Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingCountry Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Like a well-made quilt, a classic farmhouse aesthetic comes together gradually—a little bit of this, a touch of that. Each addition is purposeful and personal—and isn’t that what home is all about, really? If this type of slowed-down style speaks to you, you're probably already well aware that Etsy is a treasure trove of finds both new and old to fit your timeless farmhouse aesthetic. But with more than eight million active sellers on its marketplace, sometimes the possibilities—vintage feed sacks! primitive pie safes! galvanized grain scoops!—can quickly go from enticing to overwhelming.To better guide your search for the finest farmhouse furnishings, we’ve gathered a go-to list of editor-and designer-beloved Etsy shops which, time and again, turn out hardworking, homespun pieces of heirloom quality. From beautiful antique bureaus to hand-block-printed table linens, the character-rich wares from these sellers will help you design the farmhouse of your dreams, piece by precious piece. Related Stories For Antique AmericanaAcorn and Alice Every good old-fashioned farmhouse could use some traditional Americana to set the tone, and this Pennsylvania salvage shop offers rustic touches loaded with authentic antique allure. Aged wooden wares abound (think vintage milk crates, orchard fruit baskets, and berry boxes), as well as a grab bag of cotton and burlap feed sacks, perfect for framing as sets or crafting into footstool covers or throw pillows. For French Country TextilesForest and LinenThere’s nothing quite like breezy natural fabrics to make you want to throw open all the windows and let that country air in while the pie cools. Unfussy and lightweight, the hand-crafted curtains, bedding, and table linens from these Lithuanian textile experts have a classic understated quality that would be right at home in the coziest guest room or most bustling kitchen. Warm, welcoming hues range from marigold yellow to cornflower blue, but soft gingham checkers and timeless French ticking feel especially farm-fresh. Our current favorite? These cherry-striped country cafe curtains. Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingVintage red torchons feel right at home in a farmhouse kitchenFor Rustic RugsOld New HouseWhether or not you’re lucky enough to have gorgeous wide-plank floors, an antique area rug or runner can work wonders for giving a room instant character and warmth. This fifth-generation family-run retailer specializes in importing heirloom hand-knotted carpets dating back to the 1800s, with a focus on traditional designs from the masters in Turkey, India, Persia, and more. Their vast variety of sizes and styles offers something for every aesthetic, with one-of-a-kind patterns ranging from distressed neutrals to chain-stitched florals to ornate arabesques. For Pillows and ProvisionsHabitation BohemeIn true farmhouse fashion, this Indiana shop has curated an enticing blend of handcrafted and vintage homewares that work effortlessly well together. A line of cozy hand-stitched linen pillow covers (patterned with everything from block-printed blossoms to provincial pinstripes) sits prettily alongside a mix of found objects, from patinated brass candlesticks and etched cloisonné vases to sturdy stoneware crockery and woven wicker baskets. For Elegant Everyday DishwareConvivial ProductionSimple, yet undeniably stunning, the handcrafted dinnerware from this Missouri-based ceramist is designed with durability in mind. Produced in a single, time-tested shade of ivory white glaze, these practical stoneware cups, bowls, and plates make the perfect place settings for lively farm-to-table feasts with friends and family. Beautifully balancing softness and heft, each dish is meant to feel comfortable when being held and passed, but also to look attractive when stacked upon open shelving. For English Country Antiques1100 West Co.This Illinois antiques shop is stocked with all manner of versatile vintage vessels culled from the English countryside, from massive stoneware crocks to charming little escargot pots. Their collection of neutral containers can be adapted for nearly any provincial purpose (envision white ironstone pitchers piled high with fresh-picked hyacinths, or glass canning jars holding your harvest grains), but we especially love their assortment of old advertising—from toothpaste pots to marmalade jars and ginger beer bottles galore—for a nice little nod to the quintessential country practice of repurposing what you’ve got. Brian Woodcock/Country LivingPretty English ironstone will always have our heart.For a Cozy GlowOlde Brick LightingConstructed by hand from cord to shade, the vintage-inspired lighting produced by this Pennsylvania retailer is a tribute to the iconic quality and character of old American fixtures. Nostalgic design elements include hand-blown glass (crafted using cast-iron molds from over 80 years ago) and finishes ranging from matte black to brushed nickel and antique brass. To create an authentic farmhouse ambiance, check out their gooseneck sconces, enameled red and blue barn lights, and milky white striped schoolhouse flush mounts. For Enduring ArtifactsThrough the PortholeThe weathered, artisan-made wares curated by this California husband-and-wife duo have been hand-selected from around the globe for their time-etched character. From gorgeous gray-black terracotta vases and rust-colored Turkish clay pots to patinated brass cow bells and rustic reclaimed elm stools, each item is a testament to the lasting beauty of classic materials, with storied sun-bleaching and scratches befitting the most beloved, lived-in rooms. For Winsome Wall ArtEugenia Ciotola ArtThrough graceful brushstrokes and textural swirls of paint, Maryland-based artist Eugenia Ciotola has captured the natural joy of a life that’s simple and sweet. Her pieces celebrate quiet scenes of bucolic beauty, from billowing bouquets of peonies to stoic red barns sitting in fields of wavy green. For a parlor gallery or gathering space, we gravitate toward her original oils on canvas—an impasto still life, perhaps, or a plainly frocked maiden carrying a bountiful bowl of lemons—while her stately farm animal portraits (regal roosters! ruff collared geese!) would look lovely in a child’s nursery.For Time-Tested Storage SolutionsMaterials DivisionFunction is forefront for this farmhouse supplier operating out of New York, whose specialized selection of vintage provisions have lived out dutiful lives of purpose. Standouts include a curated offering of trusty antique tool boxes and sturdy steel-clad trunks whose rugged patina tells the story of many-a household project. Meanwhile, a hardworking mix of industrial wire and woven wood gathering baskets sits handsomely alongside heavy-duty galvanized garbage bins and antique fireplace andirons.For Pastoral PrimitivesComfort Work RoomFull of history and heritage, the old, hand-fabricated furnishings and primitive wooden tools in this unique Ukrainian antique shop are rural remnants of simpler times gone by. Quaint kitchen staples like chippy chiseled spoons, scoops, and cutting boards make an accessible entry point for the casual collector, while scuffed up dough troughs, butter churns, washboards, and barrels are highly desirable conversation pieces for any antique enthusiast who’s dedicated to authentic detail. Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingAntique washboards make for on-theme wall art in a laundry roomFor Heirloom-Quality CoverletsBluegrass QuiltsNo layered farmhouse look would be complete without the homey, tactile touch of a hand-pieced quilt or two draped intentionally about the room. From harvest-hued sawtooth stars to playful patchwork pinwheels, each exquisite blanket from this Kentucky-based artisan is slow-crafted in traditional fashion from 100% cotton materials, and can even be custom stitched from scratch to match your personal color palette and decorative purpose. For a classic country aesthetic, try a log cabin, double diamond, or star patch pattern. For Hand-Crafted GiftsSelselaFeaturing a busy barnyard’s worth of plucky chickens, cuddly sheep, and happy little Holstein cows, this Illinois woodworker’s whimsical line of farm figurines and other giftable goodies (think animal wine stoppers, keychains, fridge magnets, and cake toppers) is chock-full of hand-carved charm. Crafted from 100% recycled birch and painted in loving detail, each creature has a deliberately rough-hewn look and feel worthy of any cozy and collected home. For Open-Concept CabinetryFolkhausA hallmark of many modern farmhouses, open-concept shelving has become a stylish way to show that the practical wares you use everyday are the same ones you’re proud to put on display. With their signature line of bracketed wall shelves, Shaker-style peg shelves, and raw steel kitchen rails, the team at Folkhaus has created a range of open storage solutions that beautifully balances elevated design and rustic utility. Rounding out their collection is a selection of open-shelved accent pieces like bookcases, benches, and console tables—each crafted from character-rich kiln-dried timber and finished in your choice of stain.Related StoryFor Antique Farmhouse FurnitureCottage Treasures LVThe foundation of a well-furnished farmhouse often begins with a single prized piece. Whether it’s a slant-front desk, a primitive jelly cabinet, or a punched-tin pie safe, this established New York-based dealer has a knack for sourcing vintage treasures with the personality and presence to anchor an entire space. Distressed cupboards and cabinets may be their bread and butter (just look at this two-piece pine hutch!) but you’ll also find a robust roundup of weathered farm tables, Windsor chairs, and blanket chests—and currently, even a rare 1500s English bench. For Lively Table LinensMoontea StudioAs any devotee of slow decorating knows, sometimes it’s the little details that really bring a look home. For a spot of cheer along with your afternoon tea, we love the hand-stamped table linens from this Washington-based printmaker, which put a peppy, modern spin on farm-fresh produce. Patterned with lush illustrations of bright red tomatoes, crisp green apples, and golden sunflowers—then neatly finished with a color-coordinated hand-stitched trim—each tea towel, placemat, and napkin pays homage to the hours we spend doting over our gardens. For Traditional TransferwarePrior TimeThere’s lots to love about this Massachusetts antiques shop, which admittedly skews slightly cottagecore (the pink Baccarat perfume bottles! the hobnail milk glass vases! the huge primitive bread boards!) but the standout, for us, is the seller’s superior selection of dinner and serving ware. In addition to a lovely lot of mottled white ironstone platters and pitchers, you’ll find a curated mix of Ridgeway and Wedgwood transferware dishes in not only classic cobalt blue, but beautiful browns, greens, and purples, too.Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingPretty brown transferware could be yours with one quick "add to cart."For Folk Art for Your FloorsKinFolk ArtworkDesigned by a West Virginia watercolor and oils artist with a penchant for painting the past, these silky chenille floor mats feature an original cast of colonial characters and folksy scenes modeled after heirloom textiles from the 18th and 19th centuries. Expect lots of early American and patriotic motifs, including old-fashioned flags, Pennsylvania Dutch fraktur, equestrian vignettes, and colonial house samplers—each made to mimic a vintage hooked rug for that cozy, homespun feeling. (We have to admit, the folk art-inspired cow and chicken is our favorite.)For Historical ReproductionsSchooner Bay Co.Even in the most painstakingly appointed interior, buying antique originals isn’t always an option (don’t ask how many times we’ve been outbid at an estate auction). And that’s where this trusted Pennsylvania-based retailer for historical reproductions comes in. Offering a colossal collection of framed art prints, decorative trays, and brass objects (think magnifying glasses, compasses, paperweights, and letter openers), these connoisseurs of the classics have decor for every old-timey aesthetic, whether it’s fox hunt prints for your cabin, Dutch landscapes for your cottage, or primitive animal portraits for your farmstead.For General Store StaplesFarmhouse EclecticsHand-plucked from New England antique shops, estate sales, and auctions, the salvaged sundries from this Massachusetts-based supplier (who grew up in an 1850s farmhouse himself) are the type you might spy in an old country store—wooden crates emblazoned with the names of local dairies, antique apple baskets, seed displays, signs, and scales. Whether you’re setting up your farmstand or styling your entryway, you’ll have plenty of storage options and authentic accents to pick from here. Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingSo many food scales, so little time.Related StoriesJackie BuddieJackie Buddie is a freelance writer with more than a decade of editorial experience covering lifestyle topics including home decor how-tos, fashion trend deep dives, seasonal gift guides, and in-depth profiles of artists and creatives around the globe. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received her M.F.A. in creative writing from Boston University. Jackie is, among other things, a collector of curiosities, Catskills land caretaker, dabbling DIYer, day hiker, and mom. She lives in the hills of Bovina, New York, with her family and her sweet-as-pie rescue dog.

