France has long been known for its rich history and culture, which has made it a prime destination for interior design inspiration. From the grandeur of Paris to the quaintness of Provence, France is packed with inspiring destinations that will help you create an unforgettable home. Here are Manoir's suggestions of five places in France where you can seek out some serious interior design inspiration:
1. Châteaux de la Loire: The Loire Valley is home to numerous stunning castles, each with their own unique style and architecture. Many of these chateaux have been restored to their former glory and feature lavish interiors full of ornate furniture, luxurious fabrics, detailed woodwork, and exquisite art pieces. Taking a tour through one or more of these magnificent residences can provide plenty of ideas on how to incorporate classic French elegance into your own home décor. Above are photos from Chateau Chambord, the largest château in the Loire Valley, built to serve as a hunting lodge for Francis I.
2. Musée des Arts Décoratifs: Located in Paris’ 1st arrondissement (district), this museum houses more than 200 years worth of interior design trends from around the world. With collections ranging from furniture and textiles to ceramics and glassware, there’s no shortage here when it comes to discovering new ideas for decorating your space in French style.
3 .The Louvre Museum: This iconic museum needs no introduction; however what many people don’t realize is that it also contains a gallery devoted to the 18th-century decorative arts. Showcasing 14 'period rooms' faithfully recreated from the originals, the 23,000-square-foot space reopened in 2014 after a nine-year, $35 million renovation. Its 33 galleries provide great sources for finding unique ways to bring French flair into your interior!
4 .French Markets & Flea Markets: Shopping at markets throughout France is not only fun but also highly inspirational when it comes to seeking out vintage pieces with character. Look for antique furniture or reclaimed materials like old doors or windows that could be used as wall hangings or even converted into shelving units! These types of items add instant charm while still staying true to traditional French aesthetic principles like symmetry, balance and simplicity. France's must-see market is Paris's Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, a sprawling network of warehouses, stands and alleyways on the northern edge of Paris. The famous market it the largest antiques and second-hand market in the world and the fourth most visited attraction in France.
5 .The South Of France: It's impossible not draw inspiration from the beauty found along the South of France, whether from those locales in sight of coastlines like Nice, Cannes and Saint Tropez or further inland in the likes of Arles, Avignon or Gordes, Here you'll find Mediterranean-style villas as well as French Farmhouses known as Mas. Interiors in this region boast earthy palettes, rustic natural textures and furniture with classic French silhouettes combined with brightly-colored accents and patterns All perfect elements to incorporate if you're looking for light, airy yet chic atmosphere within your own abode!
(Photo credits: Provence Style: Decorating With French Country Flair (Shauna Varvel, Vendome, 2021) left, Villa Les Murets, Gordes, France, right).
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