When we think of French Provincial furniture, we picture pastoral Europe with its romanticised countryside and timeless cottage-style designs. It is this connection to historical identity that has allowed French Provincial as a style to maintain a presence in households across the globe, with Australians specifically having a particular penchant for the style's natural, practical charms.

Showcasing natural materials, soft finishes, and elegant simplicity, it's easy to see how these 18th-century French sensibilities pair with the laid-back, often coastal-inspired styles that Australian households gravitate towards. However, when choosing to embrace a particular style of design, it's also important to see how these styles can weave into the tapestry that is your home, and that means knowing how to decorate in a way that emphasises the charms of these pieces.

At La Joie Living, we offer a curated range of beautiful French Provincial-inspired pieces that elevate any space, evoking a sense of tranquillity and sophistication. When paired with indoor plants, these pieces create an inviting and serene environment, harmonising nature with craftsmanship.

As we embrace the trend of bringing nature indoors, this guide will walk you through how to incorporate plants and natural materials into your living spaces, while keeping in mind the unique features of French Provincial style. Plus, given that most of our customers are living in Australia, we will be recommending plant varieties that thrive in our climate and can be seamlessly integrated into your home without too much stress.

The Pastoral Synergy Between French Provincial & Indoor Plants

The beauty of French Provincial design lies in its understated, naturalistic use of natural textures, embracing organic materials like wood, rattan, and linen. These characteristics lend themselves effortlessly to plant pairings, where the soft greens of foliage complement the earthy tones of wood and the delicate patterns of woven rattan.

In creating an indoor ecosystem, it’s important to select plants that not only suit your space but also complement the aesthetic of your furniture. The right plants can add life, texture, and colour, turning your home into a peaceful retreat without compromising on practicality.

Picking Plants for a French Provincial Home

As mentioned, it's not just about having plants; it's about selecting flora and fauna that actively enhance your home's appeal. The plants below not only work well aesthetically, but have been chosen for their ease of care and ability to thrive in Australian homes. After all, a serene home sanctuary is one that doesn't have you fretting about dying houseplants every few days.

Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a popular choice for interior spaces and fits beautifully with French Provincial furniture. Its large, glossy leaves bring a sense of drama and lushness, making it perfect for corners or placed beside statement pieces such as the French Provincial Entertainment Unit. Available in Australian nurseries, it thrives in medium to bright indirect light, requiring a little attention but rewarding you with its bold and elegant presence.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

With its striking vertical leaves, the Snake Plant offers a modern touch while maintaining an earthy, minimalist charm that aligns with the French Provincial "ethos". Its low-maintenance nature makes it an ideal choice for busy Australian households, as it tends to thrive in practically any environment, even when it seems like it shouldn't. Placing a Snake Plant on a Provincial Console Table or as a feature on a French Provincial Sideboard Cabinet is an excellent way to add texture without overwhelming the aesthetic.

Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)

Devil’s Ivy is a fast-growing, cascading vine that looks stunning when draped over shelves or placed in hanging planters. Its heart-shaped leaves can range from vibrant green to golden variegated hues, providing both colour and movement to your space. Consider pairing it with a delicate French Provincial Armchair or placing it near a Provincial Coffee Table for a relaxed yet refined feel.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant is perfect for adding some architectural structure to your space. Its glossy, dark green leaves contrast beautifully with the pale wooden tones of pieces like a Provincial Bookcase. Known for its air-purifying qualities, it thrives in a variety of conditions, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

For those who prefer smaller plants with a touch of elegance, the Spider Plant is a perfect choice. Its graceful, arching leaves create a soft, cascading effect that pairs wonderfully with the gentle curves of French Provincial furniture. Consider placing it in a hanging basket or pot near a Provincial Writing Desk (whilst we don't offer French Provincial desks at the current time, our Hamptons-style desks offer a similarly naturalistic charm) or beside a French Provincial Armchair to introduce a touch of greenery into your home office or living room.

Integrating Natural Materials with Plants

Beyond the plants themselves, French Provincial furniture often incorporates natural materials that further enhance the indoor ecosystem. The use of raw wood finishes, aged metals, and soft textiles creates an environment that feels grounded and balanced. Here’s how to incorporate these materials into your home design:

Wood

French Provincial furniture celebrates the beauty of natural wood. Pieces like a Provincial Dining Table or Two-Drawer Provincial Hall Console are made from timber that naturally patinas over time, adding warmth to your space. When pairing wood furniture with plants, consider using pots made from clay, woven baskets, or simple ceramic containers to maintain the rustic charm.

Rattan and Wicker

Rattan is a classic material in French Provincial furniture, found in many of our designs, such as our Contemporary Scandinavian Collection. This versatile material works wonderfully with the organic nature of plants. Consider using woven planters for a cohesive look, or place plants in decorative rattan trays to tie the pieces together.

Linen and Cotton

The softness of linen and cotton fabrics complements the gentle aesthetic of the French Provincial style. Pair these textures with indoor plants that have a softer leaf structure, such as the trailing vines of the Pothos or the fern-like fronds of the Boston Fern. These plants will blend seamlessly with the soft, muted tones of your linen cushions and curtains.

Creating Balance with Plant Placement

When it comes to placement, balance is key. French Provincial design is all about symmetry and refined simplicity, so try to avoid overcrowding your space with too many plants. Instead, select strategic spots where plants can serve as focal points or natural accents to your furniture. For instance:

• Position larger plants like the Fiddle Leaf Fig in corners or beside larger furniture pieces, such as the Hamptons Natural Ash Bookcase.
  

• Smaller plants like Snake Plants or Devil’s Ivy can be placed on side tables, consoles, or window sills.
  

• Hanging planters or wall-mounted shelves allow for vertical plant arrangements, which not only save space but also introduce a new dimension to your room.
  

Upgrade Your Space With La Joie Living

At La Joie Living, we believe that bringing nature into your home should feel effortless. By pairing our French Provincial furniture with thoughtfully chosen plants, you can create an indoor ecosystem that reflects the natural beauty of your surroundings. From the bold presence of a Fiddle Leaf Fig to the cascading elegance of Devil’s Ivy, these plants will enhance the timeless "je ne sais quoi" of your French Provincial pieces, adding warmth, vibrancy, and life to every room.

To explore our collection of French Provincial furniture and find the perfect pieces for your home, shop our full French Provincial range today.