular backsplash choice or just something to accent with.
Copper pots and pot racks are also typical of a French Country Kitchen.
Arabesque tile also a great choice.

Fabrics:

Materials used in a French country kitchen are easy to spot. They are decorative and have a distinctive look, usually looking like illustrations or floral patterns. Children can be seen playing and ships can be seen sailing. These materials add the cherry on top to a perfect design. You can also find plaid and gingham patterns.

French Country Floral:

Peonies are the French country flower, in my opinion. I see them in so many French country themed rooms, and it makes sense because they look so perfect with the delicate details. The pink next to the fresh white and colorful patterns of French Country style just bring a smile to my face every time!

French Country Kitchen Lighting:

Lighting for your French Country Kitchen should be easy. Stick with wire-y chandeliers, lantern style light fixtures, circular chandeliers or beaded chandeliers.