At Country Living, we have a serious soft spot for a good makeover. Whether its a top-to-bottom renovation of a $15,000 fixer-upper purchased on Facebook Marketplace or the revival of a foreclosed hunting lodge that once had birds fluttering about in the foyer, its hard to resist a good comeback story. However, as much as we love a straightforward house before and after, were especially excited when that makeover involves an unconventional conversionmaybe its a tugboat transformed into a floating cottage, a grain silo turned into a guesthouse, or a 160-year-old grain mill transformed into an airy farmhouse.Thats why our ears perked up when Alabama designer Ellen Godfrey mentioned she had recently turned a century-old country honky-tonkthats right, a honky-tonkinto a multi-generational family home. The property, part of an area known as Queenstown Lake, was once a popular destination for Birmingham city folk seeking a day trip or weekend away. It included cabins, a boarding house, swimming hole, and, yes, a honky-tonk. However, by the mid-century, it kinda fell into disrepair, says Ellen.Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyNewspaper clippings from the propertys heyday appear throughout the home. During its earliest years, the venue attracted big-for-the-time names like Benny Goodman, a.k.a. The King of Swing, and brothers Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey. A few years ago, the current ownerswho Ellen has known since childhooddecided to renovate, with the goal of turning the honky-tonk into a weekend retreat for friends and family. While Ellen wasnt part of the initial project planning, her talents were later enlisted in the name of making sure the character of the property remained intact. You could say the train had already left the station by the time I came on board, says Ellen, noting that decisions had to be made quickly as some things had already been set into motion. The train metaphor is fitting, as trains frequently come through the property on just the other side of the lake. Thats also why youll see vintage trains hovering just above the homes original booth seating right off the kitchen, and railroad crossing signage at the top of the stairwell. These sorts of storied elements and architectural quirks are what Ellen set out to preserve while simultaneously making tweaks to better accommodate needs of weekend guests. Since the transformationwhich now accommodates 16 houseguests at any given timethe homeowners have used it for weekends, assorted holidays, and, most recently, a daughters college reunion for a group of friends. In true honky-tonk spirit, thats music to Ellens ears. Whenever I see it in action, I think Oh, goodthats exactly what we were hoping for.Tour This Honky-tonk Turned Family Home:Working JukeboxMary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyOriginal to the property, the jukebox has been fully restored to working order. The leather chairs are vintage from Nicky Kehoe.Storied Stairwell Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyThe Queenstown Lake sign is a copy of the original sign that advertised the lake and boarding house. The stairwell banister was reclaimed from an old church balcony.Feed-a-Crowd Kitchen Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyGiven the homes history, the main floor was mostly open and the kitchen felt kind of floating out in the middle, says Ellen. To create zones more in keeping with a residencebut still capable of hosting large groupsEllen moved the kitchen back a bit to create more living and dining options in the main area. Six rush-seated barstools (Dorchester by Ballard Designs), a soapstone countertop, and three ovens and a warming drawer make for a highly functional gathering spot. The vintage pendant lights (for similar, Rejuvenation) are large enough to hold court in such a large open space.RELATED: 60 More Kitchen Filled With Timeless Ideas for Your Own KitchenBooth Seating Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyThe charming old-school boothsfour in totalare also original to the property. To up the comfort factor, Ellen added seat cushions made from a durable ticking stripe fabric (Tatton Stripe in Pumice by Perennials).Warm Welcome Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyOn the back side of the kitchen, youll find a new entry-meets-mudroom. Now when you come into the house, that space feels more like a proper foyer, says Ellen. In addition to serving up a proper entry moment, the new spacepainted Sandy Hook Gray by Benjamin Moore (now discontinued)offers ample storage for both coats, bags, and boots as well as serving ware and pantry items. Upstairs, a vintage railroad crossing sign is another nod to the nearby train track.Pastoral Patterns Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyA floral wallcovering (Apothecarys Garden by Trustworth Studios) brings whimsy to the bathroom. I like that the paper has a vintage feel. It made me think of being in the country in the middle of summer, says Ellen. The framed swim meet ribbons date back to the owners childhood. It wasnt until after we hung the wallpaper that I realized the exact same colors from the ribbons repeated in the paper, says Ellen. It was fate.RELATED: 40 More Inspiring Ways to Use Wallpaper in Your BathroomPool PartyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyThe basement became the game room as a matter of necessity. We had an old pool table, and it wasnt going to fit upstairs, so that dictated how the basement would be used, says Ellen.Upcycled Bar Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyThe wall-mounted bar is an old coat rack topped with a slab of wood. When paired with bar stools (from Urban Outfitters), it makes for an efficient use of space. The mounted fish, both real and wooden, are a nod to the familys time spent on the lake.Den-Like Downstairs Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyIs there a world where a tufted leather sofa doesnt make sense in a rec room? Here, a perfectly worn-in leather Chesterfield (by RH) sits pretty with patterned pillows. Just a stones throw away, a game table is always at the ready alongside a large antique RC Cola sign. Under-21 ClubMary Rosenbaum PhotographyIn the kids bedroom, spindle beds (Jenny Lind by Crate&kids) add classically country charm while whimsical horse wallcovering (Watercolor Horses by McGee and Co.) hints at the family-owned stables that sit adjacent to the property. RELATED: 70 More Stylish Kids Room Ideas That Even Grownups Will LoveClosing Time Quarters Mary Rosenbaum PhotographyMary Rosenbaum PhotographyWhen its time for the grownups to turn in, a pair of woven beds (Harbour Cane by Serena and Lily) outfitted with plaid sheets (by Piglet in Bed) will be happy to accommodate. Textured sconces (Wimberley by Visual Comfort & Co.) help brighten up the space, as does the lightened-up brick (painted Aloof Gray by Sherwin-Williams). In the adjacent bathroom, the neutral scheme continues with a small-scale wallpaper (Berain by Pintura Studio) and industrial sconces (Boston Head Light Sconce by Visual Comfort & Co.).Tour More Amazing Home Transformations:Rachel 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 lifeincluding design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culturefor 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 shes 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.

