Think about stepping right into a Parisian residence: Smooth gentle filters by way of flowing curtains, casting a delicate glow on herringbone flooring. Ornate crown moldings body the ceiling, whereas a classic mirror, casually leaning in opposition to the wall, displays a fragile association of peonies. Parisian decor is greater than only a design alternative—it’s a way of life that effortlessly blends timeless magnificence with relaxed sophistication. However what’s it that makes Parisian interiors really feel so curated but inviting?
Whether or not you’re buying a home in Seattle, WA, an residence in Chicago, IL, or a rental house in Austen, TX, this information will show you how to seize the essence of a Parisian-style residence. Discover easy, stylish methods to infuse your area with that easy je ne sais quoi.
1. Begin with the Parisian necessities
Reaching Parisian-style magnificence in any area, irrespective of its place to begin, comes all the way down to the fitting particulars. “Even a builder-grade home can achieve Parisian-style elegance with the right attention to detail,” says journey and way of life blogger Erica Curran from French or Fake. “Some key elements of the Parisian aesthetic include bright, white-washed walls; luxe fabrics like velvet and linen; large, antique-style mirrors, dark wood, and vintage furniture like side tables and sideboards. You can add even more character with details like layered lighting, candles, Oriental rugs, stacks of books, and fresh flowers.”
2. Prioritize high quality over amount
In Parisian-style flats, area is usually restricted, but each sq. foot feels intentional, because of an emphasis on high quality items. “Living in Paris taught us to embrace small spaces by focusing on quality over quantity,” say KJ and Tony, journey bloggers primarily based in Vero Seashore, FL. “Incorporate Parisian charm into your home by adding timeless elements like a gilded mirror, elegant lighting fixtures, or vintage accents.” Thoughtfully chosen items, irrespective of how few, create an air of sophistication.
To maximise area with out compromising type, they suggest multifunctional furnishings, similar to a eating table-workspace combo, or vertical storage for a elegant look. “Small, thoughtful touches like fresh flowers or framed art can bring a touch of Parisian sophistication to even the coziest of spaces,” they add.
3. Add that inventive aptitude to your Parisian-style residence
Artistry is on the coronary heart of Parisian interiors, bringing life and character to even essentially the most refined areas. The group at Brian Gille Architects in New Orleans, LA illustrates this fantastically. “This parlor exudes Parisian charm with its distinct blend of elegance and artistic flair. The yellow ceiling, painted in a bold, lemony shade, casts a warm and inviting glow over the space. The matching drapes add a cheerful touch to the sophisticated ambiance. Accent furniture, including a sleek marble-top coffee table and fun upholstered chair, reflects the French penchant for refined yet functional design. A graceful sculpture, poised on a pedestal in front of the window, serves as a centerpiece, embodying classical artistry. The hardwood flooring, rich with natural tones and a subtle gloss, anchors the room with timeless appeal. Overhead, a modest chandelier adds a hint of understated opulence, completing this harmonious Parisian retreat.”
This mix of shade, artwork, and purposeful design captures the sophistication that defines the Parisian type.
Photograph courtesy of Brian Gille Architects
4. Mix conventional magnificence with trendy minimalism
One of the fascinating points of Parisian type is its seamless steadiness between old-world grandeur and smooth modernity. “We all love Parisian style because it so captivatingly juxtaposes extravagant traditionalism with contemporary minimalism,” says Anna Bakh, founder and lead designer at Ivory Home Interiors in Napa, CA. This steadiness is what provides Parisian interiors their timeless but refreshing attraction.
To attain this look, Anna suggests beginning with a traditional basis—ornate wall and crown moldings immediately evoke historical past and opulence. Distinction these conventional particulars with trendy, sculptural furnishings that introduces a clear, modern edge. “Add a glamorous chandelier, positioned front and center in a room, and you will have a space as sophisticated as any Parisian apartment.”
