French Country Kitchen Window Treatments: Top Picks and Designs
Are you considering making your kitchen seem like a little getaway in the French countryside? Window treatments that have been thoughtfully picked are one of the simplest methods to complete this style. This article provides useful advice for do-it-yourselfers to bring the rustic elegance of French country style into your kitchen through window treatments.
Overview of French Country Style
The ideal mix of classic elegance and rustic appeal is found in French country style. This décor style, which draws inspiration from the sun-drenched hills of Provence, places an emphasis on organic materials, delicate hues, and patterns that make up the allure of the French countryside. Aim to capture the warmth and simplicity that characterize French rural decor when choosing window your treatments.
The easy, worn-in vibe is the secret to true French country design. It’s all about making the room appear well-chosen over time rather than thrown together quickly. The patina that ages with items and embraces faults make this style ideal for people who enjoy incorporating antiques or family treasures into their décor.
Window Treatments for French Country Kitchens
Valances
A great way to incorporate a little French flair into your room without going overboard is with valances. Think about patterns with gentle, muted colors, like roosters or flowers. As a do-it-yourself project, you could upcycle tea towels or old linens to make distinctive valances that evoke the essence of French country living.
DIY Tip: To make a basic valance, begin with a piece of cloth that is roughly 18 inches long and twice as wide as your window. First, hem the bottom and sides of the fabric. Then, fold 1.5 inches of the top of the fabric over. Then fold 1.5 inches over again. Stitch down the length of this fold close to the bottom of the fold. This makes a rod pocket at the top. This is a very easy valance the looks great and adds color and character.
Roman Shades
Roman shades are a stylish and useful substitute for conventional curtains. Select organic materials like cotton or linen in hues that go well with the design of your kitchen. They may be raised or lowered to accommodate your needs throughout the day and offer great light management.
Roman shades require intermediate sewing skills. Most patterns require fabric, dowels, rope/string and rings to construct a pulley system to lift the fabric. Choose a French country fabric to keep with your design style.
Cafe Curtains
Kitchens are the ideal place for cafe curtains, which cover only the lower part of the window and are characteristically French. They maintain privacy while letting in an abundance of light. Select a linen or cotton fabric that is airy and light, with a faint pattern or pure color.
DIY Idea: For an easy cafe curtain, use tension rods to hang tea towels or vintage handkerchiefs. You can use rings with clips to clip the towels or handkerchiefs to the rings and viola…done. This no-sew option is perfect for beginners and adds the perfect touch to your French country kitchen.
Custom Drapery
While potentially more of an investment, custom drapes are always a gorgeous option and can save you the time of creating your own if you hire an expert. You can hang your custom drapes in a way that will make your room look larger. Consider layering sheer panels beneath heavier drapes for a more luxurious look.
If you are ambitious, creating custom drapes can be a satisfying project. I have done this myself and while it is a ton of work, it will save you a ton of money. Custom drapes are expensive. Choose a high-quality fabric, follow a pattern closely and take precise measurements. Measure twice and cut once. Remember to account for hem allowances and any pattern matching required.
Modern Roller Shades
For a contemporary twist on French country style, consider standard roller shades. If you are in need of light control, roller shades can be paired with more traditional elements like valances or side panels to balance functionality with style. Look for shades with subtle textures or small, delicate patterns to maintain the French country feel.
Color and Pattern Selection
The right colors and patterns make a big difference when you are going for an authentic French country look.
Try to stick with a natural color palette including:
- Deep burgundies – rich red wines
- Sage green – the herbs of Provence
- Soft neutrals like cream and beige – sun-baked stone
- Muted blues – lavender fields
- Warm yellows – sunflowers
When it comes to patterns, florals and nature-inspired designs are common in French country design.
Look for fabrics that include :
- Delicate wildflower prints
- Rooster motifs – a classic French country symbol
- Toile patterns
- Subtle stripes or checks for a more understated look
Remember, the idea is to create a soothing, easy going blend. Mix and match patterns, but keep them in the same color family for a cohesive look.
Fabric Choices
Certain types of fabrics lend towards French country design. Below are some great options:
- Cotton: Cotton is versatile and easy to maintain which is perfect for busy kitchens. Look for options with a slight texture for added interest.
- Linen: Linen offers a more upscale look with its natural texture and drape. Linen curtains flow nicely with open windows. This is characteristic of a French country atmosphere.
- Toile: Toile is a quintessentially French fabric. It has intricate patterns in primarily a single color with a cream background. Traditional toile depicts pastoral scenes, but modern versions might include other motifs.
- Floral Prints: Floral prints depict a garden like atmosphere which is a characteristic of French country design. Small, delicate prints are more of a French country look.
- Stripes and Checks: Stripes and checks are classic patterns that add visual interest. Ticking stripes in particular are very French country and work well for cafe curtains or valances.
- Embroidered Fabrics: Embroidered fabrics are extravagant, but with a rooster or floral motif really add to the French country feel. The embroidery can be the entire curtain. Or, just accents.
DIY Installation Tips
Ready to tackle installation yourself? Here are some helpful tips:
- For valances, hang your curtain rod so it extends beyond the window frame. A good rule of thumb is to hang the rod 3-5 inches on each side.
- When hanging drapes, if you position the rod higher and closer to the ceiling you will create the illusion of height.
- Use a level to mark your drilling points before mounting hardware. This extra step ensures your treatments hang straight and look polished.
- When installing cafe curtains, place the rod at the midpoint of the window or slightly higher.
- If you’re layering treatments (like sheers under drapes), install your rods at different depths to allow each layer to hang properly.
Maintenance Made Easy
To keep your window treatments looking fresh:
– Regularly dust or vacuum to prevent buildup. Use a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
– For washable fabrics, launder according to care instructions, avoiding harsh detergents. Many French country fabrics benefit from a gentle cycle and air drying to maintain their texture and shape.
– Consider scotchguarding fabric treatments to protect against kitchen splatters and stains. This is particularly useful for lighter colored fabrics.
– Rotate your treatments seasonally if possible. This not only changes up your look but also distributes wear evenly.
Creating a Cohesive Look
If your goal is a French country kitchen, your window treatments should complement the overall design. You need your window treatments to function to warm, cool or block light, but the look and feel can tie your design together.
Consider these final tips to add to your French country kitchen:
– Use iron or black curtain rods for an authentic touch.
– Incorporate other fabric similar to your curtain fabric choice, like table runners or chair cushions.
– Add natural elements such as potted herbs or a bowl of fresh fruit.
– Display copper pots or rustic ceramics to add to the look.
By carefully selecting window treatments to go with the elements of French country style, you can change your kitchen into a cozy, inviting space that feels like a little piece of Provence. You opt for DIY solutions or custom creations by a professional, but the key is to add your personal touch while staying true to the rustic elegance that defines this timeless style.
With these tips and ideas, you’re well on your way to creating a French country kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional. Remember, the beauty of this style lies in its lived-in, collected-over-time feel, so don’t be afraid to mix and match elements to create a space that’s uniquely yours.