Interior Inspiration: French Modern Maison

It’s hard to argue with the beauty and elegance of modern French interiors. Combining old world grandeur with new shapes (and often daring juxtapositions) this style of decorating is dramatic and the very definition of chic.

Filling Pinterest boards and Tumblr accounts for as far as the eye can see, this drool-worthy interior aesthetic is having a major moment.

The modern French maison begins with a large-scale, single-level apartment that boasts great foundations (such as vintage detailing, parquetry wooden floors and double height ceilings) that are balanced by a strict edit of modern and luxe-looking pieces, raw and industrial materials, and occasional flashes of rich colour.

Even if you don’t have a Parisian apartment to call home it is possible to incorporate elements of this aesthetic into your place with a few simple tips:

You can add mouldings (detailed cornices and door frames) to existing plain walls and ceilings
Add drama and interest via chandeliers or modernist pendant lights or floor lamps
Pare back clutter
Keep the walls and ceiling in a very neutral palette – white, white, white
Add flashes of black via seating, abstract artwork, black and white photography or lamps
Large-scale mirrors either wall-mounted or leaning against the wall
Add sparse metallic accents – burnished brass, silver, gold and pewter via accessories, art objects, and tables.