Country Style Decorating

The country style of decorating is warm and inviting. It combines homespun items and looks with comfort and a lived in feel. Colors:

In this style muted colors are best. Bold colors detract from the overall feel of this look, so stick with colors like: pale red, mustard, cream, light blue and olive green. Floors, Ceilings and Architectural Features

• There should never be carpeting in a country style bathroom; instead opt for wood, ceramic tile, cork or linoleum. • Opt for soft antique lighting features such as wrought iron chandeliers. • With kitchen cabinets create an aged wood look by distressing them, and have round knobs made of wood instead of metal. • Countertops in the bathroom or kitchen should be ceramic tile, slate or marble. Furniture: • Have a large rectangular kitchen table made of hard wood. It should have wooden chairs or benches. A matching sideboard is also common in the country style. • Make sure furniture has simple lines and is wood. • Country chairs and sofas usually have high backs. • A rocking chair is a simple way to bring the charm of the country look into any living room. • Look for furniture in flea markets or furniture that looks like it came out of your grandparent’s attic. Fabrics and Patterns:

Floral, striped and checked patterns usually printed on calico fabric. Any vintage looking fabric will also work well. Accents and Accessory Pieces:

Accents and accessory pieces in the country style are generally items that you would usually have but are put on display. Here are a few ideas based on what you could display by room:

Kitchen

• Wooden spoons • Dishes • Pottery • Bowls of fruits or vegetables • Cookbooks • Canisters for sugar, flour etc. • Dried herbs or flowersBathroom

• Baskets to hold towels • Glass jars for holding bathroom supplies or toothbrushes • Baskets or pots to hold books, towels, soap, shampoo etc. Living room

• Throw pillows • Quilts • Rugs • Flower, candle and potpourri displays