The interior design styles of the era between 1610 and 1793 in France are called Louis-styles after the four reigning kings.
Baroque was half-baked and the effect of Renaissance was strong under Louis XIII. (1601-1643). That’s why the interiors were moderately decorated. Although furniture was richly carved, they were natural in color and large-scaled. Their architectural elements were determining. Chairs are upholstered, most of them are not folding. Louvre was the seat of the king by this time. Impact of Baroque began at the end of his reign.
Louis XIV., the Sun-king (1638-1715) was the lover of pomp. Baroque reached its peak under his reign. The aim was using the more decorating motifs, gildings and exotic materials in every fine arts. He had the castle of Versailles rebuilt to a world famous palace of the king. Boulle is the most known name in the field of furniture, he became famous by his marquetry. He used ormolu, tortoise shells, brass, noble woods by chance. Mansart created lasting in architecture. He is known by the roof type named after him. The beauty of the gardens were the works of Le Nôtre. The geometrically arranged flower beds, fountains, long promenades are spectacular even nowadays. The colorful frescos and murals of Versailles are the works of Le Brun.
Louis XV. (1710-1774) was the great-grandson of the Sun-king. Rococo is the style of his era which was marked by over-decorating, shell motifs, chinoiserie and feminine interior details. The fashion was dictated by his two famous lovers, Madame Pompadour and Madame Du Barry. Porcelain manufacturing started, the lace-manufactures and silk-weavers were sponsored for the most splendid fabrics which were matched with goods from abroad. The walls were covered by fabrics or wallpapers, furniture were lacquered and painted, the decorating C and S pieces were used inordinately.
The reign of Louis XVI. (1754-1793) was the era of Classicism. The ancient Roman buildings, sculptures and household objects found in excavation of Pompei had a big influence on the people of the age. The stifling over-decoration was followed by a more moderated style: the decoration elements of ancient times were used again, the shapes of furniture became clear, the lines straightened. Even dressing fashion turned to a more comfortable direction. Patterns and decorations of idealized country life were used on fabrics, porcelains and other household objects.
The revolution terminated Louis-styles and the ancient régime also. Several buildings, paintings, valuable statues, porcelains etc. were perished during the huddle and terror of years because of the intentional vandalism and fire-raising of the mob. These are lost forever for posterity.
Fortunately, enough sources and pictures remained for falling in love with any of the Louis-styles and for desiring to implement them at home. A good interior designer can help to realize this dream by refreshing and fitting it to the sizes of present flats/houses.