23 Unique French Country House Exterior Ideas
Looking at a French country house can transport you to the sunny hills of Provence. Many homeowners want this timeless appeal but don’t know where to start.
Studies show that 78% of property owners struggle to pick the right exterior design elements.
The good news? You can create this sought-after look with the right mix of materials, colors, and architectural details.
That’s why we’ve compiled 23 French country house exterior ideas that combine charm with practicality. Each design incorporates authentic elements like stone walls, copper gutters, and shuttered windows.
Ready to turn your home into a French countryside dream?
Let’s explore these tried-and-tested exterior ideas that will help you achieve that perfect French country style.
23 Beautiful French Country House Exterior Ideas
1. Rustic Stone and Stucco Facade
A blend of natural stone and textured stucco creates the perfect foundation for a French country home. The key lies in selecting stones with varied sizes and colors, preferably in warm earth tones.
The stucco should have a slightly uneven finish, giving it an aged, lived-in quality. For the best effect, use larger stones at the base of the house, gradually transitioning to a mix of smaller stones and stucco higher up.
This combination provides both durability and visual interest that improves with time.
2. Weathered Wooden Shutters
Traditional French homes feature wooden shutters that show signs of gentle aging. Choose shutters in muted colors like sage green, dusty blue, or soft gray to match the home’s natural elements.
The paint should appear slightly faded, with visible wood grain adding character. Keep the design simple with straight lines or basic panels.
These shutters serve both decorative and functional purposes, protecting windows while adding depth to the facade.
3. Classic Arched French Windows
Large, arched windows serve as key focal points in French country architecture. These windows typically extend from floor to ceiling, allowing natural light to flood interior spaces.
The frames often feature subtle iron details or divided light patterns. When selecting windows, focus on proportions – they should be tall and narrow rather than wide.
Including muntins (window dividers) in a traditional pattern adds authenticity to the design.
4. Wrought-iron Juliet Balconies
These small balconies bring a touch of romance to upper-story windows. The iron railings should feature simple curved patterns typical of French design.
Black or dark bronze finishes work best, standing out against light-colored walls. While these balconies aren’t meant for seating, they provide visual depth and create appealing shadows throughout the day.
The metalwork patterns can range from basic vertical bars to subtle floral motifs. Consider adding window boxes beneath the railings for a pop of color with seasonal flowers.
5. Clay or Slate Roof Tiles
The roof defines the French country style through its materials and installation methods. Clay tiles in warm terra cotta shades or dark slate create an authentic appearance.
The tiles should be laid in an overlapping pattern, with slight variations in color to mimic natural aging. This roofing choice not only looks beautiful but offers excellent durability.
The varying shapes and shadows of the tiles add texture to the overall design. Local weather conditions should guide your choice between clay and slate.
6. Charming Ivy-Covered Walls
Plants growing on walls bring life to French country homes. Boston ivy or Virginia creeper creates natural patterns that change with seasons.
The key is controlled growth – allowing the plants to cover select areas while keeping windows and architectural details clear.
The green coverage provides natural insulation and creates a connection between the building and its surroundings.
Regular maintenance ensures the vines enhance rather than damage the structure. Consider starting with young plants near drain pipes or trellises.
7. Shaded Pergola with Vines
A wooden pergola offers an ideal support for climbing plants like roses or grapevines. The structure should use simple post and beam construction, with wood either left natural or painted in soft, neutral tones.
As plants grow over the pergola, they create pleasant areas of light and shade. The posts can be set in stone bases for added stability and style.
Add comfortable seating underneath to create an outdoor living space that feels distinctly French. Consider the sun’s path when positioning your pergola.
8. Antique Wooden Entry Doors
The front door sets the tone for French country style. Select solid wood doors with simple panels and iron hardware. The finish can be natural wood or painted in muted colors like gray-blue or sage green.
Height matters – French doors often stretch taller than standard sizes. Add a glass transom above to bring extra light into the entry.
The hardware should be substantial, with large handles and visible hinges in oil-rubbed bronze or black iron.
9. Stone Archways and Columns
Stone archways frame entryways with old-world appeal. Use local stone when possible to match regional French architecture.
The arch should appear substantial, with visible keystones and clean lines. Supporting columns can be round or square, but proportions must match the home’s scale.
Consider adding built-in stone planters at the base of columns. The stonework should look hand-laid rather than too uniform.
10. Gravel Driveway with Potted Lavender
Light-colored gravel creates a permeable, low-maintenance driveway that fits French style perfectly. Edge the drive with brick or stone borders to contain the gravel.
Place large pottery planters filled with lavender at key points to add color and fragrance. The gravel should be small enough to walk on comfortably but large enough to stay in place.
This approach allows rainwater to seep naturally into the ground while providing good drainage.
11. French Lantern-Style Lighting
Select wall-mounted lanterns in blackened or aged brass for authentic French charm. The glass panels should be clear or lightly frosted, creating warm pools of light.
Place fixtures strategically – beside doors, along pathways, and under covered porches. The size should be proportional to wall height, typically larger than modern fixtures.
Consider adding matching pendant lights for covered areas. Solar-powered options can provide similar style while saving energy. The placement of each light creates an inviting pathway after dark.