Courtesy of MasterClassCountry Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Ah, spring! The warm weather has returned, flowers are blooming, and all seems right in the world. With longer days and more sunshine, its also time to give your home some TLC. Of course that all makes us think of classic spring cleaning, and while we all need to deep clean at least a few areas (hello, dirty oven! and maybe we shouldnt ignore you any more, dusty walls?), perhaps we should think a little more broadly about refreshing our home this spring.MasterClass Designing a Home That Tells Your Story$120 at MasterClassCredit: Courtesy of MasterClassThats where our old friend Joanna Gaines, founder of Magnolia, can be of help. In her MasterClass, Gaines guides us through tips to spruce up a room in your home to make it uniquely right for you and your family in this season of life. If youre like me and youve been putting off figuring out what to do with some blank walls or how to think through changes in a room you arent loving, Gaines can help you find design direction to move forward with while youve got that get-up-and-do-something spring sunshine working for you. Here are some of Gainess top tips to develop a vision for your spring home refresh. Related StoriesTake inventory of your room. As a first step, look around the space you are considering changing and evaluate what does and doesnt speak to you today: What do you love about this space? Whats worth keeping? Whats worth removing? Is there anything you want to uncover and restore? What styles have you seen outside your home that speak to you, and are they in this space or not? These question swill help you decide what you want to add to the space based on where you and your family are now in life.Identify the ideal function of the space.Before getting to inspiration images, Gaines asks how a space will function for you or your family: What do I need this space to do for me and my family? How do I want this space to work? What is the best day in this space, and how do we use it then? Every space is an opportunity to make it work for you and your family, Gaines says in the class. Thats the intention and the thought I want on the front end that will help lead me through my design and the choices I make for the space.Establish a look and feel for the space.After you have thought through the function of the space, Gaines recommends reflecting on this question: What do you want your space to feel like? Describe it in a few words, or if you get stuck doing so, think about what you dont want and then flip it to the opposite to help you define what do you do want. Then let those words guide each design decision you make from there. If you hit a moment of decision paralysis, this vision can help get you unstuck and keep moving forward.Prioritize to stay on budget.Even as you work your way through Gainess tips, its easy to start scheming beyond your budget. But not to fear. Gaines recommends prioritizing whatever you hate most in a space and fixing that first. From there, you can take on other projects in the future as your budget allows.Remember nothing has to happen overnight, Gaines says in her MasterClass. Dont forget that the moments that are happening within the home matter way more than anything when it comes to design and styling and renovation.To get all of Gainess tips for home design and to see photos from her dramatic before and after projects (a farmhouse! a castle!) to illustrate them, subscribe to MasterClass and watch her Designing a Home That Tells Your Story class. Annual memberships start at $120, but MasterClass offers an array of sales throughout the year.Related StoriesMadoline Markham KoonceAssistant Managing EditorMadoline Markham Koonce is the assistant managing editor at Country Living and VERANDA, where she covers home dcor, shopping, travel, news, and culture. She began her career at Southern Living and previously worked in community journalismincluding serving as the editor of three community magazines she helped launch. She has an undergraduate degree in history from Rhodes College (and loves to tap her love of history in her writing) as well as a master's degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri. When she's not on deadline, you can find her baking or lost in a good book.

For almost 250 years, West Virginias storied resort The Greenbrier has attracted generations of guests to its 11,000 scenic acres in the Allegheny Mountains. The National Historic Landmark, which has hosted everyone from royalty (the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Princess Grace) to 28 U.S. Presidents, remains an enduring symbol of Southern hospitality and exuberant interiors. So when designer Kendall Rabun was tasked with outfitting a new country house for a New York family of five at the Greenbrier Sporting Club, a private residential community on the pastoral property, the Atlanta-raised, and now Bronxville, New York-based, designer felt the weight of the task.I [sensed the] looming presence of Dorothy Draper, Kendall says, referring to the design legend who masterfully transformed the resorts interiors in the 1940s with 45,000 yards of fabric and 40,000 gallons of paint. (At one point the resorts green-walled, red-carpeted writing room was said to be the most photographed room in America.)Matthew KisidayClassic country touchesincluding a blue beadboard half-wall with shelf, an apron-front sink, and a skirted storage area in the laundry roomabound throughout this well-appointed property.Despite the undisputable design chops of her chintz-loving predecessor, Kendall felt confident this modern Greek Revival property merited its own point of view. I just knew from the beginning that my goal wasnt to try to compete or emulate but to sneak in little references [to The Greenbriers storied design] while pivoting toward a more country feeling, says Kendall. Case in point: The floral wallcovering in the laundry room (Lucknow by Carolina Irving) is a not-too-on-the-nose nod to Drapers iconic Rhododendron wallcovering, seen throughout the resort.The same goes for slightly more subdued pops of patternincluding paisleys, florals, checks, and stripesthat play well throughout the 3,200-square-foot home. Similarly, while the resort itself is known for bold contrasts, Kendall embraced color via a more complementary, landscape-inspired lensthink earthy browns, sky blues, and serene greens. For the homeowners and their three sonsages 12, 11, and 9the result is everything they hoped for and more. A country home suggests a dwelling with an inextricable relationship to the natural world, says Kendall. Here, from the gracious back porch, you can truly take in the majesty of the Allegheny Mountains. Its a humbling and awe-inspiring thing.Below, step inside the dreamy home: Tour More Dreamy Country EscapesPolished PatternsMatthew KisidayMatthew KisidayWith its large-scale circa-1800s paisley print, the entrys wallcovering sets a lively tone befitting the propertys history. The custom ink drawing by Hugo Guinness features five dandelions, referencing the homeowners and their three children. Underfoot, a Greek key design hand-painted by Connecticut-based artist Shelly Denning gives a wink to the homeowners Greek ancestry. The bronzed brass-and-glass globe lantern is modeled after a 19th-century antique. Get the Look:Wallcovering: Kashimir by JasperLantern: Vaughan DesignsConversation CornersMatthew KisidayThe welcoming living rooms many blues, greens, and neutrals blend for a one-with-nature scene that complements the setting outside the French doors. A textural grasscloth wallcovering adds coziness but doesnt compete with the patterned fabrics.Matthew KisidayMatthew KisidayPaired with a vintage marble and brass drinks table, the rooms custom banquette, covered in a petite patterned stripe, creates an intimate conversation corner. Above it, 19th-century artworks, including a British equestrian painting in a simple burl frame, hint at the familys horse-racing history. The rooms oversize ottoman was designed so every houseguest could put both their feet up and their drink down. (Note the slide-out drink tray on the right.)Get the Look: Banquette Fabric:Dutch Stripe by Jasper FabricsGrasscloth Wallcovering: Manila Hemp by Phillip JeffriesOttoman:James Showroom Matthew KisidayCustom door panels based on a Moroccan motif add an exotic touch to the wet bar.Get the Look: Door Panels:Mosaic HousePretty PleatsMatthew KisidayFor proof that a country house neednt skimp on softness, simply look to the homes breakfast room, which features block-print floral draperies, a custom pendant with a gathered floral print shade, and rattan dining chairs outfitted with cushions made of a carefree performance fabric. Even the antique furniture and fixturesa scalloped 19th-century pine hutch, a trestle table, ornate iron sconceshave soft curves. The brown-and-cream spongeware was inspired by 19th-century British stoneware. Get the Look:Drapery Fabric: Samode by Lisa Fine TextilesDining Chairs:Sika Design Dining Chair Cushion Fabric: French Ikat by Carolina Irving TextilesSpongeware: Tory BurchNatural TexturesMatthew KisidayIn the kitchen, custom wicker pendant lights illuminate the marble-topped island and its bistro-style rattan stools. The green weave of the seating plays off the green hue of the hand-finished terra-cotta tiles that compose the check-patterned backsplash. Kendall also looked to nature for the artwork, opting for a set of 12 antique botanicals in a single hand-painted frame. Get the Look:Stools: AnthropologieBacksplash Tile: Mosaic HouseBotanical