Old country home decorating ideas
60+ Best Farmhouse Style Ideas
Annie Schlechter
We simply never tire of beautiful farmhouse style design elements. The way we see it, you don't have to live way out in the country to enjoy the benefits of this ultra-chic design sensibility, nor do you need to have a barn or a backyard chicken coop to connect to this aesthetic. You simply have to appreciate modern-rustic decor ideas!
Here, we're helping you take your love of farmhouse style to the next level with interesting decorating ideas for every room in your house. From farmhouse kitchens to bedroom decorating ideas to, yes, even rustic bathrooms, we've got all the professional tips and tricks that'll keep you inspired and your guests "ooh"-ing and "ahh"-ing. After all, is there anything more thought-provoking than a reclaimed wood coffee table, vintage gingham curtains, or a cozy chair that looks like it was plucked straight from the set of a Western movie?
Of course, what we love most is that each and every idea here takes a cue from a real-life house or room. We've got an elegant kitchen trend from a Mississippi barn, living room ideas from an 18th-century farmhouse, and even vintage cabinet ideas straight out of the walls of a charming New York farmhouse. Whether you have plans to renovate your house in the near future or you're just imagining the look of your dream home, this swoon worthy collection of farmhouse décor will serve you well.
Brian Woodcock
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Gingham Details
Buffalo-checked tablecloth fabric adds texture to this chic space. We can't imagine a sweeter way to dress up unsightly larger appliances, like dishwashers.
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RIKKI SNYDER
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Collected Country Kitchen
This small kitchen is filled with special finds: a large range cooker in British Racing Green, stoneware crocks, wooden rolling pins, ironstone, and antique silverware cleverly used as drawer pulls.
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Pieter Estersohn
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Rustic Kitchen Design
Handcrafted and woven accents, as well as rounded counter edges, soften this lake cabin's kitchen designed by Thom Filicia.
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KIM CORNELISON, styling by Matthew Gleason
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Repurposed Farmhouse Kitchen Island
Living in the country means making use of what you've got. Old beams and ceiling rafters were repurposed into a custom kitchen island and open shelving for this Michigan farmhouse.
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BRIAN WOODCOCK
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Exposed Ceiling Beams
For the kitchen inside her Sparta, Tennessee, cabin, singer-songwriter Holly Audrey Williams went with gorgeous green cabinetry (Jasper by Sherwin-Williams), a brass faucet, and marble tile backsplash. In lieu of a rack, pots and pans hang from hooks on exposed ceiling beams.
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JIM WESTPHALEN
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Grandma-Inspired Kitchen
By incorporating warm woods, antique-inspired lighting, and modern, vintage-style appliances, designer Cathy Chapman created a kitchen with a nostalgic feel reminiscent of Grandma's.
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VIRGINIA MACDONALD
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Reclaimed Wood Detailing
When it comes to farmhouse decor, what's old is new again! A plank of weathered or reclaimed wood works beautifully as a headboard.
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JIM WESTPHALEN
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Built-in Pantry
This built-in looks more like freestanding furniture after being coated in a contrasting color (Graphite by Benjamin Moore).
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DAVID A. LAND
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A Rolling Island
We love the down-to-earth feel of this free-roaming kitchen island. Rolling furniture is an easy way to transplant vintage or more rustic pieces into any home, no matter when it was constructed.
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ANNIE SCHLECHTER
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Deep Sinks
A great big sink is "so much more effective," says Martha Stewart of her circa-1925 farmhouse kitchen in Katonah, New York—and we'd have to agree.
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ANNIE SCHLECHTER
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Open Cabinets
Not only is it more efficient to have everything in view, but open cabinets also double as a design element when they show off stunning items like Martha Stewart's copper cookware.
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DAVID A. LAND
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An Iron Bed
Add an unexpected touch of industrial charm to any bedroom with an iron bed frame.
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ANNIE SCHLECHTER
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Warm Hues
"I think of it as homey," Martha Stewart says of her country style kitchen. "It's about being comfortable." Hence the warm hue on her walls—a custom paint color inspired by shells. For a similar look, try Stormy Monday by Benjamin Moore.
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VIRGINIA MACDONALD
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Piles of Firewood
Sure, you might take down the garland after Christmastime has passed, but the lumber is welcome to stay all year long. It's a rustic touch that's sure to liven up any entryway, front porch, or living room.
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ANNIE SCHLECHTER
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Top-of-the-Line Tools
When you live in the country, you need everything you own to be as hard-working as you are. Take cues from Martha Stewart, who invests in long-lasting tools like a restaurant-grade cappuccino maker.
Even her rolling pin has been around since her honeymoon.
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Victoria Pearson
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Simple Shiplap
White shiplap-covered walls pair exquisitely with a vintage, brass-adorned clawfoot tub in Jenni Kayne's beautiful bathroom.
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Ryann Ford
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Stunning Chandelier
We couldn't be any more obsessed with this eye-catching fixture. Amy Kleinwachter, the owner of this vast Texas farmhouse, added an antique European chandelier to an old pig feeder to create this one-of-a-kind piece.
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40+ Easy & Inspiring Updates for Every Room of Your Home
$10 AT COUNTRY LIVING
It’s the small touches that can freshen up a room. Now you can get dozens of easy makeover ideas you can finish in a weekend with Country Living's new digital guide!
Eric Piasecki
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Mix-and-Match Master Bedroom
Alison and Jim Luckman's Idaho home combines stone walls, high wooden-beamed ceilings, and bright patterned prints to make an ideal sleeping space.
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DAVID A. LAND
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Reclaimed Wood Furniture
"Vintage" is nice. "Reclaimed" is even better! We love the look of this coffee table, which is as interesting as it is beautiful.
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Brian Woodcock
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Reclaimed Shelving
Reused wooden shelves display both practical and personal items in Karol Ann DeLong's home. Our favorite items? Her mother's stunning silver pieces.
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EMMA LEWIS
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Troves of Treasure
Did you know? Any collection, big or small, can double beautifully as decor. It all depends on how you display it.
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Lauren Miller
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Vintage Living Room
Believe it or not, this stunning space in Lynne Knowlton's treehouse is made out of wood from a destroyed barn and stained glass windows from an old church.
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David Tsay
24 of 61
Unconventional Kitchen
More is more in Renita Browning’s antique-filled kitchen.
Her cabinet maker transformed old apothecary drawer fronts into storage spaces and she snagged the industrial ceiling lights from a local Mexican restaurant.
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John Gruen
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Airy Office
Pickled spruce floors, an antique farm table, and a touch of greenery in Bobby Houston’s home office would make work much more enjoyable.
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Brian Woodcock
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Cozy Living Room
A slipper chair and a vintage sofa surrounded by exposed brick and wooden beams make for the ultimate place of relaxation in Seth and Chad Gilbert's Tennessee abode. Plus, check out that original fire place!
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Lincoln Barbour
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Classic Kitchen
The elegant kitchen found in this Mississippi barn brings together a variety of farmhouse staples and juxtaposes them with modern amenities. The sliding barn door, exposed beams, and shiplap-covered ceiling are just a few country elements that will never go out of style.
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Helen Norman
28 of 61
All American Accessories
This spacious dining room is situated in the center of a backyard barn designed for hosting parties. It doesn't get more country than that! Exposed beams and wood walls, an antique table, and plaid details add even more rural charm.
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Emily Followill
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Barn-Like Bathroom
The "Z-back" detail on the bathroom cabinets in this Georgia sporting cabin were inspired by barn doors.
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Photograph by Brian Woodcock, Styling by Page Mullins
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Blue and White Decor
The reliably fresh combo of blue and white causes our country hearts to flutter. Infuse this beloved palette into your home with pottery, china, linens, and more colorful accessories.
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38 country decorating ideas: stunning rustic style
(Image credit: Oka/Sanderson)
These easy – and beautiful – country decorating ideas will effortlessly introduce rural style to your home.
Picking up on the key elements of the look, from natural materials to color and pattern, they'll bring a softness and warmth to your living spaces for an inviting interior with an elegantly rustic touch.
Country decorating ideas: perfect your rural style
Putting a country twist on to your decorating ideas is about narrowing your focus to truly delight in the best of rural looks and lifestyle. If a material is natural; if a surface has character; if a color can be seen in the landscape outside your window, then chances are you've got it right.
The beauty of country style is that it embraces so many looks, from elegant rural homes to smaller cottages, from barns to cabins. What connects them all is a comfort, warmth and natural elegance that feels beautifully homey.
1. Add characterful lighting
(Image credit: David Hunt Lighting)
Country homes often feature thick stone walls and low ceilings, so a practical as well as aesthetically pleasing approach is needed to lighting ideas.
'A layered decorative lighting scheme ensures your lighting adapts to the different uses of a space,' explains Hollie Moreland, Creative Director at David Hunt Lighting , whose Scallop light pendants feature in the dining area here. 'An open concept kitchen dining room, for example, needs task lighting for cooking, but softer warmer lighting for entertaining.
'Layer your lighting so you can add and remove light sources for different uses and to create different atmospheres. I love to see unexpected lighting – a pretty table lamp in a country kitchen, rather than the typical living or bedroom, will add a homey and whimsical feel to the space.'
2. Bring in floral fabrics
(Image credit: Sanderson Water Garden Collection)
If all-over chintz and the cottagecore aesthetic is too full-on for your taste, but you don't want to forgo florals altogether, consider brining in single piece that will provide the botanical fix.
In this simple space, with white walls and a wooden floor, the sofa really stands out.
It's upholstered in a fabric from the new Water Garden Collection at Sanderson . Complemented with a botanical print above and a bouquet of fresh blooms at the side, it's a masterclass in making a subtle statement with your country decorating ideas.
3. Style an elegant welcome
(Image credit: Oka)
The hall sets the tone of the house, so be sure that your entryway styling creates the sense of warmth and welcome you expect from country decorating ideas.
This tonal palette combines soft stone and berry colors, coming together in a beautiful console table display that turns an everyday space into a place that draws the eye.
