The Art of French-Inspired Living: For the Francophile and Design Enthusiast

November 25, 2025

There's a reason French design has captivated collectors and designers for centuries. It's not just about aesthetics—though the beauty is undeniable. French style embodies a philosophy: that everyday objects should be both functional and beautiful, that history adds depth to a space, and that true luxury lies in quality and craftsmanship rather than excess.
At Christopher Collection, we've long been devoted to sourcing authentic French antiques and pieces that capture the essence of French living. This season's collection celebrates that timeless elegance while offering fresh interpretations for the modern home.
The Art of French Inspired Living: For the Francophile and Design Enthusiast

Authentic French Treasures

For the serious collector, nothing compares to genuine French antiques. Our 18th Century French Trefoil Cooling Table is a remarkable example of period craftsmanship—practical in its original purpose, yet sculptural enough to serve as a statement piece in today's interiors. The 19th Century French Walnut Threading Table tells a similar story, bearing the marks of artisan hands and decades of use.
We're particularly drawn to the Mid-20th Century French Mongolian Goat Covered Stools (Set of 3). These pieces bridge the gap between traditional and modern, with their luxurious texture and surprisingly contemporary silhouette. The 18th Century French Rococo Giltwood Mirrors (Set of 2) exemplify the ornate beauty of French design at its most opulent.


The Romance of French Details

French design lives in the details. The Mid-Century French Silver Lighter and Mid-Century French Green Lighter are perfect examples—small objects elevated to art through thoughtful design. Even utilitarian items like the 19th Century French Oil Lamps (Set of 3) demonstrate the French commitment to beauty in everyday life.
For those who appreciate decorative arts, the Early 20th Century French Chopper on Stand and 20th Century French Lalique Table Lighter showcase how form and function can coexist beautifully.

Books and Inspiration

Understanding French style begins with immersion in French culture. A Year in the French Style offers a journey through seasonal living à la française, while Do It in Paris: An Insiders Guide to 450 Places to Visit, Sites to See, and Things to Do brings the City of Light into your home.
For designers seeking authentic reference materials, the 1870 French Architecture Book and 17th Century French Empire of the World Engraving are invaluable resources. Romantic French Homes captures the dreamy, lived-in aesthetic that makes French interiors so endlessly appealing.


Art and Architecture

The French appreciation for art as an integral part of daily life is evident in pieces like the Mid-20th Century French Mountain Monastery Painting and 20th Century Architectural Drawing on Vellum (B). These aren't just decorations—they're windows into French artistic tradition and the French way of seeing the world.
The 18th Century Handpainted French Wedding Box and 19th Century French Chinoiserie Box demonstrate the French love of treasured objects and the stories they carry across generations.


Contemporary French Influence

French style continues to evolve. Modern interpretations like the 20th Century French Large Wicker Basket and 20th Century French Silver & Glass Bar Cart show how French design principles adapt to contemporary life without losing their essential character.
The 20th Century French Mug Shot (H) and Antique Mini Framed Pictures (Set of 4) remind us that French style embraces both the grand and the intimate, the serious and the whimsical.


Living the French Way

At Christopher Collection, we believe that French-inspired living isn't about recreating a château in Birmingham. It's about adopting a French approach: surrounding yourself with objects that have meaning, investing in quality over quantity, and creating spaces that feel collected rather than decorated.
Whether you're a longtime Francophile or just beginning to explore French design, these pieces offer an entry point into a way of living that values beauty, history, and craftsmanship in equal measure.

Discover our full collection of French antiques and French-inspired pieces in-store or online. Each piece tells a story—let us help you find the ones that belong in yours.

Shop the Story

18th Century French Trefoil Cooling Table
Out of Stock
Mid 20th Century French Mongolian Goat Covered Stools (Set of 3)
Sale
18th Century French Rococo Giltwood Mirrors (Set of 2)
Out of Stock

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