Artwork:Casa Gusto Verdant Backdrop Matthew KisidayIn the powder room, a botanical wallpaper provides a verdant backdrop for the vintage rattan mirror and the marble sink.Get the Look:Wallpaper: Renaissance Herbier by SchumacherSerene GreensMatthew KisidayMatthew KisidayAny visitor to The Greenbrier is familiar with the signs that come out at bedtime: ShhIts Sleepy Time Down South. In this restful bunk room, Kendall coated the beds, walls, and trim with the same soothing green shade, which is echoed in the window treatments and the ceiling wallpaper. The golf bag print above the left bunk hints at the rooms 11th-hole view as well as the familys love of the game. The Greek key design, at right, on the bunk beds is another tribute to the homeowners Greek ancestry. Get the Look: Window Treatments:Argentine by Quadrille FabricsCeiling Wallpaper:Links by Galbraith & PaulPaint: Breakfast Room Green by Farrow & BallRELATED: Need to Sleep a Crowd? Try These Nostalgic Bunk Room IdeasFloral BluesMatthew KisidayIn the bath off the bunk room, a petite floral wallcovering is combined with a checkerboard tile floor and a sweet blue-shaded light fixture.Get the Look: Wallcovering: Devonshire by JasperLight Fixture:Sazerac StitchesThe Dorothy Draper EffectMatthew KisidayIn the primary bedroom, a plaster shell-form chandelier brings in a bit of nature, and a grass cloth wallcovering adds warmth.Get the Look:Wallcovering: Phillip JeffriesChandelier: Liz O'BrienMatthew KisidayMatthew KisidayAlso in the primary bedroom, Kendall again channeled Dorothy Draper with the large-scale fabric on the headboard, which is accompanied by an antique nightstand and a purple ceramic lamp. At right, an antique-inspired desk is paired with a 1920s marquetry chair reupholstered in a colorful floral fabric. Get the Look:Headboard Fabric: Thistle by George SpencerCeramic Lamp: by Christopher SpitzmillerDesk: by Highland House FurnitureChair Upholstery: Decors BarbaresRELATED: Best Bedroom Ideas for Every Decorating StyleLetting the Light InMatthew KisidayCaf curtains offer privacy in the primary bathroom but at the same time let in plenty of natural light. I cant help but start the day happy when there is so much sunlight and beauty around me, the homeowner says of one of her favorite rooms in the house. A pair of faux bamboo mirrors and lacquered brass sconces with whimsical floral backplates help complete the space. Get the Look: by Sconces:Ann-Morris LightingRELATED: Caf Curtains Are Back! Heres How to Get Them RightGolf Course ViewsMatthew KisidayFrom the comfort of the back porch, the homeowners can take in views of the Old White (a golf course named after the Old White Hotel, which previously stood on The Greenbriers grounds) while sipping wine on the rattan sofa covered with durable indoor-outdoor fabric designed by Mark D. Sikes.Get the Look:Sofa Fabric: Oleander from Schumacher Check Out More Homes in Dreamy Country Settings

EricVega//Getty ImagesCountry Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Home ownership has long been a huge part of the American Dream because the benefits go far beyond the opportunity for financial growth. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), owning your own home can lead to better mental and physical health, increased financial and physical health for seniors, reduced rates of divorce, and improved school performance and development of children. Of course, everyone pictures the right house a little differently. While some people want to try fitting a family of four into a tiny house or pursuing a hot-to-trot life in a barndominium others might see themselves mixing cocktails in a cozy Cape Cod-style cottage. There are folks who wouldnt trade all the history that comes with living in an old farmhouse, no matter that it might come with creaks, cracks, and iffy plumbing. Then there are the people who have designs on building a totally custom home packed with a made-to-order layout, custom finishes, and field-tested amenities.On the other hand, very few people are likely to share dreams of buying a spec house because, well, its not a thing. Thats because in the past, spec homes have been associated with mass-produced structures filled with builder-grade finishes and stacked up in master-planned communitiesnot exactly the most charming way to start a story about living happily ever after. But, if youre in the market for a new house, you shouldnt sleep on a spec house! Today, high-end builders and developers are pouring money and attention into extra-special specs that are, well, nothing short of spec-tacular.EricVega//Getty ImagesFOR MORE ON REAL ESTATE TRENDS:What is a spec house?A spec house is a residence thats been designed and built without any input from a specific buyer. In the past, a builder or developer made selections for everything from exterior paint colors and stone to kitchen and bath tiles, countertops, and plumbing in the hopes of appealing to a large number of potential buyers and maximizing the amount of money they could make on the deal. That meant leaning into more neutral colors, less-expensive materials, and nothing-out-of-the-ordinary layouts.But things are changing. If you watch shows like Million Dollar Listing or Selling Sunset, you are well aware that a lot of real estate investors and custom luxury builders have moved into the spec space. These are people who are sparing no expense and adding things that would have been unheard of in spec homes years agoslabs of marble shipped in from Italy, $25,000 bathtubs, built-in aquariums, well-appointed butlers pantries, infinity pools. Why? Theyre confident there are plenty of buyers out there looking for top-of-the-line everything without the hassle of building it themselvesand they only need one of them to sign on the dotted line.PC Photography//Getty ImagesWhat are the benefits of buying a spec house?While rewarding, taking on the task of building a custom house comes with a huge time commitment and so many challenges. You have to find the right architect, the right builder, and the right piece of property; make non-stop decisions; deal with materials that are on backorder; handle timelines that get extended; and expect budgets to get blown out. The biggest boon of buying a spec house is that you have no part in any of that. The home is complete, and its being pretty much sold as-is. You only have to take the time to walk through it, and the only decision you have to make is whether its the right fit for you and your family. In some cases, architects and builders work with interior designers from the start, so the homes are completely done. All the beautiful wallpapers, furnishings, rugs, lighting, and artwork are cohesive and in keeping with the teams vision for the home. But wait! Theres more. The homes are also stocked with bedding, towels, dishware, pots and panseverything that anyone could possibly need to live well upon move-in. Obviously, buying a turnkey home saves a ton of time, and its especially appealing to buyers looking for a second or third home.When you do the math of all the time and energy spent, along with the cost of land, furnishings, and so on, you may also find that a spec home is actually saving you money, even when its chock-full of super-luxe items. EricVega//Getty ImagesWhat are some of the drawbacks of buying a spec home?Are you a person with very specific tastes? Do you like looking at a million different Quartzites and debating the pros and cons of each? Are you passionate and very specific about what you like in lighting, faucets, tile, and flooring? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, going the spec route might not be for you. As we mentioned, all those decisions have already been made for you by the time you enter the equation. And if youre someone who feels strongly about making a home extra personal, the idea of moving into a totally turnkey home is even less appealing. While todays spec homes are way more charming and customized than the model homes of 20 years ago, the fact of the matter is that mostif not allof the decision making is out of your hands. And if youre thinking youre going to get a spec home for a steal, you may need to reconsider. While most builders do want to sell quickly to avoid carrying costs, theyre still looking to make money. Bottom line: If the house is full of expensive upgrades and finishes, dont expect to get a whole bunch of something for nothing.Brush Up On Your House Styles:

We love a good wow moment in the living rooma stylish and impactful something-something that catches your eye when you first enter the most welcoming space of your home. Maybe its a statement-making piece of furniture, an arrangement of artwork that commands your attention, or a single wall clad in character-rich reclaimed wood or wallpaper. All of these ideas and more make for interesting living room accent wall design ideasdesign focal points that will stop your guests in their tracks, all while making your home feel uniquely you.One fun thing about accent walls is the optionsso many options! Farmhouse living room accent wall ideas, like freshly painted shiplap, wainscoting, board-and-batten paneling, and beadboard, bring architectural interest to a living room. Looking for more rustic living room ideas? Try reclaimed wood as a way to add instant charm to new builds or renovations alike.Perhaps the most popular and easy!way to enliven a single wall is with living room accent wall paint ideas. Pretty living room paint colors act as a backdrop for impressive, artful arrangements, like gallery wall ideas that incorporate collected artwork, family photos, and other meaningful mementos. These personality-driven design moments invite you to pause and linger. Below, discover some of our favorite one-of-a-kind DIY living room accent wall ideas like paint, wallpaper, and paneling right here!Here are more ways to make your living room your favorite room in the house: 1Vertical Wood Paneling Accent WallDane Tashima for Country LivingThe soaring vertical paneling in this converted barns living room draws the eye up to the impressive wood beams overhead. Leather furniture, baskets, and stacks of firewood add warmth to the soaring space. TOUR THIS HOUSE2Grasscloth and Wainscoting Accent WallHelen Norman for Country LivingThis might just be the most stylish TV wall weve ever seen! On a family room accent wall of beige grasscloth above painted shiplap wainscoting, designer James Farmer arranged a mix of vintage French baskets of varying shapes and framed hunting-themed art around the television. RELATED: Cozy Living Rooms Youll Want to Snuggle Up In ForeverAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Wall of Windows Accent WallAnnie SchlecterTalk about an accent wall! In this open-concept great room, floor-to-ceiling windows frame an ever-changing view of the lake for what we would argue is the ultimate accent wall. A cozy seating area near the windows makes for an ideal spot to soak up nature, while double sofas provide maximum comfort for a weekend crowd. TOUR THIS HOUSE4Angled Wood Paneling Accent WallDave WaddellFor a subtle yet clever twist on wood paneling, install it on an angle. Here, warm white paint on the ceiling and walls provides a clean backdrop for the khaki sofa and colorful rug. Another of our favorite slightly modern living room accent wall ideas: Cover an accent wall in an ultra-cool throwback wallpaper.Get the Look: Wall Paint Color:Oyster White by Sherwin-WilliamsRELATED: The Best Warm White Paint Colors For Every Room in Your HouseAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Black Paint Accent WallMax Kim-Bee for Country LivingMatte gray-black paint is a sophisticated canvas for a casual gallery wall of framed and unframed family silhouettes, oil paintings, and a 1920s deer mount. We love this as one of our favorite black living room accent wall ideasthe artwork really pops! A handmade flag, which sports the red cross of St. Patrick, hung atop a corrugated metal piece, adds even more visual punch. TOUR THIS HOUSE6Creative Wallpaper Accent WallChristopher Dibble for Country LivingWe could not be more obsessed with this DIY living room accent wall idea! In place of standard wallpaper, take vintage book pages and decoupage them on your wall with wallpaper glue. The ones shown here are from vintage bird-watching manuals and maritime books, a nod to the homes waterside location. It took about a day to install, says homeowner Ted Kennedy Watson. We just love it!TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: 20 Types of Sofas and How to Choose the Right One for Your RoomAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Rock or Stone Accent WallMarta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingThis impressive accent wall of moss rock makes for the most amazing lodge-like vibes in this Minnesota living room. The stone is stacked tall to meet the timbered ceiling of white oak and elm. Below, the fireplace and cubbies are seamlessly built in, creating the coziest spot for listening to music or warming up in front of the fire. TOUR THIS HOUSE8Vintage Collections Accent WallBjorn WallanderFloor-to-ceiling painted shelves piled with prized collections, like ceramic vases, mercury glass compotes, plates, and more offer a revolving accent wall for collectors (raise your hand!). Pro tips for the most pleasing visual arrangement: Group like items in odd numbers and stagger heights and prop paintings and trays behind groupings as pretty backdrops, as shown here.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Art Gallery Accent WallAlec Hemer for Country LivingOne piece of art is great, but a whole wall of art... thats an accent wall! Keep the subject matter consistent for a more cohesive look, like in this arrangement of boat scenes and seascapes in the Maine home of designer Loi Thai. RELATED: The Fisherman Aesthetic Is One of 2025s Hottest Design Trends10Reclaimed Wood Accent WallRyann Ford A rustic reclaimed wood accent wall creates a quintessentially country focal point in this Texas living room. In fact, almost every building material in this house has lived a former life! Two sets of French doors and a pair of metal sconces create symmetry, with the columned fireplace mantel as the star of the show. TOUR THIS HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Unique Collection Accent WallDavid Hillegas for Country LivingThis living room accent wall is clad in vertical shiplap painted a striking deep blue. For eye-catchingand budget-friendly!wall art, hang one large basket on the wall as an anchor, then surround it with several smaller round baskets for a starburst effect. This kind of wall decor works with other collectibles too, like framed silhouettes, botanicals, paint-by-numbers, or kids artwork. RELATED: More Pretty Living Room Paint Colors for Walls, Ceilings, Trim, and More12Vintage Furniture Accent Wall David Tsay for Country LivingA piece of furniture that covers the entire back wall of this Texas living room makes quite a statement. The substantial apothecary cabinet houses collected yellowware and provides storage for linens, crafting supplies, and more. Other vintage treasures include a chippy factory cart used as a moveable coffee table and general store signage that create focal points throughout.TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: 100+ Best Places to Shop for Antiques and Vintage OnlineAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below13Fireplace Nook Accent WallBrie Williams for Country LivingIn her tiny bungalow, homeowner Bambi Costanzo transformed a completely blank nook into a curated accent wall that includes an electric firebox, an antique mantel wrapping a brick surround, lower shelves to display treasures, and a hodge-podge collection of landscape paintings. The thoughtful arrangement gives the room instant hand-me-down history. For small living room accent wall ideas like this one, we say pack in the charm!TOUR THIS HOUSE14Large Art Accent WallPaul Costello for Country LivingSometimes keeping it simple is the best way to go. One oversize piece of art or architectural salvage, like this late 1800s weathered clock face, is all a wall needs to go from sleepy to statement. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Wall-to-Wall Art Accent WallRead McKendree for Country LivingFor a one-of-a-kind accent wall, think outside the box and hang a collection of artwork wall to wall and ceiling to floor. Its a fun look that can continue to evolve as you find new pieces to add to the arrangement. 16Horizontal Wainscoting Accent WallQuentin BaconThis living room accent wall does double duty, with handsome forest green horizontal wainscoting on the lower half and a warm creamy white above that serves as a perfect backdrop for a unique arrangement of Adirondack-style and tramp art frames. For the record, we love a collage of collected mirrorswhatever the frames!from flea markets or tag sales as a budget-friendly way to decorate an accent wall.RELATED: Wainscoting Ideas to Add Character to Every Room in Your HomeAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below17Grasscloth-Covered Accent WallAlec HemerIn this tailored living room, the wall behind the sofa is covered in a grasscloth wallcovering that from far away reads solid but reveals its texture and varied shades upon closer sight. A grid of framed art fills out the space between the apple-green velvet curtains. 18Hat Collection Accent Wall Read McKendree for Country LivingTurn unexpected items into art for an accent wall that is sure to spark conversation. Here, in an Massachusetts beach cottage, a row of straw hats adds fun shape and texture to a white wall. I love using things that are three-dimensional, designer Marynn Udvarhelyi says, noting how the hats pair well with the warm wood trim.TOUR THIS HOUSEAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19Wide Tongue-and-Groove Paneling Accent WallErin KellyTen-inch-wide poplar paneling on this cottages fireplace wall brings loads of character to the cozy living space. Painting the flat-front mantel, brick fireplace surround, and wall the same color is a smart small-space design trick. Another pro tip: Be sure to consider the lines the paneling creates when choosing a board width. Four- or six-inch paneling might have been too busy in this room. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: 50 Fireplace Ideas to Warm Up Your Home20Bookshelf Accent WallAnnie Schlechter for Country LivingLet's talk about bookshelf wealth. A floor-to-ceiling library (complete with a library ladder!) in a Manhattan apartment is every book-lover's dream and sets the coziest scene for curling up by the stone-framed fireplace. A gallery wall of family art adds even more of a personal touch.TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: 32 Built-In Bookcase Ideas to Take Any Room from Boring to BookishAmy MitchellManaging EditorAmy Mitchell is the managing editor for VERANDA and Country Living, where she writes articles on a variety of topicsdecorating and design, gardens, and holidays. Amys experience in the shelter magazine category spans more than 20 years, as shes 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.

Growing up, I loved chatting with my aunt about her various crafty habits. Whether it was canning her gardens latest harvest or making jewelry, her hands were always moving. Her passion for stained glass, however, always held my attention the most. She would spend hours in her workshop, only to emerge with these whimsical art pieces that absolutely enamored me. To this day, I seek out stained glass works whenever I visit historic homes or churches. So, when I noticed more homes with stained glass accents crossing my desk at Country Living recently, I got excited. In 2025, stained glass is officially back! Related StoryIve seen a notable rise in demand for stained glass in interiorsespecially with adventurous residential clients who are embracing this timeless craft in modern, innovative ways, says California stained-glass artist Debbie Bean. The colorful glasswork is just the latest grandma-adjacent decorating trend to make a comeback in recent years. (Looking at you, caf curtains and wood-paneled walls.) Its also a part of the wider design trend that rejects monochromatic sameness and has gained popularity in recent years as homeowners and design-lovers alike reject the homogenization of algorithm aesthetics. While stained glass has historic roots that go all the way back to the 7th century, it didnt reach its prime in American residential spaces until the late 19th and 20th centuries when it was popularized by Charles Lewis Tiffany. (Yes, hes that Tiffany of the famed Tiffany & Co.) Todays popular iterations reference historic forms Tiffany wouldve worked with, such as flowers, or embrace the geometrics that became popular during the Arts & Crafts movement. Regardless of your style, whether modern farmhouse or classic cottage, there are stained glass accents that could work for you and your home. Below, weve gathered up some of my favorite places to use it. The Five Best Places to Use Stained GlassIn the Entry Read McKendree for Country LivingDesigner Marynn Udverhelyi opted to keep this stained glass door, which was installed by the previous homeowner that owned a glass business, in her Nantucket cottage project.In the KitchenReid RollsDesign duo Leanne Ford and Grace Mitchell opted for a stained glass showcase in their Texas cottage kitchen. In the Dining RoomSara Ligorria-TrampStained glass accents add a bit of color to this airy dining room.In the BedroomSara Ligorria-TrampThis barn homes oversized bunk bed pair gets a fanciful spin thanks to the two small stained glass windows.In the BathroomSara Ligorria-TrampStained glass accents add a pop of color to this bathrooms entry.MORE DECORATING 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 youve 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 shes 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.

Here's a "where are they now?" story you'll loveand may have completely missed over the last few years: Christopher Knight, best known as Peter Brady from The Brady Bunch, has a line of absolutely gorgeous furniture called, you guessed it, Christopher Knight Home. And it's available on Amazonoften with deals to boot. While Peter Brady's (heh) collection has decor for every room, we can't stop drooling over the patio furniture now that spring is on its way. And guess whatyou may already recognize the chairs featured in this beaut of a set.The Oprah Interview ChairsChristopher Knight Home Burchett Outdoor 4-Piece Chat SetNow 17% Off$1,066 $887 at AmazonIs it all coming back to you? If you watched Oprah Winfrey's 2021 interview with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, you've seen Christopher Knight Home's patio furniture. The Burchett chairs they were sitting on sold out quickly after the interview aired, but they're included in this 4-Piece Burchett Chat Set, which just so happens to be in stock and $170 off right now.There's more where that came fromshop our favorite patio pieces from Christopher Knight Home below!Christopher Knight Home Patio FurnitureChristopher Knight Home Avani Wood and Wicker Club ChairsNow 47% Off$400 $212 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Muntz Acacia Wood Daybed Frame$475 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Lahaina Wood Chaise Lounge Set$236 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Alfy Club Chair SetNow 24% Off$524 $400 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Oprah Outdoor Side TableNow 28% Off$101 $73 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Sedona Acacia Wood Conversation Set$495 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Carlisle Acacia Wood Coffee TableNow 37% Off$152 $95 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Carolina Acacia Sofa SetNow 44% Off$515 $289 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Alva Rocking Chair with Footrest$184 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Colmar Iron Bistro SetNow 30% Off$230 $161 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Esme Acacia Wood BenchNow 21% Off$212 $168 at AmazonChristopher Knight Home Marcia Wood and Wicker SofaNow 15% Off$313 $266 at AmazonSo many head-turning options are availableand they often go on sale, like this set of teak Alfy Outdoor Club Chairs (which are now cheaper than they were on Black Friday last year), or this solid acacia wood outdoor coffee table for less than $100. Yep, your backyard is about to look so good.Shop Christopher Knight Home Patio Furniture on Amazon Jessica DukesCommerce EditorJessica is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, where she writes for Oprah Daily, Popular Mechanics, Best Products, Women's Health, Men's Health, Bicycling, and Runner's World. With more than 15 years of experience, she tests and reports on useful, unique, and trending productseverything from baby gear to home decor to power toolsand tracks the best sales in the lifestyle and tech spaces.

If youve ever tried to craft a stylish tableau on a coffee table, then you know just how challenging it can be to achieve the perfect mix of height, texture, and shape. As someone who produces the beautifully styled homes you see on Country Living, allow me to assist. What you might not have realized is that there is a pretty basic formula you need to follow for a perfectly styled coffee table. Its what we use in the magazine all the time, and its called the 3B Theory. RELATED:The 3B Theory is pretty simple. Every large tabletop surfacewhether its a coffee table or a console tableshould have a mix of three elements: boxes, bowls, and brass. (Some might prefer boxes, books, and brass, which works too, but we prefer bowls since they introduce another shape into the mix.) This rule of three is even backed up by science! As humans, our brains are naturally drawn to the offset symmetry that groups of three provide. Lets break down each element and chat about why it works. 1. Boxes When building your tableau, start with boxes. These effortlessly add height, so pick your most attractive option to stack high above the others. If your preferred box isnt tall enough, stack it on top of pretty coffee table books for an elevated (literally) look. And, while your box can be made of any material, antique wood boxes work especially well here.2. BowlsBowls should come next as they are typically larger than your final brass accents. If you need additional height, opt for a footed compote. Natural materials, such as faux horn, or lovely patinaed silver (not shiny!) are my favorite for this element. In a farmhouse or cottage, a basket can also stand in as the bowl.3. BrassFinally, use brass accents to complete your display. Quirky figurines or vintage candleholders are the easiest vehicle for adding that charming patina, but larger brass accentssuch as a vase or a pitcherwork just as well. Just be sure to choose a piece that is distinctly different in size from the other items in your coffee table display. Best 3B Accents To BuyBurlwood Box$47 at AmazonBrass Dog Figurine$35 at AmazonMercury Glass CompoteNow 53% Off$32 $15 at MagnoliaSet of Aged Brass Bells$119 at Pottery BarnHorn Bowl$28 at WayfairSet of Leather Boxes$55 at AmazonFOR MORE LIVING 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 youve 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 shes 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 the Food Director of Country Living, it should come as no surprise that my kitchen is the most used room in the house. Whether it's lounging over a morning cup of coffee, cooking dinner while listening to music and chatting, or mixing cocktailsI'm partial to whiskey sourswhen friends come over, it's where everyone wants to convene. That's why when we renovated our kitchen in 2016, I made sure to leave room for a sofa. Yes, a sofa.Why I Love a Sofa in the KitchenI have always loved the sort of house in which life centers around the kitchen. You know the ones. While bar stools have their merits, I opted for a seatless central work island and an adjacent landing spot where, if I'm not cooking, I can lounge and comfortably take in the activities of the kitchen. Sofas, quite simply, encourage lingering. What could be better than friends making conversation as you cook or the kids reading on the sofa while Dad whips up dinner? Besides, more and more people are breaking the so-called rules of kitchen design these days. For example, in Leanne Ford's latest remodel with Grace Mitchell, she skipped installing an island entirely. I've also seen more people embracing table lamps on countertops and artwork above the stove. In other words, the cook space and living space lines are blurring, and I love it. Charlyne Mattox for Country LivingHow to Choose a Sofa for the KitchenFirst, consider the silhouette. This probably isn't the time for a hulking English roll-arm (although if you're kitchen can accommodate as much, good for you). I opted for a clean-lined 82-inch-long midcentury modern style from a local consignment shop that tucked in right below the stairwell. You may also want to explore settees or oversized loveseats, which have a slightly smaller scale than your standard sofa. (Want more ideas? Check out our sofa style guide.)Then there's the fabric. As you probably assume, a durable performance fabric in the kitchen is a must. Performance fabrics by brands including Sunbrella, Perennials, and Crypton are designed to be stain-resistant and easy to clean. I reupholstered our sofa in a Sunbrella outdoor fabric. If you're looking for a new piece of furniture, brands like Interior Define and Article have made-to-order options at direct-to-consumer prices. If you already have a sofa but it isn't the right color or material, you can opt for a slipcover, which is easy to take off and throw in the wash should there be a spill. More Rules to Break in the KitchenI'll admit people were skeptical when I first talked about adding a sofa and picked the very colorful fabric, but now it gets tons of comments and it's the first place everyone lands when they come to visit. If you don't feel like you have room for a sofa, consider something equally unexpected like a stately wingback or pair of club chairs. Related StoriesCharlyne MattoxFood and Crafts DirectorCharlyne Mattox is the Food and Crafts director with over 20 years recipe development, recipe editing, and crafting experience. Prior to starting at Country Living in 2014, she worked in the crafts department at Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Kids before attending cooking school at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. She was nominated for a James Beard media award while a senior editor at Real Simple magazine and authored a cookbook Cooking with Seeds.When not in the kitchen she loves to garden, focusing on growing flowers and kitchen herbs (of course), watering her 25 house plants, and knitting scarfs or hats she will never be able to wear in the always hot and steamy Alabama.

If youve ever read a kitchen design guide or walked through the halls of an old manor home, theres a good chance youve come across the term scullery. If youre like me, it might even conjure images of Downton Abbey or Gilded Age (Im team Russell, in case you were wondering!). And theres a reason for that. Sculleries, once reserved for the working members of grand houses, have now become the latest must-have addition to modern kitchens. Below, youll learn exactly what a scullery is, how it differs from spaces like the mudroom or butlers pantry, and how you can incorporate one into your own home. RELATED STORIES:Brie Williams for Country LivingThis North Carolina mountain homes scullery includes a small drink refrigerator. What is a modern day scullery? Historically, sculleries were spaces used by staff for cleaning up after elaborate meals. However, modern sculleries function much more like hardworking butlers pantries or dirty kitchens, a term popularized in recent years to identify a space off the kitchen where prep work and clean up can be done out of the view of guests. Design purists might argue that sculleries should still only be used as cleanup spaces. In reality, though, most contemporary homes dont have three separate spaces for prep, storage, and clean-up, so current iterations of the scullery are a versatile combination of all three. Additionally, todays sculleries are typically larger than traditional pantries. The Three Key Elements of a Scullery:Ample storage, either with open shelving or closed-door cabinetryA sink, and sometimes a dishwasherPrep space, often with butcher block countertopsAli Harper for Country LivingThis river cottages scullery was drenched in the dreamy shade of French Gray by Farrow & Ball.Why is it called a scullery? Scullery is the Anglicized version of escuelerie, an old Old French term for office of the servant in charge of plates. The earliest English usage of the word dates back to around 1440, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, which published its first definition for scullery in 1911. Today, the term is heavily linked to British kitchen design; on this side of the Atlantic, this space is more commonly referred to as a butlers pantry, or even just a walk-in pantry.Kitchen vs. SculleryThe main difference between a kitchen and scullery lies in their cooking capabilities. While a scullery might have a few small appliances and a sink (and maybe even a dishwasher), you wont find a range or oven. Any cooking done here is quick and simple, as sculleries are not equipped to make full meals. Additionally, sculleries are generally smaller than kitchens and not used for gathering. Even large sculleries are often only spacious enough to fit one or two people at a time. Laurey W. GlennThis scullery space designed by Lizzie Cox Interiors is often used for arranging florals. Mudroom vs. ScullerySculleries and mudrooms, though seemingly similar, are actually very different. A mudroom is typically located off the rear of the house, near a garage or back door and functions as a family dumping ground and pass-through area. Its the place where the kids store their sports gear and backpacks and where you might keep all your winter coats, not the place for washing up dishes or storing dry goods. In contrast, a scullery is devoted to general kitchen and housekeeping tasks. RELATED STORIES: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 youve 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 shes 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.

Remember those days when design was all about the open floor plan? Everyone wanted "open concept" spaces so that the kitchen, dining, and living rooms were more communally contrived.Then came 2020, and it made for a whole lot of togethernesstoo much togetherness. Since then, homeowners have circled back to craving tucked-in nooks and cranniesso much so that the word "cozy" is trending in 2025 real estate listings. It seems every "of the moment" interior spacefirst the scullery, then the party pantry, then the dirty kitchen (think a smaller "back of house" working kitchen), and lately the bedroom snugis simply some new excuse to sneak away for a bit.Xavier Bejot, Courtesy of Timothy CorriganA bloom room designed by Timothy Corrigan features a collection of pretty pots and plantersAnnie SchlechterBunny Williams bloom room features a skirted sink and assortment of vintage vessels.The latest addition to the conversationand just in time for spring gardening seasonis the Bloom Room. Think of it as a hybrid of a potting station and a mudroom, but at least thirty percent prettier. Inspired by the garden-adjacent cutting rooms of the English countrysideand the storied interiors of famed horticulturalist Bunny Mellonit's a space dedicated to any and all tasks tied to the cutting garden (see: watering, clipping, arranging...). It's also a look that aligns with the trending "garden girl" aesthetic and enduring cottagecore inclinations.Laurey W. GlennDesigned by Lizzie Cox Interiors, this bloom room is rich with color and pattern.Ideally, a bloom room is outfitted with a roomy open basin sink (preferably skirted) and a high-set faucet (preferably unlacquered brass) that allows for large buckets (preferably enamel or galvanized) to be positioned underneath. It also calls for ample open shelvingfor vases, pots, pitchers, julep cupsand a bevy of baskets at the ready (hung from the ceiling, perhaps?). You'll also find pretty, inspired-by-the-garden paint colors, plenty of antique flower frogs, and rolls upon rolls of twine. A bloom room's flooringoften brick or stoneis frequently topped with weathered, slightly unraveling woven rugs and a just-slipped-off pair of garden wellies or surprisingly chic Crocs.Pascal ChevallierDesigner Liz Langes basket-filled bloom room in East Hampton, New YorkRicardo LabougleLauren Santo Domingos potting area features pretty pleated skirting and ample texture courtesy of baskets.Even if you don't have the luxury of devoting a whole space to the art of flower arranging, it may be worth considering creating a hybrid scenario within an existing mudroom, butler's pantry, or laundry room. You can also infuse a little more bloom room-inspired beautypretty pastel paint colors, whimsical floral wallcoverings, texture-rich basketsinto your harder working spaces. After all, the bloom room is as much of a lifestyle as it is a physical spaceit's about prioritizing time to tinker.Beatriz da CostaDesigner Brooke Crew infused this mudroom with the breezy beauty of a bloom room.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 lifeincluding design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culturefor 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 shes 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.

Green paint colors remain a top color choice of designers for 2025 and we couldnt agree more. Whether a pastoral green used in a farmhouse, a soft sage in a cottage, or a bright forest green used in a traditional Tudor, there is a shade of green that is right for any style house, in any location. Green cabinetry is trending for kitchens, but the color looks equally at home in a bedroom or bathroom, as youll see in our favorite green-hued rooms featured below. So, take it from us (and we see a lot of houses!), when it comes time to paint that next room, head straight for the green section of the paint deck. Youll be glad you did! RELATED:Forest GreenStacy Zarin Goldberg There is nothing more cozy-meets-classic than an earthy forest green. Exhibit A: this traditional kitchen designed by Cameron Ruppert. To update the space, she chose a rich green paint color to freshen up the cabinetry, while not overshadowing the already-there tile backsplash and countertops. A deep green range complements the cabinetry.Get the Look:Cabinet Paint Color: Peale Green by Benjamin MooreFOR MORE GREEN KITCHENS:VerdigrisPeter MurdockTopping cottages and castles, the bluish-green patina of an aged copper roof is oh-so-pretty, so its no surprise verdigris its appealing as a paint color, too. Color-drenched from ceiling to floor, this cheery library would have us settling in for hours. Get the Look: For similar, Wall and Trim Paint Color:Verdigreen by Sherwin-Williams Clover GreenLeslee MitchelFeeling lucky? A bold, saturated green hue makes an ideal choice for the accent wall in this Nashville bedroom. Wood tones of all sorts pop against the deep, grounding color. Get the Look: Wall Paint Color:Shamrock by Sherwin-Williams Green-on-GreenErin LittleSometimes just one green hue isnt nearly enough. Designer Christina Salway went all-in on greens in this 230-year-old farmhouse kitchen, starting with a checkerboard backsplash of green-on-green Zellige tiles that she paired with a lighter sage green paint color for the trim and millwork. The darker blueish-gray tone on the lower cabinets also reads dark green in the cozy space. Get the Look:Back Wall Cabinetry Color: Inchyra Blue by Farrow & BallTrim and Range Cabinetry Color:Vert De Terre by Farrow & BallBacksplash Tiles: Wintergreen and Garden Grove Zellige Tiles by Villa LagoonGrass GreenAdam Albright, styling by Matthew Gleason for Country LivingIf its good enough for Mother Nature, then it must be good enough for us! In this window-wrapped dining room of a charming lakeside cabin, the bright grass green painted floor mirrors the surrounding view and takes the phrase bring the outside in to the next level. Get the Look:Floor Paint Color: Cypress Vine by Behr Airy Apple GreenMax Kim-BeeCan you imagine a cheerier powder bath? Housed in a converted schoolhouse, this bespoke bath is wrapped in wainscoting bathed in the perfect pairing of green and green. Bonus: Bright airy shades in small spaces actually make them feel larger!Get the Look:Wainscotting Paint Color: Cooking Apple Green (lighter inset) and Breakfast Room Green by Farrow & Ball Moss GreenBecky Luigart-Stayner, styling by Matthew Gleason for Country LivingCountry houses are all about connecting with nature, so what better way than with an earthy paint color that reflects the idyllic views out the window. Muddy paint colors also have nice historical gravitas as, historically, paints were made from pigments and raw materials like clay or sand that lent them an earthy feel. Here, in this boys bedroom of a dreamy Mississippi farmhouse, mossy green walls stay youthful and fresh when paired with creamy whites and wood tones. Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Oakmoss by Sherwin-Williams Palm GreenRikki Snyder for Country LivingNostalgia runs deeps in this upstate New York kitchen, starting with the pale green cabinets. A tall built-in cupboard piled with antique ironstone, a vintage farmhouse-style sink, and a primitive dining tableinstead of a bulky built-in islandadd to the rooms charming old-fashioned vibe.Get the Look:Cabinetry Paint Color:Palm by Farrow & Ball For More Green Rooms:Jennifer KopfJennifer Kopf is the Executive Editor of Country Living. She also covers antiques and collecting.

Wallpaper has a reputation of being expensive, dated, and complicated. But were here to tell you its time to rethink your frame of reference! Todays wallcoverings are fresh, happy, and easier than ever to install thanks to the proliferation of direct-to-consumer brands with designer sensibilities such as Tempaper and Chasing Paper. So, if youre ready to put down the paint brush and pick up the glue brush (although were also a fan of peel-and-stick papers!), now is the time. Below, weve gathered up the top trending types of wallpaper patterns and wallpaper application ideas that designers are most excited about in 2025. Related StoriesHistoric Botanical PrintsMatthew KisidayPetite powder rooms are primed for wallpaper thanks to their ability to maximize pattern in a more economical fashion.Sure, botanical prints, just like floral patterns, have been in style for quite some time. (Thanks, cottagecore!) But, in 2025, expect to see even more wallpapers inspired by historical botanical studies, aka, the original botanical print! These wallpapers are a dreamy blend of romance and science, says designer Kendall Rabun. In this pretty powder bath she designed, subtle blue trim adds a pop of color against the antiqued paper (Renaissance Herbier by Schumacher). Got a little extra time? DIY this look with botanical prints cut from old books (or a new book with reproduction prints!) and a bit of wallpaper adhesive. RELATED STORIES:Floor-to-Ceiling WallpaperStacy Zarin GoldbergDesigner Molly Singers primary bedroom explodes in pattern thanks to the floor-to-ceiling application.Gone are the days of accent walls. In 2025, were channeling our inner maximalist and putting wallpaper everywhereeven on the ceiling (it is considered the 5th wall in a room after all!). In this pattern-filled bedroom by designer Molly Singer, the blue-and-white floral wallpaper (Indian Arbre by Schumacher) extends up the walls to the 12-foot-high vaulted ceiling, wrapping the room in a cozy, patterned cocoon. If youre going to do something like this, you have to go all-in, says Molly. Choose a color from the wallpaper (in this case, Sloe Blue by Farrow & Ball to create a more cohesive look. RELATED STORY: Small-Scale PatternsRead McKendree for Country LivingThis cozy cottage bedroom proves pattern can be calming.On the other end of the maximalist spectrum, tonal ditsy patterns are also making a comeback this year. These small-scale designs overload the visual field, creating a wall of pattern that effectively disappears against other furnishings. This approach introduces the visual texture of pattern without making the space feel overwhelming. In this bedroom designed by Marynn Udvarhelyi, a coral-patterned wallpaper envelopes the bedroom in a relaxing texture that allows bolder colors to stand out. RELATED STORY:Painterly MuralsBrie Williams for Country LivingThe soft painterly lines of this dining room wallpaper add a relaxed flair to the traditional tableau.Playful, painterly details are going to be everywhere this year, according to Pinterests recent 2025 trend report. Gen Z and Gen X will hand-paint funky murals onto furniture, jazz up that trim, and turn grown-up spaces into playful little havens, they write. Your space is officially your canvas. While you might not be a skilled enough artist to paint your own, there are definitely wallpapers out there that fit this aesthetic. Look for papers that have less-than-straight lines and more of a handmade feel and avoid traditional, buttoned-up chinoiserie murals that look too stately. Upgraded Utilitarian SpacesRead McKendreeIn this cheery laundry room designed by Katie Rosenfeld, a graphic blue-and-white wallpaper anchors the bright color palette.Inevitably, its utilitarian spacesthink laundry or storage roomswhere you end up spending much of your time, not the dining room. In the past, it was easy to overlook them, but, in 2025, designers are going all in in beautifying these spaces as well. Dont believe us? Houzz identified wallpapered laundry rooms as one of their best design ideas for 2025. And, thanks to removable peel-and-stick wallpaper, you can easily upgrade your space without the fear of commitment. Related StoryAnna 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 youve 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 shes 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.

When it comes to interior design, it's all about the art of the mix. Layering in piecesof different materials, from different erasmakes for a much more interesting and personal point of view than a buy-it-all-in-one-weekend trip to the big box store. (This acquired-over-time approach is also a hallmark of the slow decorating movement, which is a design tactic that has been garnering more interest as of late.)Annie Schlecter for Country LivingA wicker sofa paired with an antique coffee table helps helps warm up a Texas porchHowever, when it comes to our outdoor living spaces, the matching set mindset still tends to reign supreme. Even though we theoretically know better, we're quick to snatch up coordinating furniture in the name of convenience. Martin SolystVintage chairs paired with a wooden table make for a more casual, kick-up-your-feet mixDavid Tsay for Country LivingWicker dining chairs with curved backs help soften the rectangular silhouette of a teak table.Roger DaviesThis California cottage continues the cozy onto the porch thanks to antique furniture and a plate collection on the wall Recently, though, we're seeing more and more designers and homeowners applying the mix-and-maybe-don't-match approach to outdoor settings, and our only thought is: Why haven't we been doing this all along? This is not a case against buying new, but rather a simple encouragement to apply the same thinking you'd bring to interior rooms to outdoor spacesthink more materials, softer silhouettes, and a few peppered-in antiques.Brian WoodcockOn an Alabama porch, weathered antiques reinforce the farmhouse feel. Dana Gallagher for Country LivingA Texas porch by designer Meredith Ellis features a mix of wood and wickerThis mix of materials aligns with a larger indoor and outdoor trend of "high texture decorating," says Daniel McCurry, co-founder of Father Nature Landscapes in Birmingham, Alabama, who adds that that texture was a hot topic at recent high-profile garden shows. "With the significant adoptions of technology in the early 2000s came a minimalist trend, but people are now getting their confidence back to place thoughtful pieces and differing textures, which helps make a space feel warm."Clare Horne, the owner of Nashville-based garden design studio The Grass Girl, is seeing a similar movement away from sterile. "My clients are increasingly moving away from modern, minimalist aesthetics and are instead embracing traditional furniture designs." If your outdoor living space is covered, you obviously have more flexibility here, but even the most exposed-to-the-elements of spaces can still utilize a mix of outdoor-friendly materials as opposed to all teak, all the time. You can still opt for a big box store table, but maybe skip the corresponding seating (if sold separately) in favor of something else entirelypreferably made of a different material or with a softer shape. Or perhaps you opt for a wicker sofa, but round out the seating area with wooden or metal chairs. We also love a good garden stool.Buff Strickland for Country LivingAn antique iron sofa, wooden coffee table, and rattan chairs help this outdoor space feel more like an extension of the collected interiorAs mentioned, antiques will also also go a long way toward helping an outdoor space feel more soulful and thoughtfully designed. While not everything can stand up to the elements, it's worth hitting up local estate sales for more weather-tolerant antique wares (wrought-iron pieces, metal gliders).David A. LandAt a Michigan vacation home, an antique robins egg blue table pairs beautifully with newer woven chairs.The ultimate goal is to infuse your outdoor spaces with as much soul, sentiment, and personality as your interiors. Just as nostalgia gardening prioritizes plantings tied to memory and meaning, this mix-it-up approach to outdoor design ensures your spaces will be a better reflection of you.Outdoor Furniture to Mix and MatchGreen Scalloped Side Table$599 at businessandpleasureco.comCredit: Business and Pleasure Co.VWPEYY Green Woven Outdoor Chairs (Set