French rural architecture is an Old-World style that originated in France's countryside. The phrase refers to rural manor houses and chateaux built in the 1600s and 1700s. The style is characterized by large windows, high ceilings, grand staircases, and extensive use of wood. During this time period in Europe, many noblemen and gentlemen took advantage of new technologies to build larger and more extravagant homes. They wanted to show off their wealth and status to others. These buildings were often constructed in the newest styles at the time, such as Baroque and Classicism. However, not all wealthy people were able to build such large homes. So, they developed a type of house that was affordable to them - the manoir. A manoir is a small town house that typically has only one floor and contains both residential and commercial spaces. It can be any size, from a small apartment to a large house. Often, a manoir has a separate entrance for each function it serves. One side may have living rooms, kitchens, and other social spaces while the other has beds, storage, and dressing areas for privacy. People loved these new types of houses because of their spaciousness and light-filled rooms. They also enjoyed the easy cleanliness of having no walls inside of your home - just open spaces!