5. Embrace the attract of Parisian maximalism
If minimalism doesn’t communicate to you, lean into the wealthy and layered attraction of Parisian maximalism. Maximalist design type is all about indulgence, persona, and creating an area that appears like a press release of extravagance and timeless magnificence. “I personally love a Parisian maximalist vibe with lots of layers and textures to create a luxurious feel,” says the group at The Cotton Shed Classic Market, a classic store primarily based in Bryant, AR. “Blue and gold are iconic for this style—think royal blue accents paired with gilded mirrors or furniture for an elegant yet bold look.”
To totally embrace Parisian maximalism, weave floral patterns into your area by way of wallpaper, upholstery, or curtains. “Combine them with damasks or geometrics to really make a room pop,” they counsel. “Finally, finish with details like antique books, sculptural busts, and lush greenery to tie it all together with a curated, lavish feel.”
6. Improve your area with the fitting architectural particulars
Parisian interiors are famend for his or her intricate architectural particulars, which add character and attraction to even the only areas. “Since Parisian interiors are known for those gorgeous architectural details and moldings, painting a tromp l’oeil effect around windows and doorways is a great way to bring in a Parisian touch, especially in a room or hallway that’s otherwise lacking excitement,” says the Nashville, TN-based inside designer Mary Kathryn Wells. This inventive approach mimics the depth and magnificence of actual moldings, immediately elevating plain partitions.
Christina and Lake Perry, house owners of the inside design studio, Design by Christina Perry in Nashville, TN suggest complementing these components with a impartial, gentle wall and ceiling shade to keep up a timeless look. “Accented with layers of decorative molding and herringbone hardwood floors, pops of color, and gilded accents paired with both classic and contemporary furnishings complete the look.”
Photograph courtesy of Mary Kathryn Wells
7. Channel Haussmann structure
To create a Parisian-style residence, look to Haussmann structure—a trademark of Parisian interiors, mixing classical magnificence with trendy sensibility. This architectural type is characterised by light-filled areas, ornate detailing, clear traces, and thoughtfully balanced design components.
“Paris is close to my heart and her inspiration seems to filter into many of my projects,” says Paula Daher, proprietor of Daher Inside Design in Boston, MA. “A space with white walls is always a nod to a Parisian apartment, as light is able to bounce off the walls throughout the day providing a warm backdrop for furnishings.”
Paula emphasizes the attraction of incorporating Haussmann-inspired particulars. “Adding simple rectangle molding to a wall for visual interest is always a nod to Parisian Haussmann architecture. If that’s not an option, a mélange of artwork, mixing artistic genres always creates instant interest on a neutral backdrop.”
Photograph courtesy of Daher Inside Design and Michael J. Lee, Photograph
Including to this, architect Nori Whisenand from Architect Napa Valley in Nevada Metropolis, CA highlights extra of the type’s particulars. “A wrought iron balcony railing peeking out from tall French doors with Cremone hardware is the icing on the cake,” she explains. “Delicate boiserie-style wainscoting panels or trim details painted white, along with tall baseboards and a hefty crown molding with embossed detailing, are hallmarks of this style. A marble fireplace surround adds sophistication, while clean, uncluttered spaces keep the focus on architectural details.”
These timeless design components are quintessential options of Haussmann structure and are a surefire technique to seize the magnificence and magnificence of Parisian dwelling.
8. Create an area that’s brilliant, ethereal, and alluring
A quintessential Parisian-style residence embodies openness whereas sustaining a heat and alluring ambiance. “A classic Parisian apartment to me is bright and airy without sacrificing any warmth or comfort,” says Charles Omana, proprietor of Maison Dumar Interiors in Seattle, WA. “To brighten up your apartment, I would opt for warmer whites or very light pastels, medium wood tones, and plenty of gold accents.”
Parisian interiors typically characteristic formally organized furnishings, reflecting their custom of internet hosting social gatherings. “Fauteuil chairs are a hallmark of French decor, and modern versions can be found to fit rooms of any size,” Charles explains. “Delicate metal coffee and side tables in gold leaf or verdigris look very sophisticated without adding any visual weight. The pièce de résistance for any Parisian interior, however, is the inclusion of beautiful cut flowers arranged in crystal or silver vases—they really elevate a room to just another level of French elegance.”
