Parisian interiors have a certain je ne sais quoi—that perfect balance of elegance, effortlessness, and just the right amount of charm. The good news? You don’t need to live in a 19th-century Haussmannian flat to bring a little Paris into your space. With thoughtful styling and an eye for contrast, you can recreate the timeless appeal of a Parisian apartment anywhere.
If you’re drawn to the sophistication of Parisian style, this guide will show you exactly how to bring that polished, layered look into your own home—without trying too hard.
1. Mix Old and New Like a Parisian
At the heart of Parisian style is contrast—especially the mix of old and new. French interiors often feature architectural classics paired with modern touches.
How to Mix It
- Pair a sleek modern sofa with an ornate vintage mirror.
- Combine a Louis-style armchair with abstract art.
- Use a contemporary light fixture over a weathered wood table.
Key Elements
- Antique accents: Brass candlesticks, vintage trays, distressed wood
- Modern shapes: Clean-lined furniture, bold lighting, abstract decor
- Art curation: A mix of classic oil paintings and modern photography
Pro Tip
Let the room evolve. Parisian apartments often look collected, not decorated. Embrace the charm of curated contrast.
2. Embrace Architectural Details (or Fake Them)
Parisian apartments are known for their tall ceilings, ornate moldings, and herringbone floors. Don’t have those? You can fake the look.
How to Channel the Architecture
- Crown molding or wall trim: Add it with peel-and-stick options or simple paint techniques.
- Tall baseboards: Visually elongate your walls.
- Large mirrors with gilded frames: Reflect light and add a vintage feel.
- Arched shapes: Use arches in mirrors, decor, or DIY trim work.
Flooring Tips
- Herringbone rugs
- Light wood or wood-look floors
- Area rugs in muted tones
Even subtle architectural references can make your space feel more Parisian.
3. Choose a Refined, Neutral Color Palette
Parisian interiors aren’t usually loud. They’re muted, moody, or classically neutral—with subtle drama and softness.
Parisian Color Favorites
- Warm whites and creams
- Dusty grays
- Soft taupes and mushroom tones
- Black accents (doors, picture frames, metal fixtures)
- Occasional pops: Deep navy, forest green, blush, or burgundy
Where to Use Color
- Walls: Stick to soft neutrals or off-white
- Furniture: Velvet or linen in muted shades
- Decor: Use contrast through artwork, lighting, or a standout chair
The result is layered and elegant—never overpowering.
4. Opt for Understated, Elegant Furniture
Forget overstuffed sofas or ultra-modern pieces. Parisian furniture is refined, timeless, and a little romantic.
Furniture Staples
- A tufted or structured sofa in a neutral tone
- Marble or wood coffee table with curved legs
- Classic French chairs (think caned back, carved wood, or linen upholstery)
- Console tables with brass or aged finishes
Mixing Styles
- Pair mid-century chairs with antique side tables
- Use sculptural modern lighting above classic furniture
- Combine hard and soft materials (like metal and linen)
Less Is More
Parisian apartments are known for their restraint. Choose fewer, high-impact pieces that tell a story.
5. Add Layers of Art and Books
One thing Parisian apartments never lack? Art and books. Walls are rarely bare, and surfaces are filled with thoughtful vignettes.
Art Styling Tips
- Lean large frames on the floor or mantel
- Hang gallery walls with a mix of photography and painting
- Use vintage frames for character
- Mix modern line art with classical prints
Books
- Stack books on coffee tables and nightstands
- Display them spine-out or color-coded
- Top with candles, a sculpture, or a ceramic bowl
Objects with Soul
- Travel mementos
- A sculptural vase
- A small bust or figurine
- Anything that feels collected, not curated
This is where your personality shines through.
6. Finish with Chic Lighting and Textures
Parisian homes are known for their use of soft, atmospheric lighting—never overly bright or harsh. The right lighting and textiles elevate the entire look.
Lighting Must-Haves
- Brass or antique-style sconces
- Art deco chandeliers or globe pendants
- Curvy ceramic or marble table lamps
- Dimmable bulbs for mood control
Texture Play
- Velvet pillows or armchairs
- Linen curtains or bedding
- Woven throws or faux fur accents
- Natural wood and marble in decor
Metal Accents
Use brass, black, or aged gold to finish the look—especially in hardware and lighting. Keep it warm and subtle, not shiny or loud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the key to achieving Parisian style on a budget?
Focus on mixing vintage and affordable modern pieces. Thrifted mirrors, secondhand armchairs, and classic color palettes can go a long way. Add budget-friendly molding, neutral paint, and soft lighting for impact.
2. Can I use bold colors in a Parisian-inspired space?
Yes—but use them sparingly. Deep blues, forest greens, or burgundy can be stunning on a sofa or in art. Just keep the background neutral and the palette cohesive.
3. Do Parisian apartments use a lot of patterns?
Not typically. They rely more on texture and contrast than busy patterns. When used, patterns are usually classic—like toile, subtle stripes, or herringbone.
4. What kind of fabrics should I use?
Linen, velvet, cotton, and wool are perfect. Stick to high-quality textures in muted tones. Use them in drapery, upholstery, bedding, or cushions for a layered feel.
5. What are some typical Parisian accessories?
Gilded mirrors, ceramic vases, vintage art, books, candles, and sculptural objects. Look for pieces that feel collected, aged, and personal—not overly trendy or mass-produced.
6. How do I make a small space feel Parisian?
Keep your palette light and neutral, use large mirrors to reflect light, and opt for slim furniture with exposed legs. Don’t overcrowd—choose one standout piece, like a chair or chandelier, to anchor the room.
7. Can I mix modern pieces with Parisian style?
Absolutely! In fact, that’s the signature move. Parisian decor thrives on contrast—modern paired with antique, simple shapes with ornate details.
8. What kind of flooring suits Parisian style?
Wood flooring in light to mid-tones works best. Herringbone is ideal, but plain plank or parquet also work. If you rent, use large area rugs in neutral tones to get the look.
9. Is black too harsh for Parisian interiors?
Not at all! Black is used sparingly but purposefully—in doorframes, lighting, or picture frames. It adds contrast and grounds the softer palette.
10. How can I keep it from looking too themed or staged?
Avoid overt French clichés (like Eiffel Tower art). Instead, focus on timeless furniture, elegant textures, and artful vignettes. Let your personality lead the design.