French Country House Plans

What is a French Country home design?

French Country house plans are simple yet artfully designed for maximum comfort and stylish living. Effortlessly elegant, these homes offer an approach to earthy and chic living, focusing on Old World charm that blends beautifully with today's modern amenities and conveniences. The architectural beauty of the French Country home lies in its simple lines, stone or stucco façade, charming window designs, tiled roofs, and often, stone chimneys on the home's exterior. The home's interior typically features natural, organic materials: wood beams, wood or stone floors, tall windows, and some use of limestone, either on a mantel or fireplace.

While there is significant variance in their styles, many French Country house plans offer:

• Stucco, brick, and stone exteriors · Steep roof pitches
• Hipped roofs · Flared eaves · Red clay or simulated roof tiles
• Turrets or rounded towers
• One or two stories
• Exterior chimneys
• Tall, thin, or multi-paned windows 
• Slat board shutters
• Multiple gables 
• Highlighted brickwork atop door and windows

What are French Country houses called?

These French-style homes are often commonly known as French provincial homes. Although the grand manors inspired French country-style dwellings in France, these homes tend to focus more on the natural elements around them, hinting at the “country” addition to their names. Through popularity surges, you will often see French country homes adapting to a farmhouse-like style with neutral colors, distressed woods, and more rural appeal.  French country houses are known for their elegance and rustic charm, offering a retreat from urban life while celebrating the beauty of the French countryside.

What is the Modern French Country style?

Modern French Country house plans combine the old with the new! These designs focus on intertwining the sophisticated elements of French homes and the rustic aesthetic of modern-day country homes, combining these contemporary elements to create a charming, fresh, and updated look. The natural beauty of the French countryside inspires the color palette in the Modern French country style. Interior walls are often painted in soft, muted colors, such as antique whites, soft beiges, light grays, and pale yellows or blues. This relaxing color scheme is highlighted with a mix of antique and modern materials. Natural materials play a significant role in the contemporary French country style; exposed wooden beams, distressed or reclaimed wood, and rustic metals are often used to add texture and authenticity. Compiling vintage elements with these homes' warm and refined aesthetic gives them a unique appeal and tons of character. 

What's the difference between French Country and Farmhouse style?

French Country and Farmhouse styles are popular interior design styles with similarities but distinct differences. French Country houses evoke an elegant, romantic, and slightly formal atmosphere. It combines rustic elements with a touch of sophistication and charm. These homes often use earthy tones like light beige, ivory, and cream creating a comforting yet formal environment. In comparison, farmhouse designs are more casual; these homes emphasize comfort and practicality, embracing a more relaxed and lived-in feel. Farmhouse style typically embraces neutral colors like white, cream, and gray. These colors create a clean and fresh feeling at home.

What makes a French Country exterior?

A French country exterior is characterized by its charming and rustic aesthetic inspired by the rural homes found in the French countryside. These homes typically exhibit a blend of rustic and elegant architectural elements. French Country homes often have multiple rooflines with varying heights and slopes. This creates a sense of visual intrigue and complements the overall charm of the exterior. Dormer windows, which protrude from the roof, are also common and add architectural interest to the home's upper level. Natural materials play a significant role in French Country exteriors. Stone, brick, and stucco are frequently used for the walls, providing a timeless and rustic appearance. Wood is also used, especially for shutters, doors, and accents, adding warmth and character to the exterior. Outdoor space has always been reflected in the French Country house style, whether a courtyard entry, often large square forecourts, or some porch. A well-designed French Country house plan extends and blends the indoor and outdoor living space, and a classic French door is often the focal point for this design concept. Elegantly and stately, with a hint of sophistication, this can be just the inspiration to incorporate artistic flair into the home's interior and exterior.

What is the difference between French Provincial and French Country?

French Provincial and French Country are two distinct design styles originating in France. French Provincial homes focus more on the luxury that manors often have in France; this style reflects a more formal and elegant approach. It features refined lines, intricate carvings, and delicate details. It is characterized by a proper yet comfortable ambiance that blends classic elements with a touch of luxury. French Country Homes focus more on the rustic appeal and take its cues from the traditional farmhouses and rural cottages in the French countryside. French Country house plans emphasize natural materials and a warm, inviting atmosphere. At the same time, the French Provincial style is associated with a more formal and elegant approach inspired by the French provinces. Both styles have unique charm and appeal, allowing homeowners to choose the one that resonates with their taste and lifestyle.

Can you mix French Country with Farmhouse?

You can absolutely mix French Country and Farmhouse styles in your home. Both styles have distinct characteristics but share some common elements, making them compatible for a cohesive and charming look. Both French Country and Farmhouse styles emphasize the use of natural material, and both incorporate elements like natural wood, stone, and woven textures to bring warmth and authenticity to your space. The key is to strike a balance between the two styles, allowing each one to complement the other while maintaining a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Feel free to experiment and personalize your space to create a unique blend of French Country and Farmhouse style that reflects your own taste and personality.