Country style is making a comeback, and it probably isn’t what you think it is. Generally when we think of country style, we think of our grandmother’s house and very old fashioned colors and clunky furniture. Today’s country style has changed a bit. You can decorate in a “modern” country style and still have a home that looks very elegant.
The modern country style is quite varied, but is generally characterized by a room that is grounded by neutral colors, and comfortable furniture. I tend to be a visual learner, so we will go room by room and look at elements of country decor.
Let’s start with the foyer. What makes this look country instead of modern? The console table could be either, but the vintage style mirror and the light fixture give it just enough hint of the past to look country yet still elegant. Also, the little bench has what is known as “shaker” style legs, which means they are square legs that are a little larger at the top and tapered slightly toward the bottom. Notice that there is a pillow on the bench to make it look more inviting.
Here is an example of a living room. Notice that all of the seating is upholstered, although solid wooden rocking chairs would also fit into this style. Country decor leans toward practical items. The console under the TV, for example has tons of storage space. Since country decor tends to give a nod to bygone days, it remembers that farm homes 100 years ago tended to be more for practicality than showing off.
In this room, every seat looks very comfortable. The table, and cabinets are not fancy shapes, but very practical. I especially like the ceiling fan in this room. It is almost industrial, and brings a bit of modernity to the room. Small touches in this room make a big difference as well. Take a look at the little green lamps. They have decoration on them, but very little bling. Just enough to be noticeable.
In the dining room, country decor generally calls for a tablecloth. I honestly can’t tell you what my grandmother’s table even looked like, because I never saw it without the iconic red and white checked oilcloth tablecloth on it. The more modern country style leans more toward soft colors and cotton tablecloths, so you aren’t tied in to red gingham. The room is still practical and not overly decorated. The curtains have an understated check pattern, and the only art on the wall is one canvas. The only furniture in the room other than the dining table is the cabinet. This cabinet in the room is just right for storing things a dining room needs; napkins, tablecloths, charcuterie board, serving platters, and these days, charging cables. This one has charging ports built into it.
In the bedroom, comfort continues with soft fabrics and soft colors. You don’t have to be a fan of blue to see the country cohesiveness of this bedroom. The soft, comfortable bed is made with a thick comforter to give it rounded corners. The relief pattern on the bedside tables is a floral pattern reminiscent of the outdoors. The two chest of drawers add old world charm by being side by side instead of one large piece. Again, notice that all of the pieces of furniture in the room are geared toward practicality and storage.
When putting together a country style home, go for pieces that you find attractive. They don’t have to all “match” in order to look good together. In the end, whether you want to go full country, or a little eclectic, remember that you are not decorating your house for others, you are decorating it for you, so pick what you like, and love where you live.