How to Create a Chic and Modern Parisian Bedroom
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Photo: @abkasha
Just like French fashion, Parisian interior style seems to magically merge both sophistication and simplicity. Some of the most breathtaking Parisian apartments I’ve seen are always chic without trying too hard, romantic but not overly frilly, and timeless in the best way possible.
A modern Parisian bedroom has all of these qualities too, which make it the perfect place to unwind, sleep and even indulge in the occasional grasse matinée.
No matter if you’re planning a total interior makeover or fancying a little refresh, creating a French Parisian bedroom is easier than it seems.
In this guide, I share everything you need to know to curate a Parisian-inspired bedroom that will make your mornings and nights oh-so-serene. From picking out the right furniture and fabrics to curating the chicest of decor, I’ll help you bring that relaxed-yet-refined styling into your own space, no matter where you are.
Read on to find out how to make your dream of a modern Parisian bedroom a reality.
Adore Parisian interior style? Check out this home edit of my favorite Parisian apartment finds, and explore these must-read posts:
1. Paint Your Walls White
The foundation of a classic Parisian bedroom is an understated color palette. The easiest way to start is by giving your walls a fresh coat of paint.
All-white bedrooms are common in many Parisian homes. They provide a blank canvas for decorating, but even more importantly, create the illusion of a bigger space. And in small Parisian apartments, this is always a plus!
White walls actually boost natural light, making your room feel extra open and airy. Darker tones can look just as chic, but they absorb a lot of light, which means your space feels smaller.
I asked my boyfriend, a French architect who works on luxury retail and residential projects, about the paint colors his firm often uses for client homes. He shared that RAL 9010 is a very common choice for its soft warmth, but RAL 9016 is ideal if you’re after a brighter, true white that really maximizes light.
RAL is a color system used in Europe, but I found this handy tool that converts RAL shades to other brands. If you’re in the U.S. and want a similar option to RAL 9010, Farrow & Ball’s Wimborne White is said to be a great match.
If white feels a bit bland, try out dreamy creams, muted greys, and soft beiges for a timeless backdrop in your Parisian-inspired bedroom.
When it comes to paint finishes, it’s really up to you! Matte is always elegant, but something satin feels incredibly luxe—and even makes your space feel bigger and brighter due to its more reflective surface.
2. Find the Right Furniture
Once your walls are freshened up, it’s time to talk Parisian bedroom furniture and the key pieces you’ll need in your bedroom. These are big decisions (and often pricey ones), so take your time and plan carefully before making any major purchases.
Although I recommend a lot of interior finds throughout this post, I also want to stress that a home update doesn’t mean you have to buy everything new. Staying within your budget and finding new ways to repurpose what you already own is far more chic! So be sure to take stock of your current furniture you already own, and consider whether you truly need new pieces—and how they’ll fit with what you already have.
For example, a more modern bed can be beautifully complemented by antique nightstands for that mix of old and new—a hallmark of Parisian interior style. If your room has architectural details like crown molding or parquet flooring, juxtaposing them with more contemporary furniture will give you the same effect.
I discuss more about this in my blog post on How to Decorate Your Apartment Like a Parisian, but it’s all about curating that eclectic feel. Too much modern furniture can make a space feel cold and impersonal, but overload on vintage finds, and your bedroom suddenly seems outdated.
Bed
In any bedroom (Parisian or not), the bed should almost always be the main focal point. That’s why you’ll want to find the right bed before spending on any other furniture. It’s likely the most expensive piece on your shopping list too, so it’s important to find one that’s both beautiful and comfortable.
Their bedrooms are often on the smaller side, so instead of choosing a massive bed that dominates the room, Parisians opt for a size that fits comfortably while leaving room to breathe. A well-made bed in the right scale will always feel incredibly luxe, and at the same time, let you bring in other essential furniture and decor.
A bed with a classic design, like a wrought iron frame or upholstered headboard, is sure to last you for years to come. If you’re not certain about your interior style long-term, staying with something timeless will let you easily evolve your space if you change your mind.
For a bed that’s a bit bolder, look for headboards with velvet fabric or tufted details—both quintessentially French. They’re a bit less versatile, but at the same time, an easy way to bring some chic character to your bedroom.
If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t even need a headboard! I’ve found so many examples of Parisian bedrooms with a very simple bed sans headboard. You can then add art above it and layer on some colorful bedding to keep things visually interesting.
Nightstands
Next up: nightstands. You’ll want to choose ones that thoughtfully frame your bed while giving you plenty of space to store your bedside essentials.
Something old, something new, it’s completely up to you. Antique tables like those with cabriole legs or gilded accents are going to infuse your bedroom with romantic French charm—perfect if your home needs more of that old-world feel. If you’re missing some modernity in your bedroom, look for nightstands with cleaner lines and marble tops for something cool and contemporary.
