There’s a certain je ne sais quoi about Parisian apartment decor that makes it utterly captivating. It’s the way elegance meets effortlessness, where every detail—no matter how small—feels intentional. Think rooms that tell a story, filled with charm, warmth, and just a touch of whimsy, as though they’ve been lived in for generations.
Whether you’re hoping to add a Parisian flair to your home in Madison, WI, an apartment in Charleston, SC, or a rental home in Des Moines, IA, this timeless style offers endless inspiration. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Parisian apartment decor so iconic, and uncover how you can bring its magic into your own space.
1. Start with the classic Parisian foundation
Transforming your home into a Parisian-inspired retreat is all about capturing the ambiance that makes the City of Light so enchanting. Ken Tate, author and architect from The Ken Tate Foundation reflects on his 40-year career designing French-inspired spaces. “What people love about Paris is the ambiance. There is a certain joie de vivre flowing through the spaces.”
To create this atmosphere, begin with a cohesive color palette. Ken recommends soothing paint colors for moldings and walls in shades like antique white, pale French green, or blue-grey for a refined yet inviting tone. Flooring also plays a key role—opt for medium-brown wood with a classic 4-inch board width to evoke timeless elegance. For an added touch of Parisian sophistication, incorporate toile fabrics, scenic wallpaper, or both. “Finally, if starting from scratch, cove crown molding and a 30-inch high chair rail will give it that old Parisian atmosphere we all love,” he concludes.
Achieve the look yourself
One way to elevate the Parisian charm of your space is by recreating the classic boiseries, or wall paneling often seen in historic apartments. As Pittsburgh, PA-based travel blogger, Rachel from When in Provence explains, “One of my absolute favorite design elements found in ancient Parisian apartments is their classic boiseries, or wall paneling. Here in the U.S., where our homes were built long after the style was considered out of fashion, an adventurous DIYer could use materials such as wood, metal or plastic to give the same raised, paneled look or even find one of the many kits featured on online marketplaces like Etsy. The look is clean, classic, and very Parisian.”
2. Mix vintage and modern pieces
Parisian apartment decor thrives on the artful balance of past and present, creating spaces that feel timeless yet refreshingly modern. For instance, “Classic silhouettes like Louis XVI chairs, marble accents, and ornate details like gilded mirrors or antique chandeliers pair beautifully with contemporary furnishings,” explains the team at French Quarter Magazine in New Orleans, LA. “Add softness and texture with accents like velvet, linen, or silk throw pillows to evoke that quintessential Parisian charm.”
To infuse the space with even more character, they recommend incorporating Toile de Jouy textiles or wallpaper. These pastoral motifs lend a subtle elegance that’s both classic and chic. Stick to a neutral palette—hints of blush, muted blues, or creams—layered with warm lighting to channel the cozy sophistication of a Parisian salon.
Photo courtesy of French Quarter Magazine
Julie Maarhuis from the Paris-based lifestyle blog, A Parisienne Life highlights the magic of this harmonious mix. “Think of warm chevron wood floors, marble-topped coffee tables, and vintage velvet cushions. No Parisian space is complete without a gold-framed mirror and a statement chandelier, but feel free to mix it up with some modern art.” Parisians love to mix eras and styles, enriching their spaces with layers of color and texture while maintaining a subtle, neutral base. “The result is an eclectic, inviting cozy space where you are surrounded by items you love,” says Julie. With this blend of vintage and modern elements, your space will exude the effortless sophistication that makes Parisian apartments so iconic.
Photo courtesy of A Parisienne Life
3. Find decor that feels effortlessly chic
Effortless chic is the cornerstone of Parisian style—an aesthetic that feels refined yet approachable, polished yet relaxed. As Jeannine Bergeron from the French lifestyle blog French Style beautifully puts it, “Bringing everyday Parisian style into your home is easier than you might think. It’s all about creating a space that feels effortlessly chic.”
She continues, “Start with a neutral palette of soft creams and delicate taupes to create an elegant yet understated foundation.” Elevate the space with textured accents like velvet or jacquard pillows, paired with silk taffeta draperies in ivory or pale French blue to catch the light and create interest. “Mix old and new by blending modern furniture with vintage antiques,” Jeannine advises. A sleek glass coffee table feels perfectly Parisian when styled alongside framed 18th-century prints or antique market finds.
To complete the ambiance, focus on thoughtful details: soft, layered lighting, fresh flowers, curated books, and the warm glow of scented candles. And, as Bergeron suggests, “Ayez toujours une bouteille de champagne dans le frigo”—always have a bottle of champagne in the fridge. With these elements, you’ll capture the essence of Parisian chic, transforming your home into a space that feels effortlessly elegant and uniquely yours.
