Real talk, you guys: French Provincial style has never really been my thing. As a lover of contemporary design, I’ve often felt that the Provincial aesthetic (out of all the common interior design styles) hasn’t really evolved much. It’s always felt a bit old-fashioned to me. Until now, that is.
The modern Provincial interior design in this new-build home from Metricon is a real game-changer. What I love about the home tour I’m about to take you on is that it’s new-meets-old in the best way possible. The design team has taken all the best bits from that classic Provincial style and fused it with fresh, contemporary touches.
There’s no outdated feel here. There’s no rusticity. It really does feel like a new, modern taken on Provincial design. And I’m loving every minute of it. Scroll on and let’s explore more of this stunning new-build property.
Modern Provincial is Less Fussy Than its Predecessor
The thing about that classic French Provincial style is that it’s quite fussy. The lines aren’t as clean. Sofas tend to feature large rolled arms, tufted button cushions, and a larger proportion of timber work throughout. But as you can see here, the modern Provincial interior design in Metricon’s Phoenix 40 is much simpler in its approach.
The living room above features detail but it’s easy on the eye. A restrained pipe trim on sofa, for example, gives you a little interest without overwhelming you. Adorned with cushions galore and a textured block-coloured rug, it makes for a space that reads as cosy and Provincial but with less visual chaos than the traditional style.
The open-plan feel of the living-dining-kitchen is classic Metricon; a large space that bodes well for connection with family and friends. Airy and flooded with natural light, all three zones are connected through colour and materials in a seamless way that pays homage to the old while still feeling new.
The tufted detail on the dining chairs below and the industrial lighting over the kitchen island give a nod to the classic while still feeling so at home in this contemporary suburban setting.
The Hamptons Influences Keep Things Interesting
As you can see from the home’s facade at the top of this post, there’s an intentional Hamptons influence at play here. Not only does the design cater to a Hamptons-hungry market that’s so prevalent right now, but it also acknowledges the fact that modern Provincial and Hamptons share a lot of the same style cues.
The shaker cabinets in the kitchen you can see above and below are a prime example of this overlap. I mean, if you saw the kitchen on its own you might call it a Hamptons kitchen. But when looking at the biggest picture, the home is definitely modern Provincial.
The light greige colour in this zone is a really warm and inviting one. It’s not that crisp white you’d see in a classic Hamptons space. It’s earthier and quite connected to the alfresco zone the kitchen spills out to. And what a stunning alfresco zone it is!
That connection between indoors and out is another Metricon staple. You’ll also notice that the outdoor setting is a vibe that reads as more contemporary, as opposed to the ornate metal furniture that you see in more traditional Provincial spaces. The facade at the back of the home is another nod to Hamptons style, proving that a blend of both looks is a winning approach.
Love a Hamptons Kitchen? See the must-have inclusions yours should have here.
The Neutral Colour Palette is Super-Soothing
Another reason I say that this home is definitely modern Provincial interior design and not Hamptons is the restrained colour palette. The monochromatic approach of browns, creams, beiges and whites is altogether different from the modern Hamptons style you can see here. Sure, there are some commonalities, but the low-contrast colour in this property is distinctly Provincial.
The owner’s suite in this home is a real stunner. The bedroom features an impressive ensuite, built-in study/dressing table, and oversized balcony – perfect for a morning coffee or evening wine. The textures and layers in this space evoke a sense of relaxed luxury. It’s easy, it doesn’t feel too laboured over, and it’s so soft and welcoming.
The furniture in this main bedroom is deliciously Provincial and does give a nod to tradition. The tufted headboard, the profile on the bedside table front, and the feature pendant lights all feel classic. But then you have the curtain rod and picture frames in this striking matte black to keep things contemporary.
The soothing palette continues in the Provincial ensuite below, but there’s definitely a sense of drama at play.
The Bathroom and Laundry Give you a Pop of Drama
The ensuite above is a gorgeous example of modern Provincial interior design executed in a way that feels timeless but not boring. You want to walk that fine line when adhering to a well-known design style for your home. Too many of-the-minute trends and you end up with a bathroom that dates. But then playing it too safe results in a zone that feels predictable. This space avoids both traps.
The mix of finishes here is really smart. You have gloss wall tiles, satin cabinet fronts on the vanity, matte tiles on the floor and then soft white sheer curtains bedside the tub. There’s a really nice balance of materials. It doesn’t read too warm or cold, too hard or soft, or too heavy or light. Just perfectly balanced.
The floor tiles give this zone a bit of necessary drama. I always tell design clients that if you’re going to go bold in any zone, do it in your ensuite! It’s a space only you’re going to see and experience. So by all means keep your main bathroom or powder room a littler safer, but be daring in your ensuite.
The laundry below is not as bold, but it still speaks to the bathroom above, as well as the kitchen design on the ground floor. You want these rooms to speak to one another, but not perfectly match.
Eager to see a Classic Hamptons Bathroom? I show you inside my fave one here.
See this Modern Provincial Home In-Person
The Phoenix 40 home you see here is one of two properties the team at Metricon have just launched in the Hunter Region of NSW.
“We’re excited to open more display homes in Maitland,” says Metricon Homes NSW General Manager, Patrick Eather. “We are experiencing significant interest in regional NSW from Sydneysiders who are realising the cost of housing is much more affordable relative to what you pay in Sydney.
“With many organisations looking to embrace working from home beyond COVID-19 restrictions, a home in a regional community is now being viewed more favourably – particularly if you are only commuting a few days per week as opposed to the full 5 days or can work entirely from home”.
The Qualia 33 and the Phoenix 40 are available for viewing at 38 Settlers Blvd, Chisholm, every day from 10.00am-5.00pm. For more information visit www.metricon.com.au
This post includes images and/or videos of Metricon display homes and events, reproduced with permission. © Metricon Homes Pty Ltd 2021.
Hi. How can we find out what paint colours we’re used in this display home? Thanks
Hi Chris, we are looking to install a bifold window at our servery onto the deck but we can only find ones that are made of wood that don’t need a bottom track. Is yours wooden or aluminium. I thought aluminium would be lighter and not need a bottom track (sill). Thanks for any advice.
Hey Chris,
Just wanting to know where the big modular couch is from in the first photo. I have had a search but having trouble finding it.
Hi Emma, Metricon source everything for their display homes. Somewhere like Molmic should be able to manufacture something like that.
Hello Chris, luv reading your Tuesday posts. “Light greige” paint colours are exactly what I am looking for to repaint my home. I am having trouble sourcing the colours. My walls are covered in paint samples that throw either blue or cream undertones that I not so fond of . Would you be able to suggest some greige colours that throw the hint of a warm grey/beige.
thanks for being so inspirational!
cheers
Kat
Hey Kathy, have you looked at Taubman’s Snow Drop? Or Family Album from Tint? Might be worth popping into a paint store and get some help from a pro.