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BEDROOMS, HOME STAGING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Bedroom

March 23, 2016

“How do I make my basic bedroom look more expensive?”

The bedroom is the perfect spot to kick back and relax. We aim to create a beautiful bed when we stage homes, it really makes the whole room feel calm but luxurious at the same time.

We have a few recommendations to create the ultimate bedroom retreat.

1- Clean and simple bedding.

We highly recommend plain white bedding. It is simple but timeless. it looks so fresh, bright and clean like a chic hotel room but you can also style it how ever you like.

For personal use, it is worth investing in high quality but for home staging it isn’t. Add colour and pattern with bed accessories like blankets and pillows.

2 – Layering.

We often only sleep on one pillow but when it comes to styling a bed you definitely want more pillows – it looks luxurious but it also looks like a comfortable spot to lay your head. there are a few ways to layer your pillows.

See the diagram below for some options. There is no wrong answer, it is a matter of preference. For a king size bed, you can use the same options but add a third Euro (large square pillow) and use king size pillows.

3. Texture.

We talk about texture a lot. But texture is a great way to add some softness and a touch of glamour. People love touchable fabrics and where better than a bedroom.

You want to create a room that you want to snuggle up in (whether for yourself or for a potential buyer). Think pillows and throw blankets in fur (faux) and knits.

4. Lighting.

Just like your pillows and bedding you want to layer your lighting. Think over head – a beautiful fixture really brings a bedroom to life and can be a great piece to set your decor tone. But don’t forget about bedside lighting – end tables with table lamps seems obvious but it works and when it comes to table lamps there are many fabulous choices.

Don’t have room for end tables? Try some sconces – double swing arm sconces are perfect for those who love to read at night.

5. Walls and Windows.

Some art and drapery can really complete the look of a bedroom. We love a bedroom with some art – it really is like jewelry for an outfit. It pulls it all together. Depending on the room arrangement and furniture styles, art above the end tables is a timeless and chic look but we also love an oversized piece above a headboard.

For the window this function and fashion, some soft drapery panels frame a window beautifully but you may want to add some blinds, shutters or shades to give the room more privacy.

6. Seating and storage.

You may be able to add both depending on the size of the room. It is always a nice addition to have a small seating corner in a bedroom but not all bedrooms can fit a chair – if you have room for a bench or a storage bench that can look very chic at the end of a bed.

Another great look and a practical use of furniture too is over sized end tables. when you are staging your home – you don’t want the room to look over stuffed with furniture to pick and choose pieces carefully, maybe a small chair in the corner and standard size beside tables is likely best.

What you will notice in these images is a consistent thread of layers on the bed, a soft colour palette, a mix of textures, subtle patterns (if any) and upholstered headboards.

We love a timeless and chic bedroom but since the space is yours make it truly yours and surround yourself with what you love and what you want to see in your most personal space.

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How To Decorate With a Theme

March 16, 2016

“I love the relaxed feel of the beach and I want to bring a beachy look into my space but I don’t want my home to look over the top (cheesy). How can I decorate with a theme and not go overboard? “

A theme is a great source of inspiration when it comes to home decor. But you are right, of you aren’t careful you can get carried away and the theme can take over.

If you love the beach – this is a great start – you know what you want and like!

So think about the elements of the beach – soft and tonal colours, natural materials, easy fabrics, casual and relaxed are what you will want to see in the space, so look for pieces that have those features. You don’t necessarily need ‘beach’ items like shells, photos of the beach or nautical pieces but a few carefully selected items of this ilk can really solidify your theme.

Here’s an example of a coastal inspired living room with the theme kept to a minimum.

Notice the soft tones, a few coral accents (the table and on the throw pillows), nautical stripes and a few touches of blue. Overall this space has some beach-y elements but the theme isn’t super obvious.

Here’s another example of a beach inspired living room.

We see some natural wood pieces like the show stopping chandelier and the coffee table. We also see some white washed rattan accents. there are some pops of soft blue like the sea and some beach glass accessories, too.

Here’s the other side of that space, the dining area, we see a few more beach inspired pieces like the hurricane lanterns, the sea foam upholstered chairs and some sea shell decor on the built-in.

Here’s another example of a subtle beach theme in a bedroom.

Again we do not see obvious beach decor but the inspiration is definitely there. Notice the sisal area rug it adds that natural texture. The mix of soft and easy textures on the bed and the colour tones are natural beach hues.

What really makes this room not scream ‘beach theme’ is the choice of prints in the throw pillows and drapery – the prints are quite traditional (trellis and floral) but in those tones. So again you get this timeless looking space. The canopy bed is so romantic something you would expect to see at luxurious beach resort.

If you are concerned about the longevity of the theme, keep the main elements neutral like paint, flooring, drapery and furniture – you can add in art, pillows and other accessories that embrace the theme.

When you want to decorate with a theme in mind you don’t have to be too literal. Think about your chosen theme and why it has inspired you- what are the elements you love about this theme and take it from there. If you do that, you will have a look that you love and a look that will last (a timeless look).

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INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Update a Black and White Room

March 2, 2016

“I live in an open concept condo space. I chose a black and white theme – it’s timeless and stylish but also easy but I’m in need of a bit of an update. How can I keep my main theme of black and white – what are some easy updates to my theme?”

You are so right that black and white are timeless and of course, chic! We love a black and white decor scheme but every now and then no matter the theme, an update is in need.

When it comes to an easy and affordable update you need to stick with what you currently have and just add to it. The good news is you don’t need to add a lot to make this change. The even better news for you is that black and white work with just about everything and you have an endless supply of ideas – it really just comes down to what works for YOU!

Here are some ideas….

GOLD.

Adding a touch of gold to a black and white room just gives the whole space some extra glam and luxury. this about gold pillows, lamps, art and accessories. Even just the smallest touch of gold can go a long way. Gold never goes out of style but right now is it hot, so you will see gold everywhere!

If gold isn’t for you, try silver or rose gold. The gold and rose gold add warmth and a touch of glam to a space the silver is a bit sleeker but all of them work

COLOUR.

Because black and white are classic neutrals – they ‘go’ with everything! So add a pop of colour – red is a classic combination with black and white. If you want to try something a bit different try something equally bold like bright pink, turquoise or lime green. This looks great in a contemporary style. This pillows and art for a colour injection!

PASTEL.

Rose quartz is the hot colour for 2016, so add it to your black and white motif. You don’t need a lot to make a splash. And even though this colour is soft and subtle it really makes a statement. We love mixing some solid pastels with pattern black and white.

FUR.

Texture is another great way to add a designer look to a room and fur is another hot textile this year. We opt for faux options – it’s friendlier, easier to clean and you have a ton of possibilities. what we really like about mixing fur and black/white is that you are once again playing with neutrals so you can choose a white fur, black, grey even beige – it all works! We are seeing fur used in many ways – area rugs, throws, pillows, full blankets, poofs and ottomans. Don’t over do it – just one fur elements can do wonders!

PATTERN.

Too many solids in one space can look flat, so mix it up with some prints and patterns. Don’t be afraid to mix your patterns – it’s so chic! Patterns are best on items that are accent pieces – think pillow and rugs. Keep the other elements in the room like the main furniture pieces, wall colour and drapery pretty basic if this is a look you want to explore.

When it comes to ‘playing’ with your black and white palette you can mix a lot of these, so add a touch of metallic, some fur and a pinch of colour. Find the balance that works for you!

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INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Hang Curtains

February 17, 2016

“I can’t afford custom drapery right now but my windows are too bare and I feel exposed without any coverings. I’m going to purchase some pre-packaged canvas panels, but what length should they be?”

Drapery really completes the look of a window. It not only gives you privacy and can shield the sun and glare but it can really add to the look of the room. You have different colours, patterns and textures to choose from. A basic canvas panel is a great choice – it’s clean, it’s classic and the weight of the fabric will help maintain the tailored look.

Floor-length is the way to go, unless there’s a radiator or a deep sill in the way. Ready-made panels are available in lengths from 63 to 144 inches. Measure from the floor to where you’ll hang the rod, then round
up. So let’s say your floor to rod measurement is 81.5″ hem at 82″.

You can always have the dry cleaner or seamstress hem them a bit if needed. You’ll get the most current look if the fabric makes contact with the floor (or sill or radiator). Too-short curtains can seem off, almost like high-waters.

The image above is an example of cafe curtains. This is best for kitchen windows, bathrooms and any window with a deep sill or radiator; these can also work in a bay window. It’s a great way to add privacy but still allow some natural light plus you get that pop of colour, soft texture and/or print in the space.

Here are two surefire approaches. Personally, we opt for option 1 in most cases

1: Just Hitting the Floor or Sill

This look is classic and tailored; it makes sense if you’ll be opening and closing the curtains a lot (they’ll easily fall back into place every time you move them). The fabric should just touch the floor or hover half an inch above. This is also a great approach for café curtains (short panels that cover only the lower portion of a window and hit the sill – see image above), which work well in spots like the kitchen and bathroom, where long drapes aren’t practical. This is a clean look and you won’t collect dust bunnies or pet hair at the base.

2: Breaking Slightly at the Floor

Panels that extend onto the floor by one to three inches are the most stylish right now. They’re more relaxed than those that graze the floor (above), but they still feel tailored—think of a pair of dress trousers. If you have uneven floors or are worried about precision measuring, this style is more forgiving.

In formal rooms, an exaggerated take—six or so inches of fabric pooling on the floor—can look romantic but is also high-maintenance; curtains need re-fluffing every time you vacuum or the cat lies on them. It is also prone to ‘collecting’ pet hair and dust bunnies.

The image below is a good example of breaking slightly at the floor (not the exaggerated version).

There is nothing wrong with pre-packaged curtains just be sure to get the length right (so buy longer and hem) and if you love the look of your curtain but want more privacy, you can always add some blinds and keep the drapes installed. It really creates a more luxurious and designer look (see the image in our ‘just hitting the floor’ explanation). And remember the location of your rod can make your windows look bigger or smaller, so pay attention to that too!

Quick tip:

Aim to hang your curtain rod at least 3 inches above the window casing but if you can hang it 5-7″ above do that. And for width, you want 3-6″ beyond the window frame. Hanging your rods higher and wider makes the window look larger and the space look bigger too!

Here is an example of the exaggerated breaking or puddling.This is often seen in formal formal decorated rooms as it has an elegant, romantic and luxurious feel and it works much better with certain types of fabric. Seen below are raw silk custom drapes.

If you hang your drapes properly, it won’t matter if you spent a small fortune on them or you bought some pre-packaged ones, it’s all about how they are installed that will get you the designer look or not.

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Traditional art in a contemporary space

December 16, 2015

” My decor style is contemporary. I like the clean lines, simple colour palette and minimal accessories but I have inherited some art that I would like to incorporate in my decor scheme – how can I do that … the art pieces are pretty traditional looking and I don’t want to change my style. Is there a way to use these family heirlooms?”

This is a great question and we complete understand why this is stumping you. It can be very tricky to combine styles like contemporary and traditional and get it just right. It’s all about finding that balance. We love that you want to keep these beautiful art pieces in the family, it is so special to hold on and display meaningful items like art.

You can absolutely use these pieces in your decor.

Depending on the look or display style you choose, you may need to spend some money on frames and matting but there are often some great sales on custom framing so you can definitely save a bit. Just re-framing and matting with something clean and simple can completely transform the look of your piece and make it fit in with your decor without comprising the art itself.

Take a look at the art pieces you have.

Are any of them from the same collection? If so, it would be great to keep those together in a wall display. The image below is a great example of clean frames and matting and letting the art stand out. It looks modern in this arrangement and makes a statement above the sofa. Plus it still works with the contemporary look.

If you have larger pieces on hand …

again opt for a clean and simple frame – in white or black with an over sized matte. This will be an instant update to your piece. This would be perfect above a sofa in a living room, dining room or bedroom. Over sized art looks modern no matter the style of art. This is a timeless look so you won’t tire of it quickly. In the image below the white matte and frame almost disappear against the light wall colour and the art stands out more.

Some times just the arrangement itself can be modern.

We love a gallery wall and why not show off all of your pieces and their interesting frames in a gallery wall? It’s a more modern way to display your art. This arrangement is basically an accent wall. We love the mix of frames and pieces with and without frames plus look at the heights of the pieces. The one constant here is that the pieces that do have matting have white matting – you want to make sure to have a common thread. So in this case, we have a mix of frames, colours and sizes but there is one constant. This look is a bit more eclectic but it is definitely not traditional and it really allows to show off a lot of art pieces.

Another way to display your art in a more modern way is layering it on your mantle.

We love how casual and cool this look is and it is so easy. Try a large piece at the back – art or even a mirror is perfect and in front you can layer some smaller art pieces even photography and a few knick knacks – it looks so chic. You can try mixing modern art with some old family photos as well – it’s up to you. this look also works on floating shelves or even bedside tables.

Our advise …when it comes to art is to always follow your instinct!

Don’t get caught up in style, size, colour etc…if you love it there will always be room for it in your home. Don’t worry about matching – art is a creative form of expression so displaying it should be too!

Those heirlooms are a part of your history, so honour it by displaying but do it with your own taste and spin,

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We answer Wednesday – Mirror Image

December 2, 2015

“I know everyone says mirrors are a great way to make rooms look bigger. What are some creative ways to use mirrors in my space?”

Mirrors are a ‘magic’ piece that really can make rooms look bigger and brighter. They allow light to bounce around a room so it give that illusion of a larger space, so be sure to have light in the room with that mirror.

The great thing about mirrors is that they are also beautiful (the reflected image: you) the mirror, itself is also beautiful plus there are many styles to suit many styles of decor.

We can offer you a few ideas to inspire how you can use mirrors in your space.

In the entry:

it’s usually a small and tight space to begin with so a mirror is going to help make it look and feel more spacious but ti’s also very useful so you can do one final check before you head out for the day. This round mirror with a wide frame looks great over the console table.

In the living room:

We love that added glam that a mirror can add to a space. Mirrors serve a function but they are also a great ‘fashion’ piece. They instantly add a touch of glamour and make a room look expensive. We love this set of 3 matching mirrors in this living room. The dark glossy frames hanging above the sofa table make the room look so chic.

Try an over sized mirror:

Over sized mirrors are so stylish and we love what they can do in a room. Try in the corner of a bedroom, the room will look instantly larger plus it another great way to check out your #OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) but try and over sized mirror elsewhere, like the entry, dining room, living room…We love this entry with the over sized mirror with a silver frame and lots of tone-on-tone.

In the bedroom:

We love a mirror in the bedroom but maybe not where you would expect….try matching mirrors above each bedside table. The symmetry is classic and something the human eye is naturally drawn to. We love this scalloped edge mirror above these white and wood tone bedside tables and with the trellis wallpaper as the backdrop, perfection!

Try a ‘custom’ mirror in your bathroom:

Often when we move into a home, there have been some updates (maybe not to our specific tastes but updates none the less) but the bathroom mirrors are usually ignored. Try adding an instant update to your bathroom by changing out those old mirrors for something new. It makes a huge difference in the overall look of your bathroom. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your space look rich.

Try above the fireplace:

A perfect spot for a piece of art, yes but, if you can’t find a piece you love a mirror is a great solution – it never goes out of style and should you find an art piece you love you can always place the mirror elsewhere. Another look we love above the fireplace is layering. So try a mirror (a large one) layered with some smaller art or photography.

Try a gallery wall:

Have a gallery wall? A a mirror in your arrangement to mix it up! Lots of mirrors make a great mirror gallery wall.

A few tips when it comes to decorating with mirrors:

– like art be sure to find the right size and be sure to hang it at the right height

– find a mirror with a frame that works with your current style. the possibilities are endless, the choices are too

– don’t be afraid to get creative, try matching over sized mirrors behind bedside tables – why not?

Mirrors do so much for a room – brighter and bigger…who wouldn’t like that ?

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We Answer Wednesday – Girl on a Budget

November 4, 2015

” I’m a girl on a budget. I’ve moved into a new place and I need some ideas to make my new place look expensive.”

We are all on a budget but there are some home updates that you can do with minimal money that will result in maximum impact.

1 – Lighting.

Swap out that old dining or entry way light fixture for something with visual impact

2 – Neutrals.

Ever notice that those classically chic spaces we all drool over in the magazines are always in neutral tones? So opt for neutral paint on your walls, the depth is up to you but greys, taupes, creams and beige always looks chic.

3 – Tile.

Is your kitchen missing something? A back splash is like jewelry on an outfit – it pulls it altogether and makes a statement! So same with tile. Update your kitchen with some back splash tiles and maybe give your powder room a boost too. Looking for something timeless? We love a subway tile, it comes in many colours and it’s always in style.

4 – Built-ins.

Yes, they are expensive but fake them! find some pre-fab or packed shelving and create that custom built-in look with floor to ceiling bookcases. Aim for shelving that is the colour of your trim to get the built-in look. Be sure to style your bookcase with decor pieces and books to make it look elevated!

5 – Dimension.

Add some depth and elegance with panels and molding. Use this to draw attention to special features of the home like a fireplace.

6 – Hardware.

Make sure your hardware finishes match. Replace any hardware that doesn’t match or that is broken. Coordinating your hardware pieces will make the whole room shine.

7 – Walk way.

Even the exterior of your home can look expensive. Update that walkway it will give the whole exterior an instant boost and make your landscaping look even better.

8 – Exterior entryway.

A full exterior make over can get pricey but try a few easy improvements like paint your front door – a fresh coat of paint always looks great! Update your mailbox and address plate. Try adding some flanking planters to your front exterior, for symmetry and balance they frame the entry and look welcoming.

Just because you are on a budget doesn’t mean you have to look like you are…

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5 uses for trays and why I love them!

September 17, 2015

Trays are nothing new. They aren’t trending and they aren’t usually on any one’s ‘must-get’ list. But I love trays. There is something so simple and tidy about them and they can be used in so many rooms.

Trays come in different sizes, colours and materials and I love them all! They keep items in an organized yet stylish arrangement plus when it comes to cleaning – just move the tray out of the way and clean !

When using a tray as a part of your room’s decor be sure to add some decorative elements like a vase of flowers, candles something so that it just doesn’t look completely functional.

1 – The living room:

I love having a tray on an ottoman or even the chaise of a sectional. They provide a flat surface for serving up snacks and drinks but they also provide a neat and tidy space for TV remotes and coasters. But you can also use them as a display area for decor on a coffee table.

2 – The Kitchen:

Not the usual spot for a tray but again they keep the items you need easy access to at arm’s length but without the clutter. I have one in my kitchen to hold my knife block, salt and pepper, olive oil, a tea towel and other small essentials.

3 – The Bathroom :

A smaller tray would be needed but it saves the same purpose keeping your counter top clean and clutter free. Depending on the look of your bathroom, you could opt for a mirrored option to add some sparkle and shine!

4 – The dresser:

A tray is a great spot to group items you use everyday together. So think lotions and potions, jewellery and scarves, make up etc…You could likely opt for a larger tray for on top of the dresser (if you have the surface space). I also love small dishes (think tea saucers) for small jewellery items.

5 – The Bed:

Breakfast in bed! Serving space for coffee, fruit, croissant and more…such a wonderful way to wake up someone special! Do I need to say anything more?

Useful and stylish – the perfect piece to have at home, I love mine!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 10 ways to use wicker/rattan indoors

September 9, 2015

“Summer is almost over but I love the look and laid back feel of my rattan furniture. Is there a way to bring rattan pieces inside so I can keep that summer style all year?”

It is so sad to see summer on it’s way out – no matter how great the summer is it never seems long enough. Rattan aka wicker furniture definitely has an outdoor air about it but it can definitely be brought indoors. You definitely want to avoid bringing certain outdoor pieces inside, many are too bulky and don’t “translate” well inside. If you love rattan than use it indoors and follow these tips.

1. Mix.

Don’t have an all rattan set like a dining set indoors. It just looks like you brought the BBQ inside. Try this instead. The rattan chairs have an indoor look with clean parson style legs and the slip covered captain chairs in a light airy canvas fabric help to soften all of the wood tones and textures. This dining space has that breezy and laid back style but it still looks like an indoor space.

2. Moderation.

A little bit can go a long way. Try a few accents on indoor pieces. This contemporary kitchen table with a touch of rattan on the seats only gives the space a casual look but doesn’t change the style of the space. It adds an organic and natural touch to the space adding warmth and texture.

3. Decor.

Rattan has so much texture and warmth but maybe using it in furniture is too much for you or maybe it doesn’t work with your style. Try using wicker baskets for storage and decor. We love the look of this wicker plate/basket ‘gallery wall’ it really softens up the modern streamlined look in this space and it gives the whole space such a unique style and up against the white washed brick wall it is a great contrast.

4. More than just seating.

Rattan is used in many pieces of furniture not just chairs, look at using a rattan ‘trunk’ as a coffee table or maybe a toy box.

5. Streamline.

Be sure to use items that have clean lines and feel free to add some great pops of colour and pattern but use indoor fabrics so the whole piece looks and feels like it belongs inside. We also love this image because of the wicker basket by the fireplace.

6. Colour.

Don’t love the natural look of rattan but love the texture? Paint it!! It is so easy to do. be sure to do it outdoors and choose any spray paint colour you like! It’s a great way to customize your furniture on a budget. Go as big and bold as you like

7. Tight on space?

Try stacking low wicker ottomans for coffee tables, end tables and maybe even some spare seating. These are so versatile and we love them!

8. Bedroom.

Wicker and rattan have a great way of making the bedroom cozy. We love it as a textured headboard. It looks amazing against a bold accent wall and the tone and texture add so much warmth to the space. It is a great addition to a coastal or beach inspired room.

9. Lighting.

Rattan and wicker light shades look great either as table lamps, floor lamps or pendants. The texture is so organic and sculptural. It works with so many styles of decor.

10. Alternative, sisal.

Sisal and rattan/wicker have similar tones and textures. If you are looking to add this natural texture and tone to your space but not finding furniture pieces you like or don’t want to buy new furniture pieces a sisal rug on the floor. A classic casual area rug gives any space a casual look and works with most styles of decor.

We love what texture can do for a room, any room…

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How to Get The Look: Modern Country

July 29, 2015

Country decorating has come a long way. It has always been a popular home decorating style but it has really changed in recent years. In the past this has included such elements of the style as handmade items, collections, and rustic charm. While country style will always epitomize home and warmth, its time to bring country design into the modern era. We call this decorating style “Modern Country“. Modern country is still charming, and rustic but with some clean lines and cool colour palettes it has a ‘cooler’ vibe. If you love that laid back rustic style with a modern edge – better know as Modern Country, here’s how to get it.

Clean it up

Traditional country decorating has been often accused of being “cluttered”. Modern country decorating is anything but! So it’s time to seriously edit and pack away all those little things that don’t contribute to the overall design scheme. Don’t go overboard though, country is about home and family, so you don’t want to eliminate everything that’s personal. Create a box of decorative items to store, and rotate favorite accents with the seasons.

Choose a simple and clean color scheme

Update your country decorating look with a more modern color scheme. Pick one color, then try combining it with white or neutrals for a stylish look that isn’t dated, and doesn’t cause confusion for the eye. Add textures to give the room great interest and contrast. Keep patterns to a minimum, and try to incorporate some of the new classics or a modern floral that uses white and one color in its design. Think tone-on-tone for a soothing look in the space. We like a great light neutral on the walls and then for accessories layers of soft greys, taupes even dried herb tones look great with this style.

Choose your inspiration

Choosing your inspiration for the modern country decorating look is kind of like choosing a theme. But instead of the cutesy country themes of the past are passe, you are choosing an inspiration that creates a feeling. Gone are the roosters and instead think of a theme inspired by the mountains in Colorado, or the high country of Santa Fe.

You can actually picture the “feeling” of the room just by those descriptive words, and that’s what will give you guidance and keep you on track. Look through photos for inspiration, that will help you stay on track but again, don’t go over board! You don’t want a theme room like “this the dairy farm room” take what you love about the feel of the country and incorporate that in the space.

Light the way

One of the fastest ways to update an outdated decorating shame is to add a modern lighting fixture. This works great with the “Modern Country” as they compliment each other well. Think West Elm, Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn.

Texture

So important in this look! When it comes to country decor it’s really about comfort and ease, so texture can really help with that. Think canvas, wool, distressed denim, flannel, distressed leather and mixing it all up on a sofa. Be sure to add other textures too like reclaimed wood, stone and brick for another layer of texture. Elements of nature are another great way to add texture to your space.

Accessorize

The “more is more” traditional country decorating look of the past is just that…it’s in the past. Choose a few great pieces to display at a time. Mix and match with other styles, offering interest and contrast, and bringing more attention to your beloved possessions. If you have a collection, or want to showcase Grandmas quilt, then showcase it. But display it gallery style and give each piece importance. Don’t just use something for the sake of having something fill a space. Treat the things you love like art.

Another great way to make a country piece look more current is framing your art. So a country landscape with a clean white over sized matte and black frame is easy and looks clean and modern.

Look for country piece like large milk jugs, butter churners, pickle jars, mason jars etc…they add great character and some texture to the space and of course, they have that country feel

Look for inexpensive antiques that can be used to create a unique wall collection such as postcards or antique flatware. Add items from nature, but be selective. Leave some space around your treasures for the eye to rest. If a wall or a room is cluttered no one can focus on your beautiful pieces – art or artifacts. So keep it simple that’s really important in modern country decor.

Relax

Above all, relax and enjoy the creative process. There are no rules in decorating that can’t be broken. Modern Country Decorating is a fantastic way to take a beloved home decorating style of the past, and give it a current twist.

Modern country might sound contradictory but it is a beautiful blend of relaxed and styled decor. We hope you love this look as much as we do!

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