Three Details We Should Steal From the French

Since Clem is French, we travel there often. Recently, we went back for a friend’s wedding, which gave us a chance to travel the countryside and admire how the French build. Here are (3) things the French do in their buildings that I think we, as Americans, can learn from.

#1: Use brick as an accent, rather than as a “filler”

In America, brick is as common as white bread. We see it and don’t think twice. However, in France, brick was considered a luxury material for the wealthy elite, and was used sparingly. Throughout much of the country, you’ll see brick outlining windows, doors, and thresholds. Using brick in this manner created architectural interest, but in a budget-conscious way. Using materials like lumber and stucco, or field stone with stucco, was a cheaper way to build.

The lesson: using expensive materials to strategically outline thresholds is a smart way to achieve good-looking design in an economical way.

#2: Wallpaper/Fabric covering in unconventional places

Bold fabric/wallcovering

Modern American aesthetics have us afraid of “doing too much”. The French aren’t scared. Texture is encouraged (have you seen Versailles?!). Not only does using fabrics add visual depth, but it’s a clever way to enhance acoustical absorption. Many french buildings are stone, wood, or concrete — all hard surfaces (think Cathedral). Using fabrics aids with sound absorption, distillation, and distribution. Much better looking than white painted drywall….

#3 Clever window flashing details to match regional stone

The area we were visiting, Angers, is famous for it’s slate tile roofs (known as Anjou Noir). All over, we saw this detail — metal window sill pans/flashing that are intentionally colored grey and patina over time to look just like these slate tiles. What a clever way to achieve the look!