Photo courtesy of French Style
4. Follow the Parisian art of juxtaposition
At the heart of Parisian decor lies the art of juxtaposition—an intentional blend of opposing styles that creates a space both dynamic and sophisticated. As Elizabeth Jones, founder of Manoir, a French and European-inspired furniture and decor shop based in Boston, MA explains, “One key to achieving Parisian-chic is the intentional juxtaposition of opposing styles, such as transitional design, blending traditional with modern elements.”
“For example, pair a classic Louis XVI or bergère chair with a sleek light fixture or modern artwork,” suggests Elizabeth. “Or use unconventional fabrics with bold colors, textures, or geometric patterns. Suddenly a traditional piece becomes a striking focal point—and it’s these unexpected juxtapositions that are the true hallmark of Parisian style.” A gilded mirror like the Villecerf Mirror becomes even more striking when styled alongside black-and-white drawings of Parisian landmarks or geometric textiles in vibrant hues. These thoughtful contrasts transform traditional pieces into captivating focal points, embodying the true essence of Parisian style.
Photo courtesy of Manoir
5. Showcase your habits in your design
Parisian interiors are more than just beautifully curated spaces—they’re a reflection of the lives and habits of those who live there. Laura, interior decorator and founder of From Paris to Texas Design in Alamo Heights, TX shares, “To infuse your living space with a chic Parisian touch, think elegant moldings, antique mirrors above fireplaces, and exquisite herringbone wooden floors. Just like Parisian fashion, these interiors are timeless, seemingly effortless yet impeccably put together.”
One hallmark of Parisian design is the thoughtful integration of personal habits into the decor. In particular, Laura recommends displaying your love for reading in your design. “Books serve as a key element of Parisian decor, displayed on built-in shelves or artfully arranged in decorative stacks on the floor, reflecting the Parisians’ love for showcasing their reading habits.” By showcasing your passions—whether through art, books, or beloved antiques—you create a space that feels personalized while capturing the timeless interior design of Paris.
6. Use Parisian apartment decor to add color to your space
Parisian apartments are often synonymous with understated elegance, but that doesn’t mean they shy away from color. The key lies in using hues with purpose and restraint, creating a harmonious balance that feels both refined and inviting. “Achieving a Parisian aesthetic in an apartment involves combining elegance and charm with understated, effortless style,” shares Julie Skinner, founder of the design concept store, French.US in Calabasas, CA. A neutral base of white, cream, or beige sets the tone, allowing accents of rich jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue to stand out beautifully.
These thoughtful pops of color can come through a velvet armchair, a vintage rug, or a bold piece of artwork, adding depth and character to your space without overwhelming it. Incorporate textiles like toile duvet covers or sheer drapes in soft pastels or muted tones to maintain a timeless Parisian ambiance. A vase of dried flowers, evoking the charm of Parisian flower markets, can also introduce subtle color and texture, further enhancing the aesthetic. 
Photo courtesy of French.US
7. Elevate your Parisian apartment with sculptural pieces
Incorporating sculptural pieces into your decor can add a refined, artistic touch to your space. As interior designer Michelle from Michelle Harrison Design in San Diego, CA suggests, “To infuse a Parisian style into your apartment home, focus on incorporating sculptural vintage pieces, such as a coffee table, side table, or stand-alone sculpture. Pair them with the classic black and white stripes for a quintessential nod to Parisian elegance.”
A beautifully carved coffee table or a sleek stand-alone sculpture serves as a striking focal point, elevating the overall aesthetic with its timeless charm. These sculptural elements bring depth and character to a space, while the pairing with classic patterns like black and white stripes adds a touch of sophistication. Whether displayed in a living room or bedroom, these pieces offer a subtle yet powerful way to capture the essence of Parisian style.
Photo courtesy of Michelle Harrison Design
8. Add small touches with a large impact
In Parisian apartment decor, it’s often the smallest details that leave the greatest impression. “To achieve a Parisian aesthetic in an apartment, small touches can make a big difference,” says the team at the French and European-inspired decor shop, Joliette in Ontario, Canada. These subtle yet thoughtful elements can elevate a room, infusing it with character and charm.
“Add neutral pottery pieces, for example, for style and functionality, creating a timeless foundation for any space. Vintage books add height and a layer of intrigue, whether stacked artfully on a coffee table or displayed on a shelf—and as a bonus, they make for great conversation starters.” And no Parisian-inspired home is complete without a vintage mirror. “Look for signs of age and de-silvering,” they advise, “to add history to your space.” These small yet impactful details bring authenticity and personality, making your home feel effortlessly chic and uniquely yours.
Photo courtesy of Joliette
9. Look for luxurious Parisian apartment decor
Transform your home into a luxurious Parisian-inspired retreat by curating timeless focal points and decorating your home with antiques. For example, “A stunning crystal chandelier suspended over a calming soaking tub or an ornate gilded trumeau above a marble mantel instantly evokes the grandeur of Parisian interiors,” says Bryan Ortis, president of the luxury home decor shop, Chateau Charmant Interiors. “Layer various textures to add warmth and depth, such as a lovely Aubusson tapestry or antique rug, alongside chic fabrics like velvet, silk, and linen in soothing tones that invite relaxation.”
