Photo of Dominique Lafourcade’s home by Joanna Maclennan for the July/August Issue
The Provençal way of life is undeniably magnetic. It embodies warmth, generosity, and an appreciation for the simple beauty in everyday rituals. Perhaps nowhere is this spirit more evident than around the table.
In Provence, meals are not hurried affairs; they are celebrations of l’art de vivre (the art of living). Setting the table becomes an act of hospitality, a way of preparing not just a meal, but an atmosphere. To recreate that feeling at home, a Provençal-inspired tablescape blends rustic textures with natural elements, telling a story through color, fabric, and flowers.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE MAGAZINE
Taking inspiration from some of the best laid tables featured in My French Country Home Magazine, here are a few tips to bring the charm of the south of France to your table.
Click the photos to shop the products and use the code MFCHMAG10 for 10% off your purchase on the MFCH Boutique!
The Spirit of Provence
A Provençal tablescape doesn’t require elaborate styling – just thoughtful layering of natural textures, fresh flowers, and objects that speak of a slower pace of life. Simple wicker placemats elevate ceramic bowls and wooden-handle cutlery. Variations in earth tones add dimension: from the water glasses and textured pitcher to the vinegar jugs and ceramic vase with wildflowers. Even the wicker light pendants add to the overall mood of the table which complement the breadbasket and placemats.
Get the Look
Bring the Landscape to the Tablescape
Provençal living is inseparable from the landscape. Scatter small bouquets of seasonal flowers like lavender, sunflowers, and wild herbs into humble vessels like terracotta pots, enamel pitchers, or mismatched glass bottles. The key is abundance without fuss. Imagine you’ve just stepped in from the garden with armfuls of whatever is blooming.
Get the Look
Set with Rustic Elegance
The tableware should feel warm and inviting rather than formal. Mix hand-painted ceramics in sunny yellows or deep greens. Choose glassware that catches the light, from simple tumblers for water to delicate stems for rosé. Flatware can be unfussy, even vintage, evoking the feeling of a family heirloom passed down through generations.
Get the Look
Embrace a Natural Foundation
In Provence, simplicity reigns. Instead of a stiff, formal arrangement, think about layering linen in soft, earthy tones with simple ceramic bowls and pots for serving. A rough-edged runner or even bare wood can set the stage, letting the natural beauty of the table shine through. Linen napkins and wooden cutting boards on the table deliver rustic charm.
Get the Look
Choose a Tablecloth That Breathes Life into the Table
While Provence is known for its rustic simplicity, it also delights in vibrant patterns and colors. A tablecloth can transform your setting from plain to poetic, setting the tone for the entire meal. Traditional Provençal linens often feature floral or geometric motifs inspired by the landscape. A patterned cloth layered with simple linen napkins strikes a beautiful balance that is lively yet refined.
Get the Look
Add Accents that Tell a Story
Incorporate small touches that reflect Provençal life: a blooming bouquet at the center of the table, citrus fruits laid between candles, or a carafe of local wine. Contrasting patterns bring the table to life in a wildly organic way while simple candles cast a golden glow that ties it all together.
Get the Look
By blending rustic simplicity with understated elegance, you can transport your table to the South of France – even if you’re thousands of miles away.
To shop the products featured in this article, head over to the MFCH Online Boutique!