Before & After: French Cottage Style Home Renovation

French cottage style home design by Decorilla

Have you ever dreamed of bringing the charm of the French countryside into your home? We helped one of our clients do just that with a stunning transformation that embraces the French cottage style. Discover how they infused their space with rustic elegance, creating a cozy yet sophisticated retreat.

The Challenge: French Cottage Style Home Interior

The client came to Decorilla seeking online interior design services to help them transform a newly purchased but dated house. With the exterior remodel underway, they wanted to ensure the interior matched the new look seamlessly. The core idea was a consistent interior flow that embraced the French cottage style without an overwhelming amount of white. They also needed a designer to:

Create a cohesive design plan for the ground floor.
Incorporate the French cottage style in the open-concept living space.
Balance whites and greys with wood accents, blues, and greens.
Design two French cottage bedrooms and a master bathroom
Set up one separate home office and one smaller workspace inside the living room layout.

Not sure if Frech cottage design is right for you? Then take our Free Interior Design Style Quiz to find your true decorating style today!

Design Inspiration: French Cottage Decor & Calm Palette

Elegant living room design with arched build-ins, by Decorilla — Elegant living room design with arched build-ins, by **Decorilla**

Drawn to the serene elegance o French cottage style, the clients searched for interior design ideas from various sources. They found themselves captivated by rooms that effortlessly combined neutral palettes with understated yet impactful accents. The subtle interplay of whites and greys, punctuated by wood accents, spoke to their desire for a refreshed, cohesive look. Consequently, their Pinterest boards were brimming with images of inviting living spaces and serene bedrooms.

Timeless living room design and color scheme by Decorilla — Timeless living room design and color scheme by **Decorilla**

All those open-concept living areas, for instance, had in common seamless integration and fluid movement. Large windows and thoughtfully placed décor brightened the spaces while also bringing the outdoors in. Each piece was chosen for its visual appeal as much as for its ability to contribute to a cohesive, comfortable living environment. This careful curation provided a visual roadmap to contemporary French country design, emphasizing the balance they wished to achieve.

Initial Concepts: Finding the Right Designer

Preliminary proposal by Decorilla designer Wanda P. — Preliminary proposal by **Decorilla** designer, Wanda P.

Upon completing Decorilla’s design questionnaire, the clients faced a major decision. The Decorilla team identified two talented designers with impressive track records: Wanda P. and Dragana V. The problem was, they both delivered exceptional creative proposals.

Wanda P. presented a design emphasizing subtle elegance and functionality. Her moodboard showcased a soothing blend of natural textures and minimalist décor, aiming for a refined atmosphere that felt simultaneously timeless and contemporary.

Preliminary proposal by Decorilla designer Dragana V. — Preliminary proposal by **Decorilla** designer, Dragana V.

On the other hand, Dragana V. offered a set of ideas that artfully balanced the French cottage style with modern sensibilities. Using warm wood tones, strategic pops of color, and stylish furnishings, Dragana’s vision promised to transform the space just as the client dreamed of. Their immediate feedback echoed their enthusiasm: “This all looks perfect. Let’s proceed with this design!”

Results Revealed: French Cottage Style Interior Design

French cottage decor in the living room by Decorilla — French cottage style in a living room by **Decorilla**

As expected, the redesigned home embodies a harmonious blend of French cottage style and contemporary flair. Neutral tones dominate the space, with the curated accents standing out elegantly against the white and grey backdrop. Every element, from the rustic coffee table to the minimalist floor lamps, contributes to an atmosphere of refined simplicity.

Welcoming Living Room

French cottage living room interior by Decorilla — French cottage living room interior by **Decorilla**

In the open-plan living room, soft furnishings, like the blue-grey sofa and the leather armchair, speak volumes about refined comfort. The large windows flood the room with natural light, accentuating the earthy & natural wood tones of the furniture and the decor showcased in the built-in shelving unit.

French cottage interior before and after design by Decorilla — Living room interior before and after design by **Decorilla**

In stark contrast to its former state, once a dark room with dated finishes and heavy furniture now feels expansive and cohesive. The new layout prioritizes openness and functionality, eliminating unnecessary partitions and allowing for smooth movement throughout the space.

French cottage style living room design by Decorilla — French cottage style living room design by **Decorilla**

Adding to the room’s charm is the careful selection of décor elements. The framed botanical prints on the wall introduce a touch of nature, emphasizing the French countryside theme. Using natural materials further grounds the design in a sense of rustic elegance. The strategic placement of plants throughout the room also brings a sense of freshness and vitality, complementing the overall serene palette.

