You stare out the small white framed window and gaze at the rows of lavender. The soft rays of the sun rest at the base of the horizon, as the day surrenders itself to the beginnings of dusk. Your hands remain under the luke warm water as you carefully rinse the last of the ceramic dishes. You shake off the excess water from one of your hands and open the window a crack. The smell of fresh late spring air fills the room, followed with a hint of fresh lavender. Although you may not be residing among the rolling hills of the intimate french countryside, you can certainly feel like you do, with your own french country kitchen.

The french country kitchen with its' worn rustic look, can be the ultimate family gathering place to begin the day, break for lunch, or retreat after a long days work. And there are not many better ways to bring the family together, than the aroma of delicious cuisines and an atmosphere unique to the countryside of France. This is one reason why the french country kitchen remains a cook's dream. So, how do you decorate your dream kitchen?

The country french kitchen uses a distinct palette of warm and cool colors. The colors include soft gold yellow, weathered rust, cheerful greens and cool blues. Some french country kitchens will have an emphasis on the warmer colors, while more traditional country french kitchens, will have an emphasis on cooler colors. Iron, charcoal or black can be used as accent colors. The color of scheme of your kitchen is a great place to begin brainstorming.

Natural and hand-made accents are important when decorating your kitchen. This helps give the kitchen an authentic and worn look, which is characteristic of the country french style. Accents may include wooden ceiling beams, plastered painted walls, worn wooden window frames and dark unfinished wooden flooring to name a few. By keeping a worn look, you will be keeping true to the authentic french country style.

Country french furniture is an important part of the french country kitchen. No kitchen would be complete without the wooden island, the dining room table, ladderback chairs and a cupboard full of porcelain dishes. If you want to put extra emphasis on the worn look of your kitchen, you may buy your furniture used and save extra money. You may also purchase brand new country french furniture which is made to look authentic.

By following the above tips and unlocking your imagination, you can be living your dream in your own french country kitchen. Just don't forget the vase full of lavender.