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I’ve decided that I want my 60’s ranch to be a cottage. That’s the great thing with ranches. Sure, they can be boring, basic, and blah. But they have no style….meaning you have the freedom to do what you want! You can’t exactly give a victorian home a prairie modern twist and you can’t really give a craftsman home the Scandinavian treatment. I mean, sure, it’s your home, you can do whatever you want. But you don’t want to do a disservice to your home or throw people off! Don’t worry, I’m not someone that thinks you can’t mix styles…I just think it’s important to know which is which!
I’ve said on here before that my style is French Country mixed with cottage and as we’ve been planning out our exterior makeover, I wanted it to match the inside and be cohesive with the style that I’ve chosen…except…well, French Country and cottage can be very different things. So I started to get confused and doubt everything I thought I knew about design as well as feel a little stupid if I had it all wrong. I mean sure, I pick what I like and my style is pretty consistent anyway and rules are meant to be broken…but still. If I was going to assign my house a style I wanted it to be as cohesive as it could be!
As an example, here are some exteriors that really inspire me:
But what category do those pictures fall under? Have I been using these words incorrectly? Do I say French Country and mean cottage? Is farmhouse supposed to be in here somewhere? Or am I just a hot mess and off the map completely??
I’m no interior designer and never have I claimed to be, so it’s very likely that I’m using these style terms incorrectly, but still, I was curious!
I decided that instead of just doubting it all I should educate myself. So to books and the internet I went and this post is what I came up with.
If you’re curious to know if I’ve been using these words wrong, what the differences between these styles are, or curious to know if you’ve been thinking of them wrong, well then, keep reading!
The Difference Between French Country, English Cottage, & Farmhouse Design
When I search French Country exteriors and cottage exteriors, I get very different things.
If you were to google search a French Country home, you’d get this:
That looks a little American to me, but the design inspiration had to come from somewhere I suppose. So is French Country style big and grand? Like this?
No, because that is a chateau! French Country is not the same as these grand, luxurious houses.
Oh, and if you’re wondering what made me an expert all of a sudden, I’m getting these photos in the most authentic places I could think of: french real estate for sale websites. I mean, genius, right? 😉
If we were to search for what’s for sale in the outskirts of Provence right now, we’d find this:
Pretty different than what America would call a French Country home, right? And no, it’s not titled “French Country” of course, as I believe that would be people in China calling their food “Chinese food” when it’s just, you know, food.
But it is a country house in France and well, that’s about as French Country as you can get! That looks a lot closer to what I thought French Country was, not like this huge place that got built in Minnesota:
I think the American version of these French homes is a lot grander and more magnificent than what is actually french country. If anything, American’s version is closer to chateaus, estates, and manors. So when you search “French Country” and see big, grand homes, I believe that’s what’s wrong!
According to this source, French Country style is inspired by the country (not really a lightbulb moment…but kinda!), specifically Provence. French decor can be super elegant and over-the-top, but when you mix it with “country”, it’s a lot more warm, laid-back, and simple. French Country originates from the “rural valleys of southern France” (source), so if you think French Country is grand and ornate, you are probably thinking of Parisian styles, like this.
According to this article, “French Country” is a catch-all term, but it can split into even more specific categories, with French Provincial being the more elegant style and Country french being more rustic.
Here’s a guide I created to what French Country style is in a nutshell, feel free to pin!
So, we’ve got all that figured out. We know what French Country style is!
But now are you (we, me) getting French Country and English Cottage confused?
At first glance, no. Because this is what comes up when you google search an English cottage:
This English cottage seems to have a hobbit/Lord of the Rings feel. Though there definitely are similarities, at first glance, it seems pretty different than French Country.
But can Google be believed? Let’s check out some English real estate sites to see.
So while I see a lot of the same styles between French Country and English cottage, I don’t think they can be used interchangeably. I mean first off, the name + origin, but also, English cottage has more of a Tudor style to it I think.
Cottages originated in England, which is why “English cottage” comes to mind first when you think of cottages.
As far as interiors, cottages usually have a lot more mixed prints, wallpaper, patterned upholstery, animal prints, and general things that would make you think “grandma”. Not hating, I do love this style…
But cottage style is too broad a word to nail down just one style. Overall it’s a home type, not necessarily a design style, and it symbolizes warmth, comfort, and natural materials. But you could have an English cottage style, coastal/beachy, country cottage, etc. Cottage style is the “traditional take on shabby chic” (source), and it’s a big umbrella for many different styles under it. So there isn’t a big chance you were using that term incorrectly because it could mean a lot of different things.
