Cozy country style living room
41 Cozy Living Rooms - Cozy Living Room Furniture and Decor Ideas
David Hillegas
A living room is the heart of a home, a place for entertaining, relaxing, and spending time with loved ones. These rooms are packed with inspiration on how to make a living room cozy, from layering textiles to adding a large gallery wall of family heirlooms. Whether your space is large or small, these cozy living room ideas will create a warm and inviting environment to be enjoyed all year-round. Plus, get more of our best living room inspiration here!
David Hillegas
1 of 41
Low Country Living Room
Relaxed Roman shades and lightweight accent chairs give this room a casual elegance. The calming paint color (Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams) allows the fabric-covered sofa to be the star.
RIKKI SNYDER
2 of 41
Layers of Collections
Jeannette Fristoe collects a lot of things—decoys, cuckoo clocks, pottery, old books, and glassware to name but a few. She displays a sampling of them all in her living room along with plenty plants to keep things fresh.
BRIAN WOODCOCK
3 of 41
Rustic Charm
Exposed walls, a well-worn rug, comfy seating, and a roaring fire—what could be finer than spending an afternoon reading in this cozy living space?
DAVID TSAY
4 of 41
Modern Farmhouse
This modern farmhouse, set in the picturesque Napa Valley, juxtaposes industrial and rustic elements to break up a large, open living room.
DAVID TSAY
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A Mix of Textiles
Rightsized furniture and a mix of upholstery and pillows make for a warm welcome in this Santa Barbara bungalow. (The gorgeous views don't hurt either.)
Annie Schlechter
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Fresh Renovation
Holly William's restoration of this old Tennessee farmhouse features a fresh coat of paint on the architectural elements, allowing vintage finds—like the hanging banners salvaged from a church—to shine.
TRIA GIOVAN
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Rife with Stripes
Stripes are subtly layered throughout this cozy living room thanks to rustic beams, soft goods, and an unexpected zebra rug.
Because it's a small space—the entire house is only 1,000 square feet!—the homeowner utilized every inch of wall space to showcase her favorite finds.
DAVID TSAY
8 of 41
Textured Charm
Homeowner Maria Carr was delighted to find rough-hewn 12-inch planked walls beneath layers of 1970s-era wallpaper in her living room. She added floor-to-ceiling white paint, which set the scene for her signature mix of cozy French decor.
Annie Schlechter
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A Wall of Books
A floor-to-ceiling library (with so-fun library ladder!) and a gallery wall of family art set the scene for creative gatherings in this Manhattan apartment.
Mike Garten
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Lakeside Views
An open window policy and a mix of midcentury modern furniture with a smattering of rustic accents come together in this lakeside living room.
LESLEE MITCHELL
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Eclectic Country
The Auerbach home is awash with color, and the living/music room combo is no exception thanks to a 1900-inspired Art Nouveau tulip wallcovering and a bright red rug.
A vintage parasol-turned-light fixture adds another pop of color.
Photograph by Eric Piasecki, Design by Anthony Baratta
12 of 41
Ski Lodge Inspired
In the mountains of Utah, designer Anthony Baratta warmed up this après-ski setting with lumberjack fabrics, dramatic fixtures, and a light dusting of kitsch.
Jean Allsopp
13 of 41
Cabin Fever
This warm and inviting Alabama cabin living room encourages nights spent hanging out by the fire thanks to a plush couch and chair. The wood ceiling, plaid curtains, and wall art all add texture, color, and interest to the space.
Victoria Pearson
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Calming Neutrals
Cozy up in a cream-colored living room with natural elements like wood accents and pine cones displayed on a coffee table tray.
Victoria Pearson
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Wood Panels
The couple living in this Texas country dream of a farmhouse removed the 1970s paneling pieces one-by-one, power washed them, and reassembled the boards for a more savvy approach.
Helen Norman
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Rock Out
In this Alabama countryside home's sitting room, the cypress ceiling perfectly complements the coarse, sandy stone on the fireplace. And the linen armchair, soft rug, jute basket, and warm fire create an environment you want to relax in for a while.
Lincoln Barbour
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Assembled-Over-Time Vibe
A wingback chair and a spindle chair give this Alabama dogtrot home's living room a collected-over-time vibe. The rustic mantel makes things feel extra rustic.
Tara Donne
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New Hampshire Keeping Room
Brian Woodcock
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Beige Beauty
A variety of beige tones warms up the living room in this farmhouse-inspired New York City apartment. And the sweater pillow and wool throw are perfect accessories for snuggling on a cold night.
Annie Schlechter
20 of 41
White Room
Varying shades of cream and ivory and strategic pops of texture (waffle knit, cable knit) on the pillows and throws keep the room fresh, not sterile.
Helen Norman
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Rattan Furniture
Cody Ulrich
22 of 41
Small Space
Dallas designer Paige Morse added a nice, cozy touch inside these two rundown sheds, but it can also serve as inspiration for anyone with a smaller home.
Brian Woodcock
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Natural Materials
Slipcovered sofas and cowhide and sisal rugs add softness and texture, and verdant pops of green reinforce the natural approach in this transformed suburban home.
Helen Norman
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Outdoors Theme
Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside by using a seamless mix of materials like limestone, cypress, and oak.
Max Kim-Bee
25 of 41
Casual Vibe
A mix of vintage and catalog finds lends a casual vibe in this Georgia farmhouse's living room, where pine bookcases rescued from a demolished elementary school keep company with a new linen sofa. An abstract painting by artist—and CL General Store vendor Deann Hebert—adds texture above the chipped mantel.
David Tsay
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Family Heirlooms
Victoria Pearson
27 of 41
Filled With Antiques
A wood-burning stove, dark hardwood floors, and an antique brown leather chair provide a handsome counterpoint to linen sofas and layered neutral-colored carpets in this Washington home.
David A. Land
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Cozy Reading Room
Built-in shelves and a few well-appointed antiques help cozy up the reading room in this Upstate New York farmhouse.
Quentin Bacon
29 of 41
Lake House Getaway
In this Georgia lake house, appealingly asymmetrical built-ins—one with hidden storage, the other open—flank the great room's fieldstone fireplace. French leather club chairs from Wyatt Childs, plus a pair of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams sofas, serve up plenty of seating.
Max Kim-Bee
30 of 41
Extra Storage
The living room of this New Hampshire cabin is furnished with a gigantic wicker sectional sofa from Restoration Hardware that invites the entire family to hang out for games or a movie.
The weather-resistant rug is from Dash & Albert. Built-in cubbies store beach blankets and fishing gear, and the ladder leads to a sleeping loft.
Country living room ideas: 45 rustic looks for your lounge
(Image credit: Future)
Your country living room ideas should are the heart of the home, the best place to kick back and relax, surrounded by creature comforts. One of the hallmarks of country living room ideas is that they are easy to tailor to your style – fill your space with heirloom furniture, clashing patterns and bold colours, or keep it pared back with muted shades, natural finishes and plain fabrics, and you will have an inviting, relaxed rustic space that's unique to you.
How you plan to use your space, and whether it's your only sitting room or you have further areas for relaxing and entertaining, will help to define your living room ideas. There are more details to consider when creating this look, too – these country living room ideas and tips will help you get it just right.
Country living room ideas
When browsing country decorating ideas, ask yourself: do you want a cozy snug or an expansive area where all the family can relax together? Is your style country house formal, or do you prefer a more laid-back aesthetic? Are you a fan of color, print and pattern, or do you gravitate towards more muted tones and simple shapes?
Once you have an idea of your room's style, size and how it will be used, you can begin the fun job of honing your country living room ideas to create a characterful, relaxing space you'll love to spend time in.
1. Choose joyful color for your country living room
(Image credit: Linwood)
When you’re creating a moodboard for your country living room ideas, don’t feel that you have to balance a bold print with pared-back color. Sometimes, being bright and bold is the best option – especially with country curtain ideas for living rooms.
‘Here, it’s the joyous color – from the punchy cushions and lamp to the grounding pale pink of the upholstery – that helps highlight the beauty of the floral,’ says Ella Richards, Head of Design at Linwood .
These drapes are in the company’s Albertine Classic Rose fabric.
2. Mix finishes in a country living room
(Image credit: Violante & Rochford)
‘Modern country design is where tradition meets modern-day living through distressed finishes, mixed metals, handcrafted furniture, and a simple color scheme anchored in earth tones,’ advises Amber Dunford, Style Director at Overstock .
‘To balance the country elements, opt for prints that don’t feel overly precious and have a bit of modernity to them, such as a check or a ticking stripe. Textiles such as leather and suede paired with industrial materials like iron and brass will add just the right amount of sternness to the lightheartedness of a country aesthetic.
‘Liveable comfort and family-centric themes are staples of this style, so a clean-lined sofa with overstuffed loose cushions should help you strike that balance between modern and country.’
3. Celebrate color and pattern
(Image credit: Penny Morrison)
‘The contemporary country look is all about achieving a balance of comfort, tradition and elegance,’ says fabric designer Penny Morrison .
‘The spaces should feel inviting and inspiring.
‘It's important to pay attention to the traditional features of a property rather than attempting to hide or change them. Enhance them by decorating a fireplace, say, or painting joinery in a high-gloss lacquer finish.
‘When mixing patterns in a room, do so within a similar color scheme. This will bring depth and harmony to the space, keeping things vibrant and interesting without making it feel too fussy or orchestrated.
‘I would say it is best to do the upholstery in plain colors or muted small prints, and save the larger, bolder patterns for accessories such as cushions or ottomans, or if you have a larger space, one or two chairs.’
4. Expose brick or stone walls
(Image credit: Alexander Waterworth/Soho Farm Cottage)
If your property is blessed with beautiful stonework or old brick walls, think about revealing that natural rustic beauty in your country living room ideas – even if it’s just in one focal point, such as the chimney.
‘Think back to the country farmhouses of the past; a lot of these spaces will have had brick or stone walls,’ explains Ryan Jones from Land of Rugs .
‘Whether it is one feature wall or all the walls in the home, exposed brick can add drama to your space. It is also worth noting that exposed brick or stone works perfectly with carpet or hardwood flooring.’
5. Make country living room ideas personal
(Image credit: Richard Gadsby/Future)
‘Keep decor personal and meaningful. Country life is about welcoming people into your home, sharing stories and experiences,’ advises Marian 'Mimi' Meacham, Principal of Houston-based Marian Louise Designs . ‘Decor items that are personal to you are instant conversation starters.’
Books, collections, photographs and artworks will all bring a personal touch to your country living room ideas. ‘Display treasures and collectibles you have amassed throughout your life and travels for that warm, inviting feel,’ says Mimi.
6. Put wood on the ceiling
(Image credit: CutlerSchulze)
When you’re pulling together your country living room ideas, it’s likely your focus will be on flooring and walls. But don’t forget the ceiling above your head – it’s a vital element of any decorating scheme.
‘Some of my favorite elements involve wood on the ceiling,’ agrees Ran-D, interior designer and co-founder of RelaxingDecor .
‘For example, hardwood ceilings look amazing when paired with light walls and floors. Or wood beams on the ceilings look great as well. I also love wood trim around the home, such as around doorways or windows.’
7. Color-check your curtains
(Image credit: Brent Darby/Future)
Choosing country curtain ideas is an open and shut case – you really do need to consider how they frame a window when they are pulled back, and what the expanse of fabric will look like when they are closed.
‘Window treatments in natural tones such as flax, cream and beige will always work well in a country living room,’ confirms Devin Shaffer, Lead Interior Designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design.
‘I like to choose organic fabrics including cotton and linen. This will help to integrate the interior with the surrounding landscape.’
8. Choose a topical wallpaper
(Image credit: Mulberry Home)
If you want to bring a classic British look to your country living room ideas, consider opting for country wallpaper ideas associated with the English country house style, albeit updated for modern tastes. Rural motifs such as animals, birds and flowers, mixed in with stripes and checks, are a great place to start.
'Mulberry Home offers timeless, romantic fabrics and wallpapers with a sense of whimsy, drawing inspiration from a quintessentially British aesthetic,’ says Ann Grafton, the brand’s Creative and Managing Director.
'Game Birds is one of Mulberry Home's most cherished and iconic designs and has recently been reimagined with new colorways as a fabulous wallpaper.
‘To create a fabulous interior for your country living room, consider layering a bold wallpaper like Game Birds wallpaper with a plaid design and a plain to create a delicious, colorful and stylish living space".
9. Seek out calming sage
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
This gentle color should definitely be an option when you’re planning your country living room ideas as it brings a natural serenity to a scheme.
‘I love to use simple neutral colors to decorate. Sage is a softer, more subtle shade of green that has a peaceful impact in almost any room,’ says Janet Wischnia, President of American Blossom Linens .
Living room paint ideas or soft furnishings in green creates a relaxed feel. ‘A sage blanket or throw can brighten up a chair in your living space but still leaves you with a feeling of calmness, and we all need that now,’ Wischnia says.
10. Create comfortable gathering spots
(Image credit: Decorilla)
‘Country style is a trend that we've been eyeing for the past few years and we've loved to watch it develop and go from the "modern farmhouse" aesthetic to a more refined, yet rustic, country-inspired appeal,’ says Devin Shaffer, Lead Interior Designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design .
‘Comfort is the key component of the style, so gathering spots such as country living rooms are where the design flourishes. A blend of weathered wood and antiquated finishes layered against neutral finishes in tones of white, beige and gray is the foundation of a modern country scheme.’
11. Expose rustic wood in a country living room
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
If you’re fortunate to have existing architectural features and rustic surfaces, look to incorporate them into your country living room ideas.
‘Try bringing natural elements into your home by exposing wooden beams and any worn and distressed wooden furniture,’ suggests Richard Petrie, home expert at Thomas Sanderson .
‘Introducing natural materials such as wood into your rooms can add clean leans, a calming ambiance and will help achieve the outdoor aesthetic associated with the modern country style.’
No beams? Add a rustic wooden mantel above the fireplace, lay reclaimed wooden floors, or search for antique furniture that shows the knocks and patina of age.
12. Look to nature for color ideas
(Image credit: Linwood)
If you’re struggling to pair colors for your decorating scheme, a walk outside could provide all the inspiration you need.
‘Follow nature’s lead by combining green and yellow,’ suggests Ella Richards, Head of Design, Linwood. ‘They sit next to each other on a rainbow after all, so are the perfect pairing for this relaxed, modern country living room.’
The living room color schemes you consider should make the most of your room’s aspect and the available natural light, as well as the mood you want to create.
13. Go for ‘Grandma gingham’
(Image credit: Emma Lee/Future)
Chintz and even gingham are coming back – think modern grandma, as the checks are blown up in scale,’ says Mark Cutler, Co-Founder of Los Angeles-based interior design firm, CutlerSchulze .
‘As nostalgia grows, modern country is looking cleaner, more pulled together and more decorative.'
14.
Pick out characterful accessories(Image credit: David Brittain/Future)
It's the extra details that will pull your country living room scheme together – wonderfully cozy throws and blankets, vintage vessels and jars in which to display gathered branches and blossoms, and quirky talking points such as the oversized clock in this image.
'Dressing your room is your moment to be creative and truly stamp it with your personality,' says Andrea Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine.
'What's exciting is that you can swap pieces in and out as the seasons change or you discover new treasures to decorate your home, so you always have a fresh new look when you want it.'
15. Create a relaxed cabin feel
(Image credit: David Brittain/Future)
Bring a happy, relaxed element to your country living room ideas by bringing in a ‘cabin escape’ element to your scheme.
‘Focus on shades that are brighter, fresher, and airier to evoke a friendly, inviting feeling in relaxing entertaining areas,’ suggests Mimi Meacham, Principal of Marian Louise Designs.
‘Mix old with new furniture for a lived-in feel. And play with pattern – a buffalo check rug or gingham throw pillows can bring some of that elevated yet approachable country look to the room.'
16. Put a twist on print
(Image credit: CutlerSchulze)
Print and pattern is synonymous with country living room style but its form changes with the times. Sometimes bold florals lead the way, then small prints make a comeback. Graphic shapes such as stripes, checks and block prints also find their place in a country living room scheme.
'Pattern started making a comeback a year or two ago, mostly in geometrics. Now it’s the turn of organics,’ says LA interior designer Mark Cutler. ‘Think of modern takes on traditional florals and even paisley.’
Mix different scales of pattern with plain fabrics for a chic take on country style.
17. Opt for oak in a country living room
(Image credit: Amara)
When you are dialling in your country living room ideas, the materials you choose are key.
Choosing warm, unstained oak over glossy cherry or black ash, say, will immediately place your scheme in the rustic space.
‘Whether you are looking for furniture for a side table, the frame of your sofa, bookcases or drawers, oak is the way to go when you are designing in a country style,’ says Ryan Jones from Land of Rugs.
‘One of the benefits of oak, especially if it is reclaimed, is that it adds depth and character to your design. Contemporary furniture design can feel a little one dimensional. Oak adds that layer of intrigue to your design that will keep you, and your guests, interested.’
