Ranch style interior decorating ideas


20 Ranch-Style Homes With Modern Interior Style

By Grace Lynne Fleming | Published on

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Ranch-styled homes have simple floor plans with a wider outward appearance – without the depth that most present homes possess. There’s a minimalistic, yet traditional, quality in its overall look and it makes for a great palette when styling and decorating with a specific vision in mind. But what happens when you take this home design, first constructed in the 1950’s, along with its old-age spirit and mix it with a modern look – in furniture and accent. Well, you get a stunning blend of home fashion and trending, forward-thinking interest. Let’s have a look at 20 ideas that will get your wheels turning!

1. Neutral Renovation

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This open, ranch-style home was renovated into a cozy, modern space. A neutral palette keeps it fresh and spacious in feel but the lines, lighting and furniture choices give the home a modern twist.

2. With Wood.

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You can easily create a home full of vintage outlines and welcoming wood foundations. But you can also add some modern touches to create something unique and revitalizing – like this contemporary living space did!{found on johnsoninteriordesign}.

3. Ultra Chic.

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Give your ranch home an ultra chic uplift by going completely outside-the-box of this family-friendly home. With slick lines, an added room partition and creamy tones, you can have a super posh area inside your throwback foundation.

4. Futuristic Fun.

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Add a bit of the future when renovating the kitchen or adding new details. These homes can be lengthy and spacious, utilize that when creating a more present-day version.{found on rectangle}.

 

5. Textural Bits.

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Don’t be afraid to utilize texture when adding a modern touch to your ranch-style home. Utilize the lengthiness and open appeal by adding unique accents like stone and wood.

6. Family Spirit.

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These homes were meant for family so even though you’re adding modern touches or renovating to make the foundation seem more contemporary, don’t forget your family spirit and warm accents.{found on charlesdelisle}.

7. Forward-Thinking Separation.

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Sometimes these layouts are so open and wide that it’s hard to tell where a room ends. This is where you can get creative with your decorating and add personal touches.{found on drawingdept}.

8. Embrace What’s There.

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Whether it’s an original, double-sided fireplace or large, floor-to-ceiling windows, embrace what’s been there since the home was built and utilize it with the more modern decor.{found on shksarchitects}.

9. Ceiling Power.

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There’s power in detailed ceiling. Whether you add color, open piping, beams or wood paneling there’s a certain transformation that happens – especially when accenting the vaulted ceilings.

10. Go Lighter.

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It’s okay to go with a lighter look even if your vision is a bit more contemporary. This space is lighter, brighter and a bit more feminine than the super sharpness of classic modernism.

 11. Seamless Transition.

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A benefit of a ranch home is the seamless movement and transition about the space. Keep that in mind when your invite your new decorating and design inside, that’s something that should be kept intact.

12. Woven Elegance.

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Weave elegance inside your modern mixes. There’s a certain flow to the natural design and order of these homes so it’s easy to incorporate a more elegant vision when re-styling.{found on rowlandbroughton}.

13. Funky Dreams.

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Don’t be afraid to add a bit of eclecticism inside your modern vision. This is the type of home that embraces the transition and can become any kind of clean palette you’d like.

14.

Stunning Lights.

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Because of the easy transition between spaces and flowing freedom, lighting can go a long way throughout these homes. This is another benefit you need to use when highlight contemporary, clean lines and bright neutrals.

15. The View.

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Ranch homes were made to utilize the land they were on, so when the view is this good and the windows are this big, don’t take away from the beauty. Go with simpler colors and lines and have that be the focus.

16. Built-In Function.

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When it’s time to renovate, think about the rooms and what you need. When space is free but not as wide as you need for chunky furniture, keep that modern tone with built-in bookshelves for functionality.

17. Hallway Style.

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If your layout have a breathier hallway woven throughout the home, detail those too. It helps with the transition between rooms and keeping the vision intact.

18. Match It.

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Make sure to match the colors and modern tendencies throughout the home. When you can see through to other spaces you’ll want to make it an easy walk and not something that’s cut up.

19. Youthful Essence.

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Even if you’ve had this home for over 30 years, doesn’t mean you can’t dress it like it’s a younger 20. Refresh yourself and your home with modern colors, classic staples and sleek lines with its open layout.

20. Start With White.

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The best way to bring a modern tone into your ranch-styled home and to utilize all of the natural light, is to decorate with white! A crisp, white foundation can be keep to a revitalized look.

Ranch-style houses – the ultimate guide to the look and how to get it

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Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

When you picture a ranch-style house, there’s a good chance you envision a remote desert filled with wild horses, cowboys, and the occasional tumbleweed sighting. But, in reality? This American architecture genre has life beyond the wild west. 

With a strong presence from coast to coast, ranch-style homes are loved for their versatility and flexibility. 

If you want to get acquainted with this beloved architecture, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about ranch-style houses, inside and out. 

What makes a house ranch style?

Photography/Daniel Nadelvach

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

It’s not hard to identify a ranch-style house — you just need to know what you’re looking for. While these residences come in various shapes, sizes, and styles, ranch style homes are typically defined as sprawling, low-slung structures. 

Multi-storied ranch houses do exist, but you’ll typically see this type of residence spanning across just one floor. The reason is simple: ranch house styles emphasize the delicate balance between indoor and outdoor living.

'I believe the popularity of ranch-style houses can be attributed to their rugged qualities and connection to nature,' explains designer Marie Flanigan

'This genre of house evokes coziness and can be recreated in any area of the country by employing raw wood elements, textural fabrics, and expansive patio space.'

When did ranch style houses originate?

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

The ranch-style house has always been closely tied with American history. The architecture first became popular in the 1920s, as more and more people headed west. Not only were the single-story layouts and low-to-the ground silhouettes easy to maintain, but they also helped beat that grueling Southwestern heat.

Ranch homes dipped in popularity shortly after they burst onto the architecture scene; however, the style made a huge comeback as suburbs became more prominent. In fact, after World War II, nine out of 10 new residences were ranch-style houses. 

It’s been nearly a century since ranch-style houses were created, and the look is just as popular today as it was back then. 

According to a recent study by Trulia, they’re the most popular types of residences in 34 states. Ranch-style houses are oftentimes — but not always — more affordable than other abodes. Plus, since most homes don’t require cumbersome stairs, they’re ideal for family members of all ages. 

'Today, they have maintained their popularity for several reasons,' says Liles Dunnigan of The Warehouse Interiors . 'First and foremost, they are ideal renovation candidates. They can be easily opened up inside by removing interior walls to create more of an open concept that is so desirable today. They also have very low simple roof lines that make additions easy to achieve.'

Types of ranch-style houses

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

Though the ranch house style seems simple, they offer plenty of variety. Deepen your knowledge of the architecture trend with these key categories:

1. The California Ranch

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California-based architect Cliff May put the ranch house style on the map back in the early 1930s, and his take is still considered classic. 

This tried-and-true type takes cues from the Arts and Crafts movement that reigned supreme well into the 1920s as well as Spanish colonial architecture. 

Additionally, many California ranches have an L or U-shaped silhouette, deftly creating a designated courtyard space. 

2. The Suburban Ranch

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When World II ended, many families wanted to escape their hustling, bustling cities. And, with the rise of suburbs came the rise of suburban ranches.  

While this type has many of the same features as a California ranch, but are usually smaller and have a simple silhouette. Think of it as a cul-de-sac-compatible alternative. 

3. The Split-Level Ranch

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Why settle for one floor when you can enjoy a few? Popular in the 1960s and 70s, split-level ranches stagger their square footage across three to four stories. 

Dwellers might enter on one floor, but will need to go up or down a small flight of stairs to reach the den, garage, or bedrooms. The varying stories might be a far cry from the typical ranch house style, but they’re great for families who want some privacy. 

4. The Raised Ranch

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Many people think split-level and raised ranches are the same thing, but the truth is these two styles have some noticeable differences.  

While split-level ranches span across several stories, raised residences typically have a total of two floors, usually above and below the entryway. 

Both options are departures from the status quo, but the streamlined floorplan makes this style feel more consistent with the classic California home. 

Where are ranch-style homes most popular?

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

Ranch house style was initially created in the Southwest, but they have quickly spread to all across the United States of America. 

'They are found throughout the US, from the Southwest to the East Coast; they are just different styles depending on what area of the country you are in,' Dunnigan explains.

'For example, California ranch-style houses are considerably larger in scale featuring vaulted ceilings and sunken rooms whereas the North Eastern versions can be much more closed off and feature more rigid floor plans.'

Additionally, in the Midwest, many people deck out their homes with basements. Not only can this addition make the most of their space – especially as they can’t use their backyard in the colder months – but it can also act as protection against tornadoes.

What to look for in a the ranch-style house

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

Though ranch-style houses come in different shapes and sizes, they do have a few characteristics in common. 

In addition to their low-slung – and often single-storied – floorplan, they also usually have a low-pitched roof, wide eaves, picture windows, and a designated porch or deck. 

Since ranch-style homes are notorious for bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor living, you can also expect a sliding glass door in the backyard. And, like most modern homes, it’s likely a ranch residence will also feature an attached garage.

Of course, those similarities don’t stop with the exterior. Turns out, most ranch-style spaces boast an open-concept layout, giving dwellers the chance to craft their homes however they please.

'The main living areas are centrally located with bedrooms set further away and accessed by a long narrow hallway,' adds designer Darla Bankston May

'The layout makes it easy to change the function of a room or to remodel in terms of tearing out walls to make a space larger or adding on to the structure of the house.' 

How to decorate in ranch house style

Since ranch homes offer a lot of variety, there’s no one way to decorate these residences. However, if you’re looking for some fresh ways to dress up your home, check out these inspiring ideas. 

1. Emphasize the open-concept 

Photography/Daniel Nadelvach

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

Want to get the most out of your space? Put your home’s layout on full display. While an open-concept floorplan can give your home a light airy atmosphere, filling your place with room dividers or bookshelves can make it feel claustrophobic. 

'Don’t over clutter with too much furniture,' Bankston May says. 'When you have an open floorplan for your main living areas you want an easy flow between each space.'

If you want to create the illusion of separate rooms without compromising your home’s airy reputation, break up the space with various rugs.

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

2. Pick a neutral palette

Photography/Michael Hunter

(Image credit: Jon Day)

A paint color has the power to set the mood for your space, and since the ranch house style is typically open-concept, the hue you choose here is even more pressing. 

If you want to keep your home airy, open layout at the forefront, stick with light and versatile neutrals. That said, there are more shades than a pristine white. From sandy beiges, to light greys, to a soothing blue, the options are virtually endless. 

'When your living spaces are in one large room or adjacent and visible to another, you don’t have to use the same color scheme in each room,' Bankston May recommends.  

'An easy way to do this is to choose one or two colors that you repeat in each space. The color used on the dining chairs could be repeated in the pillows on the living room sofa.'

3. Select sleek silhouettes

(Image credit: Rafael Soldi)

Ultimately, your home’s décor style should be a reflection of your personal taste. 

However, if you’re not sure which type of furniture works the best with the ranch house style, you can’t go wrong with streamline silhouettes – especially those that pay homage to mid-century modernism. 

Originated in the height of the 20th century – and currently making an indefinite comeback – mid-century modernism boasts slim, boxy silhouette and subdued color palettes.

Not only will this style keep your home on trend, but the slim silhouettes will create a lot of negative space, which will emphasize your home’s layout.  

4. Embrace the great outdoors 

Photography/Daniel Nadelvach

(Image credit: Darla Bankston May)

The ranch house style was designed to create a delicate balance between indoor and outdoor living, so your backyard should not be ignored.

 Instead, treat your outdoor space like any other room in the house, complete with comfortable furniture, personable accents, and strategic lighting. 

