There’s something undeniably captivating about Parisian interiors – they strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease, sophistication and comfort. It’s a home you want to return to relax, enjoy yourself, and feel empowered. Intrigued? Then keep reading! In this article, you’ll learn how to have a Parisian chic apartment no matter where you live.

The essence of Parisian chic

Parisian chic interior design is about effortless elegance, timeless charm, and a balance between old and new. The color palette is soft and neutral, and the decor is exquisite and personal. If perfected, Parisian interiors feel both refined and lived-in.

Free Vintage-style interior featuring a gold arched mirror and a classic white console table. Stock Photo

Haussmann style – the Architectural backbone of Parisian chic

A very big part of Parisian chic is the heritage of the Haussmann style, which defines the setting for other interior design details.

Haussmann style emerged in Paris during the mid-19th century, when Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III to modernize the city. The goal was to make the city feel more grand, up-to-date, organized, and hygienic. Many neighborhoods were demolished to make space for the new buildings, and medieval small streets were replaced by wide boulevards.

These new Haussmann-style buildings had uniform facades and similar heights (usually 5–7 stories). They had light-colored stone exteriors. Balconies on the 2nd and 5th floors created visual balance.

Free Elegant facade of a Parisian building showcasing detailed ornamentation and wrought iron balconies. Stock Photo

The main characteristics of the Haussmann style apartments

  • High ceilings – They often reach 3–4 meters (10-13 feet) and create a sense of spaciousness and grandeur.

  • Wall paneling (boiserie) – Intricate moldings and wainscoting add depth and sophistication.

  • Herringbone wood floors (parquet de Versailles) – Classic oak or walnut floors are a must-have in a Haussmann style apartment.

  • Tall windows – Large windows framed by iron railings bring in plenty of natural light, making the interiors feel airy and elegant.

  • Crown molding and ceiling rosettes – Ornate plasterwork around ceilings and chandeliers enhances the luxurious feel.

  • Marble fireplaces – Found in living rooms and bedrooms, often with an ornate mirror (trumeau mirror) above them.

  • Symmetry and balance – Haussmann-style rooms are often perfectly proportioned with evenly spaced doors, windows, and decorative elements.

Haussmann style as a base for Parisian chic interior design

If you are going for a Paris chic interior, you have to recreate some of the Haussmann style apartment characteristics. It will lay the best foundation for your Paris-inspired interior design.

Free Elegant black shoes and orange pants on a stylish wooden herringbone floor. Stock Photo

Walls and moldings

The Haussmann style is synonymous with intricate moldings and decorative wall panels. 

To replicate moldings, you can use pre-made molding kits. Just peel off the backing, stick the molding to the walls, and paint them in the same color as the wall.

You can also install beadboard paneling or paint the walls in a panel pattern to achieve a similar look to the Haussmann-style interior.

Floors

The wooden floors in Haussmann buildings are an iconic feature. They are often parquet or herringbone-style flooring. 

First, you want to choose your flooring in a light color. Whether it is an actual wood floor or any imitation, a good color choice is light oak or honey-toned wood.

Second, to get the herringbone pattern (if you don’t want to install a genuine parquet), choose a vinyl (or other material) floor that features the desired look.

Windows and light

In Haussmann style apartments, the windows are often grand, with tall, elegant drapes allowing for plenty of natural light. If your current apartment doesn’t have huge windows to the ground, there are some things you can do to get the look even without them.

Hang the curtain rod way above the window and choose floor-length curtains. That way, you will visually have the look of tall windows.

Play with mirrors to increase the light in the room. Hang them in every room – in the entryway, living room, dining room, bedroom, etc.

How to have the Parisian chic interior design look 

By making smart design choices, you can create a space that feels as effortlessly chic as a true Parisian apartment – without needing an extravagant budget or a Parisian address.

Free A shelf featuring a Rodin book, a sculpture, and a framed vintage map, creating an artistic and intellectual ambiance. Stock Photo

Furniture

Parisian interiors have a refined yet lived-in quality, often blending heirloom pieces with contemporary design. To achieve this:

  • Look for secondhand treasures at flea markets, thrift stores, or online marketplaces. A well-loved Louis-style chair or a marble-top side table instantly adds character.