12. Provincial-Inspired Window Boxes
Window boxes add color and life to any French country facade. Choose boxes made from cedar or iron that extend slightly beyond each window.
The depth should allow for proper root growth and water retention. Fill boxes with cascading plants like trailing petunias, ivy, and upright geraniums in complementary colors.
Paint wooden boxes to match shutters or trim. Ensure proper drainage and easy access for plant care. Line boxes with copper to protect the wood.
13. A Quaint Courtyard with a Fountain
Create an intimate outdoor space centered around a stone water feature. The courtyard should feel like a natural extension of the house, with matching stone or brick paving.
Keep the fountain modest in size but rich in detail. Surround it with potted herbs and flowers typical of French gardens.
Include comfortable seating for outdoor meals. The sound of flowing water adds a peaceful backdrop to outdoor living.
14. Pastel or Muted Exterior Colors
Select paint colors that appear softened by sunlight and time. Warm whites, buttercream, soft gray-blues, and pale terracottas work well for main walls.
Use slightly darker tones for trim and accents. The goal is to create depth without stark contrasts. Test colors in different light conditions before committing.
Consider how the colors will age and weather over time. The overall effect should feel unified and gentle.
15. Timeless White or Cream Limestone
Limestone exteriors provide a classic French country appeal. The natural variations in stone color create subtle texture across the facade. Select blocks with visible fossils and mineral patterns for added character.
The installation pattern should appear random yet balanced. Consider mixing stone sizes for visual interest. Include larger blocks around windows and doors as accent pieces.
Weather and time will add natural patina to the stone. Regular cleaning maintains the light color while preserving natural aging marks.
16. Ornate Wooden Carvings and Details
Small wooden details make a significant impact on French country style. Add carved rosettes at corners, fluted trim around windows, and simple patterns on beams.
Keep the designs understated – they should enhance rather than dominate. Focus carving details near entry points and windows. Use weather-resistant hardwoods like oak or cedar.
The wood can be left natural or painted to match other trim elements. These touches add personality without appearing overdone.
17. Rustic Farmhouse-Inspired Porch
Create a welcoming entry space with exposed wooden beams and stone flooring. The porch should feel like a transition between outdoors and in. Include enough space for casual seating and potted plants.
The roof pitch should match the main house. Add iron or wooden posts with simple capitals. Stone steps leading to the porch should be wide and inviting. Consider adding built-in benches for extra seating.
18. French Country-Style Outdoor Seating
Arrange comfortable seating areas that invite outdoor living. Mix materials like iron chairs with wooden tables. Include small tables perfect for morning coffee or afternoon tea.
The furniture should look substantial but not heavy. Add cushions in natural linens or simple stripes. Place seating to take advantage of garden views and natural shade.
Group pieces to encourage conversation while maintaining easy flow around them.
19. Clipped Boxwood and Lavender Borders
Design garden borders that blend structure with soft plantings. Boxwood hedges create clean lines and year-round form. Plant them in geometric patterns around walkways and garden beds.
Fill spaces between hedges with rows of lavender for color and scent. Keep boxwoods trimmed to knee height for best effect. Add gravel paths between planted areas.
This combination offers winter interest while providing summer color. Consider adding small topiaries at entry points.
20. Vintage Water Well or Stone Basin
Install a decorative well or basin as a garden focal point. Use aged stone or concrete with visible texture. The structure should look functional even if purely decorative.
Add simple iron hardware like a hand pump or pulley system. Keep the scale modest – about waist height works well. Surround the base with small pebbles or low-growing plants. The feature can serve as a planter or working fountain.
21. Carriage-Style Garage Doors
Select garage doors that complement the home’s French character. Wood or wood-look materials work best, with panels and small windows.
Add iron handles and hinges for authenticity. Paint colors should match window shutters or trim. Include divided-light windows in the upper panels.
The hardware should be oversized and visible. Consider adding a slight arch to the door frame. Custom details like hand-forged metal accents increase visual appeal.
22. Hidden Garden Pathways
Create winding paths using local stone or gravel. The routes should feel like natural discoveries through the garden. Edge paths with low-growing herbs or small flowers. Include subtle curves that reveal new views.
Keep materials simple but varied in size. Add stepping stones through grass areas. The paths should connect different garden spaces while maintaining mystery. Consider adding small seating spots along the way.
23. Romantic Shuttered Balcony Retreat
Design an intimate upper-level space with traditional wooden shutters. Include room for a small table and chairs. Add flower boxes and climbing plants on iron supports.
The floor can be stone or sealed wood. Ensure proper drainage and sturdy railings. The shutters should be fully functional for weather protection.
Paint colors should coordinate with the main house trim. This creates a private outdoor room with garden views.
Conclusion
Let’s sum up what makes French country houses special. These ideas show how simple details like weathered shutters, stone walls, and flowering vines come together to create homes that feel warm and inviting.
Each element we’ve explored adds its own special touch. The natural materials, soft colors, and thoughtful garden spaces work in harmony.
From practical features like well-planned driveways to charming additions like window boxes, every detail matters.
French country style proves that a house can be both practical and beautiful. By mixing sturdy materials with gentle touches of nature, these homes offer a peaceful retreat from the busy world.
The style has lasted through time because it puts comfort and beauty first.
