If you like the casual feel of a country home but don't want it to look like it was decorated by your grandmother, you may prefer to decorate in a new and updated country style.
Here are a few interior designer tips & tricks for how to get an updated country style in your home.
photo courtesy of Susn Serra flickr.com/photos/kitchendesigner/2866999819/
Nothing Too Precious
Country style decorating does not use overly expensive or precious items that are easily broken.
You should have no problem putting your feet on the coffee table.
There should not be any ornate antiques, delicate accessories, or things that can't be touched.
Simplicity
One of the charms of country style is the simplicity of the elements.
There are no tasseled drapes, fringed pillows, or eye catching fabric patterns.
The fabrics used are a solid color or very basic, the furniture is streamlined, and the light fixtures a utilitarian.
Minimal Color
New and updated country homes are filled with the color white with a few light pastels, some natural wood, and a touch of black and/or gray.
Do not use strong or bold colors.
Natural Elements
Country homes used what materials were available to decorate.
They used wood, stone, and leather.
Updated country style uses those elements also.
No Farm Accessories
Grandma's country home has accessories that remind you of a farm - chicken sculptures, cow artwork, and butter churns.
Avoid anything that reminds you of a farm when decorating in a new and updated country style.
Avoid Traditional Quilts and Rag Rugs
Older country homes tend to have many traditional quilts and rag rugs.
Feel free to use more artistic and modern quilts or rag rugs for new and updated country decor, but avoid the ones that look like they could be 100 years old.
Industrial Elements
Adding some vintage or vintage looking industrial elements maintains the easy going aesthetic of a country home yet adds a new and updated twist.
You can add an industrial looking cart as a kitchen island, some industrial bar stools, and/or stainless steel appliances to add a bit of modern to a country home.
Less is More
Country homes used to be small and served a large family.
Because of this, they were often filled to the brim with everyone's stuff.
For a new and more updated look, use minimal accessories and keep the clutter to a minimum.