18. Bring nature into a country living room
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
Nothing says rural style like a bouquet of garden-fresh flowers, and making a floral display an essential part of your country living room ideas will bring natural beauty to your scheme.
Seasonality is key, so even if you’re buying your blooms from the flower store, make sure they are local and haven’t been force grown.
‘Regardless of whether you live in a large home or a city apartment, bringing a touch of nature into your home will add to an authentic modern country feel,’ agrees Richard Petrie, home expert at Thomas Sanderson . ‘You can also incorporate indoor plants and bright blooms to bring character to your space.’
19. Add wow with woven wallpapers
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
The beauty of natural materials is a focus of rustic style and incorporating them into your country living room ideas will bring a real sense of warmth and authenticity.
‘We are seeing more wallpapers in country living rooms,’ confirms Mark Cutler of design firm CutlerSchulze . ‘But it’s in a fresher way, with wallpaper often printed on to grass cloth to add another layer of texture and detail.’
20. Discover your inner artist
(Image credit: Molly Mahon)
Textile designer Molly Mahon is hugely inspired by the Bloomsbury Group of artists and writers who lived and worked in Britain in the early twentieth century.
Her Sussex home, close to the Charleston farmhouse associated with the group, is decorated with the Bloomsbury trademark love of pattern and decoration, with surfaces painted throughout the house.
The decoration of her rustic living room is a showcase for her passions – especially the artfully painted fire surround.
'The painting was inherited from my husband's grandmother,' says Molly. 'And the framed artwork to the left is actually a piece of original Barron & Larcher cloth that I bought online. I have always collected beautiful textiles and think they look so fabulous framed.'
21. Seek out antique shapes for furniture
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
You don't need to source authentic antiques for your country living room, but adding traditional design elements in your furniture choices will add depth and history to your rustic space.
‘We see more traditional silhouettes gaining popularity,’ comments interior designer Mark Cutler of LA-based design firm, CutlerShulze.
‘Finding a fauteuil – an upholstered chair with a wooden frame and arms – used to be challenging, now they are even popping up on Wayfair. European country style is back and we are here for it!’
22. Light the way with crystal and bronze
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
Planning your living room lighting ideas goes hand-in-hand with coordinating the rest of your decor scheme. Not only will the fixtures themselves complement your style and color palette, but the lighting you choose will establish the ambience of your space.
‘We’re seeing the trend for brass receding and the return of bronze, bringing a beautiful layered finish with richness and depth to country living rooms,’ says LA interior designer Mark Cutler, of CutlerSchulze.
‘I also predict the return of crystal. As a precursor, we’re seeing lots of cut glass hanging pieces in a range of colors.’
23. Choose ‘casualwear’ for your furniture
(Image credit: Zinc Textile x Martin Hulbert Design)
While we love a smartly upholstered sofa, slipcovers can bring a more relaxed look to a country living room.
‘Loose covers in deliberately creased linen never need smartening up,’ agrees Justin Marr, Design Director of Zinc Textile . ‘White sofas are always a winner and are a great base for warmer accents of cognac, ochre and tobacco.
‘The aesthetic for our collaboration with Martin Hulbert Design is relaxed, informal and with a handmade appearance, as shown in this space. A mix of non-matching but happily coexisting cushions, and unlined washed linen curtains are effortlessly relaxed.
24. Use muted colors on country living room walls
(Image credit: The Cotswold Company)
Off-white shades or dusky pastels are the quickest way to create a calming, fresh feel in a room. And when a space feels calm, it feels welcoming.
From a practical standpoint, a light color scheme will make a small country living room feel bigger, as well as giving you a versatile backdrop to explore a wider range of furniture and accessories options.
25. Add country character to a plain living room
(Image credit: Marion Lichtig)
'When it came to designing this sitting room I added the beams on the ceiling and the rough beam over the fire place to create a rustic feel to this country house,' says interior designer Marion Lichtig .
'This is reflected too in the rough hewn coffee table.'
Lichtig then added a few finer items, such as beautiful antique furniture, an elegant scallop back sofa and decorative lighting. 'I like to mix objects to give a room balance, layers and plenty of interest,' she shares.
26. Create a conversation area
(Image credit: Jojo Bradley Interior Design)
To give your country living room an atmosphere of warmth and welcome, arrange seating to make conversation – not the TV – the focus.
'In this room, the armchairs and sofas face each other across an upholstered ottoman, on which a tray of drinks or afternoon tea could be placed,' says interior designer Jojo Bradley . 'The comfortable furniture is softened further with cushions that invite you to relax and settle in for a while.'
This type of furniture arrangement works really well for small or larger groups, too. The pair of armchairs with their own side table provide an area for two people to sit and talk together, while the sofas provide additional seating when crowds gather.
27. Add depth with lighting
(Image credit: Laura Ashley)
A standout light can seem the obvious solution to bring the wow factor to your living room. But bright and shiny isn't always best, especially when it comes to country-style schemes.
'A common mistake is to focus on a show-stopping piece and forgo lighting the rest of the room, leaving it lacklustre and without atmosphere,' explains Mary Buchanan, Creative Director at Laura Ashley . 'Contrast light and shade to create a dramatic finish.'
Buchanan suggests lighting a room from the ground up. 'Wall lights, table lamps and floor lamps are perfect for layering,' she says. 'You can also use these to spotlight favourite objects in the room and light up cozy corners for reading and lounging.'
28. Use expert tricks to make small rooms look larger
(Image credit: Future)
Country homes, with their beautiful oak beams and thick stone walls, are brimming with history and character.
But the rustic architecture runs the risk of making rooms appear small and dark.
When you're planning out country living room ideas, copy some of the tricks used by interior designers to bring a sense of light and airiness to a space. Think Perspex or glass 'invisible' tables; large furniture pieces, such as sofas, raised on elegant feet; and coffee tables made from elegant metal, rather than heavy wood.