With its comfortable, laid-back decorating vibes, no room says “come and sit awhile” or “aah, I’m home” quite like a beautifully inviting rustic and cozy living room. Whether you live in a farmhouse, cabin, cottage, a new-build in the suburbs, or even a city apartment—rustic living room ideas bring a certain homespun style that ranges from downright traditional to modern and chic.Here at Country Living, we’ve discovered that the very best classic and country rustic living room ideas begin with good ol’ tried-and-true character-rich decor. We're talking reclaimed wood, stone focal points (there are so many rustic style living room ideas with cozy fireplaces!), and a casual mix of natural textures and materials (think wood and woven furniture, perfectly worn leather sofas, vintage wool rugs laid atop natural sisal). More modern rustic living room ideas include a less-is-more approach with calming neutral color palettes and clean-lined furniture. Paint colors, fabrics, and accessories in grays, browns, and greens pulled from nature make for the just-right warmth—all simple rustic living room ideas at their finest. So relax and sink into our best country rustic living room ideas from some of our all-time favorite Country Living house tours!Here are more creative ways to make your home feel rustic and cozy:1Fill the Room With CharacterSean LitchfieldFrom floor to ceiling and wall to wall, this rustic living room packs in loads of character. Comfy leather and upholstered furniture, a vintage patterned rug, and a blue and yellow painted cupboard found on Facebook marketplace sit well together against a backdrop of rustic wood.2Source Local MaterialsLincoln BarbourIn this beautifully rustic Mississippi barn. the owners sourced local wood materials from a nearby military depot to clad the walls and ceiling, bringing maximum warmth and texture. Large windows let in loads of natural light during the day, while a chandelier and mounted sconces make for a romantic glow come nighttime.RELATED: These Wood Ceiling Ideas Bring Country Charm to Any RoomTOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Pick a Cozy Paint ColorAlpha Smoot for Country LivingThis cozy living room has a built-in warmth, thanks to saturated navy blue walls (“It’s sort of a gentleman’s navy,” says homeowner Justin Reis). Its handsomely worn floorboards, doors, mantel, and warming cabinet above the fireplace complement the dark blue beautifully. The fire and candlelight emit a magical glow.Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Dark Navy by BehrTOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE4Lay a Comfy RugSara Ligorria-TrampWhat's cozier than a roaring fire on a cool night? A soft, fuzzy rug in front of it! The fireplace features mantel made from a tree felled on-site and white Zellige tile. The artwork is a vintage find paired with a contemporary painting.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Embrace Log Cabin DetailsLisa FloodIn this stunning Wyoming log cabin, the family usually gathers in the wonderfully rustic great room. Its cozy factor is off the charts, thanks country decorating classics like unpainted log walls and beams, a woodburning stove, textural rugs, and a sweet swing that hangs from the ceiling. Get the Look:Swing: The Oak & Rope CompanyTOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE6Wrap a Room in WoodMarta Xochilt PerezIn this rustic and cozy cabin, an original fieldstone fireplace creates the warmest welcome. A pair of cushy leather sofas piled with pillows blankets face off, anchoring the wood-wrapped space, and providing the perfect perches for game night. TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Build an Rustic Stone Accent WallMarta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingThis impressive wall of moss rock surrounds the fireplace. Chiseled stone corbels provide mantel supports. On cool nights, you can count on a roaring fire! Throughout the home, carved timbers, rough-cut stone, and walls of windows reflect a combination of the homeowners’ Scandinavian heritage and Irish roots.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE8Go Big in a Small SpaceEmily FollowillThis tiny living room is packed with so much character. Designer James Farmer added decorative oomph with a large tobacco basket, an art-forward fireplace screen, and natural design elements like plants. Details like arranging the paneling on the diagonal to “point” upward enhance the vertical space. Says James, “Tall ceilings, bold plant arrangements, and large light fixtures have even more impact in a small home. Play with scale to find what feels right.” Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Mix and Match FurnitureLincoln BarbourFor the ultimate collected-over-time vibe, forgo matching furniture. Here, a wingback chair and a spool chair look right at home in this living room. Other period-appropriate decor found in this 100-year-old home: painted paneled walls, exposed ceiling beams, and a rustic mantel wood.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE 10Let There Be Light (Wood)Christopher DibbleWe put this family room in the “rustic light” category. For a top-to-bottom cabin-like feel, designer Max Humphrey wrapped the space in eight-foot knotty pine planks on the ceiling and walls. A clear coat of polyurethane protects the wood while letting its natural color shine through (a stain would’ve darkened the room). Colorful national park posters, globes, camp grounds signage, and a linen modern sectional create a hip yet homey living space.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Customize a Focal PointHomeowners Victoria and Marcus Ford’s vision of a custom wood fireplace surround included open shelves and striking floor-to-ceiling firewood nooks (our favorite detail!). “We figured go big or go home,” says Victoria. Brass sconces provide a library-like touch, and a custom frame has the TV looking picture-perfect above the mantel.Get the Look:Wall and Trim Paint: Endless Sea by Sherwin-WilliamsCeiling Paint: Oyster White by Sherwin-WilliamsTOUR THE ENTIRE SPACE12Incorporate Rustic Furniture FindsAnnie SchlechterTopped with a plaid cushion, a rustic yellow daybed nestled in the corner makes for the coziest spot to take in lake views. The 22-foot cathedral ceilings are clad in wood, warming up this lofty open-concept space designed by Amy Meier that also includes a dining area and kitchen.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Paint the FloorsDane Tashima for Country LivingWhile the homeowners of this New Jersey dairy barn were able to salvage the structure’s original knotty beams, the walls and floors in the soaring 25-foot-high space needed to be replaced. Simple poplar planks painted white got the job done affordably. A new cast-iron pellet stove warms the space with a rustic, authentic look. Get the Look:Wall and Floor Paint Color: Alabaster by Sherwin-WilliamsTOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE14Tell the BackstorySean LitchfieldWhere possible, the original Eastern Hemlock posts and beams of this 1819 Maine barn were carefully preserved when, in 1999, the structure was disassembled and then reassembled several miles down the road. Hand-split slabs of Maine granite (some from the barn's original foundation) and brick were used to fabricate the massive woodburning fireplace. The walls and floors are lined in rough-hewn, nonuniform wood planks. The sofa table, made from an old piece of barn wood found on the farm, shows off collections of books, ceramics, and shells.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Use Old Materials for New BuildsBrie WilliamsIn this new build, reclaimed materials create instant patina for a warm and welcoming family room. Here’s what makes it rustic: reclaimed beams came from an 1800s mill in Massachusetts mill; log skins salvaged from old Midwest barns; North Carolina stone on the fireplace. A soft palette for the furniture and window treatments was inspired by the antique rug that covers the ottoman.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE 16Balance Natural Wood with ColorNick JohnsonA pretty blue on the fireplace and in the fabrics balances the overall rustic vibe in this country house. “I wanted this room to feel rich and cozy and warm—the kind of place you’d sit by the fire to read a book,” says Erica Harrison of Detroit-based design firm Hudson and Sterling.TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below17Make It WorkHelen NormanDespite the renovation challenges, this cozy sitting area situated just off the open kitchen works. The fireplace, which had to be rebuilt from the inside, was covered in stucco to balance all the exposed brick that was discovered underneath damaged drywall. For attic access, a ladder that was found in a barn on the property gets the job done in lieu of stairs. On the other side of the fireplace, a sturdy wooden bookshelf replaces an existing one that was crumbling.18Paint It WhiteZIO AND SONSFor the ultimate modern farmhouse vibe, start with an all-white palette, like in this home of designer Anthony D’Argenzio. This allows you to layer in character-rich architectural elements, like wide-planked wood floors and ceiling beams. A comfy sectional piled with pillows balances perfectly with hard elements, like the wood-and-iron coffee table, handmade oak stump side table, and a round iron chandelier. The hanging chair in the corner provides a wink to this serene design. RELATED: The Best Warm White Paint Colors For Every Room in Your HouseAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19Leave Materials NaturalJames MerrellRustic meets cozy in this cabin that features walls constructed of hand-hewn logs, a stone fireplace, exposed ceiling beams, and a pair of comfy armchairs. Leaving all materials in their natural finish and unpainted contributes to the overall homespun feel.RELATED: The Best Places to Find or Buy Reclaimed Wood Near You20Choose Neutral FurnishingsSeth SmootIn this California living room, a comfortable collection of neutral furnishings complements the home’s rustic redwood walls. The solid sofa and barrel chairs that are upholstered in linen leave room for visual delights, like the wicker and fringe lamps, an antique rug, a patterned ottoman, and piles of pillows.Jennifer KopfJennifer Kopf is the Executive Editor of Country Living. She also covers antiques and collecting.Amy MitchellManaging EditorAmy Mitchell is the managing editor for VERANDA and Country Living, where she writes articles on a variety of topics—decorating and design, gardens, and holidays. Amy’s experience in the shelter magazine category spans more than 20 years, as she’s previously held positions at Coastal Living and Cottage Living. Her personal pursuits include cooking, gardening, and hunting her favorite tag sale spots for the next piece of Pyrex for her prized collection.

Here at Country Living, we love to study trends, especially those with timeless appeal. As the Senior Homes and Style Editor, it's my job to track these trends and decide which ones are worth covering and which ones are not, which is exactly why I've been watching the rise of wood paneling the last few years. People are desperate to move away from cold, clinical minimalism and make their homes feel more welcoming and lived-in. I was surprised, though, when I started seeing more and more paneling in the kitchen—not just on the walls, but acting as a backsplash. Below, we're diving into everything you need to know about the material set to replace tile as the designer-preferred kitchen backsplash this year. Related Stories What Types of Wood Paneling Are Trending? Before we get too far, let's be clear: Tile backsplash isn't going anywhere any time soon, and I'm definitely not saying you should rip out all your tile and replace it with wood paneling just because it's popular. Wood paneling offers a fresh alternative to tile that adds a warm layer to a space that can otherwise feel sterile. It's been beloved as an easy way to add character to your walls for decades, and its foray into the kitchen shouldn't be a surprise as cottage kitchens become more and more popular both online and in real life. Before you toss out your tile samples, let's examine which types of paneling might be best for your kitchen. ShiplapLove it or hate it, shiplap is here to stay. This style, made popular by Chip and Joanna Gaines more than a decade ago, offers a classic look, making it perfect for homes regardless of their age or location. If you love this look but want something that feels less ubiquitous, avoid white shiplap and choose a warmer neutral, such as Interactive Cream by Sherwin-Williams or Rhine River by Benjamin Moore. Nickel Gap Paneling Think of nickel gap paneling, which gets its name from the consistent, nickel-width gap between each of the planks, as shiplap's older, more refined cousin. Unlike shiplap, which uses a type of connecting grove called a rabbet joint, nickel gap uses a classic tongue-and-groove joinery system. Once installed, the planks feel more elevated and purposeful than standard shiplap. While any type of wood can be used for nickel gap paneling, inexpensive woods, such as pine and poplar, or even MDF are popular options. BeadboardA longtime favorite in country kitchens, beadboard paneling is full of historic cottage charm. (My two cents: If a design element was good enough for the Victorians, it's good enough for me!) Because beadboard has a raised edge—the "bead" that gives it its name—it's a great way to add texture and a sense of history to a space, and might be the best option if you're trying to add age to a newly built kitchen. Related StoryIs a Wood Backsplash Safe?If you love the lived-in look, then wood backsplash is perfect for you, and when installed with care and paired with the right materials, wood is just as safe as tile. If you have a gas stove, always pair wood backsplash with a fire-safe material such as marble or quartz. This not only keeps your wood backsplash in pristine condition but also protects it from any open flame. If you're using an induction cooktop, feel free to leave your wood backsplash uncovered. Related StoryExamples of Wood BacksplashBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingBeadboard backsplash adds a cozy twist to this gingham-filled kitchen’s stove cove from designer Trinity Holmes. Stacy Zarin GoldbergIn designer Molly Singer’s kitchen, simple wood paneling adds country charm. Ali Harper for Country LivingIn this Alabama river cottage, designed by Jensen Killen, wood-planked walls were painted a creamy white and run horizontally throughout the kitchen. Mike D'AvelloKnotty pine adds country charm to this kitchen designed by HGTV star Jenny Marrs.Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingIn Maribeth Jones’ Alabama kitchen, yellow walls and paneling add cottage charm when paired with painted floors and a fruit-inspired wallpaper. Related StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

It's time we settle an age-old debate: Where should your living room television *actually* go? There's no hard-and-fast rule, but designers have opinions on the best way to keep your family entertaining space functional and stylish. And sometimes, those opinions isn't always based on aesthetics! "I don't always want to fight the 'TV over the fireplace' battle," admits designer Annie Downing. So, where should it go? Below, I dive into designers' best stylish solutions. Related StoriesGo Over the MantelSometimes, the path of least resistance is ultimately the correct one, and all of the designers I spoke to had no real issue with putting a television over the fireplace or mantel. "As long as the design is intentional and well-executed regarding the placement, I think we live in a time where we have to embrace the technology," says designer Amanda Lantz. Just be sure that the technology you're embracing is primed for a little designer upgrade. "The TV doesn't have to be a giant black box," says Annie, who recommends homeowners opt for sleeker options, such as Samsung's Frame TV, which can be easily integrated. "It’s not about hiding it completely," she says, "it’s about treating it like a design element instead of an afterthought." To give the TV a more intentional feel, Annie recommends pairing a frame television with custom or pre-fabricated trim packages. A simple tile surround also works if you want a more integrated look. Hide It—But Do It CleverlyIf mounting a television over your fireplace is an absolute no-go for you, either because you hate the way it looks or because the angle or height of the television makes viewing uncomfortable, there are still plenty of places to put or hide it. Tuck Into An Adjacent Book CaseEarlier this year, I visited a home where the fireplace was flanked on either side by built-in shelving that spanned the length of the wall. Instead of placing the television over the (admittedly too-high) mantel, the owners tucked it neatly into the right side of the bookcase, surrounding it with books and other collected objet. This approach, which works well in living rooms with vaulted ceilings, easily fosters a cozy, gather-round atmosphere. Pair It With Greenery Stacy Zarin GoldbergThis cabin makes expert use of freshly foraged greens. Try camouflaging your television—literally. Fresh, seasonal greens go a long way in adding visual intrigue and casual, lived-in charm. Choose fluffy, loose flowers or greenery to balance the structured, technical feel of the television. Cover It With ArtIn designer Christina Salway's Brooklyn home, the television is hidden by a large painting hung on cleats. "When we watch TV, we take the painting down, and when we’re finished, we put it back up," she says. "This is probably unimaginable to most people, but I hated the prospect of having a television so visibly positioned in our living room." It's best to avoid art with high sentimental value or that is irreplaceable if you go this route. Instead, opt for inexpensive vintage art or a print that you don't mind handling regularly. Related StoryHide It With MillworkMy personal favorite way to hide a television in a living room involves a clever bit of carpentry. I first came across this idea while admiring (read: drooling over) @MyMulberryHouse on Instagram. In her post, homeowner Leah Lane walks her followers through the process of building a concertina TV screen fabricated with piano hinges—which are key to its seamless, lie-flat appearance. The screen is cleverly disguised as a set of antique botanical prints. If you're willing to put a little extra elbow grease and manpower behind hiding your television, this is a stunning, design-editor-approved method.Related StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

As Country Living’s Senior Homes and Style Editor, I’ve seen my share of kitchens over the years, so I know what decorating ideas do and do not actually work in a kitchen. As well, I know which ideas are best for achieving the kitchen style you like, whether you want to embrace cottage style, have a farmhouse-style kitchen, create a British-inspired cook space, or make it something a little in between. Here at Country Living, we have been fans of cottagecore long before the internet deemed it cool. Of all the styles of kitchens, a cottage-style kitchen is tops for having the most personal charm and character (read: sink skirts, colored cabinetry, open shelving filled with personal one-of-a-kind collections, inviting breakfast nooks...). You see, cottage living is all about embracing imperfection and a timeless lived-in style. While those ideas might seem antithetical to kitchen design, they really are not. Even the newest, most state-of-the-art kitchens can benefit from patinaed, less-than-perfect accents. Below, I have rounded up some of the best (and designer-approved) ways to channel that humble cottage look in your kitchen. From ideas for painting your cabinetry to fresh approaches for backsplash tile, these ideas are guaranteed to make your space into something Beatrix Potter herself would envy! For more kitchen decorating ideas, check out these stories:1Lean Into Existing ArchitectureRikki Snyder for Country LivingIf your home is lucky (yes, lucky!) enough to have quirky architectural features, lean into them and allow them to inform your palette and decor as designer Christina Salway did in her wood-filled New York kitchen. TOUR THE ENTIRE HOUSE2Embrace a Cheerful PaletteBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingNothing gives off cottage charm like an equally charming color palette. In this Alabama kitchen, soft, buttery yellow cabinetry pairs with a fruit-themed wallpaper to create a perfectly prim palette. Get the Look:Cabinet Paint Color: Sudbury Yellow by Farrow & BallWallpaper: Fruit by Morris & Co. TOUR THIS KITCHENAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Add A Stove CoveBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingStove coves are a great way to add architectural interest to your kitchen. Back the inset space with beadboard, like designer Trinity Holmes did here, for added cottage appeal. TOUR THIS KITCHENRELATED: Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Stove Coves4Go Wild with WallpaperBrian Woodcock for Country LivingWhile it may seem counterintuitive, bold wallpaper is a great for adding character to smaller spaces. For cramped kitchens with little natural light, stick to brighter, tonal patterns such as the one shown here. Get the Look:Wallpaper: "London Rose" by House of HackneyRELATED: Our Best Kitchen Wallpaper Ideas EverAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Wrap the Room in Open ShelvingHelen Norman for Country LivingDoes your cottage kitchen lack serious storage space? No worries. Display your favorite ceramic finds on kitchen-spanning open-shelving like photographer Helen Norman did here in her farmhouse kitchen. RELATED: These Open Shelving Ideas Will Have You Ready to Rip Out Your Cabinetry 6Mix Your MaterialsHelen Norman, styling by Matthew GleasonIn this colorful cottage kitchen, worn woods and happily patinaed copper craft a curated-over-time feel that amps up the coziness factor. Mix up materials to easily give your kitchen a lived-in feel.TOUR THIS ENTIRE HOUSERELATED: 40 Pretty and Practical Kitchen Backsplash IdeasAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Build Out a Breakfast NookKirsten FrancisNo cottage kitchen is complete without a cozy breakfast nook. In this Connecticut kitchen, designer Stephanie Perez installed a banquette along her wall of windows and paired it with a chippy blue table. Hanging baskets add extra cottage charm. RELATED: Check Out All of Our Best Breakfast Nook Ideas8Mount a Peg RailJody BeckMix utilitarian appeal with classic style by mounting a peg rail along your kitchen’s workspace. While this works especially well with wood-paneled backsplash, it can be used with tile too. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Add Timeworn Character With Unlacquered BrassAnnie Schlechter for Country LivingChanging up the hardware in your kitchen is an easy and inexpensive way to give the space a fresh look. Swapping builder-grade knobs and pulls with unlacquered brass pieces will add timeworn character in an instant. (And, they’ll only look better over time!)RELATED: The Best Blue Paint Colors for Your Kitchen Cabinetry10Skirt Your SinkDavid Tsay for Country LivingTake a note from Heather Taylor and add a skirt to your sink! This quick upgrade, which can be DIY’d in just an afternoon, adds sweet cottage cheer to any kitchen. If you don’t want to DIY, get crafty with store-bought café curtains. RELATED: Sink Skirts Are the Nostalgic Trend Designers Are Loving Right NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Hang Café CurtainsStacy Zarin GoldbergIn fact, go all-in on café curtains! These humble window coverings are in the midst of a resurgence thanks to the rising popularity of happily twee decorating. Pick pretty patterns for a white kitchen or stick to calm neutrals in an already pattern-filled space. RELATED: See Why Designers Are Loving Café Curtains Right Now12Stick to Simple TileRead McKendreeIn a house with interesting architectural elements, pick simple finishes and allow the space’s character to shine through. In this 17th century New England cottage designed by Stephenie and Chase Watts, a simple white Zellige tile backsplash extends to the ceiling, allowing the warm wood beams and original flooring to take center stage. RELATED: Should Your Kitchen and Bathroom Tile Match? Designers Weigh InAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below13Go All-In on VintageMarta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingThrifted finds are the quickest way to bring character to an all-white cottage kitchen. Opt for vintage pieces inspired by your locale and lean into crustier, worn pieces for the ultimate curated look. TOUR THIS ENTIRE HOUSERELATED: 10 Old-School Finds That Add Instant Charm to a Kitchen14Match Your Trim To Your CeilingChase DanielLooking for a weekend project to up the design ante in your kitchen? Then it’s time to bring out a paint can! In this humble Texas cottage, a happy duck egg blue paint color was used on the trim, ceiling, and cabinetry to tie the space together with an easy, approachable feel. A reproduction wallpaper ("Larkspur 1872" designed by William Morris) adds just a pop of pattern. Get the Look:Trim and Ceiling Paint Color: Jamestown Blue by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS ENTIRE HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below15Pretty Up a Pass Through Dustin HalleckIf your cramped kitchen leaves little room for serving, look into installing a pass-through window! These are steeped in old-school charm and add foster a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere. RELATED: These Old House Features Need to Make a Comeback Right Now16Paint Your FloorsDana GallagherIf channeling old-school charm is your preferred method of character-building, then try painting your floors! A classic black-and-white checkerboard pattern is a timeless choice, but the options are only limited by your imagination. Psst...old house owners, this is also a budget-friendly way to cover your wonky floors! RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Painting Your Floors Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Mount a Plate RackCarina OlanderDon’t overlook the power of a classic plate rack, which offers the same (if not better) organizational efforts as regular upper cabinetry or open shelving. Paint the plate rack to match your lower cabinetry or go with a contrasting wood stain. RELATED: 7 Kitchen Storage Mistakes You’re Definitely Making, And How to Fix Them18Go MoodyAli Harper for Country LivingNot every cottage kitchen needs to be light and bright. Lean into the cozy vibes of your home with a dark palette. This Alabama cottage features chocolate brown walls, which are complemented by unexpected hits of primary red and blue. Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Dark Chocolate by Benjamin MooreRELATED: These Are the Best Brown Paint Colors, According to DesignersAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19Use Salvaged Pieces Reid RollsAdd personality to your kitchen with unique salvaged pieces. Source them from your local architectural salvage yard or antique store, like designer Leanne Ford did with this repurposed china cabinet.TOUR THIS ENTIRE HOUSERELATED: 100+ Best Places to Shop for Salvage and Other Antiques and Vintage Online20Go for Butcher BlockDavid A. LandInstalling butcher-block countertops is a sure-fire way to add humble character to your cottage kitchen. Pair it with other wood accents, like designer Hadley Wiggins did here, for a timeless look.TOUR THIS ENTIRE HOUSERELATED: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Butcher-Block CountertopsAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

If, like me, you’re slightly addicted to your astrology app and love checking your daily horoscope, you may have wondered just how much stock you should put into it. Allow me to tell you that it may be more revealing than you think. Sure, your zodiac sign can give you guidance on when to make a big move or when to save a certain conversation for a better, star-blessed date. But, did you know it can also help you decorate? That’s right. Your astrological sign can give you insight into what no-regret color you should choose for your kitchen, living room, bedroom or if you *actually* should go all in on maximalism (looking at you, Virgo). To answer all your decorating questions, we sat down with astrologer Sam Manzella to chat about the impact astrology can have on how you decorate your home and to find out what she thinks are the best paint colors for each astrology sign.Want even more astrology content? Check out these stories.Meet Our AstrologerSam Manzella is a Brooklyn-based astrologer and multi-award winning journalist. She practices a Hellenistic tradition, working from ancient frameworks, including the Whole Sign house system, sect, and traditional rulerships. Additionally, her practice is based around the planetary rulers that were visible to the naked eye in the age before telescopes, also called the seven core planets, meaning that the outer planets of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto won't be making an appearance in this article. The Signs, Their Rulers, and Their Color FamiliesLet’s start with the basics: There are 12 signs in Western astrology. You’ve probably heard of them—think Aries, Cancer, Libra, etc. While most modern mainstream astrology focuses heavily on the signs, it’s actually their relationship to the planets that has the biggest impact on your day-to-day. “In astrology, planets, not zodiac signs, are the main players,” says Sam. This more nuanced and wholistic approach to astrology uses planets to determine what will happen, while signs only dictate the how. “Pop astrology often relies too heavily on zodiac sign archetypes, in my opinion,” says Sam. “Place a planet in a specific sign? Now we’re cooking, baby.”When it comes to matching up planets and colors, millennia of traditional associations guide the way. Sam’s color coordination is based on two works: The Complete Picatrix, a Medieval text on astrological magic, and Hellenistic Astrology: The Study of Fate and Fortune, a traditional astrology manual written by storied astrologer Chris Brennan. Below, we’ll break down the seven core planets, the signs that correspond with them, and their traditional color associations.MarsSigns: Aries, ScorpioColor Associations: Strong, aged shades of red and rust. VenusSigns: Taurus, LibraColor Associations: Sumptuous natural shades, such as greens, pinks, whites, and pastels.MercurySigns: Gemini, VirgoColor Associations: Orange is a good color for Mercury, but mixes of patterns and colors also works well for these Mercurial signs. SunSigns: LeoColor Associations: Classic sunny shades, such as golds and yellows. MoonSigns: CancerColor Associations: Silvery shades and crisp whites. JupiterSigns: Sagittarius, Pisces. Color Associations: A mix of royally influenced shades, such as purples, blues, and yellows. SaturnSigns: Capricorn, AquariusColor Associations: Dark and moody shades, such as browns, blacks, and grays. How Can You Use Astrology to Help You Decorate? The best place to start is at the very beginning. Sam’s advice? Call your mom. “I highly recommend calculating your full birth chart—to do so, you’ll need the exact date, time, and location of your birth.” This will give you the proper framework from which you can build your astrologically inspired home. Once you have your complete birth chart, look at your various planetary alignments. While your sun sign can tell you a lot about who you are, it’s actually your Venus placement that Sam recommends consulting. “This planet governs art, beauty, and romance—if it’s sweet, enjoyable, or aesthetically pleasing, then it probably falls under Venus’s purview. Whatever zodiac sign this planet occupies in your birth chart can tell you a lot about the vibes, color palettes, and visual aesthetics you gravitate toward.” Not sure you have all the information you need for a full birth chart? No worries, we’ve pulled together the best paint color for you based on your zodiac sign and planetary ruler below. If you want to dive a little deeper, Sam recommends checking out the planetary placement in your Fourth House. “The Fourth House represents our home and family life. Whatever planet rules this house, and its placement by zodiac sign, reflects the energy that feels like home to you.”The Best Paint Colors for Every Zodiac Sign:

Effective paint use has long been the design world’s great equalizer. Sure, there are high-end paint brands that have a little something special in them, but at the end of the day, paint is paint. (Sorry to break your heart, fancy paint-lovers! It’s just the truth.) It really just comes down to choosing the right paint colors for the space. One of the best ways to use paint effectively? Contrast trim! This high-impact hack upgrades any room for just the cost of a gallon of paint and has always been a designer-approved way to add color to any home. Below, I dive into exactly what contrast trim is and how to do it well. For More On Decorating With Color:What is Contrast Trim?Max Kim-BeeThe idea behind contrast trim is pretty simple: It’s painting the millwork (decorative wood trim) of a space a different color than the walls. (Some examples of millwork include baseboards, crown molding, window trim, wainscoting, and even built-in features such as china cabinets and bookcases.)While it has long been common practice to choose a trim color that is a slightly darker version of the wall color or to just paint it all white, there are so many more ways to use contrast trim to make a real design—and color!—statement.How to Choose a Contrast Trim ColorFor the best results, pull the paint color for the contrast trim from your room’s existing color palette found in the upholstery, pillows, rug, artwork, wallpaper, etc. If you're totally lost, don’t worry. Effective color use is honed over time and designers spend decades perfecting their paint picks. There is one tried-and-true hack though, that makes choosing the perfect paint color simple every time and it goes all the way back to elementary school art classes. When in doubt, look to the color wheel—yes, the good ol’ fashioned color wheel—and pick the color opposite the wall’s predominant shade. It really is that simple—well, that is until you start looking at all those paint samples. (This list of the top 100 paint colors will make that search a whole lot easier!) Regardless of what you choose, the key is to pick a shade that is noticeable—no white or gray here, please.Lastly, painting your contrast trim in a paint of a different finish—usually a little glossier—will make it really pop. (Learn more about the different paint finishes.) For More on Picking a Paint Color: Examples of Contrast Trim Max Kim-Bee for Country LivingThis colorful living room is in a converted schoolhouse! The bold contrast trim color was inspired by the curtain and chair fabrics. (See more of the home here.) Read McKendree for Country LivingThis moody green was chosen to complement the bed’s woolen throw blanket. Eric PiaseckiInterior designer Barbara Westbrook chose this captivating blue-green paint color show off the unique architecture of this guest room. (See more of the home here.)Annie SchlechterDesigner Philip Mitchell proves complementary saturated shades will always have the power to transform a room. Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Picking paint comes with a ton of unnecessary pressure, especially in a space like the living room, which is the backdrop for family gatherings, visits with friend, and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Whether you’re a total maximalist that wants to drench the room in the same color or a modern farmhouse-lover who appreciates a more subdued palette, there are definitely foolproof shades that have serious staying power. Below, we’ve gathered the 10 most-recommended no-regret paint colors for living rooms, according to designers. From a poppy pink to the just-right timeless white, plus bolder blues and greens if you’re feeling adventurous, there is something for every home palette. Check Out These Stories For More Paint Color Advice:1Simply White by Benjamin MooreRead McKendree for Country LivingA no-nonsense shade perfect for when you want your fabrics and accessories to do the talking, this Benjamin Moore paint color is exactly as described: Simply White. In this coastal cottage designed by Marynn Udvarhelyi, happy ginghams and soft floral patterns add layers of personality.Get the Look:Paint Color: Simply White by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSE2Setting Plaster by Farrow & BallStacy Zarin GoldbergI’ll let you in on a little secret: Warm, pinky-neutral paint colors are almost universally flattering, making them a great choice for a gathering space. Designer Cameron Ruppert paired this ladylike shade with buttoned-up plaids and florals in a grounded jewel-tone palette. Get the Look:Paint Color: Setting Plaster by Farrow & BallAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Shamrock by Sherwin-WilliamsLeslee Mitchell for Country LivingFinding the perfect green is no easy task. This deep green, though, might just be the one. With equal undertones of yellow and blue, Sherwin-Williams’ Shamrock works as a true neutral. Get the Look:Paint Color: Shamrock by Sherwin-WilliamsRELATED: These Are the Best Green Paint Colors, According to Designers4Endless Sea by Sherwin-WilliamsBrie Williams for Country LivingNavy blue adds a dapper twist to any living room, especially when paired with perfectly worn-in leather sofas as seen in this space designed by Victoria and Marcus Ford. Get the Look:Paint Color: Endless Sea by Sherwin-WilliamsRELATED: See the Shocking Before & After of This Living RoomAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Winter Sunshine by Benjamin MooreAnnie Schlechter for Country LivingIn the year of butter yellow, why not pick a soft yellow shade of paint with serious staying power? In this living room, avid antiques collector Ed Chaudhuri chose a soft lemon yellow to complement his patinaed furnishings. Get the Look:Paint Color: Winter Sunshine by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSE6White Dove by Benjamin MooreLincoln Barbour for Country LivingLong beloved by designers, Benjamin Moore’s White Dove is a classic choice for airy living spaces. (Let’s be honest—it’s a classic choice for any living space!) Take a note from these Tennessee homeowners and pair it with warm wood and nubby linens for a cozy space. Get the Look:Paint Color: White Dove by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Pigeon by Farrow & Ball Ali Harper for Country LivingDusty duck egg blue is a color lover’s neutral. With just a hint of green, the shade is loved by designers for its chameleon-like ability to blend with a variety of palettes, which is exactly why Jensen Killen of Logan Killen Interiors chose it for this Alabama river cottage's living room. Get the Look:Paint Color: Pigeon by Farrow & BallTOUR THIS HOUSE8Dark Chocolate by Benjamin MooreAli Harper for Country LivingIn need of a super cozy escape? Try this timeless chocolate brown that is equal parts inviting and stylish. Get the Look:Paint Color: Dark Chocolate by Benjamin MooreRELATED: These Are The Best Brown Paint Colors, According to DesignersAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Patriotic White by Benjamin MooreDavid A. Land, styling by Karin Lidbeck-Brent for Country LivingEven though it has white in the name, this dusty shade is technically blue. Floral designer Deborah Herbertson paired it with sun-washed orange velvet sofas and bright blue accents to play up the shade’s subtle watery undertones. Get the Look:Paint Color: Patriotic White by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSE10Pointing by Farrow & BallRead McKendreeIf you’re looking for a white that is both inviting and crisp, look to Farrow & Ball’s Pointing. In this coastal living room, designer Katie Rosenfeld chose to complement the warm white backdrop with patterns and colors. Get the Look:Paint Color: Pointing by Farrow & Ball Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