'Collect a branch or some foliage from the garden and pair with trend-led pieces such as the bobble-frame mirror, for a look that's the epitome of modern country decorating,' says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine.
4. Choose slimline furniture
(Image credit: Cox & Cox)
Not all country homes are graced with spacious rooms but that doesn't mean you should miss out on the classic rustic fixtures and furniture such as a pantry.
Make the most of vertical space by choosing tall, slimline pieces.
Conversely, if you have low beams or a dropped ceiling, choose low and wide cabinets and chests of drawers that make the most of the horizontal space.
'With slim storage pieces, designed especially for smaller kitchens, there’s no kitchen too small for our larder or wine store,' agrees Dani Taylor, Product & Creative Director at Cox & Cox .
5. Add a vintage touch in the kitchen
(Image credit: Sanderson Water Garden collection)
Historic flora and fauna designs bring a pretty vintage feel to a scheme when you're considering country kitchen ideas. It's a look that pairs beautifully with a simple Shaker style kitchen.
'The new Water Garden collection from Sanderson is all about discovering documents in our archive that had previously been untouched. Whether drawn, printed or painted, we’re celebrating their authentic beauty and the host of eastern cultures that came together to create something so special,' explains Rebecca Craig, Head of Design for Sanderson.
'Along with a touch of glamour, subtle metallics and vibrant colours blend to give our country aesthetic an elegant, contemporary twist.'
6. Cozy up in the bedroom
(Image credit: Secret Linen Store)
Don't be afraid to pile on the linen, blankets and comforters as an element of your country bedroom ideas – the more, the better!
'Country cottage bedrooms are all about creating a cosy and inviting space,' confirms Molly Freshwater, Co-Founder and Creative Director at Secret Linen Store . Layering different blankets and throws in contrasting textures is an easy way to create this.
'In the warmer summer months I like to layer flat sheets as alternatives to heavy blankets, making my bed look a stylish focal point in the room.'
7. Panel the kitchen
(Image credit: Kitchen Makers)
Wall panelling ideas are a wonderful way to add warmth to a country kitchen. There's something about cladding and enclosing the space that brings a sense of security that's fitting for this heart of the home.
'For an even greater sense of enclosure and comfort, paint the panelling a dark shade of navy, charcoal or forest green,' suggests Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors. 'These deep colors are very earthing.'
Panelling also provides the opportunity to add a shelf or two, which you can accessorize with decorative items to bring personality to the space.
8. Throw down a rug
(Image credit: Oka)
Deep-toned wood floors are rich in texture and patina, but they can darken a room considerably, 'sucking up' any light that falls into the space. The answer is to throw down a rug that's lighter in color and has a pattern that brings vibrancy to the scheme.
Here, the rug by Oka mirrors the shape and color of the ceiling above for a harmonious country decorating idea for a dining room.
9. Use artistic inspiration to build a scheme
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin / Katrin Cargill)
A much-loved piece of art is an ideal starting point for a scheme.
Pulling out key tones from the artwork for curtains, upholstery and accessories offers a joyful cocktail of yellows, pinks and nutty browns.
The painting here, used as the inspiration, is from an ever changing eclectic selection at the Wilson Stephens & Jones Gallery . Affordable chairs from Ikea have been given a unique look with wonderful loose covers in pretty prints from The Fabric Collective , and gloss yellow painted legs. A simple woven rug adds that essential modern country finishing touch.
10. Create a fresh, modern scheme with a medley of green and white prints
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin / Katrin Cargill)
For a contemporary take on classic country living room ideas, make fresh and vibrant patterns the stars of the show. Combining a variety of prints, all in fresh greens and whites, ensures this room feels calm and not overwhelming.
Here, there is a wonderful mixture of patterned textiles, from the cushions and lampshade, to the curtains and rug underfoot.
The clean white space and white pieces of furniture ensure all the green pattern doesn't dominate. Warm wood, brought in through the coffee table, console and flooring, bring in the essential natural element key to any country scheme.
11. Use a playful mix of patterns for a vibrant and inviting feel
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin / Katrin Cargill)
A bedroom is an ideal space to play with pattern. The exuberant headboard is the focal point here, with its wonderfully wavy design and fabulously bright and bold fabric . Then the eye is invited to take in the dynamic, diagonal striped curtains , the colourful bedside lamp, patterned quilt and cushion, and finally the pink woven flatweave rug. All work together to complement the overall joyful scheme.
White tongue and groove panelling is a simple way to add a country feel to a space. This combined with all the color and pattern makes for a very upbeat and contemporary feeling country bedroom, especially if you are lucky enough to be able to open the doors out onto the prettiest of gardens, on a summer's morn.
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin / Katrin Cargill)
Three diverse patterns – a perky floral wallpaper, a modern African print upholstered pouffe and a classic trellis design on the front of a classic chest of drawers – have been cleverly layered to work together harmoniously.
This is a perfect example of modern country. Many of the elements in isolation could be seen a quite country, but somehow the combination adds up to a thoroughly modern look. Fresh, clean, upbeat and very characterful. We also love the touch of flouro brought in with the shade and lamp, a clever resin version of a classic turned wood lampstand.
13. Renovate a fireplace
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
If you’re lucky enough to have an original fireplace, consider restoring rather than replacing. It will become the focal point of your country decorating scheme, bringing authentic warmth and period style to your property.
‘If it’s covered, pull away plasterboard to see what you’re working with – we’ve come across rare Minton tiles and exquisite marble before now,’ says Owen Pacey, restoration specialist and founder of Renaissance London .
‘If you decide to replace, it’s worth contacting an antique fireplace specialist; many offer a part-exchange on the fireplace you’re removing if it’s in good condition.’
14. Showcase natural stone flooring
(Image credit: Border Oak)
When you're deciding on your country decorating ideas, don't discount your property's existing flooring. Natural stone and brick sets bring texture and color to a room, and can be softened with a rug if you want a little comfort underfoot.
‘The key to achieving a stylish country living room is to hone in on the texture and character of natural surfaces,’ says Merry Albright, creative director at Border Oak .
‘Here, the green oak structural frame brings in natural warmth that softens the impression of the stone floor. The secret to success in a country scheme lies in celebrating the imperfections of these natural materials.’
15. Layer textiles for country boho style
(Image credit: Future)
For relaxed country bedroom ideas, draw inspiration from global-inspired designs by blending embroidered patterns, weaves and subtle block prints on slubby linens.
Choose an earthy palette of teal, terracotta and leaf green, brightened with a white or cream background. As a general rule, offset bold designs on cushions with smaller-scale prints on quilts and throws.
16. Put up open shelves in the kitchen
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
Too much cabinetry can make a country kitchen look stiff and formal. And practically, it can be tricky to fit wall units in older rural properties where wonky walls, low beams and various nooks and crannies are part of their charm.
Open shelving allows you to combine storage with style, and the fixtures can be adapted to suit the specific challenges of your space.
For streamlined, attractive storage, decant foodstuffs into jars and choose an edited palette for crockery and glassware.
A plain background will make make these ordinary items stand out, so they become a style statement in their own right.
17. Treat your bathroom to 'living room' finishes
(Image credit: Davide Lovatti/Future)
A pretty fabric blind, framed artworks and smart wall lights with pleated shades look as at home in among your country bathroom ideas as they do in a sitting room.
Importantly, they bring softness and color to this often cold and functional space.
Coordinate your colour scheme with the adjacent rooms and accessorize with cut-glass and crystal jars for a classic country house look.
18. Choose fall tones for a warm look
(Image credit: Adam Carter/Future)
‘We’re seeing a lot more terracotta, clay and rust colors coming through,’ says Charlie Marshall, founder of Loaf . These tones are ideally suited in a country setting and can be softened with a neutral off-white backdrop.
Velvet is a relatively new trend that’s gaining traction on sofas, and a great way to fast track a bit of luxury into your country decorating ideas.
19. Build in a mud room
(Image credit: Paul Raeside/Future)
Having a dedicated space to store boots, rainwear, dog leads and all the other bits and bobs you need for venturing into the great outdoors is ideal in a country home.
Built-in cabinetry for storage, a bench for pulling off gum boots and hooks for coats are prerequisites.
If space and plumbing allows, install a sink for easy clean-ups, dog washing, flower prep and cleaning the mud from homegrown veggies.
Practical flooring such as stone or tile will mean dirt can be swept and mopped away – add a washable rug for a touch of softness.
It's the details that will take your mudroom from a space you want to keep hidden, to one that's a fully integrated – and stylish – part of your home. Country decorating ideas can include woven baskets for your kit and clobber, a fabric blind for a touch of colour and pattern, plus pictures and plants for personality.
20. Create a work-from-home space
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
If you're skipping the commute to work from home, ensure you include an attractive desk space in your country decorating ideas.
‘Keeping clutter tidied away creates a much-needed sense of calm,’ says Anna Trinder, owner of The Dormy House . Investing in some key storage items can help eliminate stress and restore order.
‘If you need a printer, consider a dedicated table on castors that can be easily moved when needed, and tidied away again afterwards.’
Pretty noticeboards will make your desk area feel more homely, while an upholstered screen can also provide privacy and shield your screen from sunlight.
If you don't need a dedicated home office, but simply desk space for household admin, consider a console table or slim desk that feels a part of your home's overall decor scheme.
A piece of natural wood furniture, with a deep drawer for hiding away paperwork or a laptop, is perfect. An artwork will provide a 'view' if you're not close to a window.
21. Make the most of the view
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
The default when compiling rustic decorating ideas is to plan country curtain ideas, window treatments and trimmings. But there's an argument to skip this step when a room isn't overlooked – often a perk of living in a countryside location.
When you're adding on to or improving a property, you can take the view into consideration when choosing glazing.
Opt for large windows or doors with large panels of glass for unrestricted sight lines into the garden and surrounding area.
Complement nature outside by choosing natural materials for your interior, such as wooden floors, wool or sisal carpets, and linen or cotton soft furnishings.
22. Consider your lighting scheme
(Image credit: Philip Vile/Nicky Dobree Interior Design)
Lighting can make or break the atmosphere in your living room and shouldn't be forgotten when planning your country decorating ideas.