29. Make a large country living room look cozy
(Image credit: Jojo Bradley Interiors)
Drawing in the furniture away from the walls of the room will make a large space seem more intimate – a tip interior designers use when creating living room schemes for barn conversions, lofts and other airy country spaces.
To avoid a railroad effect, with galleys on either side of sofas, for example, use additional pieces to fill the void.
Here, interior designer Jojo Bradley has placed a console table against the wall. It provides a handy perch for table lamps, while occupying the gap behind sofa.
30. Paint beams white
(Image credit: Brent Darby/Future)
Older country homes featuring traditional dark oak beams and smoke-stained fireplaces can be too oppressive for contemporary tastes.
Keep the charm while updating the look by painting walls, woodwork and even bricks or stone in a bright white.
This will transform a country living room in an instant and given an uplifting spirit to your country home.
31. Make sitting by the fire an experience
(Image credit: The White Company)
Whether it's an original inglenook fireplace or a contemporary wood burner, gathering around the warmth of real flames is a quintessential country experience.
Your home may have an existing hearth and chimney that requires you to plan ideas for your living room around it. Or you may have the luxury of installing a new fire or stove in the place that suits you best. Either way, it's important to think about how you can integrate the fireside experience into your decor.
Factor in seating placed close enough to feel the warmth but not too near to be damaged by heat or sparks. Add a table or two, plus a footrest so you can warm your toes.
Finally, make your fuel, kindling and fireside tools a part of the room scheme by organising them in attractive baskets and log holders.
(Image credit: Ercol)
When your country property is a repurposed rural building such as a barn, it can be difficult to know how to furnish the space. One answer is to take your cue from the architecture – often large, lofty and with an industrial edge – rather than the age of the building.
For your country living room inspiration, look to iconic mid century design, with its clean lines and unfussy styling.
33. Make the most of the view
(Image credit: Future)
Living room furniture tends to point towards the TV but there's a far bigger screen to enjoy – the view in your window.
Position your seating to make the most of the view, without lining it up so that it looks as if you are at the cinema.
A sofa facing the glazing, with comfy armchairs at an angle at either end, will mean you enjoy the landscape in front of you and still be able to chat easily to family and friends.
(Image credit: Oliver Perrott/Future)
When you're coming up with country living room inspiration and ideas, don't play it too safe.
'A fabulous accessory, such as a statement mirror or outsized pendant light, will add a dynamic, look-at-me quality to a room that makes it an exciting place to spend time in,' says Sara Bird, Decor Editor at H&G's sister title Country Homes & Interiors , who styled this living room for the magazine.
Keep it country by choosing a design with a rustic touch, like the natural materials that decorate this mirror frame.
35. Include some florals
(Image credit: John Lewis)
Pattern – especially big, blowsy florals – is synonymous with country living room decor. And an eye-catching pattern in bold colors is a great way to add a focal point.
Using pattern in large swathes in blinds, wallpaper or curtains will make the biggest statement and draw the eye to a specific part of the room.
If you’ve decided that curtains are the best way to get your pattern fix, go for a full-length design to increase the cozy factor.
36. Pick pale wood for furniture
(Image credit: Susie Watson Designs)
Light-colored woods, such as beech, whitewashed pine and ash, have a more informal feel than dark woods and better fit the ethos of a rustic country look. The choice of complementary colours for paint, soft furnishings and accessories is also much wider when you choose pale-wood furniture.
Here, soft furnishings from Susie Watson Designs add punches of pink, mauve and mulberry, which sit nicely against the relaxed look of bleached-effect furniture.
37. Heat the space with a woodburner
(Image credit: Carpetright)
Nothing embodies a cozy, rustic feel quite like a stove or woodburner.
Whether it’s a modern, freestanding design or one that’s nestled in a brick fireplace surrounded by craggy logs, both will offer warmth – literally and figuratively – and provide your country living room with a stylish focal point.
38. Include texture with rattan, wicker and reed
(Image credit: Dunelm)
Natural materials are a big part of nailing the country look, so incorporate them into your decor.
A rattan chair or bench is a good place to start if space permits but if not, rattan and reed baskets or a jute rug will all create a rustic look that has all the more charm because of their non-uniform finishes.
39. Choose laid-back seating for country living rooms
(Image credit: Neptune)
Country-style seating has rounded armrests and cushions, and either chunky, turned-wood legs (with or without castors) or a pleated skirt that skims the floor. However, you can achieve a smarter country feel by putting the emphasis on the fabric pattern and going for more streamlined silhouettes for the furniture.
If you have a spare corner, fill it with a statement armchair and place a side table topped with a lamp next to it to create a cozy reading nook.
40. Show off brickwork or wooden beams
(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)
If you have wooden beams or exposed brickwork in your living room, highlight them to give the country living room look bags of authenticity.
'I don’t think you can really get the right look without using old things – rugs, paintings, antiques,' explains Vivien Greenock, interior designer and former senior director at Colefax and Fowler .
'It’s those things that give a room a permanent look, and a depth of feeling.'
Fabrics and trimmings, Vanessa Arbuthnott .
41. Go for distressed finishes
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)
Whitewashed original floorboards, a timeworn finish on furniture, unglazed pottery, unfinished wood ornaments, mercurized mirrors and cable-knit cushions and throws are all very effective country living room ideas for creating a rustic, lived-in feel – but that needn't mean the room can't look smart.
Neat silhouettes on furniture and pared-back decor will help a smaller country living room feel larger and brighter.
'Antiques are not for everyone,' acknowledges interior designer Emma Sims Hilditch at Sims Hilditch , who uses antiques extensively in her schemes.