Keeping an Eye for Detail

What strongly sets this design apart is the meticulous attention to detail. Each element, from fabric texture to cabinetry hardware, has been carefully considered to create a connected flow. The balance between aesthetic and practicality ensures that the living room is not only beautiful but also ideally suited to the client’s needs. Moreover, thoughtful design choices exemplify the essence of French cottage decor, making the redesign simultaneously timeless and modern.

French cottage style home office by Decorilla — French cottage style home office by **Decorilla**

The mini home office design also strongly emphasizes functional elegance. The built-in desk area seamlessly integrates into the living room, offering a practical workspace without disrupting the overall aesthetic. This combination of shelving and cabinetry not only serves as storage but also allows the clients to display their favorite books and artifacts. It reflects a thoughtful approach to modern living, where functionality and style coexist.

Family-Friendly Dining Room

French cottage style by Decorilla — French cottage style dining room by **Decorilla**

The French-style dining room features a harmonious blend of natural materials and neutral tones. Its centerpiece, a sturdy wooden dining table, anchors the space with its rustic charm, while the surrounding upholstered chairs ooze comfort and understated elegance. Above the table, a sleek black metal chandelier with exposed bulbs provides a modern touch, contrasting beautifully with the earthy tones of the wood and textiles.

The redesign has introduced light and openness. Replacing the dark blinds with simple, elegant Roman shades allowed abundant natural light to flood the room. Formerly blue walls are now painted soft white, creating an airy environment and making the room feel much larger and more welcoming. The new layout also promotes functionality, allowing for more comfortable and enjoyable dining experiences.

French cottage decor scheme by Decorilla — Dining room by **Decorilla**

The interplay of textures and colors defines the dining room’s refreshed look. The table’s natural wood blends with the green cabinetry surfaces, while minimalist décor maintains a contemporary edge. The upholstered chairs and the neutral rug tie the room together, creating a balanced design. Meanwhile, glass vases with fresh greenery and the woven basket on the wall add subtle but effective layers of visual interest.

French cottage interior by Decorilla — French cottage interior by **Decorilla**

Functionality has been seamlessly integrated into the design. The built-in seating by the window provides a cozy nook for more informal gatherings or a quiet place to read. The adjacent cabinetry offers ample storage for dining essentials, keeping the room uncluttered and organized. Overall, the design promises that the dining room will remain a favorite gathering place for years to come.

Serene Home Office

French cottage interior design by Decorilla — French cottage interior design by **Decorilla**

At the center of a new home office is a sleek wooden desk whose spacious surface comfortably accommodates a large monitor. Flanking the desk, light grey swivel chairs add a touch of sophistication, while built-in shelving units behind it offer ample storage. The combination of open shelves and closed cabinets allows for both the display and concealment of office essentials, contributing to a clean and professional environment.

French cottage decor in a home office by Decorilla — French cottage decor in a home office by **Decorilla**

The space feels open and airy, thanks to a cohesive design palette and strategic layout. The new window treatments are simple yet elegant curtains, which allow the large windows to bring in plenty of natural light. In addition, the overall color scheme of soft greens and natural wood tones creates a calm and focused atmosphere, perfect for concentration and creativity.

All elements interact harmoniously, contributing to a cohesive, balanced look. Natural materials and soft colors foster a tranquil atmosphere, while the modern furnishings ensure the space meets the demands of a contemporary home office. The lighting fixtures, both the ceiling light and the picture lights above the shelves, provide adequate illumination while adding an elegant touch to the overall design.

French Cottage Style Kitchen

French cottage decor in the kitchen by Decorilla — French cottage decor in the kitchen by **Decorilla**

Dominated by a palette of soft whites and warm wood tones, the redesigned kitchen feels airy and welcoming. Central to this design is the large kitchen island, topped with pristine white marble and framed by light wood. The island is complemented by three industrial-style stools, their dark metal frames adding a touch of contrast and modernity to the otherwise serene environment. A matte black pendant hangs elegantly overhead, casting a warm glow over the space.

Previously, the kitchen was characterized by dark cabinetry and an overwhelming sense of clutter. The designer has replaced these elements with bright cabinetry, instantly opening up the room to create a sense of spaciousness. High windows allow natural light to flood the space, further enhancing the airy feel.

French cottage style kitchen by Decorilla — French cottage style kitchen by **Decorilla**

The white cabinetry, which extends to the ceiling, provides ample storage and is beautifully balanced by the patterned tile backsplash behind the stove. With its subtle geometric design, this tile also acts as a beautiful focal point. The choice of a farmhouse sink and a modern faucet adds rustic into the contemporary, while the thoughtful placement of the oven and microwave ensures these appliances are easily accessible.

