A mirror placed above the fireplace adds to the French country casual ambiance.
The French country decorating style is inspired by the charming countryside of the Provence region of southeastern France. Warm hues, rustic furniture and wrought iron are an integral part of French country decor. Conversely, cottage doesn't exemplify a decorating style but refers to a home that is casual and meant to be lived in. A French country style that has a cottage ambiance incorporates the French country decor with a casual flair. Does this Spark an idea?
Wall Hangings
A piece of French country artwork is ideal for hanging above a fireplace. Scenic pictures depicting the French or Italian countryside and farm scenes with roosters, chickens or pigs are excellent subject matter for French country style. Old-world wall tapestries in earthy ochres, rich greens and burgundys, deep golds and warm terra cottas impart a rustic charm. A wrought-iron metal wall sculpture hung above the fireplace on a light-colored wall adds drama and texture to the room.
Mirrors
A large mirror hung above the fireplace casts a reflective glow of the lights, images and activity in the room, creating a casual-cottage feel. Mirrors with a weathered and distressed black or white frame enhance the French country decor. Hang an arrangement of smaller mirrors in assorted shapes with antiqued frames to provide visual interest and a sparkling focal point.
Mantel
Decorate the mantel with handmade pottery in assorted sizes, intermingled with wrought-iron candlesticks. Situating a vase of fresh lavender or sunflowers on the mantel enhances the French country, casual ambiance. Terracotta pots filled with herbs and flowers displayed atop your mantel add warmth and texture. Ceramic or wooden rooster, chicken and pig figurines add a French country farmhouse feel to the space.
Christmas
Fresh evergreen wreaths, boughs and holly berries impart a French country holiday ambiance. Hang a wreath of greenery, pine cones, holly berries and white flowers above the fireplace to enhance the feel of a French countryside Christmas. Place assorted white candles atop wrought-iron candlesticks on the mantel and intertwine them with swags of fresh, aromatic cedar. Scatter sparkly, antique Christmas ornaments throughout the cedar to complete the natural look.
Tags: French country, above fireplace, country decor, French country decor, casual ambiance, country casual, country casual ambiance