To seize this type, Laura Gray, editor and writer of the inside design weblog, At House with Fashion suggests embracing ethereal simplicity. “Traditional Parisian design was formal and symmetrical, with gilded architectural elements, high ceilings, and tall French doors. To bring airy modern Parisian style to smaller spaces, avoid clutter, use pale colors, and add metallic notes.” For furnishings format, Laura recommends selecting furnishings with gentle finishes and refined curves, similar to delicately tailor-made chairs and sofas, whereas avoiding overly giant or heavy items. Vertical components, like tall curtains or artwork, additional improve the sense of top and openness, finishing the look of a welcoming and stylish Parisian-style residence.
9. Go for easy magnificence
Parisian interiors are celebrated for his or her seamless mix of sophistication with a relaxed, private contact. The great thing about Parisian residence type lies in its steadiness—combining timeless inside design with a comfortable, lived-in ambiance to create that signature “undone yet elegant” attract.
Including private touches
“Parisian decor, much like Parisian street style, is both undone and elegant, and above all personal,” notes Michelle Richmond, creator and way of life blogger of The Reluctant Parisian. “Picture a cherished wool blanket and textured pillow draped over a leather chair, a framed family photograph, and a soft, patterned rug over hardwood floors. Since Paris is notoriously rainy, bright spots of color are often included to cut the gloom. Consider new neutrals like a velvet navy chair layered against a backdrop of books, objects with sentimental value, bright prints, and mismatched chairs.”
Photograph courtesy of Michelle Richmond
Mixing refinement and luxury
Amy Gruber from the journey weblog, Tales from Brittany additional highlights the right way to seize this aesthetic. “Achieving a Parisian aesthetic in your apartment is all about embracing elegance and simplicity with timeless charm. Opt for neutral, calming tones like creams, whites, and soft greys, paired with rich textures like velvet or linen. Incorporate classic furniture with curved lines, vintage inspired decor, and gilded mirrors to evoke Parisian sophistication. Keep the layout airy and minimal, emphasizing natural light and subtle statement pieces like a chic chandelier or artfully placed books. The key is balancing refinement with effortless coziness.”
Photograph courtesy of Tales from Brittany
10. Discover the fitting steadiness between traditional and modern
Reaching a Parisian aesthetic is all about mastering the artwork of steadiness; a seamless mix of conventional magnificence and trendy individuality. “The bones of a typical Parisian flat are designed in the style of traditional Haussmann architecture, which offers an elegant canvas on which to inject aspects of interior individuality,” notes Kandace Cornell, a Los Angeles, CA-based author and creator of The Stylish American. Begin with architectural particulars that outline Parisian attraction, similar to crown molding and movie body paneling, which might immediately elevate even the only of areas.
For bigger updates, take into account including intricate woodwork. “Think crown molding along the ceiling and picture frame paneling to the line hallways or elevate a salon. If updating flooring is an option, Parisian parquet is a must—and installing an elegant stone mantle will pair perfectly with a dramatic piece of contemporary art,” suggests Kandace.
To enrich these traditional foundations, she recommends incorporating smooth, mid-century trendy furnishings for a refined distinction. “An occasional conversation piece—from colorful coffee table books to sophisticated sculptures—helps anchor an ornate space,” she provides. This juxtaposition creates a harmonious interaction between conventional and trendy components, leading to an area that feels each timeless and distinctly private.
11. Assume outdoors the field
Making a Parisian-style residence means embracing contrasts and stepping away from typical design guidelines. “To channel a Parisian vibe, think outside of the gray builder box,” says Anna Versaci, inside designer and proprietor of Anna Versaci Design. “Pair bold and bright colored art with traditional finishes like rich walnut, brass, and classic hand-knotted rugs. The mixture of old and new is very Parisian.”
Reaching this look entails balancing antiques with smooth, modern furnishings. “Mix antiques with contemporary pieces of furniture that are more sleek and linear,” Anna provides. By juxtaposing ornate, classic items with clear, trendy traces, you may create a dynamic, visually fascinating area.
Above all, Parisian type is about individuality and easy layering. “It’s always about how you mix and layer to achieve the look—nothing too matching or perfect. Parisian style is an effortless and cool statement that should be expressive of your own personal style,” says Anna.
Photograph courtesy of Anna Versaci Design
12. Have fun the great thing about worn and weathered
Parisian type embraces a lived-in, genuine attraction the place the character of the area takes heart stage. It’s not about perfection, however about making a harmonious mix of the outdated and the brand new.
Jeffrey O’Brien, proprietor of French nation furnishings store, Kate Madison captures this essence completely. “The architecture of a room can exude Parisian style. Perhaps you have stucco walls or exposed wood beams—it would all feel perfectly French. Items like seagrass sofas, combined with a lightly distressed sideboard and a pair of weathered wood lamps, can update a room with a modern Paris flair. The monochromatic harmony of wood tones, natural woven rugs, and chairs creates a feeling of space and unifies the relaxed design.”
13. Incorporate velvet materials with sterling silver accents
Few supplies seize the luxurious attraction of Parisian design like velvet. Its wealthy texture and opulent sheen convey depth and class to any room. France Lavin, proprietor of France Lavin Design in Sonoma County, CA suggests, “I recommend the use of rich velvets on a few upholstered items along with embroidered pillows here and there. Hang lush draperies (yes draperies, not curtains!) to create the perfect backdrop for timeless Parisian-inspired interiors.”
Velvet sofas, armchairs, or accent ottomans function beautiful focal factors whereas providing a comfortable contact. To reinforce the ambiance, France additionally recommends utilizing polished vintage sterling silver accents and mirrors. “Antique mirrors reflect history and charm. Consider creating a small collage of mirrors with different frame styles for added character.”
Photograph courtesy of France Lavin Design
14. Elevate your Parisian-style residence with the fitting scent
The correct perfume has the ability to rework an area, including heat, consolation, and magnificence. To convey the essence of Paris into your property, select scents that replicate town’s refined vibe. The group at Wicks NOLA Candle Firm, primarily based in New Orleans, LA advises, “Enhance your apartment’s Parisian charm by selecting candles that evoke the city’s sophisticated spirit. Opt for scents featuring warm notes of amber, soft vanilla, and subtle hints of lavender, reminiscent of cozy evenings at a Parisian cafe.”
15. Discover your private Parisian type
A very powerful a part of making a Parisian-inspired area is selecting a mode that speaks to you. Parisian design is widely known for its versatility and private attraction, permitting you to include components that resonate together with your particular person tastes.
“What makes the idea of a Parisian home so appealing?” asks Aimee, proprietor of the net market, Aimee’s French Market. “If you are considering a French-style home, it’s important to think about that trip you took to France or those photos you have been looking at and dreaming about. Reflect on what really speaks to you. Perhaps it’s the cafe culture and you want surroundings that remind you of that. Or maybe it’s the high-style architecture and decor you’ve admired in museums. For others, it could be the rustic charm of the farmhouses in the French countryside.”
Let these inspirations information your design selections. “Remember the French culture’s appreciation for quality and authenticity,” Aimee advises. “It’s better to have a few authentic pieces, like vintage finds or travel keepsakes, than a room cluttered with items trying to look Parisian.”
Inspiration on your Parisian-style residence
Bringing the attraction of a Parisian-style residence into your property isn’t about replicating each element, however embracing the philosophy behind it—easy magnificence, timeless high quality, and a contact of individuality. By adorning your area with vintage treasures and trendy accents, layering wealthy textures, and maximizing pure gentle, you may create an area that feels as inviting and stylish as a flat overlooking the Seine.
Whether or not it’s by way of a gilded mirror, a bouquet of recent blooms, or just letting your area replicate your persona, channeling Parisian type is all about celebrating the wonder in on a regular basis life. In any case, type, very similar to life, is greatest when it feels genuine and infused with a little bit joie de vivre.
