3 Timeless Secrets of French InteriorsSecret 1 – Velvet: The Warmth Behind French Interiors
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In many European interiors — especially in French homes — spaces feel warm, soft, and naturally inviting. One of the easiest ways to create that signature French-style comfort is by adding rich, cozy materials.
Velvet is one of the most iconic choices in French interior decorating. Whether it’s a velvet sofa, elegant curtains, a bed throw, or decorative cushions, introducing this fabric into your living room and bedroom instantly elevates the space with that refined, warm French Touch look.
And contrary to popular belief, velvet isn’t just a winter fabric. It blends beautifully with natural textures like linen — a combination often found in Parisian interiors and modern French-style home decor. This mix creates the effortless harmony and quiet luxury that define true French interiors.
Secret 2 – Sheer Light: The Brightness Behind French Interiors
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French interiors are almost always filled with light — especially natural light. In France, this is easy to achieve because many homes were built with large windows, including the iconic French window, known for letting daylight flood into a room.
To enhance this natural brightness, the French often choose elegant white sheer curtains. Even if your windows are small, white sheers are one of the most timeless essentials of French-style decorating. They soften the light, create a gentle glow, and instantly bring that airy, effortless feel found in Parisian interiors.
For the most authentic result, choose fabrics made entirely, or mostly, from natural fibers. Linen or cotton sheers will always bring a warmer and more refined atmosphere.
Secret 3 – The Timeless Charm of French Ceramics
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For centuries, France has cultivated a refined ceramic tradition — from Limoges porcelain to handcrafted pottery from Provence — celebrated for its beauty, craftsmanship, and authenticity. French ceramics bring character, texture, and a sense of artistry to everyday interiors.
This is why the French always include a few ceramic pieces in their homes: a vase, a lamp base, a decorative bowl, or a small catchall dish placed on an entryway console or a side table. These objects add soul, warmth, and a handcrafted touch that instantly elevates any space with true French-style elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to start a free course?
No. You don’t need any experience at all. Our free courses are designed for complete beginners and guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals of interior design and decorating. They’re the perfect way to start learning with confidence.
Are the free courses enough to work as an interior decorator?
The free courses teach you the fundamentals.
To start a real career as an interior decorator, we recommend continuing with our behind-the-scenes masterclass, where you’ll discover how a French designer manages a real project from start to finish.
After that, you can register for our exclusive Certified Career Program — available in January 2026 — where you’ll practice on a real interior design project and deepen your knowledge, skills, and professional competencies, all guided by the refined methods and elegance of the French Touch.
What is the difference between the free courses and the masterclass?
The masterclass shows you how to apply everything in a real project.
While the free lessons teach theory and basics, the masterclass shows you how a professional works step-by-step on an interior design project.
What will I learn in the masterclass?
In the masterclass, you’ll follow a complete real-life interior design project from start to finish — just like a French professional. You’ll learn how to study the space, understand your client’s needs and desires, and create a clear decorative concept. Step by step, you’ll discover how to build a moodboard, choose furniture, select colors and materials, and style the space with decorative accessories. By the end, you’ll know how to bring a full project to life with the elegance and precision of the French Touch.
Why is the French Touch Certified Interior Decorator Program valuable?
The French Touch Certified Interior Decorator Program gives you the professional skills and confidence to work as an interior decorator with a distinctive international edge. You’ll learn real, proven methods, practice on a complete interior design project, and receive expert guidance while building a strong and elegant portfolio. The program blends solid interior design knowledge with the refinement, balance, and attention to detail that define French interiors — a style admired and sought after around the world.
This certification helps you stand out in the industry and gives you the strong foundation you need to begin a successful and confident career in interior decorating.
What makes ALNA DESIGN® different?
ALNA DESIGN® gives you a unique way to learn interior design online: professional methods, real project training, and the elegance of the French Touch — all at an accessible price. Our approach is designed to help you learn faster, gain confidence, and stand out in a competitive market.
Here’s what makes us truly different:
• The French Touch advantage
Learn a style admired worldwide: balanced, timeless, elegant. This instantly sets you apart from other beginner interior decorators.
• Professional methods made simple
No complicated theory. You learn real techniques step by step, exactly how French decorators work on actual projects.
• A clear, structured learning path
Free courses → Professional masterclass → Certified career training.
Each stage prepares you for the next so you can grow with confidence.
• Learn without overspending
High-quality interior design education is often expensive. We offer accessible prices without compromising quality.
• Real project experience
You don’t just learn concepts — you practice on a complete interior project in the masterclass and even more in the certification program.
• Designed for beginners and career changers
No experience needed. You study interior decorating online with clear guidance and simple explanations.
• International credibility
The French Touch is a powerful differentiator in the interior design world. Your future clients will notice it.
Can I study at my own pace?
Yes. All courses and programs are self-paced so you can study whenever you want.
Will I learn real professional techniques?
Yes. Even in the free courses, you learn real fundamentals.
In the masterclass and Certified Program, you learn the full professional workflow used by decorators and interior designers.
Who teaches the courses?
All courses are created and taught by Myriam Markiewicz, a French interior designer with 18 years of experience and the founder of ALNA DESIGN®. She has taught interior design in France, created the country’s first program for career changers, and authored a book on interior and exterior decorating.
What is your refund policy?
Our masterclass delivers immediate access to the entire real-life project walkthrough, all video lessons, and all downloadable resources from the moment you purchase it. Because the full course is available instantly, the masterclass is not eligible for a refund.
This approach is standard for high-value digital training and ensures that every student receives the complete learning experience right away, without limits or delays.
The best part?
You can start with our free courses to make sure our teaching style and method are the right fit for you before joining the masterclass.
For students who want to continue further, the French Touch Certified Interior Decorator Career Program (launching January 2026) will include a satisfaction guarantee and a dedicated refund policy.