Country House Decorating

Country decor includes rustic wooden accessories.

People value country houses for their casual charm and comfortable feel. Country house décor consists of organic materials, natural colors and rustic accessories. Country furnishings are antiques with simple lines and little detailing. French country style varies from American country style in its use of bolder colors and the inclusion of ornate accessories. Both styles aim to create an environment that is simple, warm and inviting.

Things You'll Need

• Paint
• 2-inch paintbrush
• Paint roller
• Roller tray
• Stencil
• Acrylic paints
• Matte medium
• Stencil brush
• Curtains in cotton or linen
• Simple, wooden antique furniture
• Accessories

Instructions

1. Select a paint color that is appropriate for your country style. American country interiors feature muted pastel colors like pale yellow, peach or sage green. French country interiors often use bold colors like mustard and brick. Opt for paint in a flat finish to give the walls a softer, worn look.

2. Paint around the edges of the wall with a brush and roll out the larger parts of the walls with a paint roller. Apply two coats of paint to achieve full coverage.

3. Incorporate a stencil design somewhere in your interior. Stencil a large image on cabinet doors or create a border along the top of the walls. French country motifs include paisleys, Mediterranean flowers and fleur-de-lis. Some common American country designs are hearts, birds, daisies, sunflowers, ivy and wheat sheaves. Use acrylic paint thinned with matte medium, as necessary. Gently tap the stencil brush on the surface of the stencil for complete, even coverage. Wipe the stencil off after each use.

4. Choose curtains that complement your wall colors. Although a solid, pale color is always a safe choice, you can also experiment with different patterns. Pastel floral patterns are appropriate for American country décor, while French provincial fabrics tend to feature bold colors and high-contrast patterns.

5. Place your furniture in a comfortable, functional arrangement. Country interiors are supposed to be informal and cozy. Arrange seating close to a fireplace. Set up a table and chairs in or near the kitchen for casual dining.

6. Select country accessories to complete your rustic look. Opt for items constructed of natural materials that have a handmade look. Some common decorative items include traditional tools, wooden decoys, hand-painted pottery, dried flower arrangements and embroidered objects. Intersperse some ornate antique items, such as silver platters and mirrors with gilded frames, for an elegant French country interior.

Tips & Warnings

• Use scented candles or potpourri to evoke homey aromas like apple pie, spiced pumpkin or French lavender.

References

• HGTV: Guide To Creating a Country Kitchen
• HGTV: Farmhouse Country Style
• Martha Stewart: Stenciled Stool Tops