Provence style in the interior: exquisite simplicity of French country. Stop putting up with it: How to replace boring Provence and brick walls

Provence is an extremely popular design style as country houses, and city apartments. This is the choice of those who want to take a break from the bustle of the city and the intense rhythm of life. Thanks to the Provencal style, you can plunge into an atmosphere of lightness, closeness to nature, and fill the interior with warm colors and delicate floral motifs.

History of the style

Practical, airy and unusually delicate, the Provence style originally appeared on the southern coast of France. Its name comes from the French "Provence", which means "province" in French. Provence is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, and is adjacent to the Alps and the Cote d'Azur. The province itself, famous for its mild and warm climate, has the same name. good harvests, amazing cuisine and luxurious lavender fields.

Another name for the style is French country. Since peasants lived in Provence, they built houses for themselves. They approached the arrangement very practically - furniture and household items were made reliably, to last for centuries, so that they could be left to children and grandchildren. Interior decoration At home, tablecloths, bedspreads, pillows, curtains were woven and embroidered by hand.

Gradually, Provence became widespread and became fashionable. Until now, the theme of French country style is popular among designers due to its simplicity of design and atmosphere.

A favorite color that no interior can do without is the color of lavender - the symbol of Provence. Rustic french style can also be used in a city apartment - creating a cozy and sunny atmosphere yourself is not only interesting, but also exciting.

Features of the Provence style: distinctive features, for whom it is suitable

Provence has a number of features that distinguish this style from all others. It is not necessary that they all be present in the interior - modern design allows for some variability.

Simplicity and conciseness. This is typical for both the color scheme and the furniture. Maximum simple lines, practical arrangement, nothing superfluous. Spacious, lots of sunshine and air.

The color scheme is designed in pastel colors. Lots of white, beige, cream colors. The main colors are soft blue, lavender or soft pink.

Furniture is made only from natural wood. Regardless of color, it must be painted, with various abrasions and cracks. Always simple and strict in shape, it can be decorated with painted facades or forged parts: handles, corners, inserts. Wicker furniture is often used.

Light, weightless curtains with draperies. The main emphasis is placed on window decoration when decorating the interior. In cases where the room is small, Roman blinds with a floral pattern are used.

Wooden or stone floors. Be sure to have a light color, regardless of whether it is parquet or batten.

Ceiling with beams. As a rule, beams are not hidden behind complex suspended structures, but are left unpainted. They act as an independent detail of the interior.

Chests of drawers and chests, wicker baskets, drawers for storing small items, shelves and boxes are integral details of Provence. Thanks to them, coziness and charm unique to Provence are created in the interior.

Glass and ceramics. The French are very fond of ceramic tableware and know a lot about it. Porcelain and glass can be found in any home. Not only do they display dinnerware in the china cabinets and living room, but they also decorate the walls with painted plates. Glass and ceramic figurines are mandatory attributes on shelves above the fireplace and open shelves in the room.

Provence is suitable for those who are tired of the bustle of the city and want to spend more time in a calm, measured rhythm. This is an amazing opportunity to pause time, return to the times of relaxation at the dacha or visiting grandparents.

Photo gallery: French country style in the interior of a house or city apartment

A chest is a mandatory attribute of a bedroom in the Provence style. Only pastel colors are used in interior design. Modern kitchen in Provence style with a round table
Floral motifs of curtains give the living room a certain charm Delicate living room with a large number of sofa cushions for the comfort of guests Small cozy kitchen in Provence style
The color of lavender in combination with white gives the bedroom additional volume. The living room is filled with an atmosphere of warmth due to the floral pattern of the wallpaper. An abundance of flowers as decor - distinguishing feature French country
Frequent decorative items - painted plates and framed paintings Pastel colors in a modern Provence living room Floral prints on curtains, lampshades and chair upholstery add a rustic chic to the kitchen
Porcelain plates and flowers are all you need to decorate a Provence living room. Imitation beams separate the kitchen and dining area. Various floral prints on curtains, upholstery and wallpaper add tenderness to the living room interior.
The wall decor blends harmoniously with the textiles in the bedroom

Room decoration: walls, ceiling, floor

Provence is famous for its restraint in design and the use of only natural materials. Therefore, the selection of materials for interior decoration should be treated very carefully. Of course, when decorating the interior of a city apartment, it is difficult to resist using new materials and technologies, but they should be introduced carefully so as not to spoil what was originally planned.

Light walls

To create an interior in Provence style, the walls are plastered and painted. Plaster can be either perfectly smooth or carelessly executed. The walls are painted in warm colors, sometimes with stains to give a slightly aged look.

Brickwork is often found - either with grooved seams or painted in a light tone. Sometimes the option of a partially “open” fragment of masonry is used.

The use of wallpaper is not typical for Provence. But in the interior of a city apartment it is quite possible to find wallpaper with a pattern that imitates stone, or wallpaper with a floral pattern - both small bouquets and large floral prints. They cover either one wall or part of a wall. To decorate a bedroom, you should not use vinyl or non-woven wallpaper.

Unsanded wooden panels are quite suitable for wall decoration. They must be painted in bright hues, leaving small areas unpainted. You can apply a design to wooden panels using a stencil.

Ceiling

IN country houses look quite natural wooden ceilings. For a city apartment, this option is too complicated. Enough to paint acrylic paint V White color, adding no a large number of pigment to give a warmer shade. It is advisable to use matte paint.

If the apartment has high ceilings, you can use structures that imitate beams to add color. They can be left unpainted, tinted with stain, or painted in a color several shades darker than the main one.

A combination ceiling is quite possible - the part around the perimeter is suspended, with spotlights, and the center is a suspended glossy surface.

Wooden floor

Give preference to natural materials. For the living room, bedroom, and hallway, floorboards, parquet, and laminate are best suited.

Board - painted in a light tone; parquet and laminate - preferably natural, light colors. If the floor is dark, partially cover it with a carpet or floor covering in light colors.

For the kitchen floor, choose stone, imitation stone or tile. In any case, these should be light colors with matte surface. It is not advisable to use linoleum, carpet, tarkett and vinyl tiles.

Colors characteristic of Provence and their combination

The main colors of Provence are delicate, pastel. Based on the color scheme natural shades, but not bright, saturated, but calico, slightly faded in the sun. Most often in the interior of Provence you can find the following shades:

  • purple - all shades, especially lavender;
  • white and all its warm shades - baked milk, ivory;
  • cream;
  • coffee with milk;
  • champagne color;
  • soft turquoise;
  • light pink;
  • sand;
  • baby blue;
  • pistachio;
  • olive;
  • umber;
  • yellow.

Black and brown colors Rarely found, only as accents.

When decorating the interior, it is important to maintain color balance.

All interior details must be combined with each other. If the main emphasis is on textiles, then the walls, ceiling and floor should be neutral.

If wallpaper with a floral pattern was used to decorate the walls, you can choose furniture upholstery and curtains to match it.

If the main surfaces are kept in one color scheme, with the help of small accessories or textiles you can create color accents. It is good to combine floral prints, checks, and stripes in the same color scheme.

If you have a neutral shade when decorating the walls, you can use a little trick - stock up on several sets of replacement covers for upholstered furniture and the same sets of curtains in several colors. For example, one set is pistachio, another is pink, the third is lavender. When they change, the interior will always be different.

Furniture selection

For each room you should select a specific set of furniture. The main selection criterion is functionality. Each item has a strictly defined function.

The French prefer low furniture in white, soft blue or light purple shades with an interesting texture. These may be abrasions, cracks - anything that indicates its long-term use. Despite all its apparent simplicity, it looks solid and elegant thanks to its curved legs and laconic shapes.

We give preference to furniture made of ash, walnut, and bleached oak. It can be with forging elements and wicker inserts.

Particular attention is paid to wicker furniture. Natural in color or painted in shades of white, it fits harmoniously into the interior. In one room you can find the most different types chairs, armchairs, sofas and sofas. With good upholstery or light covers, they are often the main elements of decor.

Solid wood cabinet. For the bedroom it is usually made from bleached oak, but it can also be made from other types of wood. Definitely white, with slight abrasions.

A chest of drawers is an essential attribute of a bedroom. He is given a place of honor in the room. Always interesting shape, with curved legs and a large number of drawers, it also attracts attention with vases, figurines, and bouquets placed on the lid. Bedside tables are matched to it in style.

Cupboards and open shelves are always used in the kitchen. They can be the same color as the walls, or brighter, but must be made from natural wood.

The dining table is most often massive, with curved legs, and round in shape. The tabletop can be either natural or painted in light colors.

Lighting

The Provence style is characterized by a large amount of daylight and sun. If in France this is easily achieved due to large window openings, then in a city apartment - due to window decor and a large number of lamps. A large number of wall sconces, floor lamps, and chandeliers are used.

You should pay attention to chandeliers with shades that imitate candlesticks and with crystal pendants.

You can choose lamps with fabric lampshades of simple shape. They can be either with a floral print or plain in the color of the room’s decoration.

Decoration: textiles and accessories

The French have a special relationship with textiles. Only natural fabrics are always used - silk, bleached linen, satin, simple chintz, tapestries, fine wool. Most often you can find floral prints, less often - checks and stripes.

Curtains, bedspreads, decorative pillows, covers for upholstered furniture, and tablecloths are made from colored fabrics. For curtains, special tiebacks are made from ribbons or a special cord with tassels is woven. Lace, frills, and ruffles are used to decorate the tablecloth. Dressers and coffee tables are decorated with hand-knitted napkins.

Bed covers can be made in either a patchwork style or simple, with a floral pattern.

For decoration, photographs in aged frames and large oval mirrors in antique massive frames are used.

Quite often you can find various frescoes, paintings depicting a lavender field, flowers, and nature.

A favorite interior detail is a bird cage. It can be found in almost every home. Large, small, elegant, with ornate patterns - they are used as candlesticks or filled with a flower arrangement.

Candelabra and candlesticks are only massive, hand-forged. As a rule, they stand on a shelf above the fireplace or decorate a chest of drawers.

Particular importance is attached to ceramic vases, figurines, and stands.

The vases are always filled with either compositions of dried flowers or fresh flowers.

Living room interior design in Provencal style

The design of the living room in the apartment takes a special place. It is used to judge the taste of the owners. If you are decorating your living room in Provence style, you should carefully consider the choice of furniture. It should be as comfortable as possible, with armrests. Provide decorative pillows.

There may be several small tables in the living room - for tea drinking, a coffee table, a dressing table. A small cupboard should be provided in which the guest service will be stored. If possible, you can place an electric fireplace in the living room. It will help create a cozy atmosphere.

To decorate the ceiling, you can use stucco, or imitate it using a ceiling cornice. The chandelier and additional lamps should provide enough illumination if guests stay up late.

Photo gallery: living room design options

A strict and laconic living room in golden tones looks gentle thanks to light curtains with a floral print. A small living room in white and blue tones using Roman blinds. Golden elements and textiles with a satin sheen add luxury to the design.
The floral print of the curtains and wallpaper is balanced by the monochromatic upholstery of the furniture. The living room is decorated in soft blue tones with a framed photo. The floral pattern on the wall and the pendants on the chandelier to match the pattern add special luxury to the living room.
The beige and brown tones of the living room are successfully complemented by plants. The living room is in lavender color with accents. yellow color A mirror above the fireplace in a luxurious frame is often found in Provence style living rooms

Hallway in Provence style

The hallway is usually small in size. A minimal amount of furniture is used to decorate it. It is important to preserve free space and visually enlarge it - for this you can use a large full-length mirror in a massive frame. To decorate the hallway, only light colors are used - beige, white, soft blue, lavender.

The floor is covered with either a rug small size, or a small carpet. You can use tiles. For small room important good lighting- chandelier, wall sconces, lamps.

For furniture, a small wardrobe, chest of drawers, hanger and a small bedside table or ottoman are suitable. When decorating a living room, it is important that it does not stand out from the general style apartment and the design matched the living room.

Photo gallery: corridor design options

Wicker baskets are provided for the necessary little things. The tiles on the floor are partially covered with a carpet. A large mirror is a necessary attribute of the hallway
A minimum of furniture - a hanger and a bench made of natural wood. The hallway and living room are made in the same color scheme. A minimum set of furniture for convenience in the hallway
The tablecloth and rug on the floor are made in the same color scheme and give the hallway a cozy feel. Laconic design of the hallway in white and blue

Setting up the kitchen

Kitchen furniture should be chosen in a light color with smooth lines. Kitchen cabinets with small scratches on the fronts and glass inserts.

You can use fragments to decorate the walls brickwork, imitation stone or wood panel.

Tablecloths, towels, curtains are made only from natural fabrics - linen, cotton. Chairs can have removable fabric covers or decorative pillows.

The main place in the dining area is occupied by a round dinner table with curved legs made of wood or metal.

The upholstery for them is chosen from linen or tapestry. The interior is complemented by a massive antique-style chandelier with lampshades and candlesticks.

Photo gallery: variety of French-style kitchen designs

The working wall of the kitchen is decorated in the style of brickwork. The kitchen and living room are separated by wall decor and a large chest of drawers. In city apartments, countertops can be made of granite or other materials.
The floral pattern is repeated on curtains, upholstery and curtains

Vanity, nerves, all this affects health, and that is why it is so important to be able to abstract from everyday problems. In many ways, the atmosphere in the house, and therefore the interior, helps to relax. In this article we will not only tell you how to properly design a Provence kitchen wall, but also reveal several secrets of creating the style of a real French village.

Provence is one of the southern regions of France, located near the Cote d'Azur. A typical village of the wealthy south, filled with sun, warmth and serenity. Peace always reigns here, and vanity has no place within the walls of a Provençal house.

This is probably why this style is becoming more and more popular in our country, where the summer sun and sea breeze are often lacking. Fortunately, a huge variety of modern building and finishing materials makes it possible, if not to transfer the village into the walls of a city apartment, then at least to recreate it, and for this you either need to have a specialized design education, or simply understand character traits this style.

Our article is not an instruction for designers who already know their business without us; our goal is to tell you how to properly decorate your home so that it is always warm and cozy, even if it is a gloomy autumn city outside the window.

It’s not difficult to make renovations in the Provence style with your own hands, the main thing is to clearly understand all the nuances that make up this style, and before moving on to the abstract, we invite you to look at the photos and videos in this article, thanks to which you can better understand the characteristic features of this interesting interior style.

Briefly about the style of Provence

So:

  • Any rustic style involves the use of only natural building and finishing materials. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. Sometimes because characteristic features premises, and sometimes due to a simple lack of funds. The problem is solved by replacing natural materials with imitation, which is often not inferior to the original in either beauty or quality.
  • Color spectrum. Very important aspect for Provence style. A priori, there cannot be dark tones here; the entire interior is a country house filled with the southern sun. Below we will dwell on this issue in more detail, but for now you should remember that in Provence there is no place for the dark and gloomy.
  • Accessories. Pleasant little things and trinkets are rarely characteristic of rustic styles, but Provence is a pleasant exception. There are always a lot of little things here, even if they have no practical value. This interior is primarily aimed at pleasing the eye of its owner, while functionality and optimization fade into the background.
  • Minimum plastic. We understand that modern life is simply impossible without plastic, but if you decide to create a Provencal house, you need to reduce its amount to a minimum. Let it stay only where it is needed. Of course, PVC will be used in our article, but only in a quality that imitates more expensive natural materials.
  • Simplicity. Provence is first and foremost a village. There is no place for pretentiousness and deliberate wealth. Here modesty is combined with elegance, and simplicity smoothly turns into originality. Since ancient times, in villages it has been customary to make interior items yourself, and this nuance simply needs to be reflected in our interior.

So, we have dealt with the theses, but simple printed text is not enough here. Even videos and photos are not able to fully convey the atmosphere and spirit of Provence.

What is important here is the right emotional mood, an understanding of what you want to see in your home. The main difficulty here is combining what is actually incompatible. On the one hand, Provence is austerity, each element of the interior has its own, strictly designated place for it, on the other hand, a little chaos and aesthetic disorder are inevitable for a country house.

Professional designers know many tricks to achieve such perfection, but they create designs for other people whose ideas and preferences they know only in words.

In our case, you have a significant advantage - you start from your emotions and taste preferences, and then it’s a matter of technique and skill, some of the secrets of which we will try to reveal for you. But, let's not deviate from our main topic, and let's talk about finishing materials.

Creating a village in the city

An interesting fact is that the residents of the French province of Provence had no idea that they had become the founders of an entire design trend. Interesting and multifaceted directions. Unlike many styles, there are no strict boundaries in Provence. It is not limited by anything, neither by types of finishing, nor by finishing materials.

But this is precisely where the main stylistic difficulty lies - what to do when there are no clear frameworks and rules. The answer is simple - do what will give you maximum pleasure.

Advice! Before visiting a construction hypermarket, carefully consider every little detail. This applies to both finishing materials and additional accessories. The problem with Provence is the lack of boundaries, so there is a high probability of falling into shopaholism and oversaturating your interior with meaningless objects. It would be better if your wall was decorated with a lonely panel than with two dozen tastelessly decorated plates made in China.

So, let's talk directly about finishing materials. We mentioned just above that it is advisable to use only what nature has given us, but this is not always possible, so we will consider all the options.

Panels in the interior of Provence

Many people believe that any repair must begin with the preparation of tools and materials, but in fact, repairs begin with budget planning. Of course, take every penny into account initial stage If it doesn’t work out, unforeseen expenses will still appear in the process.

Many who create Provence in their home use wall panels for this, but this concept is very loose and general. It includes so many different materials, that their price can vary by thousands and thousands of rubles.

Most a budget option- This pvc panels. They are cheap, but at the same time they are very easy to care for, and the variety of external designs allows you to choose them to suit any style. Want to ? Please. Prefer brick? No problem. Are you a supporter of wood flooring? Even easier.

But despite a lot of advantages, PVC panels are not in particular demand, and the reason for this is their decorative component: no matter what pattern is applied to their surface, even a cursory examination shows that it is ordinary plastic.

This is a completely different matter. They are more difficult to distinguish from natural materials, and this is achieved thanks to large-format printing technology, which repeats every curl of the wood texture pattern.

But MDF panels also have a significant disadvantage - they are much more difficult to care for. They are afraid of moisture and mechanical influences, so if we are talking about the walls of a Provence kitchen, then it is better to give preference to a stronger and more durable material, although if we are talking about a living room or bedroom, then better option, on the contrary, cannot be found.

And of course, you can’t ignore natural lining. Let us immediately note that such finishing is not a cheap pleasure, but in fact, it is worth it. It's hard to argue with natural attractiveness wood finishing, but it will last a long time, only with proper care and operation.

The thing is that wood is capable of absorbing moisture and odors, and besides, small wood bugs love to feast on it. To prevent all this from happening, the lining should be treated with special deep impregnations that penetrate the structure of the panel and completely change its technical characteristics.

Important! The quality of the lining is divided into three categories; the extra class is the most expensive, but it has absolutely no flaws. Class C is the cheapest, but to make such panels look attractive, you will have to work hard with sandpaper and a brush. If you have free time and the desire to do this, you can save a lot on finishing your home.

Wallpaper

With wallpaper, things are not much easier than with wall panels, and if we talk about the variety of choice, then in this case it is even greater. Best suited for Provence style. They are made from natural fabric and look more natural, although they are more expensive.

As a rule, there are no elaborate patterns on non-woven wallpaper, and as we said above, patterns on the wall in the Provence style should be laconic. No, there is no need to choose boring monochromatic designs, but a bright, oversaturated print will not fit into the interior either.

Let it be a floral ornament or stylized images of animals or birds, the main thing is more naturalness. It is also advisable not to use photo wallpaper here. They always suggest a high-tech interior, but this is exactly what we don’t need.

As for the kitchen, it’s better to give up the rules of naturalness and hang vinyl-based wallpaper (see). They are more resistant to the aggressive environment of this room, and they can be washed without fear of loss of color and quality.

Painting

Painting is a universal way of decorating walls that does not contradict any famous style interior (see). By using modern paint you can create the most interesting design solutions. What is it worth, for example, paint with a craquelure effect. This is when, after application, a network of small cracks appears on the coating, through which the background substrate is visible.

This effect is often used professional designers, to create artificial antiquity. One gets the feeling that a wall painted with this paint is at least a hundred years old, although it was painted only yesterday.

Another interesting solution- This is a paint with a hammer effect. It gives the surface the appearance of forged metal, which was worked with a forge hammer. This paint can be used to paint metal chandeliers or, for example, figurines, and metal dishes, which are often used in Provence as decorative elements.

By the way, even without additional effects there are plenty of colors today, and almost all of them are very High Quality. Unlike those paints that were in use 20 years ago, modern materials They are distinguished by their durability and resistance.

Accessories

Without additional accessories, Provence is unthinkable; pleasant trinkets visually fill the space and give the atmosphere warmth and comfort. You cannot feel comfortable in a room where not a single object evokes pleasant associations. But you shouldn’t run to souvenir shops and buy third-rate junk that doesn’t have a hint of elegance.

Such items, on the contrary, will take away all the most valuable things from the interior and make a pitiful plastic parody out of it. It’s also not worth getting carried away with collectibles; you’ll simply turn your apartment into a museum, where it’s scary to walk and touch anything. It would be better if these were pleasant little things brought, for example, from travel, or those that have been kept in your family for generations.

Many people have items that are of no value, but their conscience does not allow them to be thrown away. Here in the Provence style interior is the right place for them.

As for decorating the walls, small panels (see), made by yourself, or ceramic plates look very interesting, but you should be careful with mirrors, their peculiarity is that they visually expand the space, but this will not add comfort.

And in conclusion

Well, we’ve told you how to decorate walls in Provence style. As you can see, this interior is not only beautiful, but also convenient to implement. There are no strict limits, you can use your imagination, and often these are the factors that many people lack modern designs made according to a template.

There are a huge number of trends in interior design that can bring comfort to your home. The Provence style in the interior is rightfully considered the lightest and airiest among them. In this article we will tell you how to create a French oasis in your own nest, how to choose Decoration Materials, what shades and colors will add purity and sophistication to the home, what furniture is used in the design. Elegant simplicity is the true concept of this style.

History of origin

The Provençal style got its name from the picturesque French province of the same name. This enchanting corner is known for its purple carpets of lavender fields with a rich intoxicating aroma, picturesque landscapes, endless skies with blue tints, the crystalline surface of the Cote d'Azur, as well as excellent traditional dishes with the addition of juicy herbs, as well as sweet-tart spices.

It was this tandem of factors that attracted, and still attracts, artists to the French province, thanks to which the Provencal style of design has gained wide popularity in European spaces.
What are the houses of a Provençal village like? This cozy homes, through the windows of which leaks daylight. The aromas of homemade baked goods, the fabulous energy of hospitality and warmth intertwined with the surrounding landscapes...

Many people believe that Provence is a simple, unpretentious style, but “the whole point” is in the details. To recreate the atmosphere of Provence, you need to have impeccable, refined taste.

Provençal colors

Designers Special attention pay attention to creating a color scheme for the interior. After all, this aspect is the most important for creating the atmosphere of Provencal houses. To decorate rooms, you can use light pastel colors to create the effect of “burnt out” surfaces. Do not forget that the southern part of France, where Provence is located, is caressed by the playful rays of the sun almost all year round.


Ecological colors are very popular among the owners of French houses: delicate green, blue, earthen, sand. The interior in the Provence style is also characterized by white color, but you need to be very careful when using it. Otherwise, the bright, hospitable look will evoke thoughts of a hospital ward. It is also appropriate to use mustard and saffron, lavender and cornflower blue shades, which embody the beauty of Provencal meadows.


Important note: a Provence-style interior, by definition, will not tolerate too contrasting combinations. It is characterized by a pastel color scheme with small splashes of bright colors. It is very important to feel this edge so that the scattering of “spots” in the form of decorative elements does not become one catchy “spot”.

Decoration Materials

If desired, plastered walls can be decorated with wallpaper with floral patterns. But most often, lovers of Provence decorate the rooms of their house or apartment using plaster - classic or decorative. It must be deliberately applied with roughness and irregularities. The walls can be white or covered with wood panels. The latter need to be given a somewhat shabby look. But for the kitchen you can use mosaic or ceramic tiles.

Wall colors Ivory ideal for small rooms. Light colors visually expand the space.

The ceiling in Provence style can be white and inlaid with dark ceiling beams. A win-win option is an ensemble with elements of masonry. You can also use stucco to recreate the beauty of French houses, which will add elegance to your home.


For a Provence-style room, there is nothing better than a natural wooden floor made from untreated boards. To decorate floors in the bathroom and kitchen, you can use plain tiles in muted colors.

Let's say a word about Provençal furniture

French Provence is characterized by furniture with open hanging shelves, sideboards and a rough texture. Often, designers design milk-colored furniture with a subtle floral motif for this style.


To create a French oasis at home, use natural wood furniture. Particularly popular are wood species such as light walnut, chestnut or oak. Thanks to the patination technique, you can give your old furniture new life. After all, the Provence interior style just means painted facades with scuffs.

Provencal style and lighting

Chandeliers and lamps for the kitchen or living room should support the same concept of naturalness and natural materials. You can choose lighting sources made of metal, porcelain or wood. Their key task is not to take away attention from pieces of furniture or pastel-colored finishes.


Also pay attention to the colors of the chandelier. They should not be too colorful, two tones are enough - white and some pastel. For example, “burnt out” yellow, purple or soft pink. Such color solutions ideal for a bedroom or living room, but for the kitchen you can take cream or muted turquoise shades. Don't forget that retro lamps should be combined with each other. Forged lamps with floral patterns will also look original in the Provencal style of the interior.

Floral interior design

It is known that Provence combines sophistication coupled with simplicity. The main element is the floral pattern, which can be seen in the upholstery of upholstered furniture, curtains and decorative pillows.


The door and furniture of the hallway are in a similar color scheme in country house

The obligatory accent is flowers - rose and lavender, which embody the beauty of the Provençal village. They can be traced not only in decorative elements, but also in the decoration of premises. For example, wallpaper with delicate flowers or a floral pattern on ceramic tiles.
Since the French province is famous for its natural beauty, this style involves an abundance of living plants in artificially aged pots placed around the house. You can decorate the living room with cute bouquets of wildflowers and dried flowers. Ivy branches hanging from the walls also look very interesting. From indoor plants give preference to bluebells, violets and hydrangeas.

Provencal style and decor

The key task is not to overdo it with decorative elements. The interior of French rural houses is characterized by aged vases, vintage frames and candlesticks, figurines and antique tableware. It is also necessary to say about the great love of Provence admirers for wicker baskets. They can be used to store children's toys, books and clothes. As you can see, even decorative items can become original and functional helpers.


Many supporters of this style attribute to it excessive asceticism. It is really characterized by smooth lines and a certain minimalism. But you can always decorate the walls with neat photos or family photos. Speaking of painting, please note that landscapes and paintings are appropriate in the Provence style. Modern modular paintings and abstractions have no place in a measured and smooth stylistic direction.

Creating a special atmosphere in a private home

Thanks to its elegance and simplicity, Provence in the interior has become popular among owners of country houses. Besides general recommendations they should pay attention very important element decor - fireplace. Without it, it is difficult to imagine a French cozy house, the atmosphere of which Europeans are trying to recreate at home.


The fireplace must be made from organic materials. The most popular combination is a natural stone and a tree. An important detail is forged grilles or screens, which in combination with wooden surfaces will look great.
It is also worth considering a very interesting two-tone color scheme. You can use a delicate blue color as a base, and apply white on top. It is recommended to sand the corners and protruding elements after the fireplace has dried.

