History of Country French Furniture

King Louis the XIV of France wanted France to become a style leader so he decided to renovate the Palace of Versailles during the 1600's. Louis XIV was known as the sun king because he was so popular in France.

His style revealed luxury and opulence.

 The furniture had intricate marquetry with heavy carving.

In 1804 Napoleon became Emperor of France when the economy was booming.  A New Aristocracy was forming with Napoleon leading the wealthy.  The Empire period began from 1804 to 1814.

Families were able to purchase furniture with wealth they accumulated.  Tea sets were apart of social gatherings with a lump of sugar for sweetness.  The Empire style was defined by architectural elements like columns and bronze work.  These pieces were made of heavy woods such as mahogany and ebony with dark finishes.


In 1814 Napoleon had too many military loses so they decided to restore the Monarchy.  The wealthy reinstated King Charles X.  The furniture became softer with lighter woods.  The art of marquetry returned with rosettes, garlands and flowers were carved into the wood.

In 1830 Louis Philippe became King of France from 1830 to 1848.  Craftsmen became apart of the industrial revolution and production increased of Country French Furniture.

Mahogany and rosewoods were the most common wood and marble tops made it functional.  It became popular in the bourgeois class.

French Country furniture doesn't refer to a period in French history but a way of life.  It draws upon the different influences of past.  The theme is relaxed sophisticated living.

Carved oak hutches displayed pottery and family dishes.

Fabric told a story with vivid colors.

Monet captured the beautiful countryside through his impressionistic paintings.  

French Country Backyard Setting

 Each year I plant beautiful pink geraniums in my backyard flower pots.

 I love to dine on our green ironwork patio tables and chairs.

 French Country is about bringing the beauty of the outdoors into decorating with nature in  mind.

Pink Geranium blossoms last all season if you keep them watered.

 When the light hits the blossoms they shine with pink delight.

 Even in late February the sun shines on evergreen leaves to let us know Spring is coming.

 Carnival glass from my Grandma McPherson is a perfect pot for pink geraniums.

 Sitting outside to enjoy vibrant red Cardinals is relaxing.

The Cardinals are preparing their nest for baby birds.

 I put two outdoor rugs together I got on sale last August. 

 Shadows of evergreen trees reflect in our pool.

 Plum delight bushes are showing signs of spring with bright pink blossoms.

 Our Cardinals are looking for twigs so their nest is comfy.

 In Texas the first pink rose blossoms in late February.

The Texas sun reflects the Plum Delight that has grown tall over the years to add protection for the birds in our beautiful backyard.

Mid-Century Design Modern Revealed in Elvis's Home in Palm Springs

 Mid-Century Modern is revealed in Elvis's home in Palm Springs during 1966 to 1967.  The urban developement became popular after WWII and continued to the late 70's  The style showed clean simple lines.

 Function was important based on the needs of the American family.  The circular cooking station allowed for more than one cook in the kitchen.  Technological advances led to production of new materials.  Plastic was a new invention that came in all colors and forms.

 Palm Springs, California shows many examples of Mid-Century Design.

 Animal prints brought nature in doors.

 Uncluttered sleek designs led to geometric forms.

 The distinguishing features of Mid-Century consists of an understated look with minimal fuss.

 There was an exploration of traditional and non traditional materials such as metal, glass, vinyl, plexiglass and lucite. 

 In Mid Century design the walls were made of glass to let the light in.

 Walk the streets of Palm Springs to see well preserved neighborhoods showing Mid-Century Modern.

The door with geometric designs goes perfectly with the sleek lines of Palm Trees.  

Hill Country Style in Fredricksburg is Decorating With a Western Flair

 Hill Country Style in Fredricksburg, Texas offers rich leather to sit comfortably with friends and family.

 Pamper yourself with bedding fit for a King and Queen of the house.

 Crystals radiate light in this fabulous chandelier.

 In 2020 the love of nature reflects in art.  Magnified feathers bring out the beauty of design revealing patterns in feathers.

 This table brings out the natural design in the rings of a tree.  What a great conversation piece.

 These unique coasters are one of a kind.

 Each piece of furniture tells a story of craftsmanship.

 Accessories are carefully chosen to bring out the western culture.

 Each pillow says I want to bring comfort and style to your home.

 I fell in love with the rooster lamp.  I took home the treasure and found a perfect place in my bedroom.

Fredericksberg is a great place to find Texas oils and spices.

 The Texas Hill Country contains ranches that raise cattle which is reflected in art.

 This unique coffee table was made from the rich designs in natural wood.

.  Colors of blue found in this plate reflect the Texas sky with big puffy white clouds.

Auer Haus Furniture Store in Fredericksburg, Texas has distinctive furnishings with elegant accessories.