What are some common mistakes to avoid when building a French Provincial house?

When building a French Provincial house, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure an accurate and authentic design. Here are a few:

1. Incorrect roof style: One of the defining features of a French Provincial house is its steeply-pitched roof with dormer windows. Avoid flat or low-pitched roofs, as they won't match the architectural style.

2. Inappropriate exterior finishes: French Provincial houses often feature textured stucco walls, stone accents, or brickwork. Avoid using inappropriate materials like vinyl siding, concrete blocks, or overly modern finishes that don't align with the traditional aesthetic.

3. Mismatched windows and doors: French Provincial houses typically have large, symmetrically placed windows and doors with decorative details such as arched or carved woodwork. Avoid using small, irregularly placed windows, or modern-looking doors that don't reflect the style.

4. Lack of decorative elements: French Provincial houses often have ornate detailing, such as wrought iron balconies, decorative shutters, and moldings. Avoid having plain, minimalist exteriors with minimal architectural embellishments.

5. Inappropriate color scheme: French Provincial houses commonly feature soft, muted colors like cream, beige, pastel hues, or natural stone shades. Avoid using bold, bright, or garish colors that deviate from the traditional palette.

6. Ignoring interior design details: Pay attention to the interior design to ensure consistency and authenticity. Incorporate features like exposed wooden beams, stone or marble flooring, and decorative chandeliers to maintain the French Provincial style.

7. Neglecting appropriate landscaping: Surrounding gardens and outdoor spaces are an integral part of French Provincial houses. Neglecting landscaping or choosing the wrong plants can undermine the overall aesthetic. Opt for gardens with symmetrical layouts, box hedges, gravel pathways, and mature trees and flowers that align with a traditional French garden.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can ensure that your French Provincial house is built with accuracy and authenticity.

Publication date: