If you’re looking for a truly inviting ambiance for a backyard getaway of your own, the French Country style is a definite charmer. It provides the perfect blend of Provençal appeal, typical French flair, and the warmth and comfort of a quaint country home – only outdoors! Study the 6 fabulous examples we’ve chosen to inspire you, plus our suggested decor products to style your dream French Country haven. [*this post contains affiliate links]
Inspiration for a Cozy French Country Retreat
We were already smitten with the French Country look to begin with. But discovering these amazing examples made us fall in love even more. You’ll see why!
1 – Tree Shaded Retreat
Sunlight filtering through tree branches lends such a relaxing feel to this inviting French-inspired patio. A wall finish of fieldstone and stucco, a wrought iron patio set contrasted with weathered wooden park benches, and stone steps leading to raised sections are features that truly work their charm. [Image credit: Donald Lococo Architects]
2 – Modern French Country with DIY Elements
Worried that “French country” may be too fancy and pricey? Well, you can go for a more modern take on this tyle and DIY many of the elements yourselves – as this clever couple did. Click on the image credit link below and see how they pulled together a cushioned patio set, giant outdoor umbrella, potted petunias, floral pillows, hurricane lanterns, and stone pavers and pebbles to create this cozy little nook. [Image credit: The DIY Mommy]
3 – Gorgeous Garden Room
Bringing the outdoors in (or bringing the indoors out) is another approach you can emulate. This bright and beautiful garden room is made irresistible via a pair of dark wicker armchairs piled with cushions alongside a rough stone fireplace, blue and white crockery matching the pillows, and greenery and flowers everywhere! [Image credit: Joss and Main]
4 – White Wicker and Hydrangeas
White and blue are the traditional colors of the French country style. So you can use this palette to create a light and airy effect with all-white wicker porch furniture, box planters, and flowing outdoor drapery – plus the breathtaking blues of hydrangeas in full bloom! [Image credit: French Country Cottage]
5 – Cozy Patio in Green
Shades of green would be lovely, too. For a French country-style spot that’s refreshing and relaxing, choose wicker patio furniture in muted green and set out pots and baskets of greenery to grace an al fresco dining area, with a bar cart ready alongside. [Image credit: Bob Greenspan, Houzz]
6 – Rustic Stone Terrace
If you have a sloping garden, a terraced arrangement would play up the multiple levels beautifully. In this example, stunning French limestone walls, arches, and paving stones provide a rustic backdrop for wrought iron patio furniture – and mark off sections for dining, entertaining and lounging. [Image credit: Van Brouck]
French Country-inspired Outdoor Furniture and Accents: Our Picks
Wondering where to source the decor pieces and accessories you will need? Get a headstart on choosing, with these finds we’ve made for you.
1 – French Provencal Style Enamel Pitcher – ideal for creating a country-style centerpiece with wildflowers or herbs; by Lark Manor, available via Wayfair
2 – French Patterned Metal Hurricane Candle Holders – featuring traditional French scrollwork, these hand-forged metal hurricanes will cast a lovely glow; available via Pier1 Imports
3 – French Country Style Fleur de Lis Jardinière (pot or urn) – just the thing for adding French flair to your patio plant display; sold by Whole House Worlds and Fulfilled by Amazon
4 – White Stacking Chair – natural-look synthetic rattan handwoven over a metal frame, able to withstand all weather conditions; from the Casbah Collection, via Pier1 Imports
5 – French Provencal Floral Throw Pillow – a shabby chic pattern in blue and yellow on linen fabric; ships from and sold by Chloe & Olive, via Amazon
6 – Lavender Heather in Decoupage Pot – the iconic lavender of Provence in faux form, presented in a charming container; by Birch Lane™, available via Wayfair
7 – Light Blue Settee – from the Coco Cove Collection, a cozy two-seater woven of light blue synthetic rattan over a powder-coated wrought iron frame; from the Coco Cove Collection, via Pier1 Imports
8 – Magnolia Home Florist Galvanized Basket – a “country-industrial” container for displaying fresh-cut flowers and foliage; from Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines Collection, via Pier1 Imports
9 – White Metal Wine Rack – an Old World-inspired bottle rack with a scrolled-iron frame, mirrored top and antiqued white finish; available via Pier1 Imports
10 – French Original Wine Crates – sure to bring an authentic touch to your backyard getaway whether as planters, accent pieces, or food risers for an outdoor buffet; available via Amazon
11- French Farmhouse Burlap Runner – featuring a country market-style sheep design and French wording on burlap; from TheWatsonShop via Amazon
12 – Willow Heart Picnic Basket – a touch of romance while dining al fresco; includes 2 each of porcelain plates, hand-blown wine glasses, cotton napkins, forks, knives and spoons; a hardwood cutting board, wooden-handled waiter’s corkscrew and cheese knife, stainless steel salt and pepper shakers, cotton tablecloth and plastic food container; available via World Market
Other inspiration posts in our series on styling your own outdoor retreat:
Capri-inspired Backyard Getaway