French cottage kitchen interior design by Decorilla — French cottage kitchen interior design by **Decorilla**

The layout has been designed to facilitate easy movement between the different areas of the kitchen, from the sink to the stove to the refrigerator. The expansive countertops offer plenty of workspace for cooking and baking. At the same time, the kitchen island doubles as a social hub where family and friends can gather. Ample storage, both in the form of cabinets and drawers, ensures that everything has its place, keeping the countertops clutter-free and the kitchen organized.

Relaxing Master Bedroom Retreat

French cottage style bedroom by Decorilla — French cottage style bedroom by **Decorilla**

The redesigned bedroom encapsulates the essence of the French cottage style. A plush, upholstered bed dominates the layout, adorned with soft, neutral linens and flanked by matching nightstands. Above the bed, a serene landscape painting brings a touch of nature indoors, while flanking mirrors on either side reflect light to enhance the room’s airy ambiance.

French cottage master bedroom interior before and after by Decorilla — French cottage master bedroom interior before and after by **Decorilla**

This French cottage-style bedroom is bright and organized, with a thoughtful layout that promotes relaxation. The light-colored walls and minimalistic décor contribute to an uncluttered look, and the strategic furniture scheme ensures an open and spacious feel. Large windows are dressed in sheer curtains, allowing natural light to flood the space, and further enhance its inviting atmosphere.

French cottage bedroom design by Decorilla — French cottage bedroom design by **Decorilla**

The woven wicker trunk at the foot of the bed serves multiple purposes. It provides practical storage and a seating spot, underscoring the room’s rustic charm. Its warm wood tones also complement those of the dresser and the bedside tables. Meanwhile, a large, decorative pendant light hangs from the vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, drawing the eye upward and emphasizing the room’s spaciousness.

The Walk-in Closet Layout

French cottage style walk-in closet layout by Decorilla — French cottage style walk-in closet layout by **Decorilla**

Although a part of the French cottage bedroom, the walk-in closet itself is a standout feature. Its layout communicates intention, showcasing it was designed with both aesthetics and utility in mind. The well-organized shelves and drawers provide abundant storage for clothing and accessories, ensuring everything is visible and within reach.

French cottage style walk-in closet design by Decorilla — A walk-in closet design by **Decorilla**

The soft green cabinetry creates a calming atmosphere, transcending the sense of calm that permeates the entire bedroom suite. The addition of a small ottoman provides a convenient spot for dressing, further enhancing the closet’s functionality. Above it, a full-length mirror reflects light and makes the narrow space feel more spacious and open.

French cottage style walk-in closet by Decorilla — A walk-in closet by **Decorilla**

Each closet section has been thoughtfully designed to maximize space and efficiency. Open shelves allow easy access to frequently used items, while the drawers keep smaller belongings neatly tucked away. Hanging rods at different heights accommodate a variety of garments, from long dresses to shorter jackets, ensuring optimal use of vertical space. Such a thoughtful layout not only keeps the closet organized but also makes it easy to find and retrieve items quickly.

Spa-Inspired Master Bathroom

French cottage style bathroom by Decorilla — French cottage style bathroom by **Decorilla**

The master bathroom features a luxurious freestanding bathtub. It’s positioned next to a large window and framed by soft, neutral curtains that allow natural light to cascade into the room. Adjacent to the tub is a spacious glass-enclosed shower with sleek black fixtures that add a contemporary touch to the classic design.

French cottage master bathroom interior before and after design by Decorilla — Master bathroom interior before and after design by **Decorilla**

The transformation is remarkable, especially considering that it involved significant layout remodeling. In contrast to the original tight and dark scheme, light wood for the cabinetry and the soft, neutral tiles now exude a bright, inviting flair. The entire setup has been optimized for better flow, making it feel much larger and more functional.

French cottage bathroom design by Decorilla — French cottage bathroom design by **Decorilla**

Modern fixtures and clean lines also contribute to a fresh, updated look while maintaining a timeless French cottage appeal. The shower’s geometric tile pattern adds subtle texture, creating visual interest without overwhelming the serene palette.

French cottage bathroom by Decorilla — French cottage bathroom by **Decorilla**

The interaction of various elements within the bathroom is harmonious and well-balanced. The double vanity features ample storage, topped with elegant white countertops. Black framed mirrors and matching wall sconces enhance the symmetry and provide focused lighting for daily routines.

French cottage decor in the master bathroom by Decorilla — Master bathroom by **Decorilla**

Above the bathtub hangs a modern pendant light with a clear glass globe, casting an inviting glow. To the right of the tub, a small wooden stool holds a potted plant, introducing a touch of greenery and a natural element to the room. The wall behind is adorned with two framed abstract art pieces in soft, muted tones that complement the bathroom’s neutral color palette.

