Typically, French Provincial houses were constructed by French aristocrats in the provincesor rural areasoutside of Paris.
A province in France is usually designated a regional city and its surrounding lands such as Brittany or Provence.
Although “provincial” can often mean “unsophisticated,” these sprawling, country homes were anything but.
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After World War I, American soldiers brought the French Provincial style to the U.S. French Provincial homes in the U.S. are considered revivals of the original homes from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Must-Have Elements of French Provincial Architecture
French Provincial architecture has retained its key elements over the centuries.
The facade is usually flat, but some have rounded towers highlighting an entryway.
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Symmetry
LikeFrench Colonial architecture, French Provincial homes are highly symmetrical.
Rounded towers may break from symmetry in some houses.
Adding to the home’s simple beauty, many roofs were made from slate or copper.
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Often, the upper stories will have tall, arched windows.
Traditional French Provincial interiors are similar to the popularmodern farmhouseandFrench countrydecor styles you’ll find in many homes today.
It features many arched windows and copper trim that has been patinaed over time.
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It features a steeply pitched roof, a stone facade, and magnificent gardens.
Many original homes dating back to the 1600s and 1700s are still standing.
French Provincial has more of a country manor, orFrench countrylook and theParisian styleis more chic and urban.
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Add vintage French furniture with distinctive curved frames, fronts, and cabriole legs.
Blues, like duck egg or navy, and rustic reds and yellows, provide accent colors.
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