Archival Designs’ European & French Country house plans are inspired by the splendor of the Old World rustic manors found in the rural French countryside. These luxury house plan styles include formal estate-like chateaus and simple farm houses with Craftsman details. Available in Ranch and traditional two-story layouts, the basic characteristics are a combination of brick, stone and stucco exteriors, steep hip roofs often with curved bottom edges, arches, balconies, and wood accents. Archival Designs boasts a wide array of French and European house plans that combine historical details with contemporary layouts. We also help you customize the layout according to specific needs.
If you have questions about our available French and European house plans our modification process, feel free to contact us today.
Placement of windows and doors is essential to the design. A balanced facade with matching elements on both sides of the entrance is a characteristic of French country house plans. The meticulous placement of windows and doors is what gives even the smallest of layouts a sense of design and balance, creating a feel of the grand French chateau of the past.
Multiple sloping areas and pitched roofs are standard features of French countryside floor plans. These roofs generally have four sloping sides at the ridge's top. These patterns make the house look grander and better protect the outside from rain and snow. Also, the elevated slope provides plenty of roof space.
Natural materials such as wood, stone, brick, and stucco are commonly used in French country floor plans and exterior design. Stucco provides softness and elegance, while stone improves durability and eternal beauty. The use of brick adds color and warmth to the façade. As these materials age, they blend seamlessly into the natural environment of the house.
A beautiful country garden enhances a French country house in many ways. This creates an attractive and inviting outdoor space that blends with the home's natural surroundings; this garden often includes a variety of flowers, vegetables, herbs and climbing vines. The veggies and spices are not only practical, they also complement the flowers by offering a diverse palette of colors.
Interior features, such as rough-hewn wood, create a rustic charm and a sense of space in the room. They have a rustic charm reminiscent of an era when building materials were left exposed.
Natural elements are incorporated into stone walls or fireplaces, matching the home's exterior. Stone fireplaces are often included as a focal point in French countryside kitchens and living spaces, creating a lasting and comforting atmosphere.
Plaster walls are a great addition that provide a smooth and neutral background ideal for displaying quilts, artwork, and other decorative items.
Cream, beige and taupe are neutral tones commonly used in French country house design. These warm and welcoming colors make the atmosphere look cozy and casual.
Use furnishings like throw cushions, carpets, and artwork to give pops of color and prevent the space from feeling lifeless. This decor exudes a warm vibe and adds more color and individuality to the space.
French interior design favors harmonious elements to create a sense of beauty and harmony. For example, a fireplace or other focal point is often surrounded by furniture in living rooms, enhancing the overall impression of balance.
While balance plays an important role, it does not equate to rigidity. The perfect layout and warmth create a French country house that invites visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
In the European French country, house plans, furnishings, and finishes often display lived-in charm and sophistication. Even if some pieces show their age, they are still beautiful and well-made, giving you the feeling that the house has a history and a sense that it is comfortable and livable.
Think wrought iron with an old patina or antique furniture with minor nicks and scratches. It's all about good manners and making good choices.
These elements can create an inviting and welcoming blend of elegant yet elegant French country furniture.
While French and European country house plans focus on rustic elegance, our Mansion house plans and floor plans offer even more luxurious features like grand staircases, expansive foyers, and ample entertaining spaces.