Inviting Guest Bedroom

French cottage style design by Decorilla — French cottage style design by **Decorilla**

The guest bedroom displays a harmonious blend of comfort and style, characterized by a soothing neutral palette and nostalgic accents. This layout centers around a minimalist yet cozy bed with a light wood frame, that beautifully combines with two white nightstands. Each nightstand supports a matching lamp designed as a contemporary interpretation of the classic form.

French cottage guest bedroom before and after design by Decorilla — Guest bedroom before and after design by **Decorilla**

In place of this French cottage style bedroom used to be one of the bathrooms. The remodeling project transformed it into a cozy retreat but also allowed for a more functional layout across the entire floor.

French cottage decor in the guest bedroom by Decorilla — Guest bedroom by **Decorilla**

The previously dark and tiny room now exudes a sense of order. Light, airy curtains frame large windows that flood the room with natural light, contrasting sharply with its former state. A textured area rug in warm hues grounds the space, adding both color and coziness. Above the bed, a piece of botanical art adds a touch of nature, complementing the room’s earthy tones.

French cottage guest bedroom interior design by Decorilla — French cottage guest bedroom interior design by **Decorilla**

At the bed’s foot, a tufted bench creates a perfect spot for relaxing or placing belongings. A full-length arched mirror reflects its shape and also visually expands the space. The ample storage provided by the wooden closets ensures the room remains clutter-free, further enhancing its peaceful vibe.

Entryway

Upon entering this French cottage-style home, one is greeted by a black wrought-iron door, which sets a refined tone for the space. Adjacent to the door, a built-in green storage unit provides practical space for storing shoes and coats, ensuring the entry remains clutter-free.

French cottage style entryway by Decorilla — Entryway before and after design by **Decorilla**

The delicate balance between utility and design is further accentuated by the tasteful French cottage decor, including a potted plant that adds an additional touch of freshness. In place of the original bulky wooden beams and dark floors now shine lighter tones, creating an airy and modern feel.

French cottage decor in an entryway by Decorilla — French cottage decor in an entryway by **Decorilla**

The light wood bench, accompanied by a couple of plush pillows, offers a comfortable sitting spot while putting on shoes. The staircase, featuring light wood steps and black metal railings, complements the overall design, seamlessly connecting the entryway to the upper levels. Refined black accents, dispersed from the door to the railings, contrast beautifully with the soft, neutral hues of the walls and floors.

This redesign also posed several challenges for the designers. Integrating modern elements while maintaining the home’s original character required meticulous planning. Ultimately, the new entryway sets the proper stage for the home’s welcoming ambiance, enhancing its functionality and visual appeal.

Hallway

Every segment of the house epitomizes French cottage style, and the staircases, with their airy and elegant aesthetic, are no exception. The space has been meticulously crafted to blend functionality and charm, starting with the light wood stairs that ascend alongside black metal railings.

French cottage style hallway and storage by Decorilla — Hallway and storage design by **Decorilla**

At the foot of the staircase, a cozy nook showcases a stained-glass window, which infuses the area with vibrant hues and a charming touch of classic artistry. Light floods the space, enhancing the feeling of openness.

French cottage style hallway interior by Decorilla — French cottage style hallway interior by **Decorilla**

The hallway, adorned with botanical-themed artwork, leads to various parts of the house, with each piece contributing to the overall French cottage decor. Its design emphasizes simplicity and comfort, evident in the neutral color palette and natural materials used throughout. Curated French cottage-style decor involves touches of greenery and subtle ornamental elements that add to the overall ambiance.

French cottage style hallway design by Decorilla — French cottage hallway interior by **Decorilla**

The upstairs hallway continues the thematic cottage design. The light wood banister with black metal spindles provides a sophisticated yet natural contrast, while the stone tile floor lends a solid, earthy feel to the space. A striking triangular pendant light hangs from the ceiling, its minimalist design blending seamlessly with the cascading wall art trio.

Design Details: Sourcing the Perfect Pieces

Shopping list by Decorilla — Shopping list by **Decorilla**

Shaping this French cottage-style interior, Dragana paid extraordinary attention to detail, ensuring each piece of furniture and decor resonated with the client. Leveraging Decorilla’s exclusive trade discounts, she also masterfully balanced elegance and affordability.

The entire process provided a seamless experience for the client. The resulting space was a beautifully cohesive reflection of their vision, far surpassing initial expectations. Ultimately, the client’s heartfelt feedback reflected their satisfaction: “We love all of this!”

Get the Look: French Cottage Style Decor & Design

Embrace the timeless charm of French cottage style by incorporating natural materials, soft hues, and vintage accents. Focus also on blending rustic elements with elegant touches to create a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Here are our designer picks to get you started: