Tucked away on a side street in Paris, sunlight filters through the windows of a cozy little bistro. The dull murmur of conversation and clinking of glasses mixes with the rich aroma of coffee. At the center of it all sits a weathered wood table dressed in a simple white linen cloth, with chairs gathered intimately around. It’s a scene that evokes the effortless charm and romance of France. You can bring that same magical ambiance into your own kitchen with French country style dining furniture.
French country decor transforms ordinary rooms into cozy, vintage-inspired spaces. Whitewashed finishes, elegant curves, and ornate accents come together to create a look that celebrates imperfections. Furnishing your kitchen in this style not only infuses it with beauty and character, but also provides the perfect gathering place for family and friends.
What is French Country Style?
French country style, also known as French provincial, has its roots in the countryside farms and villages of France. It embraces a simple, rustic aesthetic with distressed woods, light colors, and floral patterns. Key features include:
- Whitewashed and distressed wood finishes: Tables and chairs often feature chipped paint or worn edges that add to the antique look.
- Elegant curves and ornate accents: Cabriole style chair and table legs taper elegantly outward. Intricate carvings adorn aprons and chair backs.
- Floral patterns and pastel colors: Upholstered chair seats come in soft hues like robin’s egg blue, butter yellow, or lavender. Floral chintz fabrics complement the look.
- Rustic, vintage inspirations: The overall style celebrates imperfections, asymmetry, and a timeworn, welcoming feel.
Blending these elements creates a kitchen that feels like an aged treasure, full of warmth and storytelling.
Benefits of a French Country Kitchen
Furnishing your kitchen in French country style offers many perks. The foremost benefit is the ambiance it cultivates. Whitewashed cabinetry, an elegant chandelier, and a rustic dining set come together to create a cozy, inviting mood. Guests will feel comforted and pampered in this charming space you’ve designed.
Beyond the atmosphere, there are practical advantages as well. French country style makes the most out of small kitchens through smart layouts and multipurpose furniture. The vintage styling also celebrates imperfections like old floor grooves or a crooked window, giving your unique kitchen character. Overall, this style adds beauty, functionality and charm to any home.
Choosing a French Country Dining Table
As the heart of your kitchen, the dining table deserves special consideration. When selecting a table in French country style, pay attention to size, shape and material. Measure your kitchen space and allow 36-42 inches of clearance around chairs when pushed away from the table. Size your table proportionally to the room.
Oval or rectangular tables can accommodate more guests in long, narrow kitchens. Round tables are better suited for small kitchens but limit seating capacity due to their curved edges. Square tables offer a classic look and efficiently use space in square kitchens.
When it comes to materials, solid wood species like oak or pine offer beautiful grains and natural distressing. For even more character, reclaimed wood incorporates salvaged barn beams or flooring. Both materials are durable and sustainable options.
Style details like cabriole legs, carved aprons, turned spindle supports, or distressed finishes give your dining table that quintessential French country look. Opt for a light whitewashed table to keep the room feeling bright and airy.
Seating Options
In addition to traditional chairs, benches and bar stools can also provide French country kitchen seating options.
Benches offer space-saving seating for multiple guests in place of chairs. They promote both conversation and intimacy. French country kitchen benches often feature charming details like turned legs, carved scrollwork, or distressed paint.
Bar stools provide comfortable seating for higher table heights while adding a touch of modern flair. They can be incorporated into kitchen islands or counter height dining tables.
Table Shape
Beyond rectangular and round, French country kitchen tables can also be:
- Oval: Perfect for fitting into narrow areas while still seating more guests.
- Square: Provides an intimate feel and makes great use of space in square kitchens.
Selecting Complementary Dining Chairs
Once your table is selected, choosing complementary dining chairs completes the look. Opt for chairs with a height that aligns with your table for optimal comfort. Incorporate curved backs, scrolled arms, and cabriole or spindle legs for fluidity. Upholstered seat pads provide comfort, or unfinished wood seats keep it simple.
Look for upholstery prints and colors that coordinate with your overall kitchen palette. Soft muted blues, yellows and lavenders are classic. For chairs with wood seats, pick complementary stains that match any wood accents. All the dining furniture should work in harmony to cultivate that cozy bistro mood.
Seating Options
Beyond traditional chairs, French country kitchen seating can also include:
- Benches: For space-saving seating of multiple guests.
- Barstools: For comfortable seating at counter height tables or kitchen islands.
Upholstery Colors
Classic French country upholstery colors include:
- Soft blues, yellows and lavenders
- Earthy reds and greens
- Neutral tones like cream or light gray
Styling Your French Country Dining Area
With your elegant table and chairs in place, add the final styling touches to complete your Parisian bistro kitchen. Use an area rug underneath to visually define the space and add softness underfoot. Overhead pendant lighting provides ambiance. Display decorative plates or bowls on open shelves for French country character.
Fresh flowers and candles always add a welcoming touch. For whimsical patterned curtains that filter light beautifully, choose classic toile or floral fabrics. With details like these, your cozy French country dining nook will be a favorite gathering place for family and friends.
Key Accessories
- Area rugs
- Pendant lighting
- Decorative plates and bowls
- Fresh flowers and candles
- Patterned curtains
Where to Shop for Quality Furniture
Now that you’re inspired to bring French country charm into your kitchen, where can you shop to find that impeccable dining set? Here are some top options:
- National retailers like Anthropologie and Pottery Barn
- Local antique stores and flea markets
- French-inspired brands like Vintage Luxe and Farmhouse French
- Etsy for handmade and custom furniture
- Specialty stores like La Maison Midi or Cherished Linens
For high quality pieces customized to your taste, check out retailers like Belle Escape . With some searching, you can curate the ideal vintage bistro look.
There is something undeniably enchanting about the French country style. Weathered woods, elegant contours and vintage details come together to create a welcoming place to enjoy family, food and laughter. By furnishing your kitchen with pieces like a whitewashed dining table surrounded by scrolled chairs, you can bring the magic of an old Parisian bistro right into your own home.
Gathering around the table for a home cooked meal, you’ll find that the food tastes better in such an inspiring space. Your kitchen will become the heart of your home, a place imbued with beauty, nostalgia, and grace. So embrace imperfection, cultivate charm, and savor the romance of French country style in this special corner of your home.