'Instead, replicas can be made that have never been used before but can mimic the styles of pre-loved pieces. We work with a fantastic cabinetmaker who specializes in creating antique-style furniture that is brand-new and yet has such an old heart.'
42. Light up corners with lamps
(Image credit: Kit Kemp/Andrew Martin Interior Designer Review Vol.24)
Lighting is the most effective way to create mood, as illustrated here in the beautiful living room of interior designer Kit Kemp's house.
Supplementing a main ceiling light with plenty of table and floor lamps will lend a cozy feel at the flick of a switch. Add to the ambience with smoked- or amber-glass bulbs, rather than clear ones with bright white filaments.
43. Bring the outdoors in with flowers and houseplants
(Image credit: I-LIV)
A country living room should be simple, relaxed and natural, and nothing evokes this better than house plants and fresh flowers. Choose several different kinds of house plant and put them in unexpected places, such as on the top of a cabinet or in bookcases, for a quirky feel.
Add to the scheme with fabrics in equally botanical prints, such as this Forever Spring collection from ILIV .
We answer three key questions so you can get your country living room decor spot-on.
44. Group furniture around a coffee table
(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)
Country living rooms are traditionally places that feel relaxed – so it's highly likely they will be used for informal entertainment. In this case, it is more than worth grouping seating around a coffee table. This will encourage sociability and make the room look inviting.
45. Create symmetry in a small country living room
(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)
If your country living room is small, using symmetry in interior design, especially built around a mirror, can make your space feel larger, neater and more curated.
How can I decorate my living room in a country style?
Do you want a traditional country look or a more pared-back, modern feel? If your living room has lots of period features, such as beams, fireplaces or ornate plasterwork, a traditional look will enhance these features.
You can then afford to be bolder with color and pattern, and more is definitely better, so pack plenty of furniture, soft furnishings and accessories into the space.
Matt Deighton, managing director and Chesterfield sofa specialist at Sofas by Saxon, says: 'Consider choosing sofas and armchairs in different finishes, rather than coordinating fabrics, to maintain an eclectic feel.'
Modern country living rooms are less cluttered, favour a muted color palette and use pattern, including stripes and checks, more sparingly. The best way to add a cozy, lived-in feel here is with plenty of unfinished wood, chunky knits, sisal, wicker and other natural materials.
To give your scheme a French country feel, painted furniture with ornate detailing is a must, while pale grays, muted blues and dusky pinks are the go-to colours.
For a shabby-chic slant on country style, flaking paint on furniture, mercury glass and floral prints are key. Keep walls white or off-white and add colour with soft furnishings and accessories in sugary pastel shades.
How do I make my country living room feel cozy?
To make a country living room feel cozy, if you have the space, a woodburner or fireplace is a great focal point. One less obvious way is to include a bookcase – either freestanding or built into an alcove – as the old-world, familiar feel that’s created when you’re surrounded by books oozes comfort.
Switching bright white lightbulbs for soft white or even colored glass ones offers a much more intimate feel. Go one step further by including plenty of soothing candlelight too.
Lastly, tactile materials such as velvet, chunky wool and faux sheepskin are the coziest of choices for cushions, throws and rugs, and will help soften the hardness from any wood furniture or beams.
How should I arrange my country living room?
A country living room should look relaxed – perhaps even a little haphazard.
Place armchairs and tables at 45-degree angles to walls in the corners of your room, layer sofas and chairs with cushions and throws, pile logs in baskets and arrange plants so that the leaves cascade down the sides of cabinets and tables.
It’s also important not to leave too many bare spots in your living room – a floor lamp or trug filled with folded blankets is better than wasted space.
Andrea has been immersed in the world of homes, interiors and lifestyle since her first job in journalism, on Ideal Home. She went from women's magazine Options to Frank. From there it was on to the launch of Red magazine, where she stayed for 10 years and became Assistant Editor. She then shifted into freelancing, and spent 14 years writing for everyone from The Telegraph to The Sunday Times, Livingetc, Stylist and Woman & Home. She was then offered the job as Editor on Country Homes & Interiors, and now combines that role with writing for sister title homesandgardens.com.
Country-style living room - 75 photos of design options
Country-style living room interior as a style inherent in a homely atmosphere.
Such an interior brings calmness, and allows you to just sit and chat with your family in a quiet environment.
Country means a village. From childhood, everyone remembers trips to their grandmother, how calm and comfortable it was there.
The atmosphere is associated with a small bright house, with walls made of stone and an ever-creaking door made of planed boards.
Quite often, designers use this style in the interior. Therefore, there is no need to think that the apartment will look archaic. A striking example is the Moscow Country Club hotel.
There are VIP numbers and even a "presidential number". The hotel has 5 stars, so you should not assume that country is only a modest rural house, the style also represents all the chic of a country house intended for upper-class people.
Country positions itself as a style that has absorbed all the best from different parts of the world. So English country will be aristocratic, and French is filled with romance.
Contents:
Key elements of country style
The color scheme should have natural tones. These are: beige, light yellow, orange and shades of wood. The Provence country style living room should be complemented by colors: lavender, blue, gray. The use of acidic and unnatural colors in the style are excluded.
Decor elements are selected opposite to the choice of furniture and finishes. For example, if the furniture and walls are light, then choose accessories in dark colors, and vice versa.
As in the English style, the interior can be emphasized with a fireplace. Which will symbolize home comfort. It will also be nice to sit by the fireplace on cold winter evenings, listening to the crackling of firewood.
In the case when it is not possible to build a real fireplace, you can purchase an electric one or even limit yourself to creating a false fireplace, with decor elements inherent in the hearth.
In order to preserve the atmosphere of antiquity, it is necessary to limit the use of a large number of household appliances.
Since a 50-inch plasma will immediately spoil the overall look, and the feeling of antiquity will disappear.