Just like with the bed, keep scale in mind. If you’re working with a smaller space, choose smaller tables that don’t overcrowd the room. Something slim and elegant is great if you’re limited on space.
While style is so important in curating an authentic Parisian bedroom, don’t overlook practicality. Choose bedside tables with ample space for a lamp, book, scented candle, or even a small vase of flowers if you’d like. Drawers and shelves are also a must if you need extra storage. You can also add a small basket underneath or an accent box on top to stash your items out of sight.
Vanity or Dresser
Storage is essential for keeping your Parisian-inspired bedroom neat and tidy. If you have the space, I’d definitely recommend a small vanity or dressing table. In those teeny tiny Parisian bathrooms with limited counter space, it’s so nice to have a spacious spot to get ready.
Your vanity might already have a built-in mirror, but if not, hang a gilded one right above it. Matching gold knobs and brass drawer pulls will make it feel straight out of a Parisian boudoir. And we can’t forget about a small stool that’s comfy enough to sit on while you do your French girl makeup routine.
The way you style your vanity can make it truly Parisian. Some beautiful bits and bobs to consider: a mirrored perfume tray, a petit table lamp, and a vase with fresh flowers.
Read More: How to Create an Elegant Parisian Bathroom
Accent Chair
Whether it’s a serene spot for reading or a place to slip on your shoes in the morning, an elegant accent chair can really elevate your modern Parisian bedroom.
Classic French chairs, like the Louis XVI chair or the Bergère, are opulent options that you’ll find in the most luxe Parisian apartments.
If finding an antique chair feels like a challenge (which it can be if you’re outside of France) many furniture retailers offer reproductions of these iconic French designs. I’ve found some gorgeous options from Anthropologie—one of my favorite stores for Parisian-inspired decor—like this classic striped chair or this beautiful blue tufted chair.
Chairish is another excellent site to shop for vintage furniture. I found several French accent chairs on there for under $500, including this pistachio green Louis XV style armchair and this neutral French fauteuil.
An even more affordable route is to check out your local thrift stores. If you can find a chair with great bones, all you need is a quick reupholstery for a French-inspired chair for your bedroom.
Style your chair with a throw or a small accent pillow for a space that feels curated, cozy, and très chic.
3. Invest in Beautiful Bedding
The bed is undoubtedly the most important part of your Parisian bedroom (no surprise there), so investing in beautiful bedding is a must.
Start with crisp and clean sheets. When it comes to dressing their beds, Parisians keep it simple—a high thread count cotton sheet is a classic option that works year-round. During the summer, you might swap them out for linen fabrics that are a bit more breathable and look effortlessly lived-in.
Your sheets don’t have to be anything expensive either for them to be high-quality. I personally buy mine from Monoprix and the French bedding brand Bonsoirs—they have some really nice linens at a reasonable price. Sadly, they aren’t available in the U.S., but they remind me of Brooklinen, one to definitely check out for French-inspired bedding.
Top your sheets with a lightweight duvet or coverlet. Solid neutrals are always a win but don’t shy away from brighter hues and subtle patterns like stripes or florals. For interior inspo, I love browsing Sézane’s home section—they have so many colorful bed linens that are playful, yet incredibly chic.
Next, add a few accent pillows in rich textures like velvet or silk to create depth. Parisian style is all about elegance without excess, so avoid overstuffing the bed with too many cushions. If you feel like your bed is missing something, it might just need an extra layer like a quilt or throw blanket to tie everything together. Drape one at the foot of the bed for the finishing touch.
Soon enough you’ll have your bed looking straight out of a chic Parisian hotel, with just the right mix of luxury and laissez-faire.
4. Opt for Elegant Lighting
Lighting often gets overlooked, but it can truly transform the mood of your bedroom—especially in a Parisian-inspired space, where it’s all about the little details.
A crystal chandelier is an obvious yet elegant choice that’s utterly French. It might seem cliché, but it’s something that I saw in many Parisian apartments when I was living in the affluent 16th arrondissement.
If you're after something less flashy, consider a delicate pendant light or simple flush mount light.
Table lamps are another must for your nightstands and vanity or dresser. For that upscale Parisian hotel vibe, you might add sconces on both sides of your bed. Something brass with a simple lampshade looks particularly elegant.
Artificial lighting is important, but nothing’s better than natural light. Some of the most stunning Haussmanian apartments I’ve seen have those tall French windows that flood each room with sunlight.
If you’re lucky enough to have large windows—and honestly, even if you don’t—open the curtains to let some light in. I personally have sheer curtains in my own French apartment that offer privacy while still letting light through for a luminous and beautiful bedroom. Below I’ll share more tips on how to pick the perfect curtains for your modern French bedroom.
5. Bring in Warmth with Textiles
In a Parisian-inspired bedroom, the right textiles create softness, texture and warmth—all pertinent for curating a cozy chic retreat.
