How to Decorate Country Style

Fresh flowers can bring a little country to any home.

If you're the type that loves simple blues, lace curtains, plaid and French country, you may want to learn to decorate country style. There are several steps you can take that will make your home look open, warm, friendly and have a country, even if you live in the middle of the city. Remember that country decorating means keeping things simple. Try for an uncluttered throw-back look which means hiding or decorating around modern conveniences that are electronic.

Things You'll Need

• Throw pillows
• Curtains
• Nick knacks
• Framed photographs of your family
• Throw blankets
• Flowers
• Antiques

Instructions

1. Choose a color scheme. A medium blue offers a country look, but splashes of red and neutrals, such as chocolate brown and buff, can also warm up a home.

2. Add soft curtains that will blow gently in the breeze. Lace or cotton panels create a light, breezy look that bring the outdoors in and give the room a country flare.

3. Toss some throw pillows on the couch and chairs. Pillows are one of the biggest secrets of decorators everywhere. Lots of pillows create a homey feel. But, the color choices of the pillows are just as important. Mismatched pillows work best for a country look. Throw in some plaid pillows, pillows with details such as buttons and lace and even a few crocheted pieces.

4. Purchase a few throw blankets to toss on the back of the couch and chairs. There are many varieties available, but old quilts work well too.

5. Fresh flowers like daisies and lilacs can be placed around a room to give some country appeal.

Tips & Warnings

• Put out special family mementos scattered around, such as family photographs in simple frames.

• Throw in a few antiques that have been passed down in your family or that you've picked up at flea markets and garage sales.