So now how does the farmhouse style fit into all of this?
Well, that one is a little difficult to explain because just like cottages, there are farmhouses all over the world so it could be anything! But most people are thinking “Fixer Upper” farmhouse, so we’ll call that classic/modern farmhouse.
For example, if you were to google search farmhouse style, you’d get this:
That is probably what we’d all expect, right?
But an actual farmhouse for sale in England looks like this:
Pretty different, right?
That example goes to show that when an American says their style is “farmhouse”, they do not quite literally mean “farmhouse”. They mean modern farmhouse, like this:
So of course, with a modern farmhouse style, you’ll see more new and modern things, making it different than the country/cottage look.
The basics of rustic and cozy are still there, but it’s mixed with contemporary pieces and sleek lines.
French Country style is softer while farmhouse style is cleaner and more casual. There are lots of curved lines in French Country style, while farmhouse style may have more defined lines.I read that somewhere, but I can’t remember where to cite it. No, I’m not that intune to lines when it comes to decorating haha.
Do you feel like you get the differences now?
After browsing what authentic homes in the French countryside were like, I felt relieved that I was after the same style that I thought I was. I’ll stick with saying my style is French Country inspired with cottage elements (just not English cottage) or I’ll say French Country Cottage. Though I haven’t seen that term used all that much, there is this whole blog based off of French Country Cottage style, so it must be a thing!
I think there are a lot of similarities between all of these styles. I think cottage can mean so much and you can use them interchangeably, but I can’t say the same for American (modern) farmhouse. French Country and English Country can also not be used interchangeably. This article describes those two well.
Whewww did I lose you?
I’ll admit, this post was more for myself than anyone. I know I needed to figure it out in my head, but I hope it did help someone else. With that being said, feel free to disagree with me or add some info that I don’t know. I’ll be happy to hear it!
FAQs
What is the difference between French country and French farmhouse? ›
"French country embodies a soft, airy, feminine, and refined elegance," Richardson says. "Farmhouse embodies a cleaner look, more defined lines, and has a more casual style." Hello, subway tile and shiplap all day, every day.
What is the difference between a French country and English cottage? ›When it comes to furniture, French country kitchens typically exhibit pieces with scrolls and moldings, while English design exhibits more straight, rigid lines and weathered surfaces. "There are fussier architectural elements and motifs in French design than in English design," says Ceely.
What is French country cottage style? ›French-country style combines European elegance with rustic comforts. Using soothing hues, soft patterns, and antique accents, the popular decorating aesthetic creates an inviting look that's both polished and lived-in.
What is the difference between country style and farmhouse style? ›The basics of rustic and cozy are still there, but it's mixed with contemporary pieces and sleek lines. French Country style is softer while farmhouse style is cleaner and more casual. There are lots of curved lines in French Country style, while farmhouse style may have more defined lines.
Can you mix French Country with farmhouse? ›Mix It Up
Lauren Vandiver combined two of our favorite styles, French country and modern farmhouse, into her living space, proving that mixing and matching different looks can most certainly be done in a stylish manner.
This style often features soft and muted colors, natural materials like raw wood and stone, plaster walls, wooden beams and floral and botanical motifs. A French farmhouse plays upon the contrast of dramatic details like carefully crafted dining room tables or exquisite chandeliers against a rustic farmhouse setting.
What is French country farmhouse decor? ›What is French farmhouse style? French farmhouse is an authentic, simple, and warm decorating style. Its four main characteristics are natural materials with a strong presence of wood, vintage furniture and decor, neutral hues, and practical and functional rooms.
What makes a home French country style? ›Characteristics of French Country Interior Design
Materials are simple, but it's the patterns that are typically complex. Wood chairs upholstered in an intricate linen print, a mirror in a new ornate frame, a vintage rug on a new hardwood floor — all embody the French country aesthetic.
Fermette/Ferme: A ferme is a farm, a rural farmhouse, usually with outbuildings. A fermette is a small ferme or farmhouse in the countryside.
What is the difference between farmhouse and country decor? ›Rustic Farmhouse
The key difference between the two styles is that Farmhouse is usually less natural. This could mean the furniture has been painted over or buffed to look more new, whereas Rustic uses reclaimed wood in its natural state to give it a cabin-like style.
What is French country cottage decor? ›
French cottage style blends country charm with stylish sophistication to create beautiful, inviting spaces. With French country colors, patterns, and decorative accents, you'll feel as if you're surrounded by the vineyards and villages of the French countryside.
