French Renaissance.

Unlike the majority of design movements prior to this time period where religion was most influential, the rulers tastes were the most influential of the French Renaissance. Because so much of the designs prior to the French Renaissance were religiously influenced and therefore, many religious structures were built, there was no need for new religious buildings to be built, instead palaces and chateaux were the main architectural focus.

Chateau Chambord:
Royal hunting lodge in the Loire Valley that contained 444 rooms, 84 staircases, 365 chimneys, and surrounded by a 22 mile long wall. This was the meeting place of Francois I and Leonardo da Vinci. It was a medieval structure decorated in the renaissance style (Often the exteriors of this design period would not match the interiors).




Chateau de Fontaineblaeu:

Consisted of large structures, formal gardens, lakes, fountains, and elaborate interiors and is located 55 kilometers from Paris. A lot of Italian influences helped create the interiors; these included lots of stucco ornaments, carved wall paneling, and coffered ceilings in geometric patterns.




Modern Day Examples of French Renaissance: