There’s a sure je ne sais quoi about Parisian house decor that makes it completely fascinating. It’s the way in which magnificence meets effortlessness, the place each element—irrespective of how small—feels intentional. Suppose rooms that inform a narrative, stuffed with allure, heat, and only a contact of caprice, as if they’ve been lived in for generations.
Whether or not you’re hoping so as to add a Parisian aptitude to your house in Madison, WI, an house in Charleston, SC, or a rental dwelling in Des Moines, IA, this timeless model provides countless inspiration. On this article, we’ll discover what makes Parisian house decor so iconic, and uncover how one can carry its magic into your personal house.
1. Begin with the traditional Parisian basis
Remodeling your house right into a Parisian-inspired retreat is all about capturing the ambiance that makes the Metropolis of Gentle so enchanting. Ken Tate, creator and architect from The Ken Tate Basis displays on his 40-year profession designing French-inspired areas. “What people love about Paris is the ambiance. There is a certain joie de vivre flowing through the spaces.”
To create this environment, start with a cohesive shade palette. Ken recommends soothing paint colours for moldings and partitions in shades like vintage white, pale French inexperienced, or blue-grey for a refined but inviting tone. Flooring additionally performs a key position—go for medium-brown wooden with a traditional 4-inch board width to evoke timeless magnificence. For an added contact of Parisian sophistication, incorporate toile materials, scenic wallpaper, or each. “Finally, if starting from scratch, cove crown molding and a 30-inch high chair rail will give it that old Parisian atmosphere we all love,” he concludes.
Obtain the look your self
One option to elevate the Parisian allure of your house is by recreating the traditional boiseries, or wall paneling usually seen in historic residences. As Pittsburgh, PA-based journey blogger, Rachel from When in Provence explains, “One of my absolute favorite design elements found in ancient Parisian apartments is their classic boiseries, or wall paneling. Here in the U.S., where our homes were built long after the style was considered out of fashion, an adventurous DIYer could use materials such as wood, metal or plastic to give the same raised, paneled look or even find one of the many kits featured on online marketplaces like Etsy. The look is clean, classic, and very Parisian.”
2. Combine classic and fashionable items
Parisian house decor thrives on the clever steadiness of previous and current, creating areas that really feel timeless but refreshingly fashionable. As an illustration, “Classic silhouettes like Louis XVI chairs, marble accents, and ornate details like gilded mirrors or antique chandeliers pair beautifully with contemporary furnishings,” explains the staff at French Quarter Journal in New Orleans, LA. “Add softness and texture with accents like velvet, linen, or silk throw pillows to evoke that quintessential Parisian charm.”
To infuse the house with much more character, they advocate incorporating Toile de Jouy textiles or wallpaper. These pastoral motifs lend a refined magnificence that’s each traditional and stylish. Keep on with a impartial palette—hints of blush, muted blues, or lotions—layered with heat lighting to channel the comfy sophistication of a Parisian salon.
Photograph courtesy of French Quarter Journal
Julie Maarhuis from the Paris-based life-style weblog, A Parisienne Life highlights the magic of this harmonious combine. “Think of warm chevron wood floors, marble-topped coffee tables, and vintage velvet cushions. No Parisian space is complete without a gold-framed mirror and a statement chandelier, but feel free to mix it up with some modern art.” Parisians love to combine eras and kinds, enriching their areas with layers of shade and texture whereas sustaining a refined, impartial base. “The result is an eclectic, inviting cozy space where you are surrounded by items you love,” says Julie. With this mix of classic and fashionable parts, your house will exude the easy sophistication that makes Parisian residences so iconic.
Photograph courtesy of A Parisienne Life
3. Discover decor that feels effortlessly stylish
Easy stylish is the cornerstone of Parisian model—an aesthetic that feels refined but approachable, polished but relaxed. As Jeannine Bergeron from the French life-style weblog French Fashion fantastically places it, “Bringing everyday Parisian style into your home is easier than you might think. It’s all about creating a space that feels effortlessly chic.”
She continues, “Start with a neutral palette of soft creams and delicate taupes to create an elegant yet understated foundation.” Elevate the house with textured accents like velvet or jacquard pillows, paired with silk taffeta draperies in ivory or pale French blue to catch the sunshine and create curiosity. “Mix old and new by blending modern furniture with vintage antiques,” Jeannine advises. A modern glass espresso desk feels completely Parisian when styled alongside framed 18th-century prints or vintage market finds.
To finish the ambiance, deal with considerate particulars: gentle, layered lighting, contemporary flowers, curated books, and the nice and cozy glow of scented candles. And, as Bergeron suggests, “Ayez toujours une bouteille de champagne dans le frigo”—at all times have a bottle of champagne within the fridge. With these parts, you’ll seize the essence of Parisian stylish, remodeling your house into an area that feels effortlessly elegant and uniquely yours.
Photograph courtesy of French Fashion
4. Observe the Parisian artwork of juxtaposition
On the coronary heart of Parisian decor lies the artwork of juxtaposition—an intentional mix of opposing kinds that creates an area each dynamic and complex. As Elizabeth Jones, founding father of Manoir, a French and European-inspired furnishings and decor store based mostly in Boston, MA explains, “One key to achieving Parisian-chic is the intentional juxtaposition of opposing styles, such as transitional design, blending traditional with modern elements.”
“For example, pair a classic Louis XVI or bergère chair with a sleek light fixture or modern artwork,” suggests Elizabeth. “Or use unconventional fabrics with bold colors, textures, or geometric patterns. Suddenly a traditional piece becomes a striking focal point—and it’s these unexpected juxtapositions that are the true hallmark of Parisian style.” A gilded mirror just like the Villecerf Mirror turns into much more putting when styled alongside black-and-white drawings of Parisian landmarks or geometric textiles in vibrant hues. These considerate contrasts rework conventional items into fascinating focal factors, embodying the true essence of Parisian model.
Photograph courtesy of Manoir
5. Showcase your habits in your design
Parisian interiors are extra than simply fantastically curated areas—they’re a mirrored image of the lives and habits of those that stay there. Laura, inside decorator and founding father of From Paris to Texas Design in Alamo Heights, TX shares, “To infuse your living space with a chic Parisian touch, think elegant moldings, antique mirrors above fireplaces, and exquisite herringbone wooden floors. Just like Parisian fashion, these interiors are timeless, seemingly effortless yet impeccably put together.”
One hallmark of Parisian design is the considerate integration of private habits into the decor. Specifically, Laura recommends displaying your love for studying in your design. “Books serve as a key element of Parisian decor, displayed on built-in shelves or artfully arranged in decorative stacks on the floor, reflecting the Parisians’ love for showcasing their reading habits.” By showcasing your passions—whether or not by artwork, books, or beloved antiques—you create an area that feels personalised whereas capturing the timeless inside design of Paris.
6. Use Parisian house decor so as to add shade to your house
Parisian residences are sometimes synonymous with understated magnificence, however that doesn’t imply they shrink back from shade. The important thing lies in utilizing hues with objective and restraint, making a harmonious steadiness that feels each refined and welcoming. “Achieving a Parisian aesthetic in an apartment involves combining elegance and charm with understated, effortless style,” shares Julie Skinner, founding father of the design idea retailer, French.US in Calabasas, CA. A impartial base of white, cream, or beige units the tone, permitting accents of wealthy jewel tones like emerald inexperienced or sapphire blue to face out fantastically.
These considerate pops of shade can come by a velvet armchair, a classic rug, or a daring piece of art work, including depth and character to your house with out overwhelming it. Incorporate textiles like toile quilt covers or sheer drapes in gentle pastels or muted tones to keep up a timeless Parisian ambiance. A vase of dried flowers, evoking the allure of Parisian flower markets, also can introduce refined shade and texture, additional enhancing the aesthetic. 
Photograph courtesy of French.US
7. Elevate your Parisian house with sculptural items
Incorporating sculptural items into your decor can add a refined, creative contact to your house. As inside designer Michelle from Michelle Harrison Design in San Diego, CA suggests, “To infuse a Parisian style into your apartment home, focus on incorporating sculptural vintage pieces, such as a coffee table, side table, or stand-alone sculpture. Pair them with the classic black and white stripes for a quintessential nod to Parisian elegance.”
A fantastically carved espresso desk or a modern stand-alone sculpture serves as a putting point of interest, elevating the general aesthetic with its timeless allure. These sculptural parts carry depth and character to an area, whereas the pairing with traditional patterns like black and white stripes provides a contact of sophistication. Whether or not displayed in a front room or bed room, these items supply a refined but highly effective option to seize the essence of Parisian model.
Photograph courtesy of Michelle Harrison Design
8. Add small touches with a big influence
In Parisian house decor, it’s usually the smallest particulars that depart the best impression. “To achieve a Parisian aesthetic in an apartment, small touches can make a big difference,” says the staff on the French and European-inspired decor store, Joliette in Ontario, Canada. These refined but considerate parts can elevate a room, infusing it with character and allure.
“Add neutral pottery pieces, for example, for style and functionality, creating a timeless foundation for any space. Vintage books add height and a layer of intrigue, whether stacked artfully on a coffee table or displayed on a shelf—and as a bonus, they make for great conversation starters.” And no Parisian-inspired house is full and not using a classic mirror. “Look for signs of age and de-silvering,” they advise, “to add history to your space.” These small but impactful particulars carry authenticity and persona, making your house really feel effortlessly stylish and uniquely yours.
Photograph courtesy of Joliette
9. Search for luxurious Parisian house decor
Rework your house into an expensive Parisian-inspired retreat by curating timeless focal factors and adorning your house with antiques. For instance, “A stunning crystal chandelier suspended over a calming soaking tub or an ornate gilded trumeau above a marble mantel instantly evokes the grandeur of Parisian interiors,” says Bryan Ortis, president of the luxurious dwelling decor store, Chateau Charmant Interiors. “Layer various textures to add warmth and depth, such as a lovely Aubusson tapestry or antique rug, alongside chic fabrics like velvet, silk, and linen in soothing tones that invite relaxation.”
Considerate touches, like dried hydrangeas in a impartial shade palette artfully organized in an aged cast-iron urn with handles, may be positioned on a classy pedestal or atop a stack of vintage books for added allure. Beautify with classic furnishings, in addition to up to date finds to create an eclectic and picked up aesthetic, punctuated with a gallery wall of beautiful artwork. “And, of course, fresh flowers—gorgeous roses, lilies, and peonies—in a vintage vase are the final touch to add panache and transport you to the City of Lights.”
10. Store for items with a classic contact
Choosing the proper items is essential to reaching Parisian magnificence, and classic treasures maintain the key to this timeless aesthetic. “My favorite way to add Parisian influence to a space is by shopping for vintage and antique pieces, especially when you might not have the budget or time for a full renovation,” shares Julie Okay. Beuerlein, proprietor of JKB Dwelling Design in Palos Verdes Estates, CA. “There are numerous beautiful vintage shops, both local and online, that source international pieces to enhance your home. Look for that statement piece; it’s all about understated opulence.”
For an genuine Parisian contact, Cléophée Poli, founding father of Cléo Inside Design in Paris, France recommends buying classic finds instantly from Parisian markets. “We love to source these at the Puces de Saint-Ouen in the north of Paris. It’s the biggest vintage flea market here, and the pieces there are fantastic,” she says. “This old meets new aesthetic works perfectly within both Haussmannian apartments and newer builds.”
Photograph courtesy of Cléo Inside Design
11. Use french linens in your kitchen design
Shifting to the kitchen, french linens can carry a contact of easy magnificence and heat to any house. San Francisco, CA-based francophile, Darlene C. Alvarez from the life-style weblog Bonjour Darlene shares, “The simple elegance of quality linens speaks for itself. In the same manner a silk scarf accessory can elevate an outfit, adding eye-catching French linens, like tablecloths, placemats, or napkins in a variety of materials, colors, and designs, brings warmth and vibrancy to any kitchen.”
For a Parisian-inspired kitchen, think about incorporating absorbent honeycomb towels with a particular motif—crimson, white, and blue, harking back to each the American and French tricolor flag. These sensible but stunning linens add texture and allure, whereas lowering paper towel waste and evoking a comfortable, rustic French environment. Whether or not draped over a countertop or used throughout meals, French linens effortlessly mix model with performance.
Photograph courtesy of Darlene C. Alvarez
12. Use Parisian-inspired furnishings
To carry Parisian allure into your house, deal with furnishings that blends traditional sophistication with up to date design. French actual property guide Adrian Leeds captures the essence of Parisian house decor, noting, “Furnishings should have lots of curves and feminine lines. Add molding to the ceilings, walls and cabinetry. Adorn the doors and cabinetry with classic handles and knobs. Additionally, don’t be afraid to use crystal chandeliers and wall sconces. And voila! Your Parisian home anywhere in the world.” Go for timeless items like Louis XVI chairs or a marble-top espresso desk, which exude understated opulence.
When planning your structure, consider symmetry and steadiness. Because the staff on the luxurious furnishings store, U-Commerce Furnishings retailer in California shares, “Opt for symmetrical arrangements that highlight the space’s natural light, complemented by ornate mirrors or delicate chandeliers to complete the timeless look.” Moreover, select upholstery in textured materials like velvet or linen in gentle, smoky tones, and add gold-accented aspect tables or modern glass items for a contact of modernity.
Photograph courtesy of Adrian Leeds
13. Create a Parisian ambiance by scents
Bringing the allure of a Parisian café into your house is so simple as including a fastidiously chosen scent. Wixology Candles in Lexington, KT captures this completely. “Turn your apartment into a Parisian café with a playful twist using Wixology’s Bourbon Ball candle. The rich notes of bourbon, dark chocolate, and pecans blend like a French chocolat truffle with a cheeky Southern accent—elegant, indulgent, and just a little bit rebellious.”
Elevating your house with Parisian house decor
Making a Parisian-style house is about extra than simply decor—it’s about cultivating an environment that feels effortlessly elegant, timeless, and distinctive. By mixing classic and fashionable parts, embracing texture and element, and thoughtfully curating every house, you possibly can channel the artwork de vivre that makes Parisian house decor so fascinating. Whether or not it’s a gilded mirror catching the afternoon mild, a comfortable studying nook, or the mild glow of a chandelier, each element tells a narrative and brings a way of romance to your house.
Regardless of the place you reside, with a contact of creativity and one eye on the classic-yet-unexpected, you possibly can transport the spirit of Paris into your house. And maybe essentially the most Parisian contact of all? Surrounding your self with the belongings you love, et voilà! Your stylish house awaits.