It's no secret that we love a good gallery wall around here. Whether packed with paint-by-numbers, a grouping of salty seascapes, or an expanse of black-and-white silhouettes collected over time, gallery walls bring so much character to any room in your home. One type of gallery wall that particularly makes our hearts skip a beat is an arrangement that incorporates unexpected objects, giving a little wink into your design personality. Maybe it's a graphic game board you scored at a yard sale or three-dimensional finds like trophies, baskets, and other meaningful items that you collect. While square or rectangle framed photographs and artwork are common gallery wall ideas, consider objects outside the literal box to bring individuality and charm, adding visual interest that breaks the grid in the best way.Here, some of our favorite images of gallery walls that feature unique decor items to instantly elevate your own—and not a one of them is another frame or canvas. PedestalsPainted the same punchy color as the wall, a pair of pedestals displays trophies and figurines on a dog-themed gallery wall. Other objects of note: ribbons, brass instruments, and a saucer painted with a hunting scene. BasketsHelen Norman for Country LivingAdd texture and another shape to a gallery wall with baskets, like this set of vintage French ones. Here, the pieces frame a television in a family room.More Ways to Decorate Your Walls:Nautical-Themed ItemsRead McKendree for Country LivingIn this camp-themed boys’ bedroom, the gallery wall is made up of framed art with a sprinkling of nautical-themed items including flags, an anchor, and a pair of mounted oars. These items introduce different finishes, materials, color, and a strong sense of place.PlatesBuff Strickland for Country LivingA charming arrangement of Spode, Wedgwood, and other blue-and-white china mixed with handsome pewter trays perfectly fills a skinny wall area between dining room windows. This proves there is power in numbers! TOUR THIS HOUSEmore dining room decorating ideasPennants Dylan ChandlerAmong a sea of mostly square- and rectangle-shaped items like license plates, framed silhouettes, and signs, a vintage pennant breaks the grid. Above, a round sepia wedding photograph does the same. Game Boards and PaddlesAdam Albright, styling by Kelly Ryan KegansThis is hands down one of the most creative gallery walls we've ever seen. In this cozy breakfast nook, a collection of thrifted finds fills every bit of wall space. Featured items include game boards, paddles, and nautical knickknacks bring dimension and interesting shapes. The tight color palette keeps the arrangement looking intentional and stylish.TOUR THIS HOUSE For More Breakfast Nook Ideas:Antlers and MountsMax Kim-BeeThis gallery wall mix includes a little bit of everything. Framed and unframed silhouettes and oil paintings surround a gold-framed mirror. The entire arrangement is topped off with a majestic 1920s deer mount. Small mounted antlers are another way to add a nod to nature, as well as dimension.TOUR THIS HOUSEAmy MitchellManaging EditorAmy Mitchell is the managing editor for VERANDA and Country Living, where she writes articles on a variety of topics—decorating and design, gardens, and holidays. Amy’s experience in the shelter magazine category spans more than 20 years, as she’s previously held positions at Coastal Living and Cottage Living. Her personal pursuits include cooking, gardening, and hunting her favorite tag sale spots for the next piece of Pyrex for her prized collection.

To match or not to match? That is the question that plagues homeowners the world over. A certain degree of matching is expected and should be prioritized for a cohesive palette—designers always emphasize that a home should be “in conversation” with itself. But how far does that matchy-matchy mentality really need to go? Recently, homeowners and design lovers on Reddit have debated one specific match, and it has the internet divided: Should you match the tile of your kitchen backsplash to your bathroom tile? To get to the bottom of it, we spoke with designers and, well, the answer might surprise you. For More on Kitchens:Should Your Kitchen and Bathroom Tile Match?In short, probably not. While there is no hard-and-fast rule, all the designers I spoke with said they would not match them unless they were intentionally going for a wholly cohesive look. “Rarely would I match a kitchen and bathroom tile, or use the same tile in both places,” says designer and pro-renovator Christina Salway. “There are just too many beautiful options to do the same thing twice.” Designer Amanda Lantz echoed Christina’s sentiment: “The options of tile are so endless that I love giving each room its own character by changing it up in some way.” For More on Bathrooms:What Should You Do Instead?If you like a cohesive look but don’t want to match, take Amanda's advice: “Lean into the differing textures, but stay in the same color palette,” she says. “It brings enough variation to make it interesting and give each space some personality.” If you prefer something that feels more organic, focus on crafting a diverse palette. “Frequently, people think of a room as an isolated experience, but I like to think about how a person moves through a house,” says Christina. “You have to weave the colors from one room into the next.” Designer Annie Downing agrees, suggesting that you shouldn’t get too hung up on exact matches and instead focus on the common language they share. “Tile [all through a house] should feel like it’s from the same family, even if the patterns, colors, or materials vary slightly,” she says. This can feel like pulling at threads, but it’s ultimately the most rewarding way to craft a colorful home that feels wholly unique to you. If you’re worried about the space feeling overwhelmed with color, don’t. There’s an easy fix. “You can always tone a bathroom down with white paint and a white shower curtain, but tile is a marvelous opportunity to choose something that really enlivens the space and makes it yours,” says Christina. “Don’t panic and just go all white unless that’s what makes your heart sing!” For More on Tile:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

There’s an old adage I’ve followed since I was a kid: Always put your best foot forward. That mentality extends into every part of your life, from the clothes you wear to the words you speak... and even to your home. When it comes to your home, putting your best foot forward starts before your guests put even a single foot inside your house—it starts at the curb. Perfecting your home’s exterior charm requires dedication. From lush landscaping to fresh-looking paint, there is a seemingly endless list of tasks to make your home the most stunning house on the block. However, there is one front-yard décor piece that just might be killing your curb appeal, despite all your extra work: the mailbox. Mailboxes, for better or worse, are a necessary eyesore. The United States Postal Service sets specific requirements for what a mailbox should be, leaving little room for stylish alternatives. (Take Note: If it’s a post mailbox, aka not affixed to your house or front gate, then it is required to be 41" to 45" tall, sit 6" to 8" back from the curb, and have a house or apartment number attached.) Unless you want to spend a ton of money on a custom brick or handmade wood mailbox, you’ll have go with something ready-made, which can mean limited options and a hefty price tag for anything other than a basic black mailbox. No worries! If you’re looking for a quick-fix way to spruce up your existing mailbox in just a weekend, we have easy (and budget-friendly!) ideas for you: For More Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal:Paint It to Match Your Exterior The fastest way to give your mailbox and post a quick refresh is with paint. I’ve talked a lot (and I do mean a lot) about how paint can easily transform a space, and the mailbox is no different. Match your home’s exterior paint color for a seamless look or make it pop with a fun color to match your equally-fun painted front door. Don’t forget to paint the mailbox flag either! If you want something guaranteed to be timeless, try Rub n' Buff for a metallic look. (Just be sure to lightly sand a metal mailbox first and finish up with your preferred sealant.) Paint Picks to Get You Started:Pretty It Up With Plants In the mood to get your hands dirty? Just add plants. “Opt for a climbing vine,” says Country Living’s garden expert, Charlyne Mattox. “It will grow up the mailbox and cover anything unsightly.” Asiatic jasmine, clematis, or mandevilla are her go-to suggestions, but if you don’t want something covering the entire post and mailbox, she suggests going with a blooming evergreen, such as rosemary or a compact gardenia. More Flower Ideas:Re-Stain the Wood Post If you’d rather not paint, give your mailbox post a refresh with stain. Pick a darker shade for a timeless, traditional look (that won’t show dirt as easily!) or go for something lighter to add cottage charm. Lightly sand the post before staining and seal it afterward to ensure it stands up to the elements over time. For More Ways to Spruce Up Your Porch and Yard:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

It takes a lot to make a paint color one of the most popular paint colors of all time—not every shade can be a Swiss Coffee or Pink Ground, after all. As Country Living’s Senior Homes & Style Editor, I am always on the hunt for what’s trending in the color world, so when I received an email from storied paint company Sherwin-Williams with data on their least popular paint color, I was intrigued. For the second year in a row, Sherwin-Williams is announcing their “Loneliest Color of the Year.” This year’s winner is Radiant Lilac. Throughout 2024, Radiant Lilac was Sherwin-Williams’ least tinted color. In fact, out of the millions of gallons of paint they create—a process known as tinting—this shade had less than 1,000 gallons tinted. For Some of Our Favorite Paint Colors:A true lilac, this shade is a softer take on the popular muddy plum, which appeared in our 2025 paint trend report after being named a color of the year by both Benjamin Moore and Glidden. “Purple can feel like a bold commitment—it’s not always the first color people reach for, especially if they’re unsure about how to bring it into their space,” says Sherwin-Williams Director of Color Marketing Sue Wadden. “Radiant Lilac sits in that in-between space: it’s not a neutral, but it’s not an overwhelming statement either, which can make it feel a little uncertain for some.”As part of the announcement that this soft purple is the company’s least popular shade, Sherwin-Williams teamed up with one of the most popular basketball players in recent years, Paige Bueckers, who was the first pick in the 2025 WNBA draft and won the 2025 NCAA College Basketball Championship with her alma mater, the University of Connecticut. Paige, who now plays for the Dallas Wings, is known for her love of purple and recently wore an iconic Radiant Lilac-colored custom suit created in collaboration with legendary designer Dapper Dan and Sherwin-Williams. Amy Sussman//Getty ImagesWNBA star Paige Bueckers at the 2024 ESPYS in a custom Radiant Lilac-colored suitIf Paige’s love for purple doesn’t have you convinced that the shade is worth trying, its cozy, universally flattering undertones should. “It’s that perfect balance between red and blue, so it feels grounded and calming, yet expressive,” says Sue. If you want to make a statement, use the color to highlight architectural features or statement furniture, Sue advises. She also recommends pairing it with moodier shades such as Roycroft Bronze Green or Rookwood Dark Red. But if you’re in the mood for something lighter, Sue recommends trying Cool Beige or Ice Cube. So, what do you think? Is it time for lilac to make a comeback? For More Paint Colors You’re Sure To Love:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Last week I was reading one of my favorite design newsletters, Cathy and Garrett of The Grit And Polish, a pair of old-home renovators in Washington state. Cathy was sharing about shopping for window treatments, specifically the designer-beloved Chik blinds, for a rental renovation project. When the estimated price for the blinds didn’t come in at budget, instead of giving up, Cathy employed what she’s coined, “The 90% Rule.” I’ll let her explain:“Garrett and I have found that getting from 90% to 100%, design-wise, can be very expensive,” says Cathy. “And more often than not, we’re just as satisfied with the lower cost option.”Cathy ended up sourcing bamboo rollup blinds that, while not an exact match to the Chik blinds, are close enough to get the desired look without significantly breaking the budget. Cathy admits that, like all of us, she occasionally splurges, but “most of the time 90% feels like the right compromise between good design and reasonable budget.” Armed with a new catch phrase, I spent the weekend thinking of all the times I’m thankful to have settled on a “pretty good is good enough” way of thinking.In the Living RoomEllen GodfreyThe living room of my 1914 Craftsman is bright and cheerful with coffered ceilings and an original coal-burning fireplace with an inky green tile surround. I knew I wanted to do something to highlight the green tile, so when my friend and designer, Ellen Godfrey introduced me to Trustworth’s “Hydrangea” wallpaper it was love at first sight. It’s a whimsical, floral pattern that has similar green tones to my tile paired with muted yellows and dusty pinks. But without the budget to afford a full-room wallpaper install, I opted to apply the 90% rule and only wallpaper the fireplace bump out instead. I saved thousands of dollars on both the wallpaper and the installation fees, and, thanks to the room being mostly windows and door, I got 90% of the way to the look I was after. Seven years later and I’m still so glad I didn’t wait until I could afford to wallpaper the entire room. For More on Wallpaper:In the KitchenBecky-Luigart StaynerBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingThe vision for my British-inspired kitchen renovation was always yellow, so nailing the perfect shade of warm sunshine was mission critical. Once my husband and I completed extensive swatch testing, lost a few nights of sleep, and polled a dozen of our most design-savvy friends it felt like a worthy splurge to go with our winner, Sudbury Yellow by Farrow & Ball instead of color-matching the yellow hue with a more affordable paint brand. However, another element on the vision board was a breakfast nook for our family of four to have a space to enjoy more casual meals and snacks together. With a tiny kitchen footprint that left no room for a built-in banquet and a budget that couldn’t handle more custom cabinetry, we once again decided to get 90% of the way there, opting for an antique pedestal table and a freestanding scalloped banquette-style bench upholstered in performance fabric. Again, we saved thousands of dollars in construction costs, and, in the end, got 90% of the way there in both form and function. For More on Kitchens & Breakfast Nooks:In the Kid’s RoomMaribeth Jones for Country LivingWhen our daughter Ruby was born we had to get serious about light control in the guest room that was getting twirled up into her nursery. The room has SEVEN windows. Seven! I think it was a sleeping porch in a past life, but I digress. I really wanted motorized linen shades from The Shade Store, like I’d seen in the beautiful Connecticut farmhouse of Debbie Propst. But with the aforementioned seven windows, they just weren’t in the budget. Once again, we employed the 90% rule and went with a more affordable line of motorized shades in a creamy linen that allowed us to get both the light filtering and ease we needed, while not sacrificing too much on the look we were after. If you squint they aaaalmost look like the luxe version from my original inspiration. For More On Window Treatments:So, whether you’re looking to do a full renovation or some minor decor swaps, let the 90% rule be your North Star. Cheers to good enough! Maribeth B JonesDesign DirectorMaribeth B Jones is the Design Director of Country Living where she creates seasonal content full of warmth and playfulness. When she’s not wrangling chickens for a cover shoot you can find her collecting vintage oil portraits or flipping pancakes in her sunny, yellow kitchen with her two chatty daughters.

