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mastering modern French provincial design

Mastering Modern Provincial Design: Elegant Updates to French Provincial Style

Provincial design has long held a beloved place in the hearts of decorators and homeowners alike, celebrated for its rustic elegance and timeless charm. In this exploration of modern provincial design, we invite you to discover how this enduring style can be both preserved and refreshed to suit contemporary tastes. Here, we unpack the rich history behind the French provincial aesthetic and provide practical advice for weaving these classic elements into a modern home setting.

 

The History of Provincial Style

Emerging in the late 17th century, the Provincial design style began as France’s rural artisans’ response to the lavish trends dominating Paris. This ‘French Country’ style, as it’s often known, gained immense popularity post World War I, marrying sophisticated urban tastes with the rustic, approachable beauty of the countryside. Today, it remains a symbol of understated luxury, where elegant forms meet handcrafted warmth.

 

 

The Key Elements of Modern French Provincial Style

Key Elements of French Provincial Design:

  • Natural Wooden Materials

At the core of French Provincial design lies the use of natural wood, which brings warmth and an artisanal touch to interiors. This material is not just a backdrop but a feature, prominently displayed in furniture and architectural elements throughout the home.

  • Rustic Timber Furnishings

Key furniture pieces often showcase rustic wood with visible, intricate craftsmanship. Retailers like Provincial Home Living and James Lane excel in offering pieces with traditional features such as cabriole legs, which are known for their elegant, curved lines that enhance the gracefulness of each piece.

  • Ornate Detailing

The beauty of French Provincial furniture is often accentuated by ornate detailing, particularly visible in the carvings and joinery. These details are subtle yet sophisticated, capturing the luxurious spirit of French decor.

  • Chevron or Herringbone Flooring

Timber floors laid in chevron or herringbone patterns are pivotal in French Provincial interiors. This distinctive flooring style adds a historical depth and visual interest, anchoring the furniture and decor to create a cohesive look.

  • Wrought Iron Accents

Incorporating black wrought iron in balustrades or as decorative accents in furniture adds a touch of rustic charm that is quintessentially French. This material contrasts beautifully with the softer wood and fabric elements, providing a sophisticated edge to the overall design.

  • Pendant Lighting

Strategic placement of elegant pendant lighting, especially in black or gold tones, can highlight key areas like over kitchen islands or dining tables. These fixtures not only serve a functional purpose but also complement the French Provincial aesthetic, adding a modern twist to a classic style.

 

The Colour palette

The modern provincial palette draws inspiration from the natural landscape of the French countryside. Soft, earthy tones like beige, taupe, and flax create a calming backdrop, allowing the textures and craftsmanship of the furniture to stand out. Soft pops of colour, such as powder blue, sage green, and terracotta, are woven in through accessories and soft furnishings, adding depth without overwhelming the senses. Dark accents in matte charcoal and bold black add a contemporary edge, while metallic touches in bronze or gold nod to the style’s rustic roots.

 

How to Achieve a Modern Take on French Provincial Style

Modernising French provincial style involves integrating traditional elements with contemporary designs to create a fresh, stylised look. Maintain a palette of warm neutrals while introducing modern furniture pieces that contrast yet complement the rustic bases. For example, pairing a classic farmhouse table from Provincial Home Living with sleek, contemporary chairs from Nick Scali or Domayne can breathe new life into dining spaces. Similarly, a rustic timber console table accented with a modern round mirror and a statement lamp can transform an entryway into a striking vignette. The secret to a successful modern provincial interior lies in balancing ornate, rustic details with clean, contemporary lines.

 

Tips for Modernising French Provincial Style

  • Balance Traditional and Contemporary Elements

Maintain the warmth and charm of French Provincial style while introducing modern furniture pieces that contrast yet complement rustic foundations.

  • Refine Your Colour Palette

Stick to warm neutrals like soft whites, creams, and muted greys as a base, then layer in contemporary accents through furnishings and accessories.

