country decor for the home

country decor for the home

What is the lure and appeal of country home decorating? Maybe it’s the desire to escape the rush and demands of a hectic lifestyle. It could be the need to return to a time when life was simpler, perhaps even happier. The necessities of rural life are what influence today’s country style home decor.

Country home decorating can be defined as a style featuring rustic simplicity and tradition. Home decorating country style is viewed as welcoming, unpretentious, friendly and practical. Country style home decor is flexible enough to include timeworn antiques, reproductions, crafts and handmade products all together. Country furniture is usually made by craftsmen and has a sturdy, rugged appearance. Country style furniture seldom uses delicate designs. Country home decor may feature unfinished beams, floors with natural finish, rough bricks and unpainted or undulating plaster walls.

Here are recommendations for specific rooms when country home decorating:

Country Kitchen Décor – use open shelves, buffets, plate racks and cupboards for storage. Country kitchen storage is usually crammed with stoneware pots, plain glazed earthenware and glass jars. Country kitchen pots should be made of copper, steel or cast iron — country cookware tends to be large and plain. Country kitchen cabinets that are made of aged surfaces, natural materials, rough finishes and round knobs will keep the country style. Open shelving in the country kitchen is perfect to display plates and dinnerware collections. Kitchen cabinets or kitchen furniture made of pine or perhaps even painted can be a beautiful key element in the country kitchen.

Country Kitchen Countertops and Floors – country kitchens countertops have ceramic tiles or even hand painted tiles, slate or marble. If you want to use laminate materials, go for plain colors for coverings. Terracotta tiles, brick, stone and wood are very popular in country kitchen floors. If you decide to add some antiques to your country kitchen, they don’t have to be perfect — even chips and scratches will add to the charm and un-restored look of the antique. Adding a bit of wear and tear to maintain the country flavor is fun and it works!

Country Dining Rooms – dining rooms are once again popular. Many years ago, meals were eaten in large country home kitchens. Today, the kitchen continues to be the hub of the home and the place where you can have less formal meals. However, when entertaining guests, a dining room is the place to be. Country style dining rooms can have a large rectangular table made of pine, oak, walnut or mahogany with wooden chairs or old benches that are similar in style and material. A corner cupboard, plate racks, dresser or sideboard will provide perfect storage and serving area for the dining room as long as they match the style and the materials of the table and chairs.

Country Bathrooms – the characteristics and styles of country bathrooms take us back to our simple life and roots. A bathroom with neutral tones or soft colored walls, antique looking lighting and wooden antiques or antique reproduction cabinets and vanity will give the country bathroom a calm and elegant atmosphere. Clawfoot tubs, country style antique brass faucets and old-fashioned country home decorating cabinets will give your bathroom the kind of atmosphere that invites you to spend time there.

A country bathroom should have wood, ceramic tile, linoleum, vinyl or natural cork floors. To have carpet in the country bathroom is not appropriate. Wood and brass accessories are perfect materials to use in a country style home decor bathroom. Plain white towels are recommended instead of patterned or bright modern patterns. Use wicker or wire baskets to keep your sponges, loofas and shampoos handy near the tub or shower.

Country Home Furnishings – decorative items associated with country style home decor include adirondack chairs, Windsor chairs, fresh or dry wild flowers, vintage baskets, quilts, yellowware bowls, blue and white ceramics, wicker or wire baskets, floral tapestries, linens and paintings, wool blankets, duck decoys and teddy bears. Floral patterns and candleholders also remind us of the country-style life.

The colors used in country home decorating are neutral tones ranging from white to bone, earth tones, red barn, blues and green which are the most appropriate colors for country style. Stenciling and wallpaper are frequently used in country home decorating. Stenciling originally was cheaper than wallpaper. Stenciling can be used around windows, in areas where the walls meet the ceiling or on the floors. Oftentimes, stenciling is even used on furniture. Done correctly, stenciling adds a great deal of charm to a country home decor.

While country life in the old days was often very difficult, it’s now possible to recreate the pleasures and peace of a nearness to nature without having to endure the adversity and hardship of everyday rural life. In general, the knowledge and abilities needed to create a country style home are achievable by nearly anyone. Read all you can. Inspiration will come if you understand the basics for creating a country style home decor that provides the look and feel of the way life used to be.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing

The Original RedNek Wine Glass $6.99 You don't have to reside in the backwoods to appreciate the humor. A great conversation piece, whatever your pleasure, from wine to white lightning. Even his beer takes on "extra classy" redneck style when sipped from this glass. Includes a screw-on lid. Handmade; no two are exactly alike. Hand wash. 12 oz. 9"H....

