analysis: How to Decorate Like a Parisian

Mix old and new

Notes:

• Parisian apartments often incorporate an eclectic mixture of old and new to create a pleasant arrangement tailored to the individual. Rather than buying all your furniture and decorations from a single store, introduce items of different origin.
• Antique mirrors and Louis chairs can sit in smooth juxtaposition with modern silhouettes of straight lines and minimal detailing. A large mirror over a mantelpiece is especially effective for creating the Parisian style.
• You could also mingle varied sources of lighting. A chandelier in the dining room is a natural choice, and it can work well even with more contemporary lamps in the living room and bedroom areas.
• QUESTION?
  how to mix old and new for a lovely, lived in look

  some ideas –

  view: large mirrors dining room chandelier

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Pare it back

Notes:

• While you’re adding pieces to create a chic aesthetic, you should also remember to keep an air of nonchalance about the décor. Don’t go overboard and overwhelm the space with an overflow of bright colors.
• Not every little detail needs to be in perfect order, either. Keep your color palette mostly neutral, with whites, browns, and grays dominating. You can place a pop of color here and there for a point of interest.
• Allow pillows and other items around the home to lie about freely, and let your vintage items show their wear a bit. This will bring in some character without any aspect shouting for attention.
• QUESTION?
  10 truths about vintage decorating

  some ideas –

  view: vintage table vase live house palm plant

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Change the architecture

Notes:

• The age of many Parisian apartments means that they have some beautiful architectural components already built in, which further enhances their look.
• You may not have this baseline bonus to work from, but you can emulate the look by installing wall moldings or European-style doors between rooms.
• For a simpler way to transform the overall appearance of a room, you could hang linen or silk drapes from ceiling to floor or use wallpaper with designs reminiscent of that old architecture.
• QUESTION?
  types of architectural moulding

  some ideas –

  view: wall moldings chair rail moulding

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Add a rug

Notes:

• Not every element in your home needs to be explicitly French, either. Add a dash of charm with a bohemian rug that reflects what a Parisian might bring home from a vacation getaway to nearby Italy or Spain.
• Consider the dos and don’ts of adorning a room with a rug so that it can shine in a refined yet eccentric way alongside the other furnishings.
• It’ll also serve the double purpose of softening your steps and prevent scraping on hardwood floor.
• QUESTION?
  how to choose an area rug

  some ideas –

  view: area rugs vintage tapestry

  What comments can you share?