"Transforming Your Space: Incorporating French Style into Your Home Décor"

Let's be real...not everyone has the luxury of a pied-à-terre in Paris or a petit gîte in Provence, but by infusing a few typically French design elements you will find yourself in your own maison française.

• Mix & Match: Don't be afraid to break the rules. Remember, the French believe and live by the idea that rules were made to be broken...at least when it comes to interior design and fashion.

This apartment incorporates the mid-century modern chair with the antique marble

fireplace and ornate moldings.

• Crown Molding: Within the timelessly chic & elegant Haussmann apartments the adage more is more definitely holds true. You may wish to start simple and add a basic molding, but if you want to really transform your space go ornate.

Remember, white on white is very French. By keeping the simple monochromatic

palette of white walls with white molding your space is fresh and not overly done.

• Gilded Mirrors: Whether you are highlighting your mantle, or leaning one against the wall in your entryway - go grand! Not only do these mirrors add a touch of old-world charm they also let in light and create the feeling of space.
  

These grand, gilded mirrors can be pricey, but with a little patience, and even a bit of

haggling at your local flea market, estate sale, or architectural salvage shop, you can find

amazing pieces without breaking the bank.

• Ceiling Medallions: There is nothing more quintessentially French than ornate ceiling medallions. What makes them even more chic is when they are paired with a modern pendant light.
  

• Black Statements: An all black room may be overwhelming and too moody for many, but swapping out all white trim for black is modern, elegant, and yes, chic. Black trim and doors, or an accent wall, paired with white walls offers an unexpected twist that will not go unnoticed.

My go-to black for my interiors is Farrow & Ball's Off-Black, in full gloss.

If you aren't quite ready to immerse yourself in the complete French aesthetics I have included a few simple ideas to get yourself ready for the next step.

• Fresh cut flowers: Paris has an abundance of flower shops, my favorite stateside for affordable seasonal bunches is from my local Trader Joe's.

• Scented candles: My favorite is Baies from Diptyque

• Vintage scarves: I have collected many vintage scarves through the years, whether they were gifts or found at one of my favorites brocantes, and I have framed some of my favorites and used them as artwork throughout my home for that little French touch.

These are just a few of my ideas to bring a bit of the French aesthetics into your home. I look forward to hearing if you tried any of these ideas, or if you have any of your own you'd like to share.

Update - Source: The interior photos are credited to projects by French Interior Design firm of Royal Roulotte . Merci Beaucoup!

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