Design experts love a layered approach that can be dialled up, or down, as required. Interior designer Nicky Dobree recommends using plenty of lamps to cast a soft, warm light across the room at a lower level.
Instead of a lone central pendant, she prefers indirect spotlights, on dimmers if possible. ‘They’re more discreet and can be hidden in the beams,’ she says.
23. Use wallpaper to create a 'wow' welcome
(Image credit: Little Greene)
Paint is often seen as a safer surface choice in a hallway, but a pretty patterned country wallpaper idea is a great way to add an instant hit of personality to this welcoming space.
Plus, as you don't tend to spend too long in a hall, you’re not likely to get as tired of a busy scheme as you might in a living space or bedroom.
Complement the colors with co-ordinating furniture pieces and lots of natural materials to keep the look grounded and reflective of the country setting.
24. Incorporate vintage details and quirky displays
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
Country style tells a story of place and people. Even if your home doesn't have original features, you can add to its character with antiques that relate to the period in which it was built, its former owners, or your own tastes and interests.
Search for vintage treasures in local antiques stores, barn sales and house clearances. The colour, patina and design of these authentic finds will bring depth and richness to your decor scheme.
Objects don't need to be valuable to create a stunning addition to your room scheme. Some of the simplest country decorating ideas come from carefully curated collections, chosen for their color or form, and displayed to create a focal point.
This feature was created by H&G's sister brand, Country Homes & Interiors.
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25. Bring nature inside with plants and flowers
(Image credit: Dan Duchars/Future)
Foliage and floral motifs are a key motif in country-style fabrics and wallpapers. But bringing living nature into your home in the form of plants and flowers will give an extra dimension to your decor.
Use the sculptural forms of house plants to add drama, color and movement to schemes. Choose your greenery to suit the room – moisture-loving for a bathroom, for example, or shade tolerant in a room that doesn't get much sun.
Forage for foliage and blossom-heavy branches, or buy locally grown flowers, to create seasonal displays. It's a wonderful to way to showcase the beauty of nature in your home.
26. Play with pattern
(Image credit: Ian Mankin)
Introducing more than one pattern into a room is a subtle balancing act.
The key is to stick to two or three designs distributed evenly throughout the room, including at least one neutral pattern, such as a stripe, plaid or check. These add subtle interest without overwhelming the space. Offset the patterns with white walls and natural finishes.
To create a cohesive scheme, create a scrapbook of patterned fabrics, wallpapers and paint colors that you love when compiling your country decorating ideas, to make sure nothing jars visually.
When mixing patterns in the same colour palette, vary the scale of the print to add interest.
27. Put a classic dresser in your kitchen – and make it pop!
(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)
A freestanding kitchen dresser with shelves for displaying tableware and handy cabinets beneath is a country kitchen classic.
But paint it a bold color when you're planning your country decorating ideas to give this traditional piece a modern makeover.
28. Add a window seat
(Image credit: Emma Lee/Future)
The thick walls of many older country properties create a natural inset at the window, creating the perfect spot to build in seating.
A built-in window seat will create a seamless look and gives the opportunity to add storage beneath a lift-up lid. Add a made-to-measure seat pad for comfort.
If you don't want to add a built-in window seat, you can use an ottoman or blanket box to fill the space to create a similar effect. Window seat ideas has tips from interior designers on how to make the most of this feature in your country-style home.
29. Show some style with tiles
(Image credit: Harvey Jones)
Create a colorful kitchen backsplash to make your kitchen’s vertical surfaces shine behind your range or cooker with tiles that contrast with the rest of your kitchen scheme.
This works especially well against cabinets painted in a pale or neutral tone, adding personality to your space.
30. Soften a room scheme with curtains
(Image credit: Cabbages & Roses)
Never underestimate the cosseting capabilities of curtains. They can be used to dress even the smallest of windows and will help keep the heat inside while bringing visual softness to your scheme.
There is a host of options for window treatments and curtains when it comes to country decorating ideas. For curtains that fit the bill all year round, consider lining a bold floral with a classic check, plaid or stripe.
Opt for a simple heading that can be threaded onto a pole; this will ensure the curtain is easily reversible, allowing you to change the look with the seasons.
31. Make dining a relaxed affair
(Image credit: Future)
Relaxed style is the essence of a modern country look. In a rustic dining room, ease the formality by mixing up your seating options – dining chairs, stools, bench seats and built-in banquettes can all be combined for an eclectic look.
Add a soft linen table cloth to ease the mood further. Finish with handmade crockery for pleasingly irregular place settings.
32. Cook up some color in the kitchen
(Image credit: Drew Forsyth)
Painted cabinetry will bring bold block color to your country kitchen. While blue and grey kitchens have been the go-to shades for a number of years, the country palette is expanding to include deep plums, pinks and heather tones.
Painting your island a standout shade will help to create a focal point in a larger room, as this design from Drew Forsyth shows.
33. Brush up on paint in the bedroom
(Image credit: Little Greene)
When you're looking for country decorating ideas for the bedroom, think beyond the usual feature wall. Country style is all about character, so getting creative with color and paint is a fast fix for an original look.
