FRENCH COUNTRY STYLE IN LIGHTING DESIGN
The history of French Country Style
Beginning in 17th Century France, King Louis XIV began the renovation of the Palace of Versailles. He employed the best craftspeople and artists in the country to design the most upscale and luxurious products for the world to envy. As the years passed this infamous French style was adapted by the emerging middle class that was striving for a relaxed country feel with a touch of elegance as found in Paris. As the years passed this infamous French style and refined taste was adapted to country homes and manor houses throughout Europe. This decorative style was richly sophisticated and yet relaxed. The importance of family and every day use required proportion and balance. French country style became a blend of simplicity and ornate detail, the mixing of pattern and scale, a blend of old and new to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Creating the Look of French Country Style
French Country design is based on what looks and feels right and which no decorating rule has to apply. It’s all about setting a casual mood where warmth meets comfort and plenty of balance while introducing textured walls, soft wood tones, hand-applied weathered patinas and whimsical distressed chandeliers and lantern accents throughout. The French Country style is inspired by the formal yet genteel lifestyle found throughout the French countryside in French towns such as Bourg-En-Bresse, Macon and Manosque. Lighting adapted to the rustic yet chic style found in the area cottages and manor houses. Expert artisans designed lanterns that were proportioned and balanced by mixing patterns and patinas.
Lantern models for French Country Style
The simple French Station Lantern (O2902CL, O2903CL and O2904CL) are widely popular with interior designers. A slightly more detailed lantern is adorned with filigree as is our French Country line (O1033G, O1034G and O1035G). The more elaborate yet quietly sophisticated style of the French Provincial Lantern is one or our best sellers (O1006G, O1007G, O1008G and O1009G). Newer designs have been added to our French Station Lantern (O3584CL and O3583CL). Our newest lantern, O3587CL, the Bordeaux has a more modern flare, while the Battery Park (O2437CL) and the Carteret Street Light (O2431CL) are more traditional.
Chandelier models for French Country Style
The simplicity of the colonial chandeliers can be adorned with fanciful details to give a whimsical flare that is perfect for French Country design as shown in our C2533T model. Another example of a simple, steam-lined design is our C1285H French Country Crystal Chandelier that is draped with dainty crystal beads for a mildly ornate accent. The warm patinas of the finishes are what French Country style demands.
