Country Style Decorating
Several to choose from, which is right for your home?
An attractive blend of fabrics and a warm, handmade quality in
furnishings and accessories are two characteristics of the country
decorating style. There are also slight differences within the category that
can take your country decorating down different paths.
If a more relaxed, homey feel
is what you’re after, there’s no better way to attain your objective
than to look to the present trend of country decorating.
One of the most common country styles is “rustic,” which for many people
conjures up pictures of a lakeside cabin with sparse furnishings and antlers
and other hunting trophies on the walls.
There’s also “personal” country, a
style rich in collectibles and other memorabilia, and “new” country, with
its airy spaces, undressed windows and limited furnishings.
A more
contemporary country look may feature a brighter color palette with accents
of red, black or pure white to set off the design.
Crafty country design can be frilly and rather girly, and you may need to
practice restraint if you want everyone to enjoy the look. The best way to
avoid conflict would be to let the man of the house add design touches.
Just
remember that the frills and flowery stencils are only part of it: you can
create your own unique items such as a desk out of an old door or screens
out of window shutters. A handmade, simple quality fills country-style
accessories, like baskets, carved wooden bowls, pottery, pewter and
hand-forged metal accents.
Generally, country decorating is symbolized by primitive furnishings,
subdued colors, milk-paint finishes and vintage fabrics, though it includes
a wide array of styles depending on geographical location.
You can get lots
of ideas, and bargain priced pieces too, at flea markets. Search for pieces
with straight lines, painted finishes and very little decoration. Muted,
soft colors showing the wear of time are indicative of country style.
Country home décor is a favored home interior and it’s no surprise since
this style encourages an informal welcoming way of life. Carefully bring
together the colors of each element of your décor after you’ve familiarized
yourself with the specific style and color scheme.
Be consistent in your
selection of home interior color, styles and materials so as to avoid a
hodgepodge look that’s a sign of poor planning.
This style of decorating is popular nowadays because it brings
us back to an old-fashioned, serene set of principles and values. After all,
what’s more peaceful than spending time at a country retreat?
|