What makes for a quintessentially country farmhouse living room? When you think about the classic, homey style, you likely imagine a warm space filled with a sink-into-me sofa (perhaps positioned around an inviting fireplace), a comfy chair for reading or cross-stitching, and that one special quilt everyone calls first dibs on. There might be a wood-clad ceiling overhead, a perfectly imperfect worn rug underfoot, and charming shiplap or wainscoting wrapping the room. Whatever design elements make up the rustic farmhouse living room of your dreams, you’ll find loads of decorating inspiration here in these pictures of farmhouse living room ideas from our favorite country homes.For a collected-over-time style, a cozy farmhouse living room with color and pattern brings a lived-in, homespun feel (think cottagecore design vibes). In these rooms, you’ll find classic checks and florals, vintage items and antiques, and personal collections on display. For modern farmhouse living room ideas, look for more contemporary and calming ideas—neutral backdrops and architectural features like stone, wood beams, and windows. Bring traditional farmhouse living room designs to your home, wherever you live.Love farmhouse style? Here are more farmhouse decorating ideas for other rooms in your home: 1Divide an Open SpaceJane BeilesIn this 200-year-old Federal farmhouse, a barn (really!) was attached to the house to create a soaring entertaining area. “It was music to my ears—I’d always wanted to do it,” says homeowner Ali Mahon. To utilize the open space, it was divided into “rooms,” including a dining nook and two stories of living areas filled with character-rich antiques, including a wicker trunk-turned-coffee table and a graphic 19th-century banner weather vane. A large handcrafted iron chandelier looms above. 2Celebrate Organic FinishesKate S. JordanThis cozy farmhouse living room’s warmth comes from the reclaimed hemlock floorboards, newly exposed original wood beams and rafters, and gypsum plaster walls custom-tinted a soft putty color. The room’s curvy wood-framed chairs, recovered in mohair and boucle fabrics, complement the coffee table designed by Percy Bright of Jersey Ice Cream Co. A decorative screen from a Vermont antiques shop conceals the woodburning stove. Underfoot, a Scandinavian kilim rug subtly speaks to the other folk art motifs seen throughout the home.RELATED: See more of this Scandi farmhouse that will change the way you paint your walls.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Balance Heavy Wood Tones With White Sara Ligorria-TrampMany of the great room’s interior elements, from the arched ceiling beams to the unfinished floor planks, were milled from spruce and hemlock trees on this home’s Washington property. The abundance of wood never feels heavy, though, as it’s smartly balanced by the surrounding white wood-paneled and tinted plaster walls. Plentiful windows let sunlight pour into the open-concept rustic paradise. Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Snow White Milk Paint by General Finishes (3⁄4 paint, 1⁄4 water)Trim Paint Color: Milk Mustache by Dunn-Edwards PaintRELATED: See more of the new-build barn house that really masters the modern rustic look.4Pick the Right Scale FurnitureRikki Snyder for Country LivingSometimes, massive modern furniture simply doesn’t sit right in an older home. In this cozy farmhouse den, designer Christina Salway opted for a more petite sofa and assorted chairs, including these two wingbacks covered in a bold leafy motif. Even the wooden coffee table is “perfectly undersized for the space,” says Christina. New thin brick flooring ups the coziness factor, as does a jute floral rug and aviary artwork.Get the Look: Door Paint Color:Inchyra Blue by Farrow & BallAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Cozy Up to the FireplaceAlpha Smoot for Country LivingWith saturated blue walls (“It’s sort of a gentleman’s navy,” says homeowner Justin Reis), weathered floorboards, and hand-hewn beams, the living room has a built-in warm and cozy feel. The warming cabinet above the fireplace, which likely had a door at one time, offers a spot to tuck in collected treasures. The fire and candlelight emit a magical glow.Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Dark Navy by BehrRELATED: See more of this Connecticut Georgian Colonial that is an old house lover's dream.6Wrap the Room in Reclaimed WoodLincoln BarbourThe owners of this Mississippi barn used locally sourced materials to cover the walls and ceiling. Raw and distressed wood panels from a nearby military depot wrap the room in warmth and texture. Loads of windows bring in natural light during the day, while a chandelier and mounted sconces make for a romantic glow come nighttime.RELATED: These wood ceiling ideas bring country charm to any room.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Establish a Worry-Free VibeRoger Davies, styling by Liz StrongNo velvet ropes here! In this California living room that has English cottage sensibilities, being worry-free is key. Items like the weathered antique butcher-block coffee table, washable slipcovers on the deep sofa and swivel chairs, and a thick sisal rug establish the home’s kick-up-your-feet feeling.RELATED: Tour more of this cozy California cottage. 8Build with Reclaimed MaterialsBrie Williams for Country LivingBuilt with North Carolina stone, this living room’s fireplace gives a proud nod to the home’s location. Other rustic architectural details, like log skins that were salvaged from old barns in the Midwest and the reclaimed beams from an 1800s Massachusetts mill, add loads of been-there-forever charm to this new farmhouse build.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Celebrate (Unpainted) ShiplapVictoria Pearson, styling by Liz StrongDuring this home renovation, the couple uncovered original wood shiplap beneath the paneling. They removed the pieces one by one, cleaned them up, and then repurposed the boards as the wall in this sitting room, as well as in the entry, kitchen, and bunk room. A vintage bookcase from a medical office is home to books and various collectibles.RELATED: See more of how this run-down Texas farmhouse became this family's dream home.10Add Instant Patina with Salvaged BeamsStephen Karlisch for Country LivingWood beams salvaged from deconstructed barns and other old buildings add instant age to this beautifully calming living room. Rustic architectural accents, artwork, and the pretty patterned rug are the visual focus in this warm, neutral space. RELATED: 6 Best Places to Find or Buy Reclaimed Wood Near YouAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Roll Out a One-of-a-Kind RugDavid A. Land for Country LivingA rug really pulls a room together in a way no other accessory does. As a general rule, the front legs of all seating pieces should comfortably fit on the rug. If you have a smaller rug that doesn’t quite fit that requirement, layer it atop a larger sisal rug. We love this trick for a farmhouse living room decorating idea on a budget!RELATED: See more of this restored 1800s farmhouse that is proof that some things just get better with age.12Get Cozy with ColorNick JohnsonIn this cozy farmhouse living room, high-end fabrics (predominantly in stunning blues) on the sofa, velvet ottoman, chair, and pillows balance this country home’s rustic characteristics. The painted fireplace facade ties the whole room together. RELATED: See more of this 100-year-old Michigan farmhouse that oozes vintage charm.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Redefine RusticZIO AND SONSIn this modern farmhouse living room, architectural elements—wide-planked wood floors, ceiling beams, horizontal shiplap wainscoting—are softened with a comfy sectional piled with pillows and sleek, streamlined design choices, like the hanging chair, wood-and-iron coffee table, and handmade oak stump side table. A round iron chandelier crowns the family space.RELATED: 30 Charming Farmhouse Decor Items You Can Buy Now on Amazon14Play Around with PatternRoger Davies for Country LivingChecks and florals live in perfect harmony in this cozy living room. To keep the family space from leaning too traditional with the iconic buffalo check-covered sofa and wildflower chintz chair, designer Bailey McCarthy brought in a clean-lined steel-framed coffee table and a graphic longhorn painting for over the fireplace. RELATED: This darling white farmhouse in Texas proves that old-fashioned favorites are new again.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Incorporate Vintage TreasuresAnnie SchlechterAtop a fresh coat of crisp white paint on the walls, trim, and mantel, vintage scores take center stage. Found objects always tell a story. Here, in this small farmhouse living room, the banners hanging above the striped sofa came from a church, the trunk-turned-coffee table came from a Tennessee stable, and the black-and-white family photos lend personal history.RELATED: See more of this old Kentucky farmhouse gets the ultimate makeover.16Leave Windows BareMax Kim-BeeThanks to no window coverings, natural light pours in to this pretty Catskills living room. Bold painted window trim contrasts the creamy white walls and frames the view beyond.RELATED: Refresh your space with our favorite living room paint colors.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Create a Focal PointJames MerrellA stone fireplace provides a cozy focal point for a pair of comfy armchairs and ottoman, all upholstered in a pretty floral pattern. Hand-hewn log cabin walls and rustic ceiling beams wrap the room in natural warmth. RELATED: 50 Fireplace and Mantel Decor Ideas for a Cozy Upgrade18Pack In the CharmHelen NormanWe love this space for its small farmhouse living room ideas—packed-in charm, mismatched furniture (a handsome leather Chesterfield sofa, wood pieces)—and its architectural elements, like the painted pine-paneled walls, ceiling beams, four-pane windows, and a front-and-center fireplace. RELATED: Tour more of this charming cottage that is straight out of a storybook.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19Start with a Neutral BaseLincoln BarbourWrapping the room in a clean white provides a blank canvas for this inviting living room’s layered, lived-in look. Starting with the weathered ceiling beams that were salvaged from an old warehouse, top-to-bottom texture brings character galore. A pair of tufted velvet armchairs, layered rugs (genius for filling a large living room space!), a plaid blanket, and rustic accessories like the tobacco basket above the fireplace, are the secret to this room’s success.RELATED: See more of this rustic Tennessee home that does white totally right.20Feature Favorite AntiquesAdam Albright, styling by Matthew GleasonThis lake house living room is big on the farmhouse style rule of living with antiques and vintage finds. A tufted navy sofa is piled with pillows made from old camp blankets and draped with a red-and-white antique quilt. A collection of paint-by-numbers surrounds an antique cuckoo clock on the painted shiplap wall above.RELATED: 50+ Gallery Wall Ideas to Display All Your Favorite ThingsAmy MitchellManaging EditorAmy Mitchell is the managing editor for VERANDA and Country Living, where she writes articles on a variety of topics—decorating and design, gardens, and holidays. Amy’s experience in the shelter magazine category spans more than 20 years, as she’s previously held positions at Coastal Living and Cottage Living. Her personal pursuits include cooking, gardening, and hunting her favorite tag sale spots for the next piece of Pyrex for her prized collection.