Interesting design options for a fireplace for a summer residence

The interior in the Provence style is characterized by scuffs and aging. We offer you several techniques that will help change your fireplace beyond recognition, thereby giving it the appropriate look.
1. Painting with a patina effect. Using special paint, you can create a very interesting pattern on forged fireplace elements and other decorative items.

2. Craquelure will help give the fireplace a cracked look. To do this, you can use appropriate types of varnish or even thin-layer plaster.


But what about residents of multi-storey “blocks”? For them the best option will become made in Provence style. There are very realistic models with charred logs that imitate the crackling sound of firewood. To decorate a wall with a fireplace, you can use live or.

Interior of rooms and kitchen in Provence style

Most often, the bedchamber looks most impressive. On large windows neat translucent curtains, and in the center of the room there is a bed with forged metal. Light walls harmoniously combine with the floral textiles of the bedroom, and neat lamps add tranquility to the boudoir and create an atmosphere of tranquility. What else do you need for a quality holiday?


In the interior of the living room, it is necessary to use upholstered furniture with rounded lines, aged vintage cabinets, and in the center of the room there is a fireplace with metal forging. For decoration, you can also use floor lamps with muted soft light.


Typically, a kitchen decorated in Provence style is filled with light-colored furniture with open shelves. They contain bright hand-painted plates. The dining area is necessarily a large wooden table with antique chairs or stools. Their colors can be contrasting: marsh, terracotta or dark blue.

Distinctive features of the Provence style in interior design:

  • Its key components are simplicity and conciseness. And this is manifested in all aspects - from the color scheme to the selection of furniture and surface design. When creating an atmosphere in the spirit of Provencal houses, try to preserve as much free space as possible. Half-empty rooms, flooded with streams of sunlight - this is classic Provence. Pomposity and excess are alien to him.
  • There are no clear instructions for creating Provençal color palettes. But in its interior it is necessary to use boiling white color, its derivatives with a warm undertone. You can fill a moody living room with earthy tones. For the base color, choose ash or pale pink, delicate blue or lilac. And if you decide to add deep, rich “spots,” use muted blues, dark browns, and purples.
  • Furniture inside Provencal houses can be light or dark. Don't be afraid to combine wood with metal. Wooden facades look appropriate kitchen cabinets, decorated with forged handles or grilles. Such decor options do not lose their relevance either in 2000 or in 2018.

Key differences between Provence and country

Many people who love the farmhouse style confuse the two styles. But the difference is significant:

  • The first style is characterized by abundance floral motifs, which most often focus on the textile components of the interior. In addition to berry and plant patterns, the country style is characterized by strict geometric patterns: checkered, striped or polka dots. But in the Provencal style the cage is not used.
  • The country color scheme is dominated by warm tones, but the shades of French meadows – cornflower blue and lavender – are never used. And white has no place in village house, decorated in country style. The Provencal interior is filled with cool tones dictated by Mother Nature herself.
  • prevails natural wood. Most often these are stained and unpainted wooden surfaces. Decorative beams, like furniture, have the appearance of “tortured” wood. But the Provence style is also wood, but most often painted in several layers (pastel, white colors, ivory is also very popular).

As you can see, the Provence style in the interior requires careful attention to detail. By combining ecological materials with airy pastel shades, you can create a truly charming, welcoming atmosphere in your home with your own hands. Provence combines nobility and tranquility. Decorating a house or apartment in this style is an ideal option for people who are tired of living in concrete “shackles.” Therefore, if you strive to merge with nature and silence, then create a French oasis right in the middle of the metropolis - in your own home. Moreover, this year the popularity of Provence will not fade.

And talk about the romantic and feminine Provence style.

Provence is a magical land in the south of France, where life seems to stand still, and a cheerful, peaceful atmosphere reigns. Lavender fields, olive groves, blue skies and bright sun - the nature of Provence is reflected in the decor of French country houses and cottages, and the interior style of the same name has gained popularity around the world and is successfully used in the decoration of both spacious villas and small city apartments.

“Provence” means province in French, which is why this style is often called French country. Rustic chic will fit perfectly into the decor, creating a cozy romantic interior.

Basic elements of Provence style:

  1. Natural materials: untreated or aged wood, stone, natural fabrics, ceramics
  2. Light pastel colors
  3. Floral patterns and prints
  4. Plants and bouquets of fresh flowers
  5. A variety of textiles: pillows, tablecloths, ruffles, frills, lace
  6. Natural light, thin sheer curtains
  7. Abundance of decor

Provence style: wall decoration

To decorate walls in Provencal style, plaster is usually used. At the same time, a certain carelessness in the decoration is deliberately emphasized, giving the interior a provincial atmosphere. The walls are always painted in light colors - warm yellow, blue, pink shades.

Since houses in Provence are made of stone, this material is also often used for wall decoration. Rough stone or untreated goes well with pastel colors and floral designs.

