5 inspiring vacation homes in France – the home of the city with the ‘most beautiful interiors’

France is officially the country with the most inspirational interiors in Europe, according to a recent study* of Pinterest boards. With its timeless nod to minimalism and enduring adoration for a monochromatic palette, the study is a reminder of France’s finest modern decor ideas – for you to recreate wherever you are. 

Plus, as travel restrictions further ease, this research has just given us every excuse we need to escape to France and steal design tips from the country of their origin. Here are five of the most stylish Airbnbs to fuel your next makeover.

1. Apartment in Croix Rousse, Lyon

Hidden amid a former upholsterer's workshop, this apartment is perhaps the most beautiful in Lyon.

From its exposed brick wall and quaint balcony – to its injection of Scandi-cool furniture, (REGOLIT light, anyone?) the home epitomizes French design with a contemporary twist – and the result is inspiring. We'll have a one-way ticket to Lyon, please. 

2. La Maison du Mûrier, Veynes

With its 17th century stone facade, La Maison du Mûrier is the unlikely source of inspiration for contemporary French decor ideas. For, beyond its rustic exteriors, this villa houses a trove of rainbow-toned furnishings that contradict the more traditional design aesthetic of its homeland. 

The estate, at the fringe of the Southern Alpine peaks, comprises of two properties – a boldly-hued main villa – complete with a turmeric-colored sofa and a vibrant dining set – and a more stripped-back studio. There is also an abundance of houseplants that pay homage to the lavender fields of its Provençal neighbor. Because if you note anything from La Maison du Mûrier, it's that mixing traditional and contemporary works. 

3. Home in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

While the rustic features of this Provençal 'sauna' are something to behold, we must confess, the view across the Medieval Luberon village is the piece de resistance of this property. 

Though we can't recreate this historical postcode from our bedroom windows, we can still take a lesson in how best to frame our home's most impressive assets through a subtle scheme and minimalist curation of furniture. 

With its upcycled furniture and small task lighting, this home will reshape elegant bedroom ideas in settings far beyond its Southern French address.

4. Home in Talloires-Montmin, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

While the apartment in Croix Rousse may have introduced you to French minimalism, this serene home in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes continues the lesson, with a particular emphasis on how to balance a scheme. 

Perhaps most notably, the scheme tones down the striking tiled floor with an almost entirely white pallet – and refreshing emphasis on natural light. 

But what is our favorite design feature? We hear you ask. The glass room divider, which allows this sunshine to fill the entire room, whilst keeping the space feel separate and zoned. It's the perfect solution to the ever-popular room divider trend. 

5. The Grand Talensac in Nantes, Pays de la Loire

Located in the historic city of Nantes, this apartment brings quintessential Parisian design to Brittany – through its stylish gray sofa, curated accessories, and warm wooden assets that are a statement of the capital. 

The space celebrates everything the world loves about French interiors and solidifies the countries place at the top of the industry, where we feel it will hold the crown for a long time to come. 

*Study conducted by Uswitch.com