Are you a Francophile? Do you Love French Décor?

If so, then read on.

France has held court in regards to interior design many times in history, from the Renaissance, through to the post-war years of the 20^th century.

With this in mind, there is little wonder why so many people choose to redecorate their homes with essences of France; but how do you make your home distinctly French in style?

Go Parisian

If you happen to live in an apartment, then you’ll be glad to know that much of Parisian décor is inspired by small, but chic apartments crammed into the centre of the city.

Before you start, remember that a traditional Parisian apartment is often bright, cheerful and a smooth blend between old and new.

So starting with the floors, Parisian residents often prefer natural wood or stone floors, so if you want to get it right, don’t think ‘carpet’. When it comes to the walls, this is a great opportunity to decide whether you want to lounge in rustic Paris, or celebrate in the new.

Old Parisians prefer creamier walls with black trims, whereas the younger generation prefer bright colours with light borders.

As for furniture, even younger Parisians love old furniture, so you can’t really go wrong with shabby chic. You can find French-style designs from SylvesterOxford.com.

Go Rococo

Whereas Paris is almost certainly a place, Rococo is an artistic period in history, and also one of the most influential. Beginning in the 18^th century, the style is often defined by beautiful, flamboyant and yet immensely delicate design.

Known for its dashing swirls, use of the acanthus leaf and shell-like shapes, it is one of the most instantly recognisable styles to come from the country.

Much like Parisian décor (where the Rococo style itself is rooted), focus is often laid on natural, yet dark wooden floors. When it comes to the walls however, these are often bright in texture and prominent colours include soft pinks, whites, creams and gold.

Moving onto furniture, a silver or gold leaf finish is quite popular, so if you are looking for a classy or elegant touch to your home, then this is where you’ll find it

Go Baroque

If flamboyance is something that you’re hoping to avoid, then the answer could well be found in the more subtle Baroque movement. Known for its formal sense of sophistication, the style is actually the trend that preceded Rococo.

With pale, natural wooden flooring being key to the style, you can already pick up the differences between the two.

When it comes to the walls, cream is most often the order of the day, though warmer colours are also found. Much like Rococo, Baroque also makes use of swirls in regards to furniture and ornaments; defining aspects of these are often found to be around cherubs and foliage.

Whichever style of décor you choose however, it is important that you get what you want, and not to force anything that looks unnatural. After all, it’s your home, and getting it right for you, is the most important thing of all.