Get your inspiration from the French countryside itself. Think of lemons, pinks, soft purples, bright blue skies and fields of green grass.

Use decorating motifs such as roosters, hearts and fleurs-de-lis.

A large wall clock with lettering in French or a French scene makes a good focul point.

For light fixtures, select crystal chandeliers and fringed lamp shades on table lamps. Add beads, fringing and cording to simple lamp shades if you cannot afford ones that are embellished.

To create a romantic ambience, vintage candelabra with candles are a must for your table or countertops.

Furniture should be uphostered with beautiful fabrics, dressmaker details, and have carved legs. Wood furniture pieces are distressed or cackled and tinged with touches of gilt. Furniture and accessories should look old and used, but not shabby.

Experiment in your home and boldly mix different fabric styles - use a variety of textures such as textured linen, weathered leather, paisley designs, velvet, damask, brocade and lustrous silk.

Toile and floral scenes are extremely popular.

In formal rooms, windows can have elaborate, flowing drapery panels topped with swagged valances. Add a luxurious old-world look with tassels, silk cording, ruffles and fringing.

Use large vintage mirrors, fresh flowers, china and delicate porcelain figures to make your house feel liven in. Dress tables with accessories, crystal decanters, frames, hat boxes, old tins and perfume bottles.

Oriental carpets will add a grounding pattern, rich colour and a worn look to the room.

Plant climbing ivy, geraniums or topiary trees in terracotta pots on the patio.

Create a Parisian cafe style with a bistro table and either black or white iron or painted wooden chairs.