As Country Living’s Senior Homes Editor, I spend a lot of time looking at homes, so let me share a little bit of advice: Whether it is special landscaping or a happily painted front door, every home needs an exterior element to give it personality. The quickest way to accomplish that? An interesting exterior color palette. But we understand that painting a home’s exterior (or choosing a new color of siding) is a big investment both of money and time, so you want to make a color decision that know you’re going to love for years to come. When picking the best paint color for your home, there are lots of things to take into consideration such as architectural style, the setting and light situation, and your region. You also need to decide if you’d rather keep it simple and classic with a white or neutral color, or take a bold approach with a deeper shades like green or blue. Below, I’ve gathered up 10 paint colors designers and homeowners alike love for home exteriors that are guaranteed to stand the test of time. (And, if you want even more exterior paint color inspiration, here are 35 more exterior paint colors ideas.)Looking for more curb appeal ideas? Check out these stories. 1Wythe Gold by Benjamin MooreErin KellyDesigner-architect duo Liz and Greg Dutton chose this soft yellow shade for their historic Ohio farmhouse because it mimics the landscape’s flowering goldenrod. Buttery warm yellows are definitely trending, but their nostalgia factor keeps them feeling timeless. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Wythe Gold by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: These 80 Tiny Homes are Small in Size, but Big in Charm2Blueberry by Benjamin MooreRead McKendreePerfect for coastal homes or darling cottages, this true blue is quintessentially charming, which is exactly why designer Katie Rosenfeld chose it for this Maine getaway.Get the Look:For similar, Exterior Paint Color: Blueberry by Benjamin MooreRELATED: Our Best Beach House Decorating IdeasAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Rustic Red by Sherwin-WilliamsAdam Albright for Country LivingCherry reds might be trending this year, but we say they are a classic choice for country-style cottages and cabins any year, especially for homes near the water. This lake home’s bright red shade feels perfectly pleasant against a verdant, woodsy backdrop. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Rustic Red by Sherwin-WilliamsTOUR THIS HOUSE4White Dove by Benjamin MooreJane BeilesIn search of a timeless, somewhat creamy white to match your equally timeless architecture? Then the designer favorite, White Dove by Benjamin Moore, is just what you need. Take palette inspiration from antiques dealer Ali Mahon, who paired her Connecticut barn home’s crisp white exterior with a poppy red door. Talk about timeless!Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: White Dove by Benjamin MooreFront Door Paint Color: Spanish Red by Benjamin MooreAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Night Watch by GliddenBrie Williams, styling by Elizabeth DemosThe perfect camp green is hard to find, but luckily homeowner Kelly Gray did the legwork. Her Georgia lake cabin is clad in this deep green that is nicely offset with crisp white trim to give the exterior the ultimate summer camp appeal. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Night Watch by Glidden TOUR THIS HOUSE6Evening Hush by BehrBrie Williams for Country LivingWhile I’m a staunch believer that gray paint should be used sparingly, Bambi Costanzo’s West Virginia cottage, painted a steely blue-gray shade by Behr, proves it does have star power. White trim keeps the look crisp.Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Evening Hush by BehrTOUR THIS HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Black Bean Soup by Benjamin MooreBrian Woodcock for Country LivingWhile stain is always an option, there’s something charming about the opaque look of painted wood. In this Alabama farmhouse, artist-meets-farmer Kelly Bentley Ash chose designer-favorite Black Bean Soup from Benjamin Moore to complement the shining tin roof. It also makes a great backdrop to have fun with a unexpected front door color.Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Black Bean Soup by Benjamin MooreTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Get More of Our Top Brown Paint Colors To Use All Through the House8Brilliant White by Benjamin MooreDylan Chandler for Country LivingAuthor, aesthete, and antiques-lover Nora Murphy chose a simple white shade for her recent seaside Colonial makeover. Bright, almost reflective whites such as this are perfect for coastal homes; pair it with a black front door and shutters for a more traditional touch. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Brilliant White by Benjamin MooreRELATED: These Are The Best Designer-Approved White Paint ColorsAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Barn Red by ValsparAudrey HallIf you’re looking to add a bit of quintessential country flair to your home’s exterior, try a barn-inspired red. Valspar’s aptly named Barn Red takes a grounded, more historic approach to the saturated shade thanks to its purple-brown undertones. Get the Look:Exterior Paint Color: Barn Red by ValsparTOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Barndominiums10India Yellow by Farrow & BallAlpha SmootLooking for a shade that looks as good in the summer sun as it does in the fall foliage? Floral and event designer Justin Reis chose this timeless muted ochre for his Georgian-style Connecticut home. Get the Look:For similar, Exterior Paint Color: India Yellow by Farrow & BallTOUR THIS HOUSEAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

It will instantly become your favorite spot in the house.

Laundry rooms are workhorse spaces, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be beautiful. With a little paint and this designer secret weapon, you can transform it into a space you actually look forward to spending time in. Skirted sinks and cabinetry have long been designers’ favorite ways to hide mess, cover up unseemly appliances, or refresh existing cabinets on a budget. The good news is that it is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that you can easily DIY yourself—either with premade curtains or custom sewn panels. Below, I break down exactly what these skirts are, where you can purchase them, and how to use them to transform your laundry room in just one afternoon. Related StoriesWhat Is a Fabric Skirt? Sarah GriggsFabric skirts instead of cabinet fronts keep this space feeling fresh-yet-timeless. Skirts are simple decorative swaths of fabric that are hung or mounted above an opening or above an empty space. They can be hung beneath sinks, strung across cabinetry instead of doors, or in front of anything you might want to hide in your home as long as there is a way to mount a rod. For More On Sink Skirts:What Kind of Fabric Should Be Used? Where Can I Purchase It?Stacy Zarin GoldbergIn designer Molly Singer’s laundry room, a skirt was used to cleverly cover up an extra dishwasher she installed in the space. While any fabric can work for skirting a laundry room sink or cabinetry, if budget is less of a concern, pick a performance fabric. Performance fabrics (sometimes referred to as indoor/outdoor fabrics) are specially treated to withstand staining and are easy to clean, which is especially helpful if you have young kids or dogs running around the house. Spoonflower, a popular direct-to-consumer textile house, offers all of its fabrics in either a performance linen or velvet, and prices start at around $49 per yard for performance-grade fabrics. If you want something a little more luxe, try designer-grade fabrics from sites like The Expert or Decorator’s Best. Do I Need to Be Able to Sew to Make a Sink Skirt?No! DIYing a simple skirt from fabric is relatively easy. You don’t even need a sewing machine! Just grab some heat-activated hemming tape, your iron, and get to crafting. You can also purchase pre-fabricated skirts (café curtains also work great!) at retailers like Amazon and Walmart, but buyer beware: they are fairly basic and many are only designed for pedestal sinks, not cabinetry. If you’re looking for something a little unique and full of farmhouse style, try a repurposed or upcycled material. Vintage sprons, feed and grain sacks, old tablecloths, quilts, and even pillowcases can be crafted into a skirt using the same DIY method mentioned above. Related Story How Can I Use a Fabric Skirt in a Laundry Room? In a laundry room, skirts can be used a plethora of ways. Have a mismatched set of washer and dryer? Use a skirt to cover them and create a seamless look. Don’t want to spend tons replacing damaged cabinet doors when you already shelled out for a new appliances? Go for a skirt instead! It will create a crisp, clean space with more personality than standard cabinetry ever could. Below, I’ve gathered up some of my favorite examples. Cover Your Appliances Rikki SnyderIn her New York home, designer Christina Salway chose a red floral fabric to conceal her washer and dryer in this pass-through laundry room. Skirt Your Wall-Mounted SinkMichael HunterA green botanical print adds another layer of pattern in this cheery laundry room. Mount Under Your Apron-Front SinkDavid TsaySkirt the open space under your apron-front sink open for additional storage while maintaining a pulled-together look. FOR MORE LAUNDRY ROOM IDEAS:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Author and designer Ingrid Fetell Lee is no stranger to mood-boosting interiors. In 2009, she founded her lifestyle blog, The Aesthetics of Joy, to shed light on the relationship between our environment and our emotions, and to share ideas and inspiration for living a more joyful life through design. That endeavor led to a book on the same subject, as well as a popular TED Talk. (It's worth a watch!) Most recently, Ingrid teamed up with boutique wallpaper brand Hygge & West on a wallpaper collection that is sure to infuse any space with a more cheerful point of view. (Our personal favorites include the tomato-embellished heirloom print, the picnic stripe, as well as the graphic green-and-blue parasol motif.)In honor of Ingrid's newest endeavor, we asked the designer to share a few of her favorite ways to happy up a home. Wallpaper Your ClosetMichael PartenioA closet-turned-home office features a unexpected hit of wallcovering."A splash of wallpaper inside a closet turns an everyday moment—grabbing a coat or putting away laundry—into a small delight," says Ingrid. "Our brains are wired to notice novelty, and when something is partially hidden, like a bold pattern behind a door, it gives us the chance to rediscover it again and again." Ingrid suggests that you can create similar moments of delight by painting the inside of a cabinet a vibrant hue, adding a whimsical hook to your bathroom, or lining drawers with a cheerful print. "These elements of surprise break the monotony, keeping your environment feeling fresh," she says.Add Some CurvesMatthew KisidayA round mirror—and pretty floral wallcovering—in a powder room designed by Kendall Rabun Interiors. "Round forms—circles, spheres, arches—are more than a design preference. They’re tied to our emotional response system," says Ingrid. "Neuroscientific studies have shown that sharp angles can activate the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear and anxiety, while curved forms set us at ease." To soften your space, Ingrid suggests trying a circular mirror, a round coffee table, or patterns with curved shapes. "These soft forms subtly signal playfulness, making a room feel more relaxed and joyful," she says.Paint Your Door Edges (Or Stair Risers)Annie SchlechterIn the home of Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, a painted stairwell brings playful energy to a more formal foyer You don’t need a lot of color to make a big impact in your space. "Just a small hit of a bright, saturated hue—like painting the edge of a door in coral or lemon yellow—can instantly lift the mood of a room," says Ingrid. "Color affects us in powerful, often subconscious ways. Research shows that people working in more colorful environments feel more alert, confident, and joyful than those in dull, neutral spaces." Ingrid also notes that the brighter the color, the less you need. "Start small by adding it in unexpected places: the back of a bookshelf, the trim of a window, or a stair riser," she says.Bring the Outside InDavid HillegasIn a Lowcountry bedroom designed by Heather Chadduck, freshly clipped branches bring the outdoors in.Natural elements have a direct connection to our well-being. "Biophilic design—a term that references our innate love of nature—has been shown to reduce stress and increase positive emotions," says Ingrid. "Plants are an ideal way to do this, but even if you don’t have a green thumb, patterns with nature motifs like vines, leaves, and flowers can bring a sense of lushness and vitality to a space. Whether it’s a lush wallpaper, a botanical print, or a natural fiber rug, these touches help create a calming, grounded feeling that reconnects us with the natural world."Embrace Repeating PatternsCourtesy of Hygge and WestA stripe repeat—like this one from Ingrid’s new collection with Hygge & West—provides comfort in its predictability.There’s something inherently joyful about repetition. "Whether it’s stripes, polka dots, scallops, or another shape, repeated motifs create rhythm and order," says Ingrid. "Psychologists believe our brains find comfort in this kind of visual predictability — it’s both soothing and energizing."Engage All of the SensesSTACY ZARIN GOLDBERGCandles? Check. Blanket? Check. Branches? Check. This breakfast room by Winsome Interior Design hits all the right notes. (Also: That blue floor!)Joy isn’t just something we see. It’s something we feel, hear, and even smell. "Soft textures, cozy materials, the scent of citrus or pine, the sound of a crackling candle or birdsong outside: all of these layer into a sensory experience that deepens our emotional connection to a place," says Ingrid. "A joyful home doesn’t just look good. It feels alive."Related StoriesRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett has written for and edited lifestyle publications for more than 20 years. As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, she has covered all things related to country life—including design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culture—for more than a decade. Before Country Living, Rachel spent several years at Southern Living, where she served as Executive Editor covering travel, food, style, and features. Before Southern Living, Rachel was the Special Projects Director of Real Simple, where she wrote and oversaw books and special issues about food, travel, weddings, organizing, and parenting in addition to working on international editions and licensed products. Before working at lifestyle brands, Rachel started her magazine career at Glamour, where she wrote and edited relationship articles, celebrity interviews, as well as fashion and features content. When she’s not working on the magazine, she can likely be found poking around an antiques shop, perusing country real estate listings, or dreaming of opening a general store.

If whiling away your day in the garden (preferably while wearing something flowy) or decorating exclusively with brown furniture is your idea of a good time, then I’ve got some news for you: it’s time to embrace your inner grandma. Yes, 2025 is the year of the grandma, and the grandma-chic look has never been, well, chicer. Not only is it wildly affordable to decorate like your grandma, but it’s also an easy way to ensure your home exudes timeless warmth. Below, I share what the grandma chic aesthetic actually is and the tips of a few expert thrifters about how you can bring the look home on a budget.Related StoriesWhat Is the Grandma-Chic Aesthetic? ALUN CALLENDERTimeless rose motifs add grandma-approved cottage charm to any room.Somewhere between grandmillennial, cottagecore, and a hefty appreciation for antiques sits the grandma-chic aesthetic. “It’s really just about comfort and familiarity,” says Margo Roth, founder of House of Margo. Overstuffed cushions, timeless textiles, classic wood furniture, and a sense of come-as-you-are ease are foundations to the aesthetic. Look for faded floral motifs, painterly stripes, woven textures, and other twee touches to bring the look home. Just be sure to approach the aesthetic with authenticity. “A grandmother’s home has been slowly curated and decorated over decades,” says expert thrifter Riley Wigington. “You can’t go buy a bunch of floral prints from one store and call it ‘grandma-chic.’ You need to infuse your own personality into your selections and ensure a variety of patterns, textures, and colors in your decor.”Grandma-Chic Pieces to Look for at Thrift Stores While the grandma aesthetic is as wide ranging as it is cozy, there are a few key elements that exemplify the happily homespun look. Below, Riley and Margo share their must-haves to look for on your next trip out thrifting: BasketsCARLOS GARCIAWoven baskets of all shapes and sizes stand at the ready in this home from British designer Carlos Garcia.Both Riley and Margo say wicker baskets are the ultimate must-have Grandma-chic item. “I firmly believe you can never have too many,” says Margo. They offer instant texture and are often found at local thrift stores for under $10. “Look for varying shapes and sizes,” says Riley. “Bonus points if they can hold something practical, like blankets or your latest knitting project.” Margo also loves using one in her garden as a stylish vegetable trug. “They are the perfect example of functional beauty,” she says. Related StoryPieced Quilts Buff Strickland for Country LivingIn designer Claire Zinnecker’s Texas farmhouse, an antique wedding ring quilt adds a comforting layer of nostalgia to her guest bedroom.Blankets and throws are a given in any grandma-adjacent space as they encourage the cozy, laze-about vibe associated with grandma’s house. Quilts of all kinds are encouraged, especially pieced quilts, which are prized for their handcrafted charm. Look for quilts in good condition with even, tight stitching to ensure their longevity. When cleaning older textiles, use gentle detergents and hang them to dry. You can also spritz them with a 1:1 mix of water and vodka to remove any lingering smells. Patterned Plates Courtesy of Deborah ArendsFruit- and flower-themed dinnerware adds homespun charm to any plate wall.Calling all majolica and Burleigh Pottery fans: This is your permission to thrift even more patterned and transferware plates. “Hang them on your wall for a true grandma-chic look,” says Riley. Collected plate walls, which have long been a staple of formal dining rooms and cottage kitchens alike, offer a sense of lived-in flair at a relatively low price point. Stick to one pattern or color palette, or mix shapes, styles, and colors for a happily hodgepodge look. Related StoryDark Wood Furniture COURTESY OF TIM SALISBURY/ANNA SPIRO DESIGNThis antique mahogany dresser doubles as a bedside table in this pattern-filled room by Anna Spiro.Dark wood furniture—think mahogany or walnut—was once the standard. While it may have fallen out of fashion in the last 30 years, its timeless appeal remains, and it has experienced a slow revival in recent years. Choose utility pieces with personality, such as a hutch or china cabinet, for the ultimate statement. Related StoryPyrex Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingPatterned Pyrex is prized amongst in-the-know collectors and can fetch a pretty penny on the market.There’s a pretty good chance that your grandmother exclusively used Pyrex to store her leftovers. The colorful dishware’s inherent nostalgia and cheerful disposition make it one of the most sought-after antiques on the market these days. Stay on the hunt long enough and you might just find yourself invited to an exclusive Pyrex swap. (Expert collectors recommend checking Facebook for Pyrex swap groups in your area.) Related Story Cozy Armchairs David A. Land for Country LivingNew upholstered furniture is notoriously expensive, making thrifting a much more affordable way to achieve the same look. While thrifting upholstery may conjure up images (read: nightmares) of bedbugs or other unseemly tag-alongs, it doesn’t have to. “If the item is clean or can be cleaned, has a slipcover, or is practically unused, go for it,” says Margo. Like caring for vintage quilts, cleaning upholstery is easier than it seems. Sprinkle baking soda over the piece and vacuum it off, or simply spray it with the same 1:1 mixture of water and vodka mentioned above. Riley suggests looking for unexpected fabric patterns in either stripes or florals to infuse your space with a little personality. And, if you find a piece with good bones, but less than “chic” fabric, it may still be worth buying and having reupholstered (or tackling a DIY reupholstering project). For a chance at high-end designer fabrics, skip the thrift store and check out a local estate sale for a well-loved arm chair in need of a second life. Related StoriesGardening Tools Kate Sears for Country LivingFrom lawn sprinklers to watering cans, vintage gardening tools add easy patina to any space.Grandma hobbies, also known as the useful pastoral pursuits that were once integral to everyday living, are experiencing a resurgence, with gardening taking center stage. Whether they’re useful pieces salvaged from Grandma’s potting shed or totally decorative finds that add patina to a bloom room or entryway, vintage gardening tools are full of charm and an affordable way to infuse any space with rustic texture. Related StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us? The secret to timeless country style? It’s more so a feeling than a look, and that feeling is warm and welcoming. Part of what gives a country-style home that warm and welcoming feeling is the sense that the furnishings have been collected over time. No matching sets here! Instead, it’s the homeowner’s personal pairing of the just right chairs with the just right tables, or grandma’s favorite arm chair reupholstered in a new fresh fabric. It’s also about the inviting colors, warm wood finishes, and, of course, a layering of patina. While each country house is unique and personal, there are a few elements that you’ll find time and time again—you could call them the MVPs of country style. They stand the test because they can be restyled or used in a different way as your house evolves. Here are those 7 no-regrets decor ideas that’ll look at home in any country-style house today—and decades from now. TOUR SOME OF OUR FAVORITE COUNTRY HOUSESA Blue & White Palette Brian Woodcock for Country LivingThe reliably fresh combo of blue and white causes our country hearts to flutter, and we’re not alone. “It’s a combo that dates all the way back to ancient Persia,” explains Ellen Fisher, a dean at the New York School of Interior Design. “The area’s wealth of cobalt gave way to the striking look.” (Indigo followed a similar course for textiles.) RELATED:Spool BedsBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingSixteenth-century woodworkers embraced spindle- or spool-style furniture, and the look became more popular in the 1800s as technology simplified the carving process. Spool beds are often called Jenny Lind beds after a 19th-century Swedish songstress who took a liking to them during her 1850 U.S. tour—but technically a Jenny Lind is a spool bed with squared edges. RELATED:Wingback ChairsDavid A. Land for Country LivingSoaring in popularity since the 1600s, the wingback chair’s “wings” were designed to block smoke from the fireplace. We love it for its heft. A wingback chair has enough presence to act as a decorative counterpoint to a sofa. Place it near a fireplace. Update it in a large-scale pattern. Or try a two-tone approach: Solid (or small-scale) on the inside; large-scale pattern on the back.RELATED:Trestle TablesMax Kim-BeeThe practical trestle table design dates back to the Middle Ages (it can be spotted on a medieval coat of arms) when it replaced solo dining surfaces with a communal gathering spot for sharing meals. Bonus: The X-base allows for more room at the corners than standard fixed legs. RELATED:Pine Furniture Marian ParsonsCountry design has always been rooted in casual elegance, and no material epitomizes that humble, understated approach to beauty more than scrubbed pine, which was especially popular in rural England in the 1800s. RELATED:Wainscoting Brian WoodcockTurns out our gravitation toward wainscoting is biological. “The human eye is wired to scan for the horizon,” explains Freya Van Saun, professor of decorative arts at the New York School of Interior Design. “Rooms dating to ancient Rome can be found with millwork defining the midline.”RELATED:Gingham FabricDavid Tsay for Country LivingAs far as patterns go, checks have a straightforward graphic charm that’s pleasing to the eye and well-proven longevity (checked gingham dates back to the 17th century!) Plus: They can go formal (the Queen’s Staircase in Versailles anyone?) or far from it (hello, chain restaurant tablecloth).More Timeless Decorating Ideas: