The Decorating Ideas for a Paris-Themed Kitchen

A Parisian-inspired kitchen captures the sights of the city. From the colors to the window treatments, the details create the feeling of Paris. While certain concepts are distinctly French, the theme is open to interpretation to allow you to customize the look. Whether you borrow a few basic style concepts or go all-out with the classic symbols of the city, your kitchen gets the look of a French cafe. Does this Spark an idea?

Window Coverings

The awning-style window covering works well in a Paris-themed kitchen. Contact a local seamstress or window covering company to get custom interior awnings made for your windows. To make a simple awning yourself, use a cafe curtain rod that mounts flush to the wall and a curtain rod with at least a 6-inch return. Cut a piece of fabric an inch wider than your rods. Hem the edges to create a clean line. Sew a rod pocket at the top and bottom of the fabric. Mount the cafe rod at the top of the window, and place the rod through one of the pockets on the fabric. Attach the other curtain rod low enough to keep the fabric taut. Insert the lower curtain rod through the remaining rod pocket.

Furniture

A bistro-style table and chair set makes sense in a Parisian kitchen. The sets are available in materials like iron, wicker and wood. The sets typically feature a small, round table with enough room for two, three or four people. Wood furniture and cabinets painted in cream or black also fits the theme. Distressing on the finishing of the wood pieces helps to create a casual, older French look. Curved lines also fit the theme.

Materials

Tile on the walls in the form of a backsplash or decorative display create the feeling of Paris. Neutral colors, earthy materials and blue patterned tiles work well. Natural stone countertops tie in the feeling of Paris for your work areas. Play up existing exposed beams in the kitchen, or add rich-colored wood beams on the ceiling. Metal on cabinet handles, range hoods and lighting fixtures also work to create varied textures within the space while maintaining the Parisian style.

Wall Art

Options for wall art vary, depending on how you want to infuse Paris into the decor. Photos or paintings of landmarks in Paris create a direct correlation to the theme. To drive a cafe theme, focus on art related to coffee drinks, wine or French-style food. Another option is to hang a chalkboard that resembles the boards used at French cafes to display the menu. If you don't want to mess with the chalkboard, print a French menu and frame it for your wall. Wall sconces flanking artwork also work for the theme.