5.24.2011

À La Prochaine Fois


Summer is finally here and we could not be more excited. Flowers are blooming, the grass is green, and time is beginning to travel at a slower pace. We here at Mrs. French are going to embrace the season to its fullest and take a bit of time off for the summer. We appreciate every one of you that has followed our journey through the beauty of antiques and what inspires us. We will be back in the fall with fresh ideas and new beginnings. Hope you all will rejoin us when that time comes... À la prochaine fois.

Fondly,

Paula & Laura (aka Mrs. French)

5.17.2011

The Spindle

I have always been drawn to the spindle leg. The intricate detail doesn't feel fussy yet is quite pretty.  I adore this small desk at the French Market. I could see it as an entry table, bedside table, side table, and of course a desk for letter writing.


Of course I had to share a few more spindles that have inspired me so.



Below is my son's room. I knew I wanted him to have a spindle bed.




Beautiful aren't they?

{as always shipping is available through the French Market}

images 2,3,5,6 complied from Cote de Texas |image 1,4 are mine}

5.10.2011

Bamboo Chairs

I was quite excited when I saw a set of bamboo chairs at the French Market. To me they are a timeless staple that can look quite lovely in almost any setting. I love the black with gold detailing, quite stunning.


As always when I come across a piece that inspires I start on a hunt to find the settings that I imagine. One of my all time favorite kitchens by Windsor Smith is one of my favorite examples for the use of bamboo chairs. A long table right in the middle of the kitchen flanked with a combination of chairs is perfection in my book.
Nate Berkus uses a pair in a living space. I adore how they can be used in both a feminine and masculine space.


This is most decidedly a feminine space with major a glamor factor. Designer Erin Gates definitely knows how to add a bit of wow.


I normally refrain from using much color, but this space has me singing a new tune. It feels quite sophisticated, but the color most definitely adds touches of fun.


This space is probably most like me, simple with classic pieces and a bit of rustic charm. I rather like understated design.


*As always shipping is available from The French Market.

{Image 2 via decorpad, image 3 via Nate Berkus, image 4 via High Gloss Magazine, image 5 via Coastal Living, image 6 via decorpad}

4.26.2011

A Swedish Bench

A Swedish bench can take on many forms, but one thing is for certain they are quite beautiful. Of course functionality is always key for me too so maybe that is why they appeal to me so. Beautiful and functional, love that there is such a thing.





This one from the French Market has the most lovely honey color. Her lines are quite lovely. I could see her in an entry way, used at a dining table, or even at the end of a bed. It is one of those pieces that can move room to room as life changes. Life most certainty does change over the years.


*shipping available through the French Market.

{image 1 via Stylebeat, image 2 via Country Living, image 3 via Martha Stewart, image 4 via Design Sponge }

4.19.2011

Instant Character

Yesterday I had the chance to stop into the French Market for some much needed inspiration and thankfully my trip did not disappoint. I got to spend some much needed time with the ladies of the French Market and even Mrs. French herself. They are always such a delight. As soon as I caught a glimpse of this piece I instantly thought it would make for one amazing kitchen island. Could you imagine?


It reminds me greatly of this one from the December issue of Veranda. Large, slightly worn, and ever so beautiful. It would add instant age and character to a space. 


Here is an overall view of the kitchen. Gorgeous, isn't it?  I believe I found it on Cote de Texas, but I can't be sure. I saved it to my inspiration folder ages ago.




*shipping is available through the French Market.

4.12.2011

One Chest Two Ways

When I first started blogging for The French Market I came across this gorgeous chest in the gallery of Pam Evans, a local interior designer. I have since had the privileged to meet her and she is quite the doll. Well back to the chest, I loved her and could never have imagined her any other way besides this pretty robin's egg blue.


That's until I saw her decked out in a fresh coat of paint. She is now a cream color with a slight glaze. I didn't even notice she was the same beauty until going through my French Market images.


I love that spring is upon us here in Birmingham. I am thinking a few of my old pieces might need a bit of sprucing up too.

*as always shipping is available through The French Market

4.05.2011

Iron Lighting

I came across some absolutely stunning iron lighting at the French Market and I immediately wanted to decorate a room around them. I thought the next best thing to actually getting to do it would be to put an inspiration board together. This is what I came with...


A bit masculine, yet feels quite cozy. Of course a constant array of fresh flowers would add a much needed feminine touch. Below are a few more iron pieces that caught my eye.




*As always shipping is available

Mirror: Wisteria
Iron Chandelier: French Market
Pillow: John Robshaw
Flowers: Two Ellie (me)
Coffee table: Jayson Home & Garden
Chair: Restoration Hardware