If you like the idea of using French bedroom furniture, but you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, here’s a brief guide to the main characteristics and design features to help you along the way.
Materials – French bedroom furniture is traditionally made from wood – genuine antique pieces will be made from hard woods such as mahogany, but more modern versions may be manufactured in softer, cheaper woods, making them more accessible to the budget-conscious buyer – after all, they are no longer designed to be status symbols but rather practical, functional items. Wooden veneers are also sometimes used and finished with a highly polished look – walnut is a particularly popular choice for veneers due to its beautiful grain. Alternatively, French furniture items such as beds are sometimes constructed out of wrought iron, which is sturdy and can be fashioned into pretty, intricate designs.
Colours – Colour is a distinguishing characteristic of French bedroom furniture, with white being the most common and popular choice. If you want something a little less plain, you can also find a range of items in many other light pastel colours. Lavender, mauves, eggshell blues and mint greens will inject a little more character and work well alongside white pieces.
Shape – Heavier wooden items can be quite chunky and straightforward in their design and shape, but one of the most attractive features of French bedroom furniture are the delicate shapes often used on the legs of items such as dressing table legs and the feminine more ‘spindly’ curved legs of French style chairs. The heavier shapes will still have some curved shapes though, such as scrolled feet on French style beds and wardrobes or armoires. these feminine touches add elegance and romance to the look of French bedroom furniture items.
Detailing – one of the stand out features of French bedroom furniture is the wonderful carvings that are often used. this ornate detailing is both classic and classy and really sets this style of furnishing aside from more modern pieces. Dressing tables with integrated cupboards and drawers will often be styled with bevelled carvings on them which again add simple elegance and a feminine touch. other common details of French style bedroom furniture are cut outs on the heavier items – hearts and organic shapes influenced by nature are typical but you may find something a little more original if you take a good look around.
Accessories – if you want to keep a light, airy feel to your boudoir, don’t go overboard with too many big pieces. You can always accessorise with other smaller items – French mirrors are a great idea if you want to add some finishing touches. they come in a variety of sizes and will reflect light back into the room, adding a sense of space. look for original mirrors with elaborate carvings and scroll work around the frame. If you want your French mirror to reflect the overall style of the room, you can easily paint the wood to match the white or pastel colours of your other bedroom furniture items.
French Bedroom Furniture – Defining Characteristics
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