If the walls are papered, preference is given to a floral pattern, as well as a vertical strip or cage in pastel colors.

Provence in the interior: floor

For the floor, wood with a pronounced texture is mainly used. In addition to wood, you can use stone and tiles in natural shades: brown, terracotta.

Almost all furniture in Provence style is made of wood. The furniture is either painted or retained its natural texture and shade.

The most popular colors for dyeing: white, milky, pastel shades of blue, pink, green.

Vintage furniture with history is especially valued. Grandma's chest of drawers or rocking chair will fit perfectly into the interior, creating the right mood. Scuffs, chips, cracks - all traces of antiquity are not painted over, but deliberately emphasized.

However, if you don’t have such family heirlooms, it doesn’t matter - now many brands produce similar furniture. You can even give your wood furniture a distinctive distressed look yourself. Fortunately, you can find a lot of instructions online on how to paint and age furniture with your own hands.

Textile

Textiles are a very important part of the interior in the Provence style. Natural fabrics look especially harmonious: linen, cotton, chintz.

In the style of the French countryside - light and airy. Natural light is essential to create a sunny mood.

Flowers

Floral motifs predominate in the Provence style: roses, small wildflowers, poppies, lavender - flowers on pillows and tablecloths, flowers on furniture, textiles, ceramics, tiles...

The interior contains many living plants and or dried flowers and herbs.

Provence style implies an abundance of decor: in addition to textiles, the interior contains many ceramic vases and figurines, wicker baskets and colorful boxes, in the kitchen there are many jars with spices and herbs, in the living room and bedroom there are pillows, bolsters, bedspreads and capes. Little things that are pleasant to the heart, brought from travels and selected with great love, enliven the interior, filling it with history and positive energy.

Forged elements add a special charm to the interior in the Provence style: headboard, lamps, shelves, chair legs.

Chandeliers occupy a very important place in Provencal interiors. Luxurious crystal lamps combined with vintage wooden furniture and rough finish walls and floors transform rustic country into French chic.

The Provence style is incredibly popular in Russian homes; its closeness to nature and simple elegance allows you to take a break from the rhythm of the big city and enjoy the charm of country life.

Which style is closer to you: minimalism, brutal, luxurious or still romantic Provence?

Among the design features of the Provence style, the following should be highlighted:
- pastel shades;
- lightness and weightlessness of curtains;
- elegance of furniture;
- the presence of light finishing in the decor;
- decoration with live plants;
- fabulousness and originality of patterns;
- a variety of ruffles and embroidery;
- originality of forms of trinkets, textiles, dishes.

Features of finishing floors and walls

Specialists who create the Provence style in the interior prefer to use white as an accent color. If you decorate, for example, a kitchen in a similar style, then the walls will need to be decorated natural materials in the form of brick or stone. Upon completion of the finishing, it is necessary to cover it with light paint.

In the living room, the floor should be finished with boards. You can paint it with light brown or dark brown paint. If you plan to replace the floor in the hallway or kitchen, then it is important to finish it with tiles of similar shades. If the tiles or boards are expensive for you, replace flooring laminate imitating a board.

As for the ceiling, it should only be light. Of course, decorations similar to those made with my own hands wooden beams dark color. So unconventional color palette used to create the desired contrast.

It is advisable to paint interior doors with white paint. Don't forget to patina the outer surface. This way you will perfectly convey the country style features to the room.

Advice: add drama to the room by creating a smoky effect. This technique would look best in the kitchen. But it is also suitable for the bedroom. Try experimenting!

Windows require special design. Perfect option decoration - finishing the window opening in white from floor to ceiling. The double-glazed window frame will look good. When ordering windows made of metal-plastic, choose a wood-like color. Draperies with light-colored textiles are welcome (possibly with a small floral pattern).

You can't do without tulle and curtains on the windows. Give preference to weightless fabrics. Be sure to have fresh flowers on the windowsills.

Advice: When choosing furniture, give preference to wood. Since antiquity is important in the interior, choose hand-forged or wicker furniture. Of course, this method will be much more expensive, but the result is excellent.

Since the openwork of decorative elements of furniture fills the room with romanticism, peeling paint, scuffs, and antiquity are definitely welcome in the interior.

When choosing accessories, give preference to mini pillows for furniture, decorated with pillowcases with an openwork pattern. Place forged decorative items on the bedside tables. These elements will emphasize their shortness. It is recommended to decorate window openings with accessories woven from wicker and balls not intended for decoration.

It is not recommended to use sliding wardrobes. It’s better to choose comfortable, roomy bedside tables, chests of drawers, and cabinets. A massive round table is a must. It is allowed to decorate the front sides of doors and furniture with floral patterns. The same painting can be used in upholstery of upholstered furniture. Furniture in scarlet colors will look original. This color palette is the highlight of the Provence style.