Selecting and Styling with French Farmhouse Lighting
In this post: Lighting can make a huge difference to the character of a room. If you’re looking for affordable French farmhouse lighting, check out this complete guide.⇒
One of the fastest ways to make an impression in a room is by adding a fabulous chandelier!
Just picture one of your rooms that you’d love to update and imagine how different it would look by adding wonderful lighting. Not only would it change the ambiance of the room but the piece itself can make quite a bold statement. This is particularly so with large chandeliers, but even lamps and wall sconces can have a similar impact.
I often walk around my home and think exactly this. Despite the fact that I have recessed overhead lighting in most of my rooms (and enjoy that kind of lighting from a functional standpoint), I prefer each of my rooms to have some kind of light fixtures with French farmhouse style. The fixtures themselves can be intrinsically beautiful and the character they add to a room can make all the difference.
But lighting, as we know, can cost a fortune. In some cases you can save money by buying vintage, but there are also wonderful reproductions if you know where to look.
I’ve put together this shopping guide to share with you some of my favorite resources for affordable and stylish French farmhouse lighting, along with a full list of styling tips.
I’ve broken it down into 4 categories, including chandeliers, sconces, lamps and pendant lights. We all have our own idea of what constitutes affordable, so I’ve tried to keep most of the items on the low end of the spectrum, although prices have increased a lot in the last few years. There may be one or two special pieces in each category that are a bit higher, but the majority are in the lower range.
I hope you find something that works for you here, or maybe simply find inspiration for lighting you already own. I sometimes move my fixtures around until I find just the right place for each specific room and piece.
(This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.)
French Farmhouse Chandelier Lighting
If you really want to add a WOW factor to any room, you can’t beat the impact of a gorgeous chandelier. Sure they can be pricey, but if you know where to look, you can find something beautiful that’s not crazy expensive. You’ll find some of my favorite options below.
Be sure to check out these tips for decorating with French chandeliers:
- Choose the Right Location: Start by selecting the perfect spot for your chandelier. It could be above your dining table, in the foyer, or even in the bedroom for a touch of romance.
- Consider the Size: Ensure that the chandelier’s size is proportionate to the room. It should complement the space, not overwhelm it.
- Embrace the Rustic Look: French country chandeliers often have a distressed or weathered finish, even when they include crystal. Embrace this rustic look, as it adds to the charm.
- Match the Style: Coordinate the chandelier with your existing decor. If your home leans more towards the French country style, it’ll fit right in.
- Layer the Lighting: Don’t rely solely on the chandelier for illumination. Combine it with other lighting sources like sconces and table lamps for a warm and inviting ambiance.
- Opt for Soft Tones: French country chandeliers often feature muted colors like whites, creams, and soft pastels. These gentle hues can create a serene atmosphere.
- Consider Candle-style Bulbs: Candle-style bulbs give your chandelier an authentic, old-world feel. They’re a perfect match for this style of lighting.
- Add Some Greenery: Decorate around the chandelier with fresh flowers or faux greenery to enhance the natural and rustic vibe.
- Balance with Wood: Incorporate wooden elements in your decor, such as wooden furniture or exposed beams, to complement the chandelier’s rustic charm.
- Personalize with Accessories: Hang decorative accessories or crystals from the chandelier to add a personal touch and make it truly your own.
- Maintenance Matters: Keep your chandelier looking its best by dusting it regularly. Cleaning it gently with a damp cloth can also help maintain its beauty.
French Farmhouse Wall Sconces
I’ve always been a huge fan of sconces for both the mood lighting they offer, as well as their decorative benefit. They are like the jewelry in a room and look awesome flanking a mirror, a painting, or a cluster of varied wall hangings. In the right spot, they can even work alone, so don’t think you always need a pair. Here are some wonderful selections.
These tips will help you in styling your home with French sconces:
- Wall Placement: Consider the wall where you plan to install the sconces. French-style sconces can frame a piece of art, a mirror, or a focal point, adding a touch of elegance to the space.
- Mix and Match: Don’t feel tied to a uniform look. Mixing different French-style sconces with variations in design or finish can create an eclectic and visually interesting space.
- Artistic Detailing: Look for sconces with intricate and artistic detailing, such as scrollwork or floral motifs, to capture the essence of French design.
- Candle-Style Bulbs: Opt for sconces with candle-style bulbs to evoke the feel of traditional French candle sconces.
- Consider Function: Think about the sconces’ primary function. Are they primarily for ambiance, task lighting, or both? This will help you select the right design and placement.
- Matching Wall Color: Consider the color of your walls when choosing sconces. Sconces in shades that contrast with the wall color can create a striking visual impact.
- Historical Inspiration: Explore French architectural and design history to find sconce styles that draw inspiration from specific periods, such as Louis XV or Empire style. (I particularly love Empire style!)
- Versatile Finishes: While vintage finishes like antique gold are popular, consider sconces with versatile finishes like brushed nickel or aged bronze that can blend with various decor styles.
- Accessibility for Maintenance: Ensure the sconces are easy to access for maintenance, like changing bulbs or cleaning, without the need for complex fixtures or hard-to-reach spots.