A patterned rug perfectly complements the gorgeous parquet floors that grace many Parisian apartments. Whether or not you have the same hardwood floors in your own bedroom, you’ll definitely want to add a rug under your bed to define your space. Persian-style rugs are a favorite in Parisian apartments, bringing in something bohemian and creating that eclectic feel.
When it comes to curtains, flowy fabrics are key. In those Haussmanian apartments with high ceilings, curtains in linen or velvet look incredibly luxe. You can get the same dreamy Parisian bedroom aesthetic by opting for floor-to-ceiling styles to frame the windows. Depending on your sleeping habits, you might also go for blackout curtains to keep the light out when you need it.
Read More: 12 Easy Ways to Cozy Up Your Home
6. Create Space with Mirrors
One key element of Parisian interior design is gold gilded mirrors. We’ve all seen one perfectly propped above a fireplace—so classic, so French. If you’ve ever strolled through the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, you know exactly where this opulent aesthetic comes from.
To channel the same Parisian vibe, try hanging a gilded mirror above your dresser or vanity.
If your bedroom feels a little tight, mirrors are a great way to brighten and expand the space. Place one directly across from a window to amplify natural light, or lean a tall mirror casually against a wall for some height and drama—it’s understated yet elegant.
Beyond wall-mounted options, consider mirrored furniture such as a vanity or nightstand—these pieces reflect even more light.
If you can’t find an antique option, I’d recommend shopping Anthropologie or Lulu & Georgia. They have plenty of gorgeous options that capture the same lavish look as the French ones and work wonderfully in a Parisian style bedroom.
7. Adorn Your Walls with Art
No space that is truly chic is complete without art. It’s the secret to curating a bedroom that fully reflects your personal style.
In true French fashion, your art choices should be meaningful. It’s quite common (and way easier) to grab whatever’s on the shelves at Target or HomeGoods. But in my opinion, you appreciate art so much more when you know about the artist or story behind it.
It might sound a bit pretentious, but building an art collection doesn’t have to be expensive or exclusive—it just requires some intentionality. You can even create your own art. Frame postcards, messy sketches, or even photos from your travels.
That being said, I’m not against buying prints or even reproductions of art, just make sure they’re authentic to you.
I’ve found so many amazing artists on Etsy, including some local French artists. It’s also a great way to support smaller creators and find pieces that are truly unique.
As for how you style your art, it really depends on your space. A good place to start is above your bed—a large piece or a small gallery wall can make a striking focal point. Pinterest is your best friend here; take notes for spaces similar to yours.
I also love hanging frames on small walls to fill up my room a bit more. It’s all about finding the right balance between too empty and overcrowded. If something feels a bit bare, think about how you can add to it.
8. Add the Finishing Touches
Your Parisian chic bedroom isn’t complete without some thoughtful details that make the space feel uniquely yours—even if you don’t have the ornate moldings. Here are some romantic French bedroom decor ideas and how to style them like a true Parisienne:
Fresh flowers: A simple vase of blooms instantly brings life to your room. I make it a weekly ritual to pick up a small bouquet—an affordable luxury that always brightens my day. I often just buy the flowers from Lidl for around 5 euros. If I have guests coming over, I’ll splurge on a bouquet from my local florist.
Signature scent: Set the mood with a candle that reflects your mood. I enjoy calming scents in my bedroom to unwind at the end of the day. My current favorite is French Cade Lavender from Voluspa. The mini tin version looks incredibly chic on my nightstand and the scent isn’t too strong for a smaller room. I also love spritzing my pillow with this relaxing mist from L’Occitane.
Trays for organization: Trays are a chic way to corral your bedside essentials or organize your dresser and vanity. Use them to style your favorite perfume bottles, jewelry, or even a stack of pretty books. They keep everything polished and in its place.
Personal touches: No space feels truly yours without a little personality. I have a small frame with a photo of my family on my bedside. I also keep some of my grandmother’s jewelry on display on my dresser. These details really make my bedroom feel like home.
Read More: 47 Affordable Luxuries to Elevate Your Daily Routine
Transforming your bedroom into a Parisian retreat doesn’t mean you need an address on the Champs-Élysées. With a few key elements, you can recreate the effortlessly undone vibe that Parisians are known for in your own bedroom. Decorating like the French is really just about creating a space that feels intimate and well-curated.
I’ve followed these principles while decorating my own French apartment. I’m lucky to have some of the beautiful architectural details, but the difficult part for me has been tackling the white walls. I’m slowly growing my art collection (right now it’s mostly local artists and things I’ve made myself!), but I’m happy with the way my apartment is coming together—it’s not perfect, but every piece holds meaning, and that’s what makes it feel special.
I’d love to hear how you’re using these Parisian bedroom ideas into your space. Share your favorite details in the comments below, and any other helpful tips!
What do you think of these modern Parisian bedroom ideas? Let me know in the comments below.
