French country style is a sensual exploration of a storied culture. Here is a tantalizing sample of books on country French design from the collection at Central:

French country style at home (2010) by Sébastien Siraudeau reveals the charm of the countryside in homes where rustic simplicity meets modern restraint. Très au courant.

French Country by Philippe Saharoff & Agnes Zamboni (2006) is an evocative look at vignettes of country life and an examination of the elements that make the style so special.

In The Art of French Country Living (2005), Jean Naudin and Colette Gouvion pay homage to the rich cultural and sensual experience of life in France. Along with interior design, the book provides fabulous country vistas and scenes from famous gardens like Giverny –a lovely book for armchair travel.

A French Country Home: Style and Entertaining (2005) reveals the savoir faire of Jocelyne Sibuet, a hostess and hotelier. She shows us chalets in the Alps and guest houses in Provence, in the vineyards of the Luberon and on the Mediterranean coast. As well, her favourite recipes are featured with mouth-watering photos of French fare like plum tarts and Provencal meatballs in vine leaves.

French country style comes to America with The French Inspired Home (2010) by Texas author Carolyn Westbrook. Her French country has frou-frou cottage flavour and traditional settings.

Charles Foudree is another American designer inspired by all things French. French Country Signature (2003) displays lavish attention to detail in extravagantly designed rooms. His style will appeal to those who enjoy magazines like Traditional Home, House Beautiful and Veranda where his work has been frequently featured.