In this blog, I’ll explore creative ideas that maximize your small exterior while capturing the timeless beauty of a French country cottage.
The charm of French countryside homes is undeniable, but designing an exterior that feels both cozy and elegant can be tricky—especially when you’re working with limited square footage. What elements should you prioritize? How do you blend rustic warmth with modern functionality?
Stick with me as I uncover the secrets to creating a charming, inviting space that feels like a countryside escape—no matter the size.
15 Unique Small French Country Cottage Exterior
I’m excited to show you these 15 unique ideas for your small French country cottage’s exterior. Let’s dive into each one in detail!
1. Arched Doorways and Entryways
Now, first things first: let’s talk about your entryway. Picture a charming, arched doorway at the heart of your home.
It’s soft and inviting—nothing too sharp or angular. See how it instantly draws you in, right?
This is the kind of entrance that feels welcoming and timeless.
I recommend choosing a sturdy wooden door with a natural finish, maybe even one with some distressing for that lived-in, vintage feel.
This elegant arch instantly elevates the entire exterior and gives it that classic French countryside look.
When guests approach, their first impression will be one of warmth and rustic elegance. Doesn’t that sound perfect?
2. Dormer Windows
Now, look at the roof—see those little dormer windows popping out from the slope?
These charming features not only break up the roofline but also bring more natural light into your home. Dormer windows have that quintessential French charm, don’t they?
I recommend adding small, well-placed dormers with simple trim to keep them understated yet still eye-catching.
The way they peek out from the roof adds such character, like your home has a secret attic space just waiting to be explored.
Plus, they add a lot of charm without overwhelming the structure. Perfect for a small space.
3. Juliet Balconies
Look up just a little further—do you see that delicate wrought-iron balcony?
It’s a Juliet balcony, and while it doesn’t offer much space for standing, it gives your home a graceful touch.
Imagine standing in front of it and throwing open the French doors to let the breeze in.
With wrought-iron railings that feature swirling designs, these balconies scream elegance and romance.
I suggest you add one of these balconies to a second-floor window that overlooks a garden or courtyard—it’s the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee or take in the view of your lavender-lined path.
It’s these kinds of features that make your home feel straight out of the French countryside.
4. Shutters with Decorative Cutouts
Next, let’s talk about your windows.
These aren’t just any shutters—no, these are charming, decorative shutters with unique cutouts. See those heart-shaped or floral patterns?
They not only add a dash of personality to your exterior but also reinforce that romantic French country aesthetic.
I recommend going for a pair of shutters in soft, weathered hues—think sage green or a faded blue that complements your stone facade.
Those cutouts will let sunlight filter in through the windows and cast a lovely, soft pattern inside. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact.
- Lavender-Lined Pathways
Imagine walking up a stone pathway flanked by fragrant lavender bushes.
The purple blooms contrast so beautifully with the warm hues of the cottage exterior, don’t they?
Lavender adds color and scent to your entrance, creating a calming atmosphere from the very moment you step foot on the property.
You could also mix in some rosemary or thyme, both of which thrive in the same conditions.
Plant them along your pathway in neat rows, and you’ll have a fragrant, colorful greeting each time you return home.
This is one of the easiest ways to evoke that French countryside charm, and it makes the home feel even more welcoming.
6. Stucco Textures
Now, let’s get a little closer to the walls of your cottage.
Imagine the smooth, textured look of stucco, which immediately gives a soft, rustic appearance.
Stucco is such an iconic material in French country homes because it’s timeless and earthy, but it also has an understated elegance.
I’d suggest choosing a light, warm neutral color for the stucco—think soft creams or warm beiges.
These hues allow the other details—like your stonework, wooden doors, and wrought iron railings—to pop.
The texture of the stucco makes the whole exterior feel cozy and full of character like it’s been there for years.
7. Weathered Wooden Doors
Let’s not forget the doors! Imagine a weathered wooden door with a rustic, old-world charm. The slight scratches and faded finish tell a story, don’t they?
This door doesn’t look brand new—it looks like it’s been opened and closed many times, each time welcoming a guest into your home.
I love the idea of choosing a reclaimed door, perhaps with some iron accents or a vintage handle, to complete that French cottage look.
Pair it with a soft, natural wood trim, and you’ll have an entryway that feels full of warmth and history.
8. Climbing Vines
Now, picture vines climbing up the side of your house.
There’s something so quintessentially French about having greenery gently clinging to the walls.
Whether it’s ivy or climbing roses, these vines soften the look of your exterior and make your home feel even more entwined with nature.
I recommend planting climbing roses around your windows or doorways for a pop of color—just imagine those soft pink or white blooms contrasting with the warm stone and stucco walls.
It’s a beautiful, organic addition that’s full of character.
