Many people, even those not connected with design, have at least once heard about the Provence style in the interior. But not everyone is able to distinguish it from the classics, choose suitable furniture, and especially decorate the room correctly. Meanwhile, it is filled with incredible romance and the charm of French villages, which can bring life to even the gloomiest apartments. And our tips will help you with this!
Style Features
The style came to us from France, that part of it that is known to people who have at least once traveled beyond the borders of the capital. One has only to look at the endless lavender fields, the refreshing Cote d'Azur, the endless blue sky - and it immediately becomes clear what inspired these light pastel colors, unobtrusive patterns, flowing lines, as well as the love for everything natural in Provencal interiors.
Confusion with the classical style among uninformed people is not accidental - Provence actually has similar features. Don't think that rural origin makes a destination provincial. The simplicity of Provence gives it a feeling of coziness, and its complexity lies in luxury and sophistication.
Style loves space and freedom, so for small spaces it is better to choose a different solution or fit in only a few elements, simplifying the design. It is desirable that all rooms of an apartment or house be decorated in a single theme, creating a holistic composition.
So, when planning your design, you should rely on a light, pastel palette that includes white. This can be a bouquet of pink, light green, lavender, blue shades, 'seasoned' with various patterns or the texture of natural materials. The latter are an indispensable companion of Provence, which, having originated among the enchanting French nature, does not tolerate artificial options.
The furniture content has classic sophistication and beauty, often painted white. According to style rules, the space should be filled primarily with antique items purchased at auctions, but few can afford such luxury. To avoid unnecessary expenses, the necessary furniture in the Provence style can be purchased at a flea market or ordered from a master, using the effect of artificial aging.
To create a cozy atmosphere, the interior should have as many details as possible - which is why a large area is an important requirement. Drawings, figures, forged elements, soft fabrics and, of course, plants are the perfect combination for Provence. The completion of this composition will be a large abundance of natural light.
Furniture in Provence style
Provencal furniture bears the imprint of history, glorifying the beauty of classical antiquity. This is predominantly wooden, less often - wicker furniture, which is often decorated with forging elements. Objects are painted in white or pastel shades, through the paint of which a colorful, worn texture appears. Drawings or upholstery with plant patterns serve as decoration.
The furniture set is not limited to standard items necessary for life. You can't do without low chests of drawers, sideboards or elegant sideboards here. In general, earthy objects on legs that seem to bend from gravity are characteristic of a Provence-style interior, and are also used not only in the living room, but also in other rooms. Small sofas and stools throughout the house seem to remind us of the importance of relaxation and measured contemplation of the surrounding beauty.
Forged openwork details traditionally decorate a bed, but can also be used for stairs or smaller things - for example, lamps. Only they should not create a feeling of pomp, but, on the contrary, French playfulness.
Textiles and decor
The most interesting part of the design, which will 'breathe' life into the Provencal interior, is the decorative details. And although they are limited by standard style rules, the variability of application fascinates even experienced designers.
Firstly, the curtains are light, airy, and do not block the penetration of natural light. Depending on the room and the size of the windows, you can purchase classic, Austrian or cafe curtains. In this matter, the material plays an important role - cotton, linen, definitely something natural.
The fabric can be plain, floral or checkered, but this choice should harmonize the interior. Approximately the same criteria apply to bed linen.
Art lovers can fill the room with their collections of impressionistic or realistic paintings - they will look right here. Elegant gilded frames will stand out brightly in pastel Provence.
Classic fragile chandeliers and candelabra will help create a romantic atmosphere. And don't forget about mirrors decorated with wooden frames.
Numerous shelves, tables and little tables can be decorated with cute trinkets: painted vases, boxes, fruit bowls, photographs, all kinds of figurines or napkins. The main thing is to be able to stop in time without overloading the composition.