French Farmhouse Lamps
Lamps can be the quintessential accessory in a space and are sometimes all you need on an end table or desk. In pairs on a console table they can offer symmetry and atmosphere, but they’re also great for certain tasks around the home. Enjoy these great alternatives, below.
Follow these tips to add a touch of sophistication and charm to your home with French-style lamps.
- Layer Lighting Sources: Combine French-style lamps with other lighting sources like chandeliers and sconces to create a well-lit, inviting atmosphere in your home.
- Choose Table Lamps Wisely: When selecting French-style table lamps, consider the height of your tables. The lamp’s height should be in proportion to the table it sits on.
- Focus on Lampshades: Pay attention to the lampshades. French-style lamps often feature fabric shades with delicate patterns. Choose shades that complement your decor.
- Create Pairs: Place lamps in pairs for balance and symmetry. This works well on bedside tables, console tables, or in the living room.
- Opt for Ornate Bases: Look for lamps with ornate and decorative bases that reflect the intricate detailing often associated with French design.
- Antique or Vintage Finds: Consider antique or vintage French-style lamps for a touch of authenticity. These can add character and history to your space.
- Soft, Warm Colors: Choose lamp bases and shades in soft, warm colors like pastels, muted gold, or ivory to create a cozy, welcoming ambiance.
- Versatile Placement: Place lamps in various rooms, such as the living room, bedroom, or entryway, to infuse a touch of French elegance throughout your home.
- Match with Decor: Ensure that the lamp design and finish match your overall decor style, whether it’s French provincial, Rococo, or another variant of French design.
- Consider Buffet Lamps: Buffet lamps with slender profiles can be perfect for narrow spaces like mantels or console tables.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Regularly dust and clean your lamps to keep them looking their best. Delicate detailing may require extra care during cleaning.
French Farmhouse Pendant Lights
Over an island or counter or in fact anywhere you want a focal point, pendant lights look great in a group while they shed light on the area of focus. Use them over a bar or even over a kitchen table. Here are my top picks.
Decorating tips for working with French style pendants:
- Adjustable Heights: Look for pendant lights with adjustable height options. This allows you to customize the lighting and maintain the right balance between style and functionality.
- Mix and Match: Consider using different styles of French pendant lights over the kitchen island or bar area. This can create an eclectic and visually appealing look.
- Glass or Crystal Elements: Choose pendant lights with glass or crystal elements to add a touch of luxury and elegance to your kitchen or bar space.
- Rustic Elegance: Combine the elegance of French design with a touch of rustic charm by selecting pendant lights with weathered finishes, such as distressed white or aged bronze.
- Focus on the Bulbs: The bulbs you choose can greatly influence the ambiance. Consider vintage-style Edison bulbs for a cozy, old-world feel.
- Use Pendant Lights as Focal Points: Make your pendant lights the focal points of the space. Hang them at varying heights to create an interesting visual effect.
- Coordinate with Seating: If you have bar stools or seating around the kitchen island, select pendant lights that coordinate with the colors and styles of the seating for a cohesive look.
- Illuminate Work Areas: Ensure that the pendant lights provide adequate illumination for kitchen tasks. Consider pendant lights with downward-focused lighting to light up the countertop effectively.
- French-Inspired Materials: Choose pendant lights made from materials that evoke the French countryside, like wrought iron or distressed wood.
- Balance with Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements such as wooden beams or stone textures in your kitchen or bar area to complement the French-style pendant lights.
- Functional Decor: Look for pendant lights that combine both form and function, offering both task lighting and a decorative element for your space.
- Spacing and Quantity: Pay attention to the spacing between pendant lights and the number of lights you need. Balance is key to achieving the desired effect.
When it comes to decorating your home with French-style lighting, the key is to infuse elegance, charm, and functionality into your space. Whether it’s choosing a French country chandelier, styling your home with French-style sconces, incorporating French-style lamps, or hanging pendant lights over the kitchen island or bar area, each type of lighting offers a unique opportunity to add a touch of timeless beauty.
Remember to consider your overall decor style, match finishes and colors, and personalize with accessories to create a space that’s not only well-lit but also visually captivating. With these tips in mind, you can transform your home into a welcoming and enchanting haven that reflects your own sense of style and creativity.
Resource Guide
To get the look, click on the items below for direct links to the products. Where actual items were no longer available, I’ve provided similar options. If an item is out of stock but may be restocked, I left it on the list.
(This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.)
SUBSCRIBE AND GET my free guide:
“20 Ways to Update Your Home for Your Changing Lifestyle”!
The Shops
Have you visited the Designthusiasm shops? Click below to shop my favorites, my home by room, and my Amazon shop. Be sure to follow me on Instagram for quick updates.
Lori, this is a great post! Speaking of lighting…I have track lights over my galley kitchen and I’m really tired of them. They are a good light source and aren’t really conspicuous but all the same, I would like to replace them. Do you know of a good source for more updated and Frenchy style track lights or should I just consider replacing them all together? I have an open floor plan so the lights over the bar are hanging close to the track lights. I value your ideas so much and hope you have some suggestions. XOXO
If you can, I would probably replace altogether. It’s a good opportunity to get something that fits better with your style.
Great collection of ideas Lory! I think some of those are excellent candidates for my home office re-do, which is getting closer all the time! 🙂 Take care over there, and thanks!
Thank you so much for this compilation! So hard to choose!