9. Terracotta Roof Tiles
Look up at the roof—don’t those terracotta tiles look perfect with the rest of the cottage’s exterior?
The warm, reddish tones of terracotta pair so well with both the stucco and the stonework, adding a rich, earthy contrast.
Terracotta tiles are durable and weather beautifully over time, giving your home a weathered, lived-in feel that only adds to the charm.
It’s a classic French country material, and it will help tie your entire exterior together.
Plus, it gives off that sun-soaked warmth, even on cooler days.
10. Natural Stone Facades
See that gorgeous stonework covering part of the exterior?
Stone facades have such a strong, timeless appeal—they ground the house and make it feel like it’s an organic part of the landscape.
When choosing stone, I’d recommend opting for a variety of warm tones—soft browns, beiges, and even light grays that complement your stucco walls.
Natural stone has a textural quality that adds depth and richness to the exterior, making your cottage feel solid and enduring.
It’s a feature that exudes both rustic charm and sophistication.
11. Brick and Stucco Accents
Now let’s mix things up with a combination of brick and stucco.
Imagine a wall that’s half covered in rustic brick, while the top half is soft, smooth stucco.
This combination of textures creates a wonderful visual contrast and adds dimension to the exterior.
I suggest using a muted red or warm beige brick to blend seamlessly with the rest of the materials.
The natural tones of the brick complement the stucco while still giving the house a bit of an edge.
It’s a stylish combination that feels timeless yet modern at the same time.
12. Copper Gutters
You might think gutters are purely functional, but copper gutters?
They’re a statement. See how they stand out with their gleaming, warm finish, which deepens over time into a lovely patina.
Not only do copper gutters look gorgeous, but they’re also incredibly durable.
Their warm tones enhance the natural materials like stone and stucco, creating a cohesive look that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Every time you look up at your roof, those copper gutters will add an extra layer of elegance to the entire cottage.
13. Sun-Kissed Neutrals and Earthy Tones
Take a moment to think about the color palette of your home.
Imagine warm, sun-kissed neutrals—creamy beiges, soft terracottas, and gentle golds—that blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
These warm tones create an inviting, serene atmosphere and reflect the warm, golden light of the French countryside.
By sticking to a sun-kissed, earthy palette, you create a home that feels like it’s part of the landscape, with hues that complement the greenery and stone elements.
It’s subtle, but the impact is powerful.
14. Balconies with Wrought Iron Railings
Another lovely feature is the balcony with wrought iron railings.
Picture a charming second-story balcony with delicate ironwork framing the view.
The swirling patterns of the wrought iron evoke a sense of romance and elegance—perfect for a French country cottage.
I recommend placing this on a window that opens out into your garden or courtyard so that you can enjoy a bit of outdoor space, even if it’s just for stepping out and enjoying the view.
These balconies add so much charm and instantly elevate the exterior of your home.
15. Decorative Window Boxes
And finally, let’s add the finishing touch: window boxes filled with colorful flowers.
Imagine vibrant geraniums or soft lavender spilling over the edges of the window boxes, contrasting beautifully with the stone and stucco exterior.
Window boxes are such a simple yet effective way to add charm and color, making your windows come alive.
I recommend using wooden boxes that blend seamlessly with your exterior and filling them with flowers that bloom throughout the year.
It’s a detail that instantly transforms your cottage into a welcoming, colorful home.
Conclusion
Designing a small French country cottage exterior is all about combining timeless elegance with a sense of cozy warmth. By incorporating elements like arched doorways, dormer windows, Juliet balconies, and lavender-lined pathways, you can effortlessly capture the charm of the French countryside, no matter the size of your home. Whether it’s weathered wooden doors, climbing vines, or terracotta roof tiles, each detail adds character and brings that authentic rustic beauty to life.
FAQs
How can I incorporate French country elements into my home’s exterior?
Focus on key features like steeply pitched roofs, shutters, natural stone or stucco facades, and arched doorways to create a cozy, sophisticated exterior.
What colors are typical of French country exteriors?
French country exteriors often use soft neutrals, sun-kissed beiges, and earthy tones. Bold accents like deep blues or forest greens for shutters and doors add character.
Is the French country style suitable for modern homes?
Yes! Modern interpretations of the French country style often combine clean lines and larger windows with traditional elements for a fresh, updated look.
What maintenance does a French country exterior require?
Regularly inspect and maintain materials like stucco, stone, and wood. Repair cracks, clean surfaces gently, and apply sealants to protect against the elements.
Can I achieve a French country exterior on a budget?
Absolutely! Use cost-effective materials like fiber cement siding or manufactured stone veneer. DIY projects like painting shutters or building window boxes can also help add charm affordably.
What makes French country exteriors timeless?
The combination of rustic materials, symmetrical designs, and refined details creates a lasting appeal that transcends trends, offering elegance and warmth for any home.
