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24 French Country Kitchen Decor Ideas for a Timeless Space

Writer's picture: Anzah NadeemAnzah Nadeem

Updated: Feb 1


The word “timeless” does get thrown around a lot. Sometimes correctly; sometimes incorrectly. But there’s deffo no denying that it 100% applies to French country kitchens. This aesthetic—characterized by natural elements with luxe Versailles-style details—has been around for quite some time. And, it is now being loved in the kitchen space, too.


In this blog post, we’ve put together French country kitchen ideas that are comfortable and lived-in—yet they let you prepare gourmet meals at a moment’s notice. So, they’re timeless in design, but they’re also incredibly functional!


Keep reading to learn how to decorate kitchen in French country style 🤎


Contrasting Wood Hues



Wood is a staple for French country kitchen decor. But we like to factor in visual interest with contrasting wooden elements. Think: dark wood highlighting half of the cabinetry while a beige hue is used for the remaining part. Such contrasts elevate the entire kitchen and mirror the various tones of your counters.


Add a Kitchen Sink Window


Give your kitchen a nice and airy feel—and welcome the relaxing sounds of nature—by adding a window near the sink. This simple way brings in natural light. All while staying true to the classic feeling of French country kitchen decor.


Highlight Stone Floors


Natural stone flooring is reminiscent of the Medieval origins of French country kitchen design! Use an offset square pattern to give your kitchen a vintage feel—while still being durable enough for everyday wear and tear.


Mix Wood and Tile



If you’re looking for a modern twist in your otherwise rustic French country kitchen interior—this one’s for you. Consider white subway tiles and wood accents. The former for the walls and the latter for your shelving will bring character to any sterile space.


Keep the Brick Wall


If your kitchen has an interior brick wall, don’t try to hide it! A French country kitchen will give you the chance to flaunt this beauty. It will bring a vintage and unique look that adds to this design style like none other.


Use a Statement Oven Hood


Consider a monumental oven hood with classical curves for your kitchen. This can lend the space a French country-inspired vibe—even if the rest of the kitchen uses pale neutral tones that lean towards the modern design style.


Luxe Upholstery



Comfort should be your best friend in French country kitchen decor. Think: wingback counter stools in a timeless blue stripe pattern. Remember—the kitchen is where people will congregate. So it should be as comfortable (and stylish) as it gets!


Consider Wood Countertops


If you’re not quite sure how you can add natural materials to your kitchen, one fantastic way you can resort to is with the countertops. This is an easy and visually appealing option. Also—don’t worry. Wood is pretty durable for the countertops 😉


Copper Cookware


Even an all-white kitchen can have the French country vibe—if you add on copper cookware. Use a black metal rack, mounted onto a painted brick wall, and use it to display copper pots that are as pretty as are useful.


A Butcher Block



Butcher blocks are stunning for a French country-style kitchen. You can place this in the center of the room in lieu of a kitchen island. A butcher block will add rustic charm and help establish a modern farmhouse kitchen vibe. You can also butcher blocks for your countertops!


Exaggerate the Kitchen Hood


A traditional French country kitchen would cook for dozens of guests at a time. Such expansive spaces can still be appealing to smaller kitchens. Honor that history with a large range hood over the stove. You can plaster it to match the walls.


Traditional Dining Area


A traditional dining area is reminiscent of French country-style homes. Add dark-painted windows, a coffered ceiling and a charming dining table. This complements the space’s country-like appeal.


Vintage Artwork



Artwork brings any space to life—and if it’s vintage, it’ll look fantastic in a French country-style kitchen. Think: mosaics, pastoral paintings, classical historical portraits, etc. You can also create a gallery wall of different prints if you’re an art lover.


Decorate with Vintage Tools


You can also decorate your kitchen with utilitarian accessories—like antique wood cutting boards. Metal cooking utensils and molds are an easy way to add a sense of history. They also help create a layered feel in a modern kitchen.


Install a Pendant Light Over the Sink


Having a window near the sink is great for the French country style. But if you don’t have one, an easy fix is hanging a retro pendant over the sink. This helps achieve a French country feel while bringing an abundance of light.


Accentuate the Antiques



French country kitchens are meant to look like they are decades—if not centuries—old. Bring some aged allure into your space, even if it’s a rather new build, by adding antique pieces wherever you can. Case in point: An antique chair that creates the focal point.


Candelabra-Style Chandeliers


Baroque carved embellishments can really bring a French country-style kitchen to life. For example, candelabra chandeliers for a memorable and elegant aesthetic! You can hang these over your kitchen island or dining area—wherever you wish to draw the most attention.


Make Room for Green


There’s always room for shades of green in a French country-style kitchen. You want to choose shades that go with wood tones (we especially love a dull apple green). And balance out the palette with creamy whites throughout the room.


And Add Greenery!



Where there’s green—there should be greenery. Choose fresh plants, whether it’s tree branches or a windowsill of herbs, to instantly elevate the sophistication of the kitchen. They don’t have to be homegrown blooms; anything bought from the store works just as well.


Try a Cabinet Skirt


This one’s for folks hoping to go the extra mile. Add an extra layer of character—and some playfulness—and forego your cabinet doors in favor of skirts made from fabric. You can go for a botanical pattern and pair it with butter-yellow cabinetry for an utterly gorgeous design.


Rustic Bar Stools


The island is often the center point of the kitchen. So adding the French country style here can make a world of difference. To achieve the purpose, try adding round wood counter stools. They add just the right contrast to an otherwise light-hued French country kitchen.


Display Essentials



There’s no denying that the French love to entertain. Embrace this and keep glassware and other kitchen essentials within easy reach. Bonus points if you choose curved shelving that adds architectural interest to the space. For closed storage, wicker baskets work amazing!


Gilded Hardware


You can go for any type of hardware material—but choose gilded hardware. Consider thicker drawer pulls for character. And smaller cabinet knobs to help balance out the space.

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