If you have not refrained from buying plasma, then it is advised to disguise it in every possible way, curtains will be a great idea in this regard. And the best option would be retractable panels. Below you can see a photo of a country-style living room.
As you can see, a lot of textiles are used in the style. Designer pillows and tablecloths are an integral part of the country. At the same time, there are patterns and ornaments on the decor elements.
A plaid or polka dot cushion is ideal for curtains with solid colors. At the same time, the material used to create the entire interior is preferable: cotton, linen, chintz.
Curtains should be selected such that they are decorated with flounces or frills. At the same time, they were picked up with tapes.
The eaves must also be properly selected, and the use of plastic and metal structures should be excluded.
Knitwear and rugs made at home will help add a touch of antiquity.
Small living room in country style should be complemented with various figurines, antiques and paintings. To harmonize with the interior, caskets, chests, and antique-decorated forged items are used.
If it is decided to make the living room kitchen in a country style, then dry flowers should be present on the table, which will emphasize the color. Country-style living room interior photos are presented below.
Finishing materials
When choosing a country style flooring should be chosen from natural materials. You can choose wood or parquet board. If you have your own homestead, then the floor can be laid out of natural stone.
In any case, artificial materials like linoleum will not work. However, you can pick up a laminate with a pattern resembling the texture of wood, cover it with a handmade carpet, so it will not attract special attention.
A wood finish or white painted stucco will look chic on the ceiling. Beams will be a great solution, and are applicable not only on the ceiling, but also on the walls, but you should stick to the composition.
For walls it is possible to use a more budget option - wallpaper. They can have a simple, not intricate pattern. The main thing in the country is not to use vinyl and shiny types of wallpaper. It is also possible to use textiles on the walls. Stone wall decoration looks good in village houses.
Which furniture to choose?
The furniture should be large and a bit rough. If there is wood in the furniture, then it should leave its natural texture.
The arrangement of furniture is not critical, and it is quite possible to put sofas and wardrobes at your discretion. If there are small decorative elements, then they are arranged randomly, this will give the house a residential look.
Furniture upholstery should have some features of the general concept in its design. For example, the pattern and color of the curtains are somewhat similar to the sofa. This will give a certain entourage and comfort of a rural house.
Country style living room photo
Country-style living room — photos of interiors
Designing a country-style room means creating a cozy, warm, homely atmosphere. This direction looks more organically in the decoration of rural houses and country cottages. No wonder the word "country" in translation means a village. But do not think that this requires rough-hewn wooden benches and thatched roofs. The modern style has become more refined and creative, but the main features: lyricism, softness, closeness to nature, the absence of any pathos and glamor have survived to this day.
You can design a country-style living room not only in a rural house, it will also look great in a city apartment.
Country-style living room
Rooms decorated in this style are characterized by simplicity and comfort. They are a pleasure to relax with family and friends. There are several country styles that differ slightly in decoration due to geographical location. For example, the French Provence loves white plastered walls, and the American ranch is more often finished with wood. This is more the style of harsh cowboys and farmers.
Living room design French Provence
American ranch style living room
But there are features that unite all currents, from Russian country to English shabby chic:
- Natural materials are chosen to decorate the living room. The priority is wood, stone, forged items, fabrics and fur.
- The finish has a touch of antiquity, often these are specially aged and rough surfaces, furniture that imitates antiques, fabrics with a touch of fading and fading.
Ethnic things also fit well into the interior, for example, Indian woven tablecloths, Russian handmade rugs, French lace. - The color palette is uncomplicated and consists of natural natural tones. These are various shades of wood, including bleached surfaces. For Scandinavian and French country, white and blue colors are preferred, with the addition of purple and yellow details. English shabby chic is the incredible tenderness of pastel colors, while rich ocher and brick colors are more suitable for American ranch decor.
- There are many handmade items in the interior of the living room. These are not only tablecloths and rugs, it can also be forged shelves and whatnots, wicker chairs and baskets, knitted napkins and pillows. Characteristic for country and the presence of small decorative elements: vases, figurines, framed photographs and more.
Country style in the design of the living room
Country style in the interior of the apartment
Remember! When designing a country-style living room, all modern technological solutions should be excluded.
Do not use new materials, such as plastic panels or vinyl ceilings, which will clearly emphasize modernity.
Walls
As already noted, country prefers simplicity and those materials for decoration that are available in the area. For example, in French Provence, walls are painted with white rough plaster. The more profitable looks delicate finish in the elements and textiles.
It is customary to use the following decoration for walls:
- finishing with wooden boards or panels imitating wood;
- wallpapering with striped or checkered patterns, rarely with floral ornaments;
- use of decorative plaster, whereby the effect of a cracked surface can be added;
- masonry or brickwork, in some cases combined with plastered areas;
- wall panels covered with a special fabric with floral patterns.
No need to strive to perfectly align the side surfaces of the room, rustic style means rough processing of the walls.
Ceiling
Conventional materials are used to finish the ceiling. It serves only as a backdrop for the interior and should not take much attention. There are several design options that will fit perfectly into a country-style living room:
- Wooden ceiling. Cozy, cute and looks like a veranda in a private house. In urban apartments, this option is almost never found. It must be remembered that such a design is not suitable for a living room with low ceilings, as the tree visually reduces the height of the room. For certain areas of country music, for example, Provence, the presence of ceiling cross beams, which are made of wood or modern materials of polystyrene and polyurethane, is also characteristic.
- Whitewash. The beauty of this material is that the texture of the ceiling can be rough, rough and uneven in appearance. Even the cracks that have appeared will perfectly fit into the style, decorated as a village house.
- A combination of wood and whitewash.
The freshly whitewashed surface with wooden beams will create the feeling of a lived-in and cozy interior. Often, the transverse beams are stained or painted in shades that match the main tone of the living room. They look great in combination with furniture that has wrought iron elements.