What is an English cottage style house? ›The term “cottage” referred to homes where farmers called “cotters” resided. These quaint houses featured stone facades, gabled rooflines, brick pathways, oversized chimneys, and thatched roofs. The cottage look has become synonymous with the English countryside, where many cottage-style homes still dot the landscape.
What is the difference between English cottage and farmhouse? ›Both cottage and farmhouse styles favour simplicity. But cottage style is more romantic and will often include soft colours over natural finishes. Farmhouses, on the other hand, are often simple and practical. Similarly, farmhouse furniture will usually be practical rather than decorative.
What is replacing farmhouse style? ›What trend is replacing farmhouse? Cottagecore. The new hot style that is on the rise is Cottagecore. According to an article published on realtor.com, “While slightly similar, this trend is replacing the popular modern farmhouse trend, which may be on its way out, according to designers.
What is Joanna Gaines style? ›Embrace farmhouse styling
Joanna has become known for her rustic, farmhouse style of design. ( 9Now) Aside from shiplap, another feature you'll see in a lot of Fixer Upper homes is a barn door or two.
French farmhouse style bedrooms are both chic and cozy. This is done by using white bed linens with delicate details, period statement chairs and unique light fixtures like candles or chandeliers. These bedrooms often feature farmhouse structural details like shiplap or exposed beams.
What colors go with French country? ›What are the colors for French country? French country design has a neutral color palette including white, beige, gray and taupe. The French also like to add subtle and faded colors like light green, french blue, pale pink, or lavender.
What is the difference between modern farmhouse and modern French country? ›While these two decor styles are very similar they are definitely not the same. They both encompass neutral colors, antiques, and natural materials. Farmhouse is more casual and French country is more elegant.
What is the difference between French country and English country decor? ›English Country house styles are very similar to French Country styles, but don't have the rafter tail kick that French designs feature. Another distinguishing difference is that English Country homes feature more squared off windows, diamond shaped window panes and squared off openings.
What color are walls in French country? ›It's a mix of white, beige, taupe, and gray. These timeless and peaceful colors create an elegant and comfortable atmosphere in your home. Generally, the walls are in white, light gray or beige, as well as the main furnishings (sofa, bed…).
What are the best French country wall colors? ›
French country homes bring to mind a color palette of pale yellows and pinks, shades of off-white, and just enough refined elegance and je ne sais quoi to any space.
What is French country style kitchen? ›A French country-style kitchen is a kitchen design inspired by France's rustic and rural kitchens. This style typically features warm, earthy colors and natural materials, such as wood and stone, and incorporates elements like exposed beams, open shelving, and farmhouse-style sinks.
What are French country homes called? ›French country homes feature luxurious yet effortless stylings, natural stone facades, and chic rustic interiors. Otherwise known as Provencal homes, they have inspired homebuilders and decorators for centuries.
What are French country kitchens? ›To put it simply, French country kitchens are charming and chic. They can feature fancy oven hoods, classic furniture, vintage-inspired lighting and a combination of natural materials — wood, seagrass, leather and cotton included — to make a room feel homey yet elegant.
What does French country style mean? ›French country style is defined as a mix of rustic and refined decor inspired by the homes in the French countryside. It's a popular style worldwide because of its comfortable and casual elegance that's never ostentatious. Three distinct characteristics make up the style: Softly patterned fabrics in muted colors.
How do you decorate in French country style? ›French country decor ideas: how to get the look
Begin with a color palette of soft pastels, creams and white, across paint and stylised wallpaper; layer on fabrics, either plain linen or traditional toiles, ticking and classic florals; and curate a collection of antique and rustic furniture in pale wood and rattan.
Farmhouse style is an interior design style that prioritizes practicality, simplicity, and rustic charm. While farmhouse style tends to reflect the aesthetics of rural architecture, it also embraces modern comforts, creating a look that feels both cozy and stylish.
What is the most common type of house in France? ›The longère is one of the most quintessentially French property types, most common in Brittany and Normandy but also found in Limousin and other parts of western France.
What is the most common house in France? ›Apartments – The Preferred Home
Most homes in France, whether in a town or a city, are rented apartments. French streets are embellished with rows of four or five-story buildings with large doors made of wood or metal.
You can mix in farmhouse with traditional, or even farmhouse with modern. Your home should be a reflection of you and your style, and if you love a couple styles…that is what you should do!
What's the difference between shabby chic and French country? ›
Shabby chic furniture is more geometrical in shape. Square and rectangle shaped tables, beds and cupboards. Shabby chic furniture is more fashion oriented; meanwhile the French furniture has a conventional and classic appeal.
What makes a house look like a farmhouse? ›A farmhouse-style house is a home that's usually built on a large piece of land characterized by large open living spaces, front porches, exposed wood, and an emphasis on functionality above everything else.
How do you dress a country cottage? ›- Decorate in earthy, natural tones. ...
- Mix and match wooden furniture. ...
- Choose warm, earthy colors. ...
- Choose a Shaker-style kitchen. ...
- Create a homely, social space with a vintage kitchen table and chairs.
Country-Cottage Decorating Basics
Cozy and easygoing textiles, like flannel, cotton, and linen. Homey patterns, like gingham, florals, and ticking stripes. Distressed, worn, or painted furniture and fixtures. Sun-drenched, airy spaces that bring the outdoors in.
Differences of Cottage and Farmhouse Furniture
Cottage furniture is more feminine than farmhouse and utilizes soft colors. Cottage style incorporates more colors than farmhouse that sticks to a neutral palette that's soothing and calm. Its comfy and the furniture will feature more frill and more decoration.
While cottages may vary in size and style, traditional English Cottages display color and pattern in abundance. Reds, pinks, yellows, blues and greens, florals, checks and paisleys are part of the decorating vocabulary and are often mixed and matched to charming results…
What makes a cottage a cottage and not a house? ›A cottage is a type of small house that can fit any number of architectural styles and house designs. The definition of a cottage varies among cultures, but a cottage tends to be a small, cozy home in the countryside—often a summer home or vacation home.
What makes a farmhouse a farmhouse? ›A traditional American Farmhouse is typically one-and-a-half to two stories and features asymmetrical massing with a gable at the front. These homes feature simple detailing, open floor plans with central chimneys, and often wraparound porches.
Is farmhouse style out for 2023? ›Is farmhouse style out for 2023? While modern farmhouse decor is still extremely popular, in 2023 we'll continue to see this style evolve into a more refined look, borrowing aspects from modern European, Belgian farmhouse, coastal, and Scandinavian styles.
What is the decorating trend for 2023? ›In 2023, home décor and design trends are primed to shift into earthy, texture-rich territory via brown and wooden furniture, handmade pieces, neutral color palettes, and bespoke touches that lend warmth and character to a space.
What decorating style never goes out of style? ›
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Based on the vintage, classic looks popularized more than 50 years ago, mid-century modern is here to stay. The adaptability of this style makes it easy to fit into any style of home.
Joanna, who is known for her contemporary industrial style, revealed her interior design tips, where she shared the story behind all her home remodels.
What jeans do Joanna Gaines wear? ›Joanna's Investment Must Have: Mother The Weekender Fray
The pants Joanna is currently loving (and probably wearing as you read this): Mother's The Weekender Fray ($228). The jeans are flared, comfortable, casual, stretchy, and midrise. She explains, "I wear them, not often, I wear them every day.
Gaines' passion for modern farmhouse decor started plenty of design trends over the years. A combination of sleek, contemporary lines and cozy, old-fashioned rural decor, the modern farmhouse aesthetic takes cues from country living but gives it a fresh twist, according to Homes & Gardens.
What makes a house French country? ›A French-style home, also called a French provincial home, is a stone, brick, or stucco house with a steep rooftop and large windows. Often featuring courtyard gardens, iron gates, and gravel pathways, French-style homes are known for their rustic appeal.
What is Joanna Gaines design style called? ›Joanna, who is known for her contemporary industrial style, revealed her interior design tips, where she shared the story behind all her home remodels.
What is the definition of French country decor? ›French country style is defined as a mix of rustic and refined decor inspired by the homes in the French countryside. It's a popular style worldwide because of its comfortable and casual elegance that's never ostentatious. Three distinct characteristics make up the style: Softly patterned fabrics in muted colors.
What is farmhouse cottage style? ›Differences of Cottage and Farmhouse Furniture
Cottage furniture is more feminine than farmhouse and utilizes soft colors. Cottage style incorporates more colors than farmhouse that sticks to a neutral palette that's soothing and calm. Its comfy and the furniture will feature more frill and more decoration.
What are the colors for French country? French country design has a neutral color palette including white, beige, gray and taupe. The French also like to add subtle and faded colors like light green, french blue, pale pink, or lavender.
What is English country vs French country decor? ›While french country décor usually involves small birds, and farm animals, english wall décor typically includes hunting scenes with horses and dogs. It also showcases nature prints and botanical prints. Dark wood floors with wide boards are usually seen in both the french and english country kitchen styles.