Coat Rack/Stand in Satin Black Metal Spider Style $13.00 This is a brand new in box stain black finish metal spider coat rack that branches into 4 hangers pointing to the top, 4 hangers at the top, and 4 hangers at the mid-base of the stand. The rack also stands on 4 strong legs at the bottom, leveled for evened positioning and placement. (This item requires simple assembly) Dimensions Measure: 20"L x 20"W x 73"H...

Coaster Coat Rack with Twisted Post in Cherry $11.45 Your organized home starts at the door and this collection of coat racks offers you your choice of stylish storage solutions. Give guests a warm welcome when you place a coat rack in your hall or entryway, or make the most of a compact space by tucking one into a corner of your living room. Features like spinning tops, double and triple tiered hooks and umbrella stand bases enhance the functionali...

Faith, Family & Friends $17.99 19 Tracks...

Coasters $20.49 This three piece group of Occasional Tables are set in a pine finish. Three pieces occasional table set comes with carved legs. Beautiful crafted details, rectangular shape top parquet look design. Set comprises of one Coffee Table and two End Tables....

Household Essentials 80-Pocket Cotton Canvas Jewelry Organizer $16.50 Jewerly Org. 80 Pkt.Aluminum Hanger80 pocket organizer offers double sided storage. Takes up less than 2' of closet space. Clear pockets allow you to see pocket contents! Aluminum hanger included. Folds easily and fits into luggage for traveling. Patent protected...

Sylvania 29490 23-Watt CFL Mini Twist Light Bulb, Soft White, 6 pack $16.95 Sylvania 23-Watt Compact Fluorescent Mini Twist Soft White Light Bulbs are not only energy-efficient money savers, but they're also high-quality light producers. Unlike some CFLs that can be harsh and glaring, these bulbs provide a soft white light for a pleasant atmosphere. With six bulbs included, this pack is great for replacing all of the old, inefficient incandescent light bulbs in your home....

RoomMates RMK1254SCS Coffee House Peel & Stick Wall Decals $12.00 ...

Don't Be A Pecky Head $1.99 ...

Toothbrush Rag Rugs: Directions to Create Country Style Toothbrush Rag Rugs $14.00 This DVD will teach you how to use fabric and a toothbrush to create gorgeous country style rugs for your home. It is now easier than ever to create a country style home inexpensively. Use any fabric! You can use fabric you purchase from a craft store or fabric from old clothes and t-shirts. 100% cotton fabric works the best. You can create a gorgeous array of country style decorations spending l...

Don't Be A Pecky Head [HD] $2.99 ...

Silicone Dipped Country Flicker Electric Light Candelabra Base Bulbs with Look of a Candle Flame - Package of 8 Bulbs $12.99 Unlike most flickering bulbs that you find, ours is dipped in silicone for a flame like appearance. This also has the advantage of disguising the flame filament so the bulb looks attractive when turned off too! In the pictures on the left compare our silicone dipped version with a clear version to see the difference. The flicker produces an orange glow that dances up and down the flame shaped fila...

Stove Design Oil Warmer - Style 34602 $7.95 Stove-shaped oil warmer features a kettle oil well, skillet tealight holder inside the ''oven.'' Blue ceramic. Tealights only (not included). 4 1/2'' x 3 3/4'' x 5 3/4'' high. Price per set....

Winsome Wood Sedona Bed Tray Curved Side, Foldable Legs, Large Handle $28.94 Traditional bed tray with a design twist. Finished in warm antique walnut and made from solid wood. Large handles and folding legs for easy storage. Serve your favorite breakfast on this great tray....

Winsome Wood Adjustable Lap Tray/Desk $22.94 Dimension: 21.5"W 14"D 9.1"H Finish: Natural and White Material: Wood and Melamine Top Natural and White Finish Bed Tray Bed Tray with cut off handle. Foldable Leg. Flip Top design for multiple function. White melamine top for easy cleaning. ...

Minka Lavery Belcaro 5953-126 Reversible 3-LT 300w (9H x 30W) Vanity Lighting in Belcaro Walnut $177.91 The Minka-Lavery 5953-126 is a 3LT Vanity Light Fixture from the Belcaro Collection. The craftsmanship of Old World materials with inspirations from southern Tuscany distinguish Belcaro. This unique collection is crafted with master carvings and inspirations from the 17th Century Farmhouse Style. Details so intricately carved that they replicate the work of the Old Masters. This Lighting Fixture i...

RSVP 8 Piece Egg Cup & Spoon Set $11.25 Soft-boiled eggs are a special treat which many remember fondly from childhood days. Serve them properly in these egg cups which play with the poultry theme....

2 lbs bag of Rainbow Amish Popcorn $5.95 This is a fun one for people who can t make up their minds! It s a unique blend of several gourmet corns great for eating or decorating your counter....

Berry Branches In Tuscan Urn $415.80 Mixed foliage, grains and branches in a mossy beige ceramic urn filled with permanent soil....

I Love Cross Country Skiing 2.25 inch (58mm) Pin Badge $2.49 Made in the UK...

Maggi B French Country Kiwi Blossom Quilted Cotton Day Tote $49.99 Maggi B French Country Quilted Cotton Day Tote Handbag By Designer Maggie Hillmer, for Ganz Item #MB02782 Fall 2007 Collection Color Collection: Kiwi Blossom Ruggedly constructed with reinforced stress points and heavy duty zippers Features: Wooden toggle closure button for large main compartment Double shoulder straps - 15"L to shoulder Front zipped pocket - 7"L x 7.5"H Interior: Attached insi...

Maggi B French Country Kiwi Blossom Quilted Cotton Gym Tote $45.99 Maggi B French Country Kiwi Blossom Quilted Cotton Gym Tote Bag By Designer Maggie Hillmer, for Ganz Item #MB02941 Fall 2007 Collection Color Collection: Kiwi Blossom Sassy, stylish, casual chic French Country print Soft quilted cotton in fresh, bold colors Ruggedly constructed with reinforced stress points and heavy duty zippers Features: Roomy single compartment with top zipper Double shoulde...

Barbie A Fashion Fairytale Transforming Fashion Doll $16.25 BARBIE TM A FASHION FAIRYTALE BARBIE® Doll: In the new movie, BarbieTM A Fashion Fairytale, Barbie® stars as herself in her famous fashion show outfit that transforms from a "princess gown" to a "party couture dress." With the press of a button, Barbie® doll's bodice magically lights up and is synchronized to music from the movie's fashion show finale. To transform the dress, fold down the top ...

Learning Carpets Giant Road Carpet $30.51 Travel here, there and everywhere via the giant roadway. Wind your way through the rotary and 1- & 2-way traffic, all around the town....

LA Rug Country Fun 19-by-29-Inch Play Rug $15.29 19"x29" Made out of 100% Nylon, with action backing. Fun Time Country Fun....

Paint Touch Up Kit - Applicator Bottles (Set of 3) $3.99 A small mark or smudge on your painted walls can ruin a whole room. The Touch Up KIt'saves and store a small amount of paint to touch up those ugly blemishes without dragging out heavy paint cans or brushes. Keep a small amount of your paint in these 4 ounce bottles and touch up your walls when needed. This set of 3 bottles comes equipped with sponge applicators that quickly and easily applies the...

MEYOTO 5.5 Ireland Anywhere Decal $4.95 As a general rule most people aspire to live in peace, whoever and wherever they are. The MEYOTO is designed to express this point of view and the affiliation of its owner in a unique and artistic style. The purpose is to unite like-minded individuals into a single voice on a global scale from neighborhoods to cities to regions to countries around the globe....

Single Folding Bed $139.00 Stylish black folding cot bed for your home office or guest bedroom. Saves a lot of room when stowed away....

Country Living 500 Kitchen Ideas: Style, Function & Charm $14.16 Country Living steps into the kitchen with 500 new and exciting ways to transform the heart of the home. Packed with winning photographs of warm and inviting rooms, this inspiring guide covers color and pattern, floors and walls, storage, appliances, sinks, work surfaces, windows and lighting, and other charming accessories. A stunning image accompanies every tip: see how a small kitchen becomes c...

Country Living Aged to Perfection: Adding Rustic Charm to Your Modern Home Inside & Out $14.15 Lavishly illustrated and inspirational, this guide reveals the secrets to adding old-world charm and character to any home-even newly constructed houses. From heirloom furniture to classic window treatments, ideas abound for creating a beautiful rustic effect. Add simple architectural details such as crown molding. Or try paint techniques like crackling, mosaics, and staining to keep a new house f...