Flooring
For a vintage look, dark natural wood or stone floors are required. Often used:
- grooved board;
- parquet board;
- solid board, expensive but environmentally friendly option;
- light and dark laminate;
For the living rooms of country houses, decorative stone is also suitable or a more economical option - large ceramic tiles, similar in color to the rest of the finish.
Living room furniture in country style
Naturally, the simple style is characterized by the presence of furniture made from natural materials, preference is often given to options with artificially aged facades.
Wooden elements of the table and chairs go well with wrought iron legs. And in upholstered furniture, it is not necessary to choose a single style for the sofa and armchairs. On the contrary, options that are dissimilar in form and finish will make the atmosphere in the living room relaxed and free. Often, it is in the country that the lack of unity plays a dominant role and helps to form the main principle of the interior - beauty in simplicity.
For country houses and dachas, you can choose furniture that is clumsy and rough, without various frills. Wicker elements will also fit well into the interior. Instead of a modern wall, chests of drawers, cabinets, and chests are purchased. The color of the upholstery of sofas and armchairs depends on the geographical location. So, French Provence and English shabby chic prefer light fabrics with delicate floral prints, and on the American ranch, upholstery is brighter and more saturated tones: red, blue, brick or made of genuine leather.
Classic country design is characterized by unvarnished and unpainted surfaces. The furniture in the living room is located in small groups throughout the area, a little chaotically. There are no strict rules for arranging tables and sofas. The optimal furniture set for a country style living room consists of the following elements:
- sideboards;
- chest of drawers;
- massive sideboard;
- upholstered furniture;
- shelves, whatnots, tables.
Lighting
Country style is formed by combining many details. And the right atmosphere of the living room can depend on the right lighting. With the help of lamps, a bright and comfortable space is created that will convey a feeling of confidence and tranquility.
When buying chandeliers and lamps, you should be aware that wooden surfaces, of which there are so many in country style, can absorb light rays. Therefore, it is more convenient to choose devices with low heat transfer and high power.
LED and fluorescent lamps with an energy-saving function are perfect for these requirements.
Several types of lighting will be appropriate:
- If the living room is large, the main light source should be present. It can be a central chandelier or a lamp made of brass or wrought iron. The device made of brushed gold will also fit perfectly. An imitation of a candelabra with lamps in the form of candles would be appropriate.
- Other areas of the living room, especially those combined with the kitchen, can be illuminated with diffused light sources - wall sconces or floor lamps. Rough lamps, shaped like lanterns, or lamps with beautiful fabric lampshades, are also suitable.
Country decorative elements
The country style living room has many decorative elements. Often these items are from the so-called handmade, that is, made by hand.
There are a lot of textiles in the living room, which gives the room coziness and homely charm.
These are beautiful curtains, combined in style with a carpet or paths, pillows, tablecloths, napkins. Things from a grandmother's chest, woven or knitted by hand, will also fit perfectly here.
Shelves, tables, bedside tables are full of nice decorative details: figurines, vases, antique dolls, candles and frames with portraits. The walls are decorated with small paintings in a simple style, photographs, embroideries. Animal horns or natural hides are suitable for the American ranch. A very interesting combination of fresh flowers in pots and many floral motifs on curtains and upholstery are typical for Provence and shabby chic. All decorative decorations of the living room must be original and unique.
Several currents of country music
Depending on the geographical location, the country style is divided into several currents. And although there are slight differences in each of them, the main thing in all directions is home comfort with a touch of local flavor.
American Ranch
The color palette of the American ranch style living room has natural shades: brown, copper, yellow, gray. Because there is a lot of wood in such a room, it is present on the walls, floor, ceiling. Solid wood furniture, serious and brutal with bronze or brass details, competes with the finish. The upholstery of the sofas uses real leather and good quality textiles in soothing shades. The floor can be decorated not only with carpets, but also with natural animal skins. Individual Indian motifs also fit well into such a living room: patchwork quilts, woven rugs, masks hung on the walls. Figurines made of clay or wood, animal horns, cowboy hats also serve as decoration.
Old England manor or shabby chic
An English-style living room is full of romance and elegance. The main focus here is on comfort and a variety of colors. Bouquets should bloom everywhere: on furniture upholstery, bedspreads, wallpaper. This feast of flora is complemented by pots with natural plants.
Furniture for such a living room is chosen mostly light, often white, taken from grandmother's storerooms or specially aged. One of the obligatory elements is a bookcase, where there are many books on open shelves. Bridge tables are welcome.
Swedish house
In such a country theme, there is an abundance of light and air. The walls of the living room are decorated with pastel paints, and the floors should be from simple unpainted boards. For furniture, natural materials are taken, usually tinted wood. Handmade rugs and simple covers in white and blue are the main elements of textiles. A prerequisite for a living room is the absence of exquisite details. Utensils are made of copper, and pictures of village life are hung on the walls.
Provence from the French countryside
The Provence style has uncomplicated lines and natural simplicity. Walls finished with rough plaster or light wood paneling are combined with unpainted floors.
On the ceiling, beams are made of natural solid wood or a material that imitates it. From furniture, it is desirable to have a massive sideboard, an oval table, wicker chairs. Wrought iron products also fit well: shelves, whatnots, chair backs. The upholstery of the furniture and the rest of the textiles are full of light and sun, like the fields of southern France, where this rustic style was born.
There are other country styles. For example, the German prefers heavier furniture made from natural materials, antique lamps, and crockery from grandma's cupboards. The Greek style is distinguished by whitewashed walls and brightly colored doors and frames. There is little furniture in such a living room, and it is usually rough and massive. Russian country is a hut with an obligatory stove, cupboards with painted facades and natural fabrics such as linen and chintz.
No matter how country style the living room is decorated, its main feature will remain simplicity and comfort.