  • To create contrast, pair vintage finds with modern staples, such as a sleek sofa or a minimalist dining table.

  • Prioritize quality over quantity – one statement piece is often more impactful than a room filled with trendy, disposable furniture.

Color palette

Parisian chic interior design embraces a timeless, understated color scheme. To recreate the look:

  • Stick to warm whites, soft beiges, and pale grays as your base.

  • Introduce muted pastels like dusty rose or sage green for an elegant pop of color.

  • Add black in small but deliberate ways. Think wrought-iron curtain rods, a slim black-framed mirror, or elegant picture frames. It will help to ground the space and add contrast.

Lighting

Lighting is essential to capturing the cozy sophistication of a Parisian home. Achieve the perfect glow by:

  • Swapping out standard ceiling fixtures for a vintage-inspired chandelier – ornate crystal or an antique brass finish adds instant charm.

  • Installing wall sconces to create soft, layered lighting that mimics the glow of classic Paris apartments.

  • Using warm, dimmable bulbs to create an inviting atmosphere, especially in the evenings. Avoid harsh white lighting, as it can make the space feel sterile rather than elegant.

Parisian chic wallpaper

Wallpaper is one of the most effective ways to bring Parisian elegance into your home. Whether you live in a modern apartment or a historic townhouse, the right wallpaper can instantly add depth, character, and effortless elegance.

Parisian Chic wallpapers are intricate, and detailed, and have a vintage charm. Sometimes, they are even murals. But they are never in bold colors or have clashy patterns. They will feature nature scenes, flowers, birds, and maybe some geometric or modern patterns, but always in pastels or other muted tones.

Here are some great Parisian Chic Wallpaper options:

Styling tips – finishing touches that bring it all together

The secret to mastering Parisian chic interior design lies in the details. While the architectural elements and furniture set the stage, it’s the thoughtful finishing touches that truly bring the space to life. 

Layering textiles

Parisian interiors are never one-dimensional – they exude warmth and depth through carefully chosen textiles. Mixing different fabrics adds richness and creates a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

  • Linen A staple in Parisian homes, linen offers a relaxed yet elegant look. Use it for bedding, throw pillows, and even slipcovers to create an effortlessly chic feel.

  • Velvet Introduce a touch of luxury with velvet accents. A velvet armchair, sofa cushions, or even a draped throw add subtle opulence without feeling overwhelming.

  • Sheer curtains Floor-length, light, and airy curtains soften natural light, giving a romantic and ethereal effect. Choose neutral tones like ivory or soft gray for a timeless appeal.

Curating a lived-in look with books, artwork, and personal touches

Parisian interiors never look like they were assembled overnight. They evolve over time, filled with meaningful objects that tell a story. The goal is to curate (not clutter!) your space with pieces that feel personal and authentic.

  • BooksStack hardcover books on coffee tables or display them on open shelves. They add an intellectual charm and a sense of history to your home.

  • ArtworkInstead of mass-produced prints, opt for vintage paintings, black-and-white photography, or simple sketches in antique-style frames. Leaning artwork against walls or layering pieces on a mantel creates an effortlessly chic effect.

  • Personal touches Incorporate objects that reflect your life and passions. For example, a sculptural vase from a flea market, a collection of travel souvenirs, or a delicate perfume bottle displayed on a vanity. These small details will give your home a distinctive Parisian feel.

How to avoid overdoing it – keep it effortlessly elegant

One of the biggest mistakes in Parisian-inspired interiors is trying too hard. The key to achieving true elegance is restraint. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance:

  • Let spaces breatheAvoid overcrowding surfaces with too many trinkets. Leave some areas minimal to enhance the beauty of statement pieces.

  • Stick to a refined color palette Parisian homes often favor muted neutrals, pastels, and black accents. Too many competing colors can make a space feel chaotic.

  • Mix, but don’t match too perfectly A room that feels overly coordinated can lose its charm. Pair modern elements with vintage finds, and balance soft, organic materials with structured pieces.

Conclusion

Parisian chic is more than just a design style – it’s a way of creating a home that feels effortlessly elegant, rich in history, and deeply personal. By blending the timeless charm of Haussmann architecture with curated décor, soft textiles, and refined color palettes, you can craft an interior that exudes sophistication without feeling overdone. 

April 17, 2025