17 Parisian Apartment Ideas to Steal That Effortless French Style
When you think of a Parisian apartment, certain images probably come to mind: high ceilings, white walls with mouldings, elegant chandeliers, and a little balcony overlooking the street.
It’s chic, timeless, and somehow both cozy and luxurious at the same time.
But you don’t have to move to Paris to enjoy that look.
With a few smart choices: a gilded mirror here, a crystal chandelier there, some moldings, you can bring the Parisian apartment aesthetic into your own home.
This guide is all about simple, actionable ideas.
Think of it as a checklist: add this, swap that, and layer in those special details that make a space feel unmistakably French.
These tips will help you recreate the effortless charm of a true Parisian interior.
Parisian apartment decor
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I. Parisian Apartment Aesthetic: Setting the Tone
If there’s one thing that defines a Parisian apartment, it’s the mix of elegance and ease.
The architecture does a lot of the work but even if your home isn’t Haussmanien, you can still capture the same spirit with a few intentional choices.
Start with White Walls & Mouldings
The foundation of the Parisian apartment aesthetic is simple: crisp white walls, sometimes with decorative mouldings.
They create a bright, airy backdrop that lets furniture and artwork shine.
If mouldings aren’t already there, you can add lightweight trim for a quick upgrade.
Add a Parisian Fireplace (or Faux One)
A fireplace is often the centerpiece of a Parisian flat.
Whether it’s a real marble mantel or a faux version styled with candles and decor, it brings instant charm.
Top it with a Parisian mirror for the ultimate look.
Hang a Statement Chandelier
Nothing says French interior design like a chandelier.
It doesn’t need to be massive, even a small one over a coffee table or dining table adds that timeless sparkle.
Crystal or brass finishes are especially classic.
Choose Parisian Wallpaper for an Accent Wall
Parisians love a subtle surprise.
A wall covered in floral or toile wallpaper, or even a romantic mural, adds depth and personality.
It’s a great way to highlight a bedroom, dining room, or entryway without overwhelming the space.
Add French Doors
French doors are a signature element in many Parisian apartments.
They let natural light flood through the rooms, create a seamless flow between spaces, and bring that effortless elegance Parisians are known for.
Whether they open onto a balcony, separate a living room from a dining area, or simply frame an entryway, they instantly elevate the atmosphere.
Even in a modern apartment, installing French doors can give your home that timeless Parisian touch.
The Charm of Cremone Handles
If you’ve ever stayed in a Parisian flat, you’ve probably noticed the tall windows with their distinctive crémone handles.
These slim, vertical bolts are part of the aesthetic.
Often crafted in iron or brass, they add a subtle, vintage detail that instantly feels French.
And you don’t need original wooden windows to enjoy them.
You can actually add decorative cremone handles to modern PVC or aluminum frames.
It’s a simple upgrade that won’t affect the practicality of your windows but will give them that unmistakable Parisian character.
Balance Cozy & Luxury
This is the secret sauce.
A true Parisian apartment is elegant, but it’s also lived-in.
Think a velvet armchair paired with a worn rug, or linen curtains softening a marble fireplace.
II. Parisian Living Room Ideas
The Parisian living room is where style meets comfort.
It’s the room where guests are welcomed, but also where Parisians themselves spend quiet evenings with a book or glass of wine.
To capture this feeling, focus on a few key elements:
Place a Large Gilded Mirror Above the Fireplace
This is a classic move in any Parisian apartment decor.
A tall, ornate mirror (often with a gold frame) sits proudly above the mantel.
It reflects light, makes the room feel larger, and adds a dose of elegance without trying too hard.
Mix Modern and Vintage Furniture
The secret to the Parisian style home is balance.
Pair a sleek, modern sofa with a vintage coffee table, or add mid-century chairs next to an antique sideboard.
This eclectic mix feels curated, never like a showroom.
Layer Rugs for a Cozy Feel
A single rug grounds a room, but layering adds dimension and warmth.
Think oriental rugs for tradition, or neutral woven rugs for a more modern Parisian interior.
Both work beautifully, depending on your taste.
Add a Touch of Greenery
Parisians love plants but never in excess.
A tall fiddle leaf fig, a simple olive tree, or just a vase of fresh flowers is enough to soften the edges of the room and bring it to life.
It’s an easy way to make your Parisian living room feel cozy without clutter.
III. Parisian Bathroom French Style
A Parisian bathroom may be small, but it never lacks charm.
The goal is to combine practicality with timeless elegance, creating a space that feels luxurious without being over the top.
Use Metro Tiles or Marble
The iconic Parisian bathroom French style often features white metro tiles.
Clean, simple, and easy to pair with almost anything.
For a more refined touch, marble is a favorite, whether on countertops, walls, or small details like a soap tray.
Choose Vintage-Inspired Fixtures
Fixtures make all the difference.
Opt for brass taps, brushed gold finishes, or even a freestanding clawfoot tub if you have the space.
An oval mirror with a delicate frame is another easy way to add old-world Parisian charm.
Add a Small Chandelier
Yes, Parisians really do love chandeliers, even in bathrooms.
A small crystal light fixture instantly elevates the space, turning an ordinary bathroom into something elegant and chic.
Bring Softness with Linen Curtains or Towels
Balance the hard surfaces with soft details.
Linen curtains, waffle-textured towels, or a vintage rug bring warmth and coziness to the bathroom, making it feel inviting rather than cold.
IV. Parisian Dining Room
The Parisian dining room is rarely stiff or overly formal.
Instead, it’s inviting. A place to gather with friends, share a bottle of wine, and enjoy long conversations over dinner.
Here’s how to bring that same energy into your own home:
Opt for a Round or Marble Dining Table
Round tables naturally feel social, encouraging conversation and connection.
A marble-topped table adds that hint of timeless luxury you’ll often find in a Parisian apartment.
Mix Dining Chairs
Parisians rarely buy matching sets.
Instead, they embrace the mismatched look: wooden chairs alongside upholstered ones, or a mix of colors and finishes.
It’s casual but chic, and instantly makes the space feel lived-in.
Style the Table with Candles & Vintage Tableware
Candles are a must for atmosphere.
Pair them with antique plates, glassware, or even flea-market finds to give your dining table character.
A few well-chosen pieces go much further than a cluttered setup.
Even though I live in the French countryside, I’ve always admired the effortless charm of a Parisian apartment.
The high ceilings, the mouldings, the little balconies: they have a magic of their own.
So if you dream of a Parisian style home, don’t be afraid to start with just one element that speaks to you. Bit by bit, you’ll see your home take on that timeless charm!
Bonjour! I’m Mathilde, a French girl living in the countryside near the sea. If you’re curious to learn more about me, read my full story.
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