French Flooring Ideas 2023

France has been known for its stylish and beautiful floors for centuries, whether it's a timeless terrazzo or a modern marble. Unlike French-style flooring, nothing entirely stays "sophisticated" in interior design. So, if you're looking to give your home an elegant touch in 2023, here are some of the most famous French-style flooring ideas to help you achieve that classic look. From stylish tiles to timeless parquet floor designs, discover what makes French flooring unique and why it is a top choice for discerning homeowners.

This is all we will discuss in this blog, so you'll choose any of these elegant ideas to decorate your home with unique French-style flooring and some classy French-style furnishings from the best Australian furniture store.

Let's give it a read.

What is French Provincial Style Flooring?

French Provincial flooring is a type of flooring that is typically found in older homes. It is made of wide planks or boards frequently painted or stained. This type of flooring can be wonderful and classy and add a lot of character to a home.

Historical View of French-Style Flooring

France has a rich and diverse architectural heritage reflected well in its floors. The history of French flooring is quite long and varied, with various styles and materials used over the centuries. Let's talk about a few of them. There are many different types of French flooring, from the traditional terracotta tiles found in Provence to the more modern parquet floors found in Parisian apartments. Terra cotta has been used as a flooring material in France for centuries and is still popular today. 

Parquet floors were first popularised in France in the 17th century and are still common worldwide. It is made from wood, including oak, cherry, and walnut. They are made of small pieces of wood arranged in a geometric pattern. These floors are also very common in Australia, particularly in kitchens. 

 

Top 8 Ideas for French Flooring

There are top 8 ideas for French-style flooring. Let's discuss them one by one.

Limestone tiles

Limestones could be perfect if you're after a rustic look for your French-style floors. This is a sedimentary rock found in many parts of the world. It's a popular material for flooring because it's durable and has an eccentric appearance.

When choosing limestone tiles for your floor, it's essential to consider the colour and finish that best suits your space. Limestone tiles come in various colours, from light cream to dark grey. They can also have different finishes, such as polished or honed.

One of the great things about limestone tiles is that they can be used in traditional and contemporary French homes. Opt for limestone flooring in a neutral colour with a polished finish if you want to create a classic French-style flooring look. Try using darker limestone tiles with a honed finish for a more modern space.

Terra Cotta Tiles

Terra cotta tiles are made from natural clay fired in a kiln. These tiles are then glazed and fired again to create a sturdy and beautiful tile. Terra cotta tiles are also trendy in French-style flooring. It is available in a range of colours, from deep reds and oranges to pale yellows and beiges, and they can be glazed or left unglazed for a more natural finish.

These tiles are suitable for use in various spaces, including kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor areas. They are resistant to moisture, making them a good option for use in damp or humid environments. However, terra cotta tiles can be prone to scratching and staining, so they may require regular sealing to protect them from wear and tear. They may also be more prone to cracking if subjected to extreme temperature changes.

Parquet Flooring

There are many reasons to love parquet flooring. For one, it's a classic flooring choice used in French homes for centuries. Secondly, it's a very versatile flooring option that can be used in various ways. Thirdly, it's relatively easy to care for and maintain and will make the best combination with a Parisian rattan king-size bed in your bedroom.

Parquet flooring is typically made from wood, although synthetic options are also available. When choosing the right parquet flooring for your home, it's essential to consider both the look and feel of the wood and its durability. The most popular woods for parquet flooring include oak, cherry, maple, and walnut.

These floors can be installed in a variety of patterns and designs. The most popular parquet pattern is the herringbone design, which creates a beautiful zigzag effect. Other popular parquet patterns include the basket weave and the Chevron.

Parquet floors are worth considering if you're looking for a low-maintenance flooring option. Unlike hardwood floors, they don't require regular sanding and refinishing. Additionally, they're resistant to scratches and scuffs, making them ideal for busy households with children and pets.

Patterned Floor Tiles

Patterned floor tiles are a quintessential part of French design. They are often seen in traditional homes and chateaus but can also be found in modern spaces. There are many different ways to incorporate patterned tiles into your home. Here are a few ideas:

1. Use them as an accent: Patterned floor tiles can be used in any room. They can add a pop of colour or visual interest to an otherwise neutral space.

2. Create a focal point: If you have a large patterned tile, you can create a focal point in a room. This could be done by surrounding the tile with smaller, solid-coloured tiles or incorporating it into a design feature like a fireplace surround or backsplash.

3. Go bold: Be bold with your patterned floor tiles! A strong pattern can make a statement in any room.

4. Mix and match: Have fun mixing and matching different patterns and colours of floor tiles to create your unique look.

Concrete Flooring

Concrete is a versatile and stylish material used for French-style flooring in various settings. It is longlasting and easy to maintain, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. Concrete can also be stained or stencilled to create a eccentric look. Concrete flooring is easy to maintain and can be cleaned with a damp mop or broom. It's also resistant to moisture and pests, making it a practical choice for areas with high humidity or a risk of pests.

Wood Flooring

Wood flooring is one of the most famous choices for French-style flooring homes. It has a classic look that can be dressed up or down and works well with various design styles. If you're considering wood flooring for your home, here are a few things to keep in mind.

There are a few different wood flooring types, including hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate. Hardwood is the traditional option and can be sanded and refinished if it becomes scratched or damaged over time. Engineered wood is made from layers of real wood veneers bonded together, making it more imperishable and stable than solid hardwood. Laminate is a budget-friendly option that looks like wood but is made from synthetic materials.

When choosing a finish for your wood floors, there are a few things to consider. A high-gloss finish will give your floors a shiny look, but it can also show scratches more easily. A matte finish will give your floors a more natural look, but it may require more maintenance.

No matter what type of wood flooring you choose, make sure to have it installed by a professional so that it lasts for years.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is a popular option for French-inspired homes. It has a classic look that can be easily dressed up or down, and it's easy to care for. Though, there are a few things to remember when choosing vinyl flooring. Make sure to select a high-quality product that will stand up to wear and tear and seal the edges well to prevent water damage. It's easy to clean and can be swept or mopped with a mild cleaning solution. Vinyl flooring is also a budget-friendly option, as it's generally less expensive than other types of French-style flooring.

Carpets and Rugs

Many types of carpets and rugs can be used in a French styled home, each with distinctive benefits. Carpets and rugs can add comfort and style to any room and can also help protect your floors from damage. When choosing a carpet or rug for your home, you must consider the type of flooring you have. For example, if you have hardwood floors, you may choose a softer carpet or rug to help protect them from scratches. If you have tile or linoleum floors, you may want a thicker carpet or rug to help insulate the room and reduce noise.

Carpets and rugs come in various colours, patterns, and materials. The kind of material you pick will depend on your personal preference and the needs of your home. You can find carpets and rugs made from wool, cotton, synthetic fibres, or bamboo.

Wool carpets are durable and easy to clean, but they can be expensive. Cotton carpets are less expensive but may not be as stable as wool carpets. Synthetic fibres are often less costly than natural fibres but can be more challenging to clean. Bamboo is a sustainable option that is becoming increasingly popular for its eco-friendly properties and durability.

When choosing a colour or pattern for your carpet or rug, it is essential to consider the overall design of your room.

Tips Before Styling your Floor

Before you begin styling your floor, you should keep a few things in mind:

1. The type of flooring you have will heavily influence the overall look of your space. For example, if you have a more traditional room with hardwood floors, you'll want to be careful not to go too modern with your furniture and decor.
2. Consider the amount of traffic your floor will get. If you have a high-traffic area, you'll want to choose materials that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
3. Think about how easy it will be to clean your floor. If you have children or pets, you'll want to ensure your floor is easy to clean and won't show stains easily. With these tips, you're ready to start styling your French-inspired floor!

Final Thoughts on French Flooring 2023

To wrap up, these are some essentials to keep when looking for French flooring. First, stone or tile floors are popular choices in French homes. Hardwood floors are also an option if you're looking for a more traditional opportunity.

If you're planning on renovating your house shortly, consider one of these French flooring options. They're stylish and durable and will add a touch of elegance to your home. Of course, you should always consider your budget when choosing any flooring. However, with the right design and care, French-style flooring can last many years. It will best suit French-style furniture at your home. Stay tuned with Hudson for more information.