Photo by Frederic Ducout
There’s a reason the French seem to inherently know how to style a sunroom. They understand the quiet luxury of doing very little, very well. Unlike other rooms of the house, these spaces — be they light-filled verandas, classic conservatories, or even a simple garden-facing nook — are designed for pleasure, not practicality. They invite us to slow down, enjoy the view and bask in natural light with a book or a cool drink in hand.
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Your sunroom doesn’t need to serve a strict function. In fact, that’s what makes it such a joy to decorate. Mindful of the seasons, the French approach is to keep things chic, airy and just a touch sophisticated. Glass, wicker and linen are timeless choices — materials that feel light and age beautifully — but there’s no strict formula. A sunroom should reflect your personal rhythm. Think about what brings you comfort: a favourite armchair, a soft throw, a quiet corner for afternoon tea—and build from there. The goal isn’t perfection, but a place that brings you peace.
Below, we take inspiration from some of our favorite features from the MFCH magazine, and share our tips for achieving the look at home.
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1. Start with Seating
This space is all about comfort. Sunrooms call for sitting, lounging and daydreaming, so prioritise seating that’s comfortable. Wicker armchairs or rattan sofas work especially well in these spaces as they’re light, airy and easy to moce, while more structured seating (a pair of tailored linen armchairs or a small settee) can bring a refined note. If your space allows, a daybed makes for an irresistible reading spot.
Pro tip: Opt for furniture with removable, washable covers. It keeps things practical year-round and lets you swap in lighter tones for summer and warmer fabrics come winter.
2. Cozy up with Cushions
Styling a sunroom is a delicate balance. While comfort is key, it’s equally important to maintain good airflow — especially in spaces that receive a lot of direct sun. Pair lighter pieces of furniture with a generous layer of neutral toned cushions. We particularly love Maison Poire‘s breathable linen collection, which won’t trap heat as the temperature rises.
Pro tip: Floor cushions and oversized poufs are lovely additions too — they can be shifted easily throughout the day to follow the sun or seek out the shade.
3. Consider a Rug
Not every space needs a rug. Bare floors are refreshing underfoot in summer. However, in cooler months, stone or tiled floors might benefit from a lightweight rug. Choose materials like jute, cotton canvas, or flatwoven wool. These work well year round, but can also roll up easily for seasonal storage to maintain the room’s breezy character.
4. Work in Wicker Accents
Wicker isn’t just for furniture. In sunrooms, it’s often used throughout the space to evoke that light, garden-inspired atmosphere. Its natural texture and open weave keep things visually airy — ideal for capturing a conservatory feel. Look out for wicker items that enhance the space: woven baskets for storing books or out-of-season blankets, trays for serving aperitifs, bottle holders for chilled rosé. Even small details, like cane plant stands or wall hooks, can quietly reinforce the sunroom’s relaxed charm.
5. Display Nature Indoors
French sunrooms blur the boundary between indoors and out. Potted plants thrive in these spaces: citrus trees, geraniums, or trailing ivy all do well in the warmth and light. But it’s not just about greenery; it’s how you display it. Terracotta pots, antique vases and even small Médici-style urns can create striking arrangements, especially in a confined space where every detail has impact. A single sculptural container, overflowing with foliage or flowers, can anchor the whole room. For a softer touch, fresh-cut stems in clear glass vases bring instant life — just be sure to refresh the water often and shield them from harsh midday sun.