Home Interiors and Home and Garden Parties

The Original RedNek Wine Glass $6.99 You don't have to reside in the backwoods to appreciate the humor. A great conversation piece, whatever your pleasure, from wine to white lightning. Even his beer takes on "extra classy" redneck style when sipped from this glass. Includes a screw-on lid. Handmade; no two are exactly alike. Hand wash. 12 oz. 9"H....

Coat Rack/Stand in Satin Black Metal Spider Style $13.00 This is a brand new in box stain black finish metal spider coat rack that branches into 4 hangers pointing to the top, 4 hangers at the top, and 4 hangers at the mid-base of the stand. The rack also stands on 4 strong legs at the bottom, leveled for evened positioning and placement. (This item requires simple assembly) Dimensions Measure: 20"L x 20"W x 73"H...

Coaster Coat Rack with Twisted Post in Cherry $11.45 Your organized home starts at the door and this collection of coat racks offers you your choice of stylish storage solutions. Give guests a warm welcome when you place a coat rack in your hall or entryway, or make the most of a compact space by tucking one into a corner of your living room. Features like spinning tops, double and triple tiered hooks and umbrella stand bases enhance the functionali...

Faith, Family & Friends $17.99 19 Tracks...

Coasters $20.49 This three piece group of Occasional Tables are set in a pine finish. Three pieces occasional table set comes with carved legs. Beautiful crafted details, rectangular shape top parquet look design. Set comprises of one Coffee Table and two End Tables....

Household Essentials 80-Pocket Cotton Canvas Jewelry Organizer $16.50 No more rummaging in a jewelry box or drawer for that particular pair of earrings. This double-sided organizer features eighty pockets, forty on each side--and because the pockets are made of vinyl, one glance is all that's needed to find the desired object. The backing is made of natural cotton canvas with five snaps that attach it to the included brushed aluminum hanger. Although the organizer ...

Sylvania 29490 23-Watt CFL Mini Twist Light Bulb, Soft White, 6 pack $16.95 Sylvania 23-Watt Compact Fluorescent Mini Twist Soft White Light Bulbs are not only energy-efficient money savers, but they're also high-quality light producers. Unlike some CFLs that can be harsh and glaring, these bulbs provide a soft white light for a pleasant atmosphere. With six bulbs included, this pack is great for replacing all of the old, inefficient incandescent light bulbs in your home....

RoomMates RMK1254SCS Coffee House Peel & Stick Wall Decals $12.00 ...

Don't Be A Pecky Head $1.99 ...

Toothbrush Rag Rugs: Directions to Create Country Style Toothbrush Rag Rugs $14.00 This DVD will teach you how to use fabric and a toothbrush to create gorgeous country style rugs for your home. It is now easier than ever to create a country style home inexpensively. Use any fabric! You can use fabric you purchase from a craft store or fabric from old clothes and t-shirts. 100% cotton fabric works the best. You can create a gorgeous array of country style decorations spending l...

High Country Mirror by Kichler $210 Elevate the rustic, outdoor look to a work of art with rods and ribbons of hand-formed steel, featured in the Kichler High Country Mirror. Each piece has been layered with an exclusive Olde Iron finish for an attractive appearance that best complements Tuscan and rustic decor. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Mirror is available with the following: Details:Olde Iron finishShipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 32 In., Width 22 In., Extension 1.75 In.

Gotta Have It Golf Caddyshack Framed Home Theater Wall Decor $299.99 Gotta Have It Golf Caddyshack Framed Home Theater Wall Decor Featuring the talents of Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, and Bill Murray, an exclusive golf course has to deal with a brash new member and a destructive dancing gopher. Now you can own a piece of cinematic history and legend with the Gotta Have It Golf Caddyshack Framed Home Theater Wall Decor. It comes museum-quality framed as shown with images, a premier ticket, and descriptive plaques to an overall size of 26 in. x 41 in..

High Country Semi-Flushmount by Kichler $206 A great addition to rustic decor, the Kichler High Country Semi-Flushmount is more a work of art than a simple light fixture. The rods and ribbons of hand-formed steel that make up each piece are layered with an exclusive Olde Iron finish, and a beautiful Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shade creates a warm, inviting light for the living room or hallway. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Semi-Flushmount is available with the following: Details:Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shadeOlde Iron finishRound ceiling canopyLighting: Two 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 14.5 In., Height 11 In.

High Country Torchiere by Kichler $350 Step into the homey feel that wrought iron brings when turning from the straight and narrow. The umbered alabaster swirl glass and oatmeal linen shades of the Kichler High Country Torchiere pair naturally with an olde iron finish for a stunning look. View the entire High Country family and discover an opulent design scheme for the home. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Torchiere is available with the following: Details:Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shadeMetal base and standOlde Iron finish3-way turn switchLighting: One 150 Watt 120 Volt Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 71 In. Shade: Diameter 19 In.

High Country Chandelier by Kichler $750 The Kichler High Country Chandelier elevates the rustic, outdoor look to a work of art. The rods and ribbons of hand-formed steel that make up each piece are layered with an exclusive Olde Iron finish. The High Country Chandelier features Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shades. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Chandelier is available with the following: Details: 5 Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shadesMetal frameOlde Iron finishCeiling canopy72" chain 126" lead wireOptions: Finsh: Olde Bronze with Umbered Alabaster Swirl.Size: Small (Shown) or Large.Lighting: Small option utilizes five 60 Watt 120 Volt Candelabra Base Incandescent lamps (not included). Large option utilizes five 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Diameter 16 In., Height 19 In. Hanging Length - Small: Overall Length 93 In. Large Fixture: Diameter 25 In., Height 29.5 In. Hanging Length - Large: Overall Length 103.5 In. Chain: Length 72 In.

High Country Pendant by Kichler $150 The Kichler High Country Pendant elevates the rustic, outdoor look to a work of art. The rods and ribbons of hand-formed steel that make up each piece are layered with an exclusive Olde Iron finish. The High Country Pendant features an Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shade for a warm, inviting light. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Pendant is available with the following: Details:Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shadeMetal stemOlde Iron finishCeiling canopy72" chain55" lead wireLighting: One 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Diameter 6 In., Height 20 In. Hanging Length: Overall Length 94 In. Chain: Length 72 In.

Safe-Plate Decor Outlet Cover - Almond $3.95 Safe-Plate Automatic Outlet Covers are an attractive and convenient way to help protect children from potentially dangerous electrical outlets. Safe-Plate protects instantly and automatically, sliding into position the moment you remove a plug from the outlet. Features: Thermal seal insulation helps make your home more enery-efficient Designed for decorative duplex receptacles with a screw at the top and bottom White & Almond colors CSA approved Easy installation

Safe-Plate Decor Outlet Cover - White $3.95 Safe-Plate Automatic Outlet Covers are an attractive and convenient way to help protect children from potentially dangerous electrical outlets. Safe-Plate protects instantly and automatically, sliding into position the moment you remove a plug from the outlet. Features: Thermal seal insulation helps make your home more enery-efficient Designed for decorative duplex receptacles with a screw at the top and bottom White & Almond colors CSA approved Easy installation

High Country Bowl by Kichler $680 The Kichler High Country Bowl elevates the rustic, outdoor look to a work of art. The rods and ribbons of hand-formed steel that make up each piece are layered with an exclusive Olde Iron finish. This pendant features an Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shade for a most natural look. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler High Country Bowl is available with the following: Details:Umbered Alabaster Swirl glass shadeSatin Etched glass glare shieldOlde Iron finishCeiling canopy72" chain88" lead wireOptions:Size: Large, or Small.Lighting:Large option utilizes three 150 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Small option utilizes three 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamps (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Small Fixture: Diameter 24.5 In., Height 30 In. Hanging Length - Small: Overall Length 104 In. Large Fixture: Diameter 29 In., Height 38 In. Hanging Length - Large: Overall Length 112 In. Chain: Length 72 In.

Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends Home Sweet Home Print $68.99 The "Home Sweet Home" Fine Art Giclee print is a reproduction of a hand-made cross stitch that captures the Victorian styling of the Cartoon Network original series, "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends." This Fine Art Giclee is approximately 19-inches tall x 13-inches long and is limited to only 500 pieces! This piece was created to evoke the feel of an antique "Home Sweet Home" Country Sampler and was meticulously stitched by Dale McCracken, the brother of the series' creator, Craig McCracken. It was produced on 25 count hand-dyed linen with hand-dyed cotton thread, some of which were dyed by their mother, textile artist, Eva Lynn McCracken.