In this scheme, the terracotta color wraps around the lower half of the room, creating a cocooning effect that's perfect for a bedroom.
The warm, earthy hue immediately brings a rustic atmosphere to the space.
34. Go bold with florals
(Image credit: Sofa Workshop x V&A)
Florals are a staple of country style – what other pattern is so redolent of cottage gardens?
For a contemporary twist, go for a vintage print in zingy shades on a sofa armchair or footstool, like this design from Sofa Workshop that reinterprets a vintage print from London's Victoria & Albert museum.
Bold designs draw the eye, so keep the rest of the room relatively neutral to give them space.
35. Hone a hero hallway
(Image credit: Angus Pigott/Dunning Everard)
A hallway justifies just as much attention as a sitting room or kitchen, especially as it's the first area of your home a guest will see. Don't skimp on this space when decided on country decorating ideas for your property.
Hanging beautiful curtains at the windows and artwork
on the walls and using attractive furniture anchors a hallway and helps to generate
a warm and welcoming entrance.
Here, Stephanie Dunning of Dunning & Everard has used a large French console table with useful storage baskets beneath.
36. Bring in lots of texture
(Image credit: Amara)
‘Texture is an important aspect of choosing textiles for a country home,’ says Sam Hood, creative director at Amara . 'For winter, look for the softest wool throws in chunky and rib knits, and faux fur cushions.'
In the summer months, lighten the look but retain the tactile vibe with slubby linens and cotton waffle weaves.
‘Neutral colours are great for developing a warm look that will resonate well in a country home,’ says Hood.
37. Fold up a pretty blind
(Image credit: Prestigious Textiles)
The clean lines of a simple Roman blind make it ideal for working areas where a fussy, decorative design will look out of place. But in a country home, there's still plenty of scope to include colour and pattern, like this decorative woodland pattern.
'Our Abbey Gardens collection features illustrated fruits, flowers and birds on a lightweight cotton fabric,' says Nicola Brumfitt at Prestigious Textiles .
If you want to maximize the light in darker country rooms, tailored blinds are the way to go. Blackout linings are a good idea as this ensures the fabric doesn't look overly yellow when the light shines through.
Choose a pretty foliage print to complement your countryside view.
38. Set a beautiful country table
(Image credit: Future Future / Emma Lee / Twig Hutchinson)
Everyone enjoys a beautifully laid table, even if the menu itself is fairly relaxed – and it's the perfect country decorating idea. Channel your English eccentric and layer stripes, gingham and pattern galore. Add texture with bamboo and rattan pieces. Mountains of seasonal blooms in clashing colors. Vintage wine bottle lamps add a bistro feel.
What is country-style decorating?
Country-style decorating has a direct connection with nature and landscape, both in the materials it uses and the colors and motifs it features.
Wood, stone, fabrics such as linen, cotton and wool, plus materials such as rattan, sisal and willow, all feature.
Colors reflect the great outdoors, taking their cues from heaths and moorlands, hills and mountains, lakes, lochs and coastal landscapes. Within these gentle palettes, there is scope for more vibrant hues – think the colours of wildflowers, country gardens, blossoms and fruits.
While country style can range from the formality of grand country houses to more rustic schemes, there's a sense of character, authenticity and seasonality that runs throughout.
And don't just think of this as a look for rural homes. It's increasingly popular in cities, towns and suburbs, too.
What is the difference between country and farmhouse style?
Farmhouse style takes all the elements of the country look and adds a chic, modern twist.
Colors may be more muted. Prints will feature geometric and graphic patterns, rather than simply foliage and floral designs. Contemporary materials such as concrete, metal and sleek, synthetic surfaces will be mixed with more typical country staples such as stone, slate and wood.
The result is a cleaner, more casual version of country.
What are some good country colors?
Plan your palette of country decorating ideas around soft, chalky greens and blues, gentle pink and primrose yellow, cream and clay tones, plus richer shades of terracotta, nut brown and ochre.
‘There’s a multitude of shades to choose from to help you create a modern country aesthetic,' says Cathryn Sanders, Marketing Manager for Earthborn . 'From nature inspired olive greens and deep blues, to the more uplifting lemons, it’s all about bringing a welcome dose of colour back into our homes. Opting for bolder hues will enhance your living spaces and really make a statement.’
'Fabrics in chalky colour palettes based on heritage prints always work well in country interiors,' says Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at fabric company, ILIV . From a practical point of view, it is wise to stick to calming and serene tones to create a feeling of space in a small country room.'
If you are wanting to go all out and create a bold country interior, then look for large-scale floral blowsy prints, velvet and embroidered fabrics, as these work perfectly in country interiors and will make an instant impact.
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Mixing coordinating fabric patterns and layering soft furnishings will instantly create a country, cozy ambience. Incorporate plenty of blankets, throws and varying cushion sizes into your scheme.
What are key pieces of country furniture?
'Today’s modern country interiors combine cool contemporary colours with a timeless, classic feel that’s just as at home in a London townhouse as a country pile,' says Adam Brown, Director, The Painted Furniture Company .