Thoughtful touches, like dried hydrangeas in a neutral color palette artfully arranged in an aged cast-iron urn with handles, can be placed on a stylish pedestal or atop a stack of antique books for added charm. Decorate with vintage furniture, as well as contemporary finds to create an eclectic and collected aesthetic, punctuated with a gallery wall of exquisite art. “And, of course, fresh flowers—gorgeous roses, lilies, and peonies—in a vintage vase are the final touch to add panache and transport you to the City of Lights.”
10. Shop for pieces with a vintage touch
Choosing the right pieces is key to achieving Parisian elegance, and vintage treasures hold the secret to this timeless aesthetic. “My favorite way to add Parisian influence to a space is by shopping for vintage and antique pieces, especially when you might not have the budget or time for a full renovation,” shares Julie K. Beuerlein, owner of JKB Home Design in Palos Verdes Estates, CA. “There are numerous beautiful vintage shops, both local and online, that source international pieces to enhance your home. Look for that statement piece; it’s all about understated opulence.”
For an authentic Parisian touch, Cléophée Poli, founder of Cléo Interior Design in Paris, France recommends purchasing vintage finds directly from Parisian markets. “We love to source these at the Puces de Saint-Ouen in the north of Paris. It’s the biggest vintage flea market here, and the pieces there are fantastic,” she says. “This old meets new aesthetic works perfectly within both Haussmannian apartments and newer builds.”
Photo courtesy of Cléo Interior Design
11. Use french linens in your kitchen design
Moving to the kitchen, french linens can bring a touch of effortless elegance and warmth to any space. San Francisco, CA-based francophile, Darlene C. Alvarez from the lifestyle blog Bonjour Darlene shares, “The simple elegance of quality linens speaks for itself. In the same manner a silk scarf accessory can elevate an outfit, adding eye-catching French linens, like tablecloths, placemats, or napkins in a variety of materials, colors, and designs, brings warmth and vibrancy to any kitchen.”
For a Parisian-inspired kitchen, consider incorporating absorbent honeycomb towels with a distinctive motif—red, white, and blue, reminiscent of both the American and French tricolor flag. These practical yet beautiful linens add texture and charm, while reducing paper towel waste and evoking a cozy, rustic French atmosphere. Whether draped over a countertop or used during meals, French linens effortlessly blend style with functionality.
Photo courtesy of Darlene C. Alvarez
12. Use Parisian-inspired furnishings
To bring Parisian charm into your home, focus on furniture that blends classic sophistication with contemporary design. French real estate consultant Adrian Leeds captures the essence of Parisian apartment decor, noting, “Furnishings should have lots of curves and feminine lines. Add molding to the ceilings, walls and cabinetry. Adorn the doors and cabinetry with classic handles and knobs. Additionally, don’t be afraid to use crystal chandeliers and wall sconces. And voila! Your Parisian home anywhere in the world.” Opt for timeless pieces like Louis XVI chairs or a marble-top coffee table, which exude understated opulence.
When planning your layout, think of symmetry and balance. As the team at the luxury furniture shop, U-Trade Furniture store in California shares, “Opt for symmetrical arrangements that highlight the space’s natural light, complemented by ornate mirrors or delicate chandeliers to complete the timeless look.” Additionally, choose upholstery in textured fabrics like velvet or linen in soft, smoky tones, and add gold-accented side tables or sleek glass pieces for a touch of modernity.
Photo courtesy of Adrian Leeds
13. Create a Parisian ambiance through scents
Bringing the charm of a Parisian café into your home is as simple as adding a carefully chosen scent. Wixology Candles in Lexington, KT captures this perfectly. “Turn your apartment into a Parisian café with a playful twist using Wixology’s Bourbon Ball candle. The rich notes of bourbon, dark chocolate, and pecans blend like a French chocolat truffle with a cheeky Southern accent—elegant, indulgent, and just a little bit rebellious.”
Elevating your space with Parisian apartment decor
Creating a Parisian-style apartment is about more than just decor—it’s about cultivating an atmosphere that feels effortlessly elegant, timeless, and unique. By blending vintage and modern elements, embracing texture and detail, and thoughtfully curating each space, you can channel the art de vivre that makes Parisian apartment decor so captivating. Whether it’s a gilded mirror catching the afternoon light, a cozy reading nook, or the gentle glow of a chandelier, every detail tells a story and brings a sense of romance to your home.
No matter where you live, with a touch of creativity and an eye for the classic-yet-unexpected, you can transport the spirit of Paris into your space. And perhaps the most Parisian touch of all? Surrounding yourself with the things you love, et voilà! Your chic apartment awaits.
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