The French Do It Best...
Christine d’Ornano photo by Matthieu Salvaing
French Beach House Style
The finish line is close; I can nearly see it. But there’s so much to do before we get there… that doesn’t stop me dreaming of the holiday break.
Specifically I’ve been looking at gorgeous lively beach houses in France. Because when you put that allure of chic French style together with the beach – you really can’t go wrong!
The interiors are just what you want from a beach house; they are vibrant and always party-ready. Who doesn’t love a bar as a way to greeting guests or simply fixing a drink for one to enjoy on the patio. Pure heaven!
The spaces are relaxed and yet still ‘pulled together’ but never uptight or too formal. We see a foundation of natural materials such as stone floors, bamboo ceilings and fresh white walls.
Les Roches Rouges Hotel designed by Festen, photo by Benoit Linero
Designed by Jean Charles Tomas, photo by Jérôme Galland
The neutral colour palette is then layered with rattan furniture pieces and a few unexpected colourful chairs. The French have that ‘je ne sais quois’ – that ability to pull together pieces in a way that looks effortless. There’s a sense of nonchalance like they didn’t really try yet the spaces always look so chic.
The French beach house has a few low-slung sofas that looks so inviting to sprawl on, and I plan to do a lot of sprawling come summer!
Les Roches Rouges designed by Festen, photo by Yves Duronsoy
There are a few colourful surfboards to be found casually leaning against the wall if the beach house is along the west coast in places like Biarritz.
Design by Dorothee Delaye ‘Bords du lac’ Photos by Mr Tripper
In the South of France the vibe is more about barefoot luxury; elegant glass lighting that evokes a watery feeling, mid-century furniture pieces that sit lightly in the space.
Home belonging to Christine d’Ornano photo by Matthieu Salvaing
Designed by Jean Charles Tomas, photo by Jérôme Galland
But I’m not fussy, any French beach house will do just fine!
And if you see some French inspiration coming your way it’s because I have a rather big announcement…
I’m writing a book!
For the past few months I have been deep in writing mode and loving every minute. Well, I won’t lie, whilst there hasn’t been any time for writer’s block, there has been a lot snacking!
I’ve sourced some sublime French interiors, it’s been an absolute joy. I’ve been talking to some très cool French designers and I’ve really put my year 12 French to the test.
I’ve compiled what I think is a rich overview of the French New Look and what exactly makes the interiors from France so captivating. Writing a book has been something I hadn’t dared to dream about and I’d love to share this writing journey with you too!
Happy dreaming…
Lauren