To achieve this look, consider selecting solidly built wooden furniture pieces which will stand the test of time. 'Although exposed wood always looks great, painted furniture is another fantastic way to unify a scheme or add bursts of colour,' Brown says. 'When paired with natural textures and rustic accessories, it is easy to create that effortless country feel.'
As the kitchen is the heart of any home, a country scheme will ideally have a soild wood table and chairs for the family to gather around.
Freestanding units are also a must-have for this look, as they give a more relaxed feel than fitted cabinets. A classic kitchen dresser is ideal for showing off your crockery collection.
'The use of color is also very important in creating a country-inspired scheme,' Brown continues. 'One of The Painted Furniture Company’s first products was our bestselling Oak collection in a grey green; a color we always called the "Cotswolds window frame colour". This subtle, yet beautiful shade has continued to be one of our most popular options through the years, and is the epitome of modern country living.'
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.
11 Good Ideas - INMYROOM
Tips
Keeping the Fireplace, Giving Vintage Carpets a Chance, Matching the Matches and Adding a Bit of Irony to the Interior
This house was built in 1925 and has undergone many changes since then. One day, the current owner decided that his life was lacking in peace - and painted the house white. As it turned out, such a background was a great start to updating the interior. Very soon, the space took on a new look: now modern lamps coexist here with vintage furniture, new carpets cover the restored parquet, and bright blue and red accents complement the neutral color scheme. Borrowing 11 design ideas for decorating an old house on a budget.
1. Repaint the walls
The easiest and cheapest way to update your interior is to repaint the walls.
The owner of this house decided to try to give the interior a touch of Scandinavian style, so white was chosen as the main color for the walls.
2. Combine the matching
If the budget for the upcoming alteration clearly does not accommodate spending on expensive finishing materials and designer interior items, try to use pure colors and proven combinations. In the decoration of the kitchen of this house, in addition to white, rich gray color was used, as well as wallpaper with a white and gray pattern. A simple and win-win alliance.
3. Don't forget bright accents
The creator of this interior has added bright color accents - red, blue. This technique is typical for the Scandinavian style, but works great in other interiors. The main thing is not to overdo it and choose harmoniously combined colors.
4. Keep your old furniture
Who said that old furniture can't fit into a modern interior? On the contrary, the situation is becoming more and more frequent when an old grandmother's chest of drawers or grandfather's desk finds a place in a freshly renovated room.
In the bedroom of this cozy house, for example, a vintage dressing table harmoniously coexists with a modern bed and brand new lamps.
5. Restore the parquet and stairs
In old houses, wooden parquet and stairs can last for decades after they are restored. If the wood is in satisfactory condition, then it is much cheaper and easier to renew it a little than to install a new staircase and re-lay the parquet.
6. Arrange a comfortable kitchen
But don't skimp on the kitchen! This is just the case when, in the long run, it is more profitable to purchase a high-quality headset and approach the issue of arranging functional areas as carefully as possible.
7. Don't get rid of the fireplace
Notice how cozy the seating area looks in this small house. The fireplace plays an important role in creating a comfortable atmosphere. If you are renovating an old building with a fireplace, try to maintain and update it. As a rule, this does not require excessive costs, but family evenings by the fire are priceless.
8. Give Vintage Carpets a Chance
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to get rid of your old carpet. If it is well preserved, and the pattern and colors do not repel you, give the carpet to the dry cleaner to get rid of dirt and dust, and find a suitable place for the "old man".
9. Get live plants
Houseplants are one of the inexpensive and effective ways to freshen up the environment, make it more comfortable, and at the same time improve the microclimate of the room. By the way, for those who constantly forget to water the flowers, there is a huge selection of unpretentious plants.
10. A little bit of irony can't hurt
Don't take interior design too seriously: after all, this is a living space, not a picture from a glossy magazine. Do you want to use children's toys in the decor or buy a carpet with a checkerboard pattern? Do it, allow yourself a little irony.
11. Turn your balcony into a seating area
Don't treat your balcony as a place to store unnecessary things, because it can become a real seating area.
The owner of this house placed an armchair, a candle lantern on his small balcony, put a plant in a pot - and as a result he got an incredibly cozy place for morning coffee or evening gatherings.
How to decorate your house for the New Year 2022: 93 original ideas
On the eve of the winter holidays, you want to create an atmosphere of a fairy tale in your house. The easiest way to do this is with themed decor. In the article we will tell you how to decorate any room for the New Year, what decorating techniques are now in trend and what decorations you can make with your own hands.
We decorate the house for the New Year holidays
Choice of style
– Scandi
— Eco
— Minimalism
– Vintage
— Country
Colors of 2022
Ideas for different rooms
– Living room
– Kitchen and dining room
– Living rooms
— Entrance hall
Exterior decoration
— Entrance group
– Windows
— Yard
When we decorate a house for the New Year with our own hands, it is important to choose a common style.
So separate zones will not look scattered, and the interior will have a single mood. Usually, the decor is styled according to the main style, so that all design elements look harmonious. Now there are several trends in the trend.
Scandi
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Scandinavian aesthetics and New Year's atmosphere are perfectly combined, and the style itself remains one of the most popular today. With it, you can create the atmosphere of a New Year's fairy tale and at the same time not spend a fortune on thematic design.
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Must-have elements of winter scandi 90.106
Eco
Instagram @annakubel
Ecostyle is especially suitable for the interior of a private house, because outside the city there is an opportunity to be literally closer to nature. This direction does not imply pretentiousness; you can easily decorate such a New Year's interior with your own hands. By the way, this process can be made an annual family tradition and gradually replenish the eco-handmade collection.
Minimalist
Instagram @oanagociman
Minimalism is gradually moving beyond a specific style and becoming more of a way of life.
Therefore, it can take on any form, from hi-tech to a cozy eco-style, which we talked about above. Choose the one that suits the overall style of the house.
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Vintage
Instagram @athomewithjessidee
Retro motifs have dominated the New Year decor collections for the second year already, but it's even better not to buy new, but to use real vintage.
Get inspired by your own childhood memories or, if you like Western style, a photo of American or European vintage decor from the 60s and 70s is ready.
Country
Instagram @theholidayhousedecor
Rustic style is not so common in urban apartments, but if you are looking for ideas on how to decorate your house for the New Year 2022, then you should take a closer look at country. In this direction, lightness, the charm of village life and the warmth of a family hearth are combined.
Instagram @glamhouseofdecor
The symbol of the coming year is the Blue Water Tiger. He does not like bright, too aggressive colors, so it is better to give up rich shades of red, yellow, purple in the design of the house.
What can be used instead?
- Any shades of blue and cyan.
- Gray, white, black - in monochrome or in the company of other colors.
- Brown, beige, muted yellow tones.
- Deep green - the color of needles, moss, bottle glass.
- Any texture of precious metals, silvery and golden hues.
- Elka. As a rule, it is placed in the hall. You can place the spruce in the center of the room or in the corner, depending on the layout and personal preferences. We have made a detailed guide on how to beautifully decorate the Christmas tree with a garland and other decor this year. Under the tree, you can lay out gifts in a beautiful package, lay a cloth or arrange figurines.
- Fireplace. If the living room has a traditional or electric fireplace with a portal, this is the perfect place for a basic Christmas arrangement. An obligatory element is socks for gifts.
Christmas figurines, candles, large coniferous garlands will be placed on the mantelpiece. You can put a vase with treats. - Sofa group. Here we need cozy textiles for upholstered furniture. In the center of the coffee table, you can create a thematic composition from any decorations: from figurines and candles to glitter-covered cones found on the site.
- Window sills. Electric candles, lanterns, a couple of pillows with Christmas decor will make the main room even cozier.
So, for example, it is always hot above the stove, so it is better not to place live plants and plastic products that can melt there. And wooden elements, if they are not covered with a protective varnish, it is better to keep away from the wet area. Also, the decor should not interfere with cooking, so it is better to place it not on the work surface, but on cabinets, shelves, windowsills, etc.
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Otherwise, standard decorations will do: garlands, streamers, figurines and figurines, candles in figured candlesticks.
And, of course, beautiful Christmas tableware in plain sight. You can buy interior letters and make any word or phrases out of them.
The decoration of the dining table consists of two elements.
- Festive table setting - you can purchase a set of dishes, cutlery and napkins from the New Year's collection or create a composition yourself. It is not necessary to use the classic green-red-white palette, you can choose any colors that you like, or be inspired by the symbol of the year.
- The central composition - it is on the table at any time, even when the dishes with cutlery are removed. Depending on the style, this can be an ensemble of candles, plants, fruits and berries, or themed figurines. You can put Christmas balls in a large jar, vase or basket.
a photo
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shapovalo
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Textiles (napkins, towels) with Christmas prints will add a festive atmosphere.
Living rooms
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The interior of private rooms - bedroom, nursery, guest room - should be cozy and calm. It is best to arrange them in accordance with the style of the room, using discreet atmospheric details.
Paper banners or shimmering garlands on the walls will help decorate the bedroom; composition of ordinary or aromatic candles; several thematic figurines; miniature Christmas tree in a pot; snowflakes and artificial snow on the windows; a beautiful bag for gifts - especially relevant in the nursery.
In the photo below we have collected beautiful examples of how to decorate the wall behind the bed for the New Year, and other ideas for the bedroom.
7Porch
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The entrance group is the face of the whole house, the first impression of it, so it is very important to pay special attention to the design.
The two main elements here are the porch and the door.
If the porch has railings, you can hang a garland with light bulbs or a fluffy model “under the needles” on them. Arrange a simple composition of vases, figurines, lanterns on the steps.
7Windows
Instagram @faggemala1912
If in an apartment we decorate windows for the New Year mainly from the inside, focusing on the window sill, then outside the city this is not only a part of the interior, but also a full-fledged element of external design.
How to decorate windows
- Themed stickers.
- Paper snowflakes (you can make your own hands with children).
- Lamp-slide.
- Garlands.
- Accent Christmas star.
- Large candles in glass cases.
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