Kelsey Mulvey is a New York-born, San Francisco-based freelance journalist who covers lifestyle and design content. She started her writing career while studying magazine journalism at Boston University, where her work was syndicated by top digital publications like USA Today and MSN. Upon graduation, Kelsey covered lifestyle content The Wall Street Journal, Off Duty and Business Insider. In 2017, Kelsey started her freelance journalism career, where she contributes to design publications like AD PRO, Elle Decor, Wallpaper*, and more. W

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Traditional American ranches are small houses made of cheap materials. Read our review of how modern ranches look like today and what interior details they inherited. Today, the famous Moscow designer Elena Krylova told us what exactly is the peculiarity of designing an interior in the style of an American ranch, and how to make it as close as possible to Russian realities.

Elena Krylova is a famous Moscow designer, head of her own design studio. Elena created exclusive interiors for many show business stars, famous politicians and businessmen: Bari Alibasov, Natasha Koroleva, Lena Lenina and many others. During her work, Elena Krylova, together with her team, has implemented dozens of design projects for both residential premises and clubs, restaurants and beauty salons. Regular participant of business events and TV projects.

1. Materials

Originally an American ranch house built with the cheapest and poor quality materials. The fact is that the hot location and the idle lifestyle did not force dashing cowboys to build high-quality and long-term housing.

Therefore, during the construction, everything that was at hand was used: brick, stone, boards, clay. Today, these materials are also relevant when decorating ranch-style houses.

2. Planning

Naturally, during the crisis there was nowhere to turn around during the construction, so the rural housing of the industrious American did not differ in high-rise buildings - one, maximum two floors.

The ranch is also characterized by an asymmetric design and the absence of any internal geometry. The small area of ​​the ranch did not allow dividing the premises into many rooms, so the dining room was almost always combined with the living room and hallway. At the same time, the first floor was made walkable and equipped with large sliding doors to the veranda and the courtyard. Thus, a visual increase in space was achieved. The only separate room was the bedroom.

Today, the idea of ​​the most spacious ground floor is relevant for many houses. Well, if, as is typical for a ranch, there is only one floor, it is worthwhile to think carefully about the layout and communications in order to fit all the functional areas in a small area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe house.

3. Interior decoration

American ranch style - homey and cozy. Therefore, the interior is not overloaded with decoration and details, but at the same time it is saturated with various family heirlooms.

Ceilings remain pristine, where exposed beams add color to the rustic home.

Of course, preference is given to natural materials for finishing: on the floor - stone or ceramic tiles; on the walls - tinted brick or wood. Furniture - wooden or wicker.

4. Accessories and decor

The interior of the ranch has a lot of original details: chests, forged candlesticks, rocking chairs, earthenware.

Textile - in a small flower with frills. A lot of pillows and carpets give the interior an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. Moreover, many of the details are made by hand or to order.

At the same time, the interior of the ranch is distinguished by a certain brutality typical of the male interior of a real cowboy: forged accessories and furniture, animal skins, textures of raw wood, concrete and brick.

Another integral part of the ranch (as well as any country house for a large family) is a fireplace decorated with concrete, stone or brick. The more textured, the better!

5. Lighting

When designing a ranch-style interior, one should not forget about the lighting that characterizes it. Initially, in order to save money, the ranch was made with as large windows as possible so that sunlight penetrated into all corners of the premises.

This trend has continued today, so the main focus is on functional lighting of work areas and decorative lighting, which gives even more texture to finishing materials.

Fanciful lamps made of copper and steel, chandeliers imitating candles, forged lamps - all this is quite appropriate in the interior of this style.

Of course, over time, the American ranch-style interior has undergone many changes. However, it is only gaining its popularity. The main thing is to remember that in order to create this style in the interior, the first thing you need to think about is functionality and comfort for life!

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Rustic motifs in The interior looks very cozy and simple. This is a great option for those who wants to rest at home from the oppressive atmosphere of the metropolis. Also this direction ideal for country houses - helps to preserve rustic traditions and plunge into the world of memories of distant childhood. After all, many wanted to have a habitat that would give peace and where you want would come back again and again.

Due to its naturalness and "naturalness" country style in the interior is used great popularity.

Characteristic features

Back in the century before last This style was born, and quickly spread throughout the world. Many tried furnish your country mansion so that it looks like a grandmother's house. Accordingly, each country had its own country style, so over time there was such an offshoot as ethnocountry.

Borrowing village styles from other countries. You can also choose a theme for your design. at home: whether it will be a Russian hut, a Ukrainian hut, an American ranch, or Spanish hacienda - a huge number of options. But we will return to this. a little bit later.

Now let's look at the main features that characterize the interior Country:
1. Natural materials in everything - decoration, furniture, accessories and decor. Wood, metal, stone, paper, clay, porcelain are all integral parts country interior. True, with the advent of new technologies, more and more artificial materials are used;
2. Natural and naturalness;
3. Simplicity and smoothness of forms;
4. Practicality in everyone;
5. Natural shades;
6. Mandatory a fireplace or other similar source of heat must be present;
7. Unique a combination of brutality and romanticism: rough large interior details and on the contrary, very elegant and fragile accessories of small size.

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home. It should be borne in mind that all rooms are subject to design in one design - this is not an option when you can combine different interior styles in one home.

It is noteworthy that in such version, the kitchen, dining room, living room and hall are not separated, but are common room. Problematic is the design of the bathroom, although with the presence of imagination and this will not be a problem.

If we are talking about the city housing - an apartment, then it will be possible to equip only one room. more suitable rustic motif will look in the kitchen, living room, bedroom or dining room.

Country interior is absolutely not suitable for a home office. The abundance of technology and modern gadgets correspond to the high-tech direction.

Materials

What is important is to avoid modern trends in decoration and decoration, which are very far from naturalness and ecology. It is better not to use linoleum, laminate, plastic, stretch ceilings or tiles with a fashionable design. And definitely forget about chrome handles, faucets and other decorative elements in a similar design. Such cases it is worth using copper, bronze, forged elements in the decor - even from battered iron.

Colors

Here is a complete flight of fancy. One main condition - no screaming tones. And remember the golden rule - no more than three colors in one room.

For interior design it is worth considering that against the background of walls, furniture and textiles of saturated colors the rest of the decor elements should not stand out. And, conversely, with restrained general colors of the room, make a color accent on the details of the interior.

Of course, used colors should fully remind you of nature: brown, green, soft shades of yellow and terracotta, colors of field plants, autumn foliage, sky and etc.

Finishing

Putting all of the above together, you can already get the big picture about the style and, guided by our further advice, proceed to finishing premises.

Walls

Everything is very simple - even or not very smooth walls, covered with paper or vinyl wallpaper, plain paint, covered with fabric, wood or decorated with plaster.

If you choose wallpaper, then use the simplest pattern - a cage, a stripe or a pattern on a vegetable theme. Just consider the features of each pattern: horizontal stripe, for example, visually lengthens the room and "raises" the ceiling.

Will look original alternation of decorative plaster and brickwork. In fact, whatever type of finish you choose, keep in mind - the walls should be the background, no more Togo.

Floor

Wood is ideal. Preferably if it is not elegant parquet or laminate. Also well suited stone or tile flooring.

Ceiling

It is worth painting the ceiling white and decorating it wooden beams - a typical option for a village dwelling.

Lighting

Remember that style country in the interior is a connection with nature. Therefore, the lighting of your home should match the light outside the window. During the day, the room should be well lit. sunlight, with the onset of dusk and the lighting inside should be dimmed. No bright lights or intense lighting.

Candelabra shaped chandeliers are best with forging elements, wall lamps, candlesticks, floor lamps with fabric lampshades. All these light sources should please the eye during the day.

Furniture

You guessed it, the interior country style accepts only simple, functional and natural furniture, which is characterized by unpretentiousness and directness of outlines.

Well worth a start dig in your grandmother's attic or visit a flea market - probably there you will find what you need. Although it is not necessary to look for the old rustic furniture or buy one with antique styling.

Don't worry if the furniture isn't will be polished or varnished - a rough finish looks more harmonious. It can be an ordinary wooden table, a wicker rocking chair, numerous chests and baskets.

Perfect for the kitchen look like an open cupboard and a rough table. By the way, carved furniture too welcome. In the bedroom, the bed and wardrobes should be massive, they can there are elements of forging and carving.

Decor and accessories

It is preferable to use handmade items as decor. After all, what is made by hand is saturated with the warmth of the hearth, love for creative process - and therefore gives a special feeling of comfort and home comfort.

Primary preference in decorating rooms should be given to textiles - especially since options for creativity abounds. For example, you can add originality to the kitchen by sewing a tablecloth, curtains and chair covers from the same material.

We offer you types accessories that can be used:

The presence of such details creates that unique home comfort, gives a feeling of security and peace.

Types of ethnic country

At the beginning of the article, we already said that country style has its own characteristics - it all depends on the country where it is used. let's Let's get acquainted with its various types.

English

Combines elegance and stiffness at the same time, sophistication and simplicity. There is an abundance of textiles and upholstery in furniture. Its colors are red, green and brown. dark wood furniture, massive and expensive. The decor contains horizontal paintings and porcelain figurines.

American

Mandatory attribute - wooden beams on the ceiling and a fireplace. The furniture is also massive and solid, decorated with copper and bronze fittings. On the animal horns hang on the walls, patchwork multi-colored rugs or skins are on the floor animal. The furniture is upholstered in leather. Dining tables with wood top usually round in shape.

Italian

This is characterized by elegance rather than brutality. Furniture no longer so impressive, varnishing and polishing is allowed. Furniture is often not stylized in the old days - it is really made of wood, which decades. A clear feature is a panel of ceramic tiles in the kitchen, the presence arched forms in furniture and decor, the use of stone in wall decoration. After a few times

German

Restraint, accuracy and practicality are the main country features in Germany. The Germans love the abundance of wood. Therefore, in the decor they use beams and slats on walls and ceilings. If you are using the half-timbered layout, then accurately create German-style country music.

French

Distinguished by its brilliance. typical colors: lavender, violet, bright yellow. This applies to both decoration and decor. bright fabrics with floral print and animal themed designs. The furniture is mostly pine light shades. The beds are just huge - quadruple. The decor is dominated field motifs - straw.

Swedish

Cooler interior due to discreet color gamma, matte walls and wooden floors.

All of the above ethnic manifestations are original in their own way and at the same time have common features.

Room interior

Its huge advantage is that the country style in the interior of the apartment will never get bored of its owners only because it is devoid of artificiality, stiffness and excesses. let's consider design options for various country-style rooms.

Kitchen

It is always cozy and comfortable here, you want to spend evenings for quiet conversations with the family. The main material used for finishing the kitchen is tree and stone. On the floor it is better to use a stone coating - practical and comfortable. And wood for everything else - furniture, walls or ceiling. budget option - ceramic tiles on the floor, wood veneer for the walls and chipboard for furniture.

If the stone is on the floor for you unacceptable, you can also use wood - choose its color to match the finish rooms. In general, the color scheme for the country kitchen should be calm. and restrained. You can add a bright accent with accessories: colored plates, jars for cereals, flower pots.

Living room

This is the room where the family gathers, meets guests and friends - therefore, the atmosphere should be conducive to communication and be hospitable. Decorate the walls in light colors: beige, caramel, cream. Feel free to experiment and use wood, paint, wallpaper and stone in the walls. But not all at once.

The floor is covered with parquet board, laminate or wood. Furniture should be comfortable, soft and durable. Leave a minimum of household appliances - in the living room there is an abundance of them for what. And, of course, you can not do without a fireplace. home hearth - guarantee of comfort and home warmth. Add some decorative elements: soft pillows, family framed photo, fresh flowers on the table.

Bedroom

Country style in the bedroom, by the way, is perfect for creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Choose furniture with smooth outlines, not too rough. Do not overload the room with an abundance of furniture and accessories. On the the ceiling is enough to have one chandelier.

Walls can be painted in light colors, sheathed with wood or decorate with decorative plaster. Can stick simple wallpaper. By the way, all these types of finishes are correctly combined. The floor in the bedroom is best made of wood and covered with soft carpet.


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