  • Mix Old and New in the Dining Space

Pair a classic farmhouse dining table with sleek, contemporary chairs to create an interesting juxtaposition of styles. A rustic wooden table from Provincial Home Living combined with modern seating from Nick Scali or Domayne brings a fresh take on tradition.

  • Create a Striking Entryway

Modernise a rustic timber console by styling it with a sleek round mirror and a bold statement lamp. This blend of ornate Provincial details with clean, minimalist accents adds character while keeping the space refined.

  • Keep the Details Elegant Yet Simple

French Provincial interiors often feature intricate detailing, but a modern approach involves toning down excessive ornamentation in favour of subtle, well-placed decorative elements.

  • Incorporate Contemporary Lighting

Swap traditional chandeliers for sleek pendant lights or modern statement fixtures. A mix of antique-style and modern lighting can maintain the charm of the Provincial aesthetic while adding a fresh, updated touch.

  • Play with Texture and Contrast

Soften the rustic feel of traditional Provincial design with modern materials like glass, metal, or polished concrete, creating an appealing contrast that feels current yet timeless.

  • Use Statement Pieces Wisely

Rather than overwhelming the space with decorative elements, let a few standout pieces—like a grand mirror, an oversized artwork, or a sculptural coffee table—be the focal points.

  • Simplify the Styling

While French Provincial design embraces elegance, modernising the look involves a more curated approach. Keep decor intentional, using quality over quantity to maintain a sense of sophistication.

 

Master Modern Provincial Style at Homemaker The Valley

Elevating your home with modern provincial style is all about blending the timeless charm of French provincial decor with contemporary aesthetics to achieve a look that feels both classic and current. Visit Homemaker The Valley to discover our curated selection of furnishings that can help you achieve this sophisticated balance in your own space. And if you’re looking for personalised guidance, book a complimentary styling session with our resident stylist, Eliza, click to shop with an interior stylist and find a time that suits you.

Black Friday sales

Shop the sales: Black Friday deals you need to know

Black Friday Sales for 2024 have ended. Stay tuned for more about our 2025 Black Friday Sales!

 

Get ready to shop ’til you drop! Black Friday, the most anticipated shopping event of the year, is landing on Friday 29 November. Enjoy unbeatable deals on almost everything from luxury appliances to all those essential items. With the holiday season just around the corner, this is the perfect opportunity to tick off your gift list and treat yourself. 

 

To help you make the most of Black Friday, we’ve compiled some of the best deals in centre. Scroll down for a sneak peek at the incredible offers and discounts that will be up for grabs. Don’t miss out on the shopping spree of the year – mark your calendars and get ready to save big! 

 

Snooze  

From Monday 25 November to Sunday 1 December, Snooze is offering an unbeatable sale on mattresses and bedframes. Enjoy 50% off selected mattresses, plus take an extra 10% off already reduced prices. The same incredible deals apply to selected bedframes – 50% off, plus an additional 10% off already discounted prices. 

 

OZ Design  

OZ Design is hosting a massive Cyber Sale from Wednesday 6 November to Monday 25 November, offering 25% to 50% off everything. And the savings might not stop there – visit them in-store from Tuesday 26 November to Monday 2 December to see if the sale will continue. 

 

Howards Storage World  

Howards Storage World is joining the Black Friday sales, but we’re sworn to secrecy… for now! To uncover their incredible deals, you’ll need to visit their store in person. Trust us, it’ll be worth the trip.  

 

DecoRug  

Ready to refresh your floors? This Black Friday, head to DecoRug for 20% to 60% off on all rugs! From hall runners and round rugs to quirky shapes and classic rectangular styles, every rug is discounted! 

 

Beds N Dreams  

This November, enjoy up to 50% off RRP at Beds N Dreams. Score up to 30% off bed frames and furniture to elevate your bedroom style, plus up to 50% off on a range of top-quality mattresses for ultimate comfort. 

 

Early Settler  

Time for a home refresh? Head to Early Settler this Black Friday for 20% to 50% off everything in-store! From sofas and stylish homewares to beautiful rugs and more, you’ll find all you need to elevate your space. 

 

Eureka Furniture  

Eureka Furniture is bringing the savings this Black Friday with 50% to 80% off every piece, online and in-store! Whether you’re looking to refresh your living room or add a touch of style to the bedroom, now’s the time to make it happen. 

 

Nick Scali  

From Monday 4 November to Sunday 1 December, head into Nick Scali to take advantage of their exciting sale. Enjoy discounts of up to 30%, 40%, and even 50% off a wide selection of pieces and floor stock as they make room for new arrivals. 

 

Adairs  

Get ready to save big during Adairs’ Black Friday sale! Enjoy 25% off all full-priced items, plus Linen Lovers can score an extra 10% off. Adairs will also be offering 40% off on Christmas and beach essentials! This offer is available both in-store and online from Tuesday 19 November to Monday 2 December. 

 

Provincial Home Living  

From Friday 29 November to Monday 2 December, enjoy a 20% off storewide at Provincial Home Living. Discover their beautiful furniture, décor, and accessories to elevate every room in your home. 

 

There you have it – a sneak peek of some of the best Black Friday deals to anticipate! Keep in mind that these are just a fraction of the exciting offers to come. Be sure to head in centre on Friday 29 November. Happy shopping!  

 

Looking for more home inspiration? Join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.   

 

*Discounts and dates may vary. Offers are valid for a limited time only. Visit individual retailers in-store for full terms and conditions. 

winter table decor

Three winter colour palettes you’ll love

Selecting the right living room colour scheme for your home is going to set the tone for the ambience of your space, making this one of the most crucial design decisions. From wall paint to furniture fabrics, the colours you choose impact how you feel in your space. 

 

How to choose a living room colour scheme

Warm hues create a sense of confidence, making them perfect for entertaining areas like dining rooms, while cooler tones promote relaxation, ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. This phenomenon is known as colour psychology, and we’ve got all the details you need to know right here.

In this guide, we showcase three winter living room colour schemes, each evoking a range of emotions, from snug and welcoming to refreshing and invigorating. Keep reading to find your perfect match!

 

Bright and vibrant colour palette

When the winter blues start to set in, it’s only natural to crave the warmth of summer. So why not add vibrant colours that radiate energy and vitality into your home? With bright hues reminiscent of summer, you can create a space that feels lively without sacrificing comfort. Opt for thick textures like wool and faux fur to add layers of cosiness and pile up the cushions and throws. 

Adairs Citron Ripple Vase $49.99, Adairs Enzo Stripe Coffee Table $749.99, DecoRug Lomond Striped Rug $499, Eureka Furniture Vieste Left Hand Chaise Sofa $7,299, Freedom Cosh Table Lamp $69.95, Freedom Urban Road Campari Spritz Canvas $599, James Lane Phalaenopsis Orchid in Vase $27.95, Sheridan Outlet Naut Throw $349.99. 

 

Natural and warm colour palette

For those who lean towards a classic winter aesthetic, an earthy colour palette is for you. Rustic browns, soothing greens, and creamy neutrals evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia that’s hard to resist. Be sure to embrace traditional winter patterns like tartan and flannel to add a timeless charm to your space. With this palette, you’ll create a space that feels like the warm hug of home.

Adairs Herning Rug from $349.99, Early Settler Dream of Clouds Framed Print $79, Eureka Furniture Grange Coffee Table $999, Freedom Aero Fabric Sofa $2,299, Freedom Coast To Coast Home Taylorp Floor Lamp $389, Plush Alder Armchair POA, Provincial Home Living Nomad Footed Bowl $139.95, Provincial Home Living Talia Basket $69.95. 

 

Faded and muted colour palette

Faded and muted tones offer a subtle yet sophisticated option for winter interiors, particularly if your home leans towards a more minimalist aesthetic. Soft pinks, sage greens, and muted greys serve as winter’s interpretation of pastel hues. These gentle shades evoke a sense of freshness, perfectly complementing the crispness of the winter season. 

Early Settler Paloma Vase $99, Freedom Wonboyn Ceiling Pendant $399, James Lane Floral Daze Framed Canvas $499, Nick Scali Nora 3.5 Seat Sofa POA, Nick Scali Papilla Coffee Table $1,899, Provincial Home Living Parisi Bud Vase $89.95, Provincial Home Living Yashi Cushion $74.95. 

 

Shop your favourite furniture and decor at Homemaker The Valley

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of bright colours or the timeless feel of earthy tones, there’s a winter colour palette to suit every style and mood. So go ahead, experiment with different hues and textures, and transform your home into a cosy retreat with products from Homemaker The Valley.

For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

cosy winter living room

How to cosy up your living room this winter

There’s no denying that the living room is one of the most lived-in areas of a home, especially during the winter months when it needs to be ready for two things; hibernating and hosting. Whether you find yourself curling up on the sofa with a warm blanket, a favourite book, or in front of the flickering glow of the TV with friends and family, your living area should be gearing up for a busy season ahead. This means it’s time to work out how you to decorate your living room for winter!

So, to get you inspired, we’ve rounded up five tips to cosy up your living area – from the right lighting to use to the best accessories to style with. Keep reading and prepare to feel toasty.

 

Winter Living Room Product Grid Homemaker The Valley

Adairs Supersoft Checkerboard Washable Rug from $279.99, Adairs Willow Silver Green Hanging Fern $29.99, Eureka Furniture Cove Folding Screen $679, Eureka Furniture Sorghum Pot $89, Freedom Malvern Table Lamp $229, James Lane Bon Travertine & Acacia Coffee Table $1,299, Nick Scali Lenxy 6 Seat Corner Terminal Sofa POA, OZ Design Lazuli Canvas $799, Plush Elanor Swivel Armchair POA, Sheridan Outlet Caral Cushion $79.99, Sheridan Outlet Millbrook Faux Fur Throw $329.95.

 

Use Warm Colours

First up, consider the colour palette – we recommend choosing warm and inviting colours such as deep reds, earthy browns, or warm neutrals like beige and cream. These shades will make the space feel warmer than it actually is and help make your living area feel cosier. This is because warm hues are associated with passion, joy, and playfulness making them a good choice for rooms that see a lot of activity.

 

Incorporate Ambient Lighting

Set the mood with the correct lighting. During gloomy days when you need to get work done, then a natural glow or overhead white light can be energy-boosting and help you stay focused. When nighttime arrives and you’re wanting to relax, a warm light will help you unwind. We recommend using soft, warm lighting to create a cosy ambience in your living room. Opt for table lamps, floor lamps, or string lights with warm-toned bulbs rather than harsh overhead lighting that is more suitable in the daytime. You can also use candles to add a flickering, comforting glow.

 

Add Layers

The secret to a cosy living room? Layering! There’s nothing quite like sinking into a plush sofa with soft cushions and warm throws to snuggle up in. Be sure to opt for a mix of throws and cushions in chunky knit, faux fur, wool, and linen fabrics. The blend of textures will not only enhance the visual appeal of the space but also contribute to a delightfully snug environment, promising both style and comfort.

 

Decorate With Natural Elements

Since we’re bound to be spending more time inside during winter, why not bring the outdoors in as much as possible by using natural-inspired décor? Think driftwood, branches, stones, and botanicals. By incorporating these organic touches, you can create a serene atmosphere that reconnects you with the great outdoors.

 

Create Cosy Seating

Design your own reading nook within the living area for ultimate comfort and relaxation. Select a plush armchair, cosy cushions, and a soft ottoman for added comfort. Arrange the reading nook furniture thoughtfully to maximise the cosiness. We recommend having the chair face towards the warming glow of a fireplace or out the window. This arrangement invites you to sink in and escape into the pages of your favourite book. Watch us create a reading nook here.

Now that you know how to decorate your living room for winter, your living room is about to become the heart of your home this winter. Don’t forget to swing by Homemaker The Valley to gather all the essentials. Let’s make this winter your cosiest yet!

For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

 

Image: Provincial Home Living