There is something captivating about rustic French interiors that effortlessly combine comfort with elegance. In a family home nestled in the Normandy countryside, Steph, the owner has meticulously crafted a space that embodies this timeless aesthetic, and an ever changing interiors (just look at her grid). By blending vintage elements with natural textures and understated tones, the home exudes warmth, depth, and a quiet sophistication. It was a assignment for 91 magazine, volume 17.
When you walk through the doors of Steph’s Normandy family home, you’re immediately greeted by a sense of soul and depth. Every corner tells a story, and that’s largely due to the vintage elements carefully selected by Steph herself, that she sells on her website. Antique finds, from a weathered wooden coffee table to worn textiles, add character to the space. It’s not just about decorating with old pieces; it’s about choosing objects that resonate with the home’s spirit and the surrounding countryside. The French have perfected this art of “curating,” selecting each piece not just for its beauty, but for the memories and stories it evokes. And part of the story of this family home too, as passed down from Steph’s father.
The coffee table in the living room, marked by years of use, stands proudly in its imperfection. Paired with modern comforts like soft linens and pillows in neutral tones, this balance between the old and new is what makes the rustic French style so inviting. The real wabi-sabi.
One of the defining characteristics of Steph’s rustic style is the layering of textures, which adds dimension to an otherwise simple and neutral palette. In this Normandy family home, natural materials reign supreme—linen, stone, wood, and clay work harmoniously to create a space that feels both tactile and serene.
The whitewashed walls provide a calming backdrop, while rough-hewn wooden beams bring an element of rugged authenticity. To enhance the texture, the seating area is adorned with pillows and throws in various fabrics, from soft wool to textured cotton. The layering doesn’t stop with textiles. The home’s stone hearth and vintage sconces cast a warm glow, emphasising the tactile beauty of the space.
The colour palette in this family home is understated yet full of character. Soft creams, muted greys, and natural whites, combines with the natural warmth of exposed wood, create a calming environment and visual interest. The perfect background for Steph’s antiques finds.
The worn, wooden window frames, for example, serve as focal points against the minimalist backdrop, their patina reflecting years of exposure to the elements. The subtle contrast between these natural, timeworn elements and the more polished finishes, such as the smooth plaster walls, adds richness and depth to the space.
Rustic French interiors are not just about aesthetics; they are about creating a space that feels lived-in and practical. In Steph’s Normandy home, each piece of furniture is both beautiful and functional. The built-in bench under the window offers the perfect spot to cozy up with a book, while the large wooden table invites family and friends to gather for meals.
Steph’s interiors inspo is not just about aesthetics; they are about creating a space that feels lived-in and practical. In this Normandy family home each piece of furniture is both beautiful and functional. The built-in benches offers the perfect spot to cosy up with a book, while the large wooden table invites family and friends to gather for meals.
The farmhouse kitchen is equally practical, with open shelves displaying vintage crockery and kitchen tools that are not only decorative but also serve a purpose. This seamless blending of function and charm is what makes rustic French design so enduring.
Finally, the farmhouse’s design feels deeply connected to its surroundings. Located in the heart of Normandy, the home draws inspiration from the landscape. The muted tones and raw textures echo the natural beauty of the region, while the use of local materials—such as the clay tiles and reclaimed wood—further ties the home to its environment.
Steph’s French rustic aesthetic is about honouring simplicity, natural beauty, and personal touches. By layering textures, curating vintage finds, and finding inspiration in nature, you can create a home that feels warm, lived-in, and truly one-of-a-kind.
You can read more about the 91 Magazine feature, as well as other magazine features, here.
