Find ways to add character in your home with country-style interiors
Country-style interiors have a timeless appeal, with their calming colors and cozy furniture. It's no wonder that more and more Londoners are embracing this style in their own homes. Whether you're looking to create a countryside charm in your kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom, this ultimate guide has got you covered with expert design tips from leading brands and designers.
Country-Style Kitchen
According to Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL, country kitchens are no longer seen as outdated. Whether you prefer a rustic or modern look, the key is handmade, stylish, and simple designs. What's appealing about this style is that it's no longer mass-produced or generic. It's carefully considered and thoughtfully made.
Some common ingredients for a country-style kitchen include a range cooker or Aga, Belfast sinks, and Shaker-style cabinetry. William Durrant, owner of Herringbone Kitchens, also suggests considering natural stone or quartz for worktops to bring in texture and color.
Timber works well for shelving, flooring, and standalone furniture, such as a farmhouse table. Tom Howley, design director at Tom Howley kitchens, emphasizes that Shaker-style cabinetry helps create a welcoming, lived-in look, regardless of whether you live in a modern renovation or a rural cottage.
Country-Style Bathroom
When it comes to a country-style bathroom, James Lentaigne, creative director at Drummonds Bathrooms, advises striking the right balance. Avoid overdoing it with fussy details in the bathroomware, and instead, choose classic white products with clean, uncluttered lines as the base. Lentaigne suggests introducing dramatic, on-trend finishes like antique and aged brass to add a contemporary-cool twist.
For those with a rustic country aesthetic, adding wood can make the bathroom feel warm and tactile. Barrie Cutchie, design director at BC Designs, recommends using plain tiles on the floor and adding wooden paneling or wallpaper for visual interest. Don't be afraid to incorporate color and pattern—it's the one room where you can have some fun.
Country-Style Bedroom
According to Sarah Ellison, founder of Frank & Faber interior design studio, the best country-house hotels achieve a new level of luxury that combines aspiration with approachability. It's about creating a unique story, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Embrace the existing features of the room, such as ancient beams or stone walls, and incorporate warm, rustic finishes like reclaimed timber or exposed plaster.
Fiona Parke, of Johnston Parke Interiors, suggests opting for a shaped headboard to add individuality and a touch of country charm to the bedroom. When it comes to dressing the bedstead, Peter Tindall, joint owner of Cornish Bed Company, recommends using vintage prints, paisley, ikat, and layers of pretty florals in natural fibers for a cozy and inviting look.
The English Country House Aesthetic
The English country house aesthetic has a rich history in interior design, popularized by Nancy Lancaster and John Fowler in the 1920s. This style values comfort, time-worn belongings, and appropriateness of decor. It's about combining elegance with understatement and adding a touch of nostalgia for charm.
Despite trends urging us to move away from chintz, country-house florals still hold a special place in many hearts. They are being rediscovered by a younger generation that appreciates the power of floral prints in more pared-back interiors. Colefax & Fowler, Jean Munro, Linwood, and Nina Campbell offer exquisite floral designs that blend classical elements with bolder backdrops for a modern twist.
The key to achieving the country-house look lies in shopping sustainably and opting for classic designs that age well. Iron bedsteads and natural materials such as linen, cotton, cashmere, and wool add a touch of authenticity. Let vintage prints and layers of pretty florals dress your bedstead, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
In conclusion, embracing country-style interiors allows you to add character and warmth to your home. Whether you're creating a country-style kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, the key is to focus on handmade, stylish, and simple designs that capture the essence of countryside charm. Let the English country house aesthetic guide you in blending comfort and elegance, while adding a touch of nostalgia for a truly inviting and timeless home.