Create a contemporary farmhouse and relive nostalgic, provincial times – close to nature, uncontrived and uncomplicated… in your bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, stoep and lounge.
What is country style?
Every country has its own unique pastoral or country style. In South Africa, this style has been shaped by a host of contemporary international tendencies and old-fashioned nostalgia. The result is a comfortable, relaxed home where yesterday’s fashion cobwebs have been dusted off and old and new live together in perfect harmony.
The golden thread is simplicity. Keep this in mind when making decisions regarding architecture, furniture and styling. There are no rules about colour although red, white and blue, combined with earthy colours and textures, should achieve the desired effect.
Artless Architecture
High ceilings and open rafters contribute greatly to the atmosphere. An open hearth and plenty of wood finishes also drive home the feel of a mountain cabin or old barn.
Originality Trumps
An original art or craft piece is one of the easiest ways to put your own personal stamp on a room. A landscape painting will enhance the country theme.
Country Still Life
By cleverly grouping a few nostalgic farmhouse items together, you can turn an empty corner into an interesting space. Baskets not only add character, but can be a very practical storage space for wood or patchwork pieces.
Accent Colours
Using dark blue as an accent colour makes a room more homely. Repeat the colour in the scatter cushions, the throws and in the mat.
Soft Sofas
Unlike the formal lounges of yesteryear, comfort is key in the contemporary country style living room. Dark leather couches with simple lines are durable yet comfortable.
Earthy Elements
Choose earthy ornaments inspired by nature, such as cattle horns on a stone dish.
Natural Textures
Stick to natural textures, such as the woven carpet and cotton rug in the main picture – earthy is the keyword.
Wooden Furniture
Oregon pine furniture should be old, full of character and unadorned. The country look will not be complete without a few antique Oregon pieces.
Kitchen
Keep the kitchen earthy, decorated generously with baskets, old lanterns and weather-beaten finds. A long table becomes the heart of the kitchen – this is where you eat, work and relax. Throw in a touch of colour with a French-inspired striped tablecloth and dishcloths.
Bedroom
The rustic bedroom requires an old wooden or wrought iron bed, combined with Oregon pine furniture. White bedlinen speaks of times gone by – but today a myriad variations are available, such as the added texture of embroidery details. A quilt is the perfect finish. The antique silver bedside lamps have a contemporary edge, yet remain classic and timeless.
Bathroom
Stick to classic designs for baths, basins and taps, such as ball-and-claw legs and brass taps. This corrugated iron bathroom was a more recent addition to the house, as bathrooms were not that common a hundred years ago. The corrugated iron panels also go a long way to creating a country feel.
Step out
Distressed and weathered wooden and metal furniture, lots of pot plants, creepers and a wooden canopy are bound to create a pastoral setting. Crisp, inviting cushions and a cotton tablecloth lend a touch of colour to a county stoep.
Children’s room
Stick to simple wooden furniture. Antique pieces will always have a lot more character than brand new, mass produced goods. Handmade toys and cushions are typical of an old country look. You can make your own, or commission Granny to pitch in and make something. A quilt is also more appropriate to this look than a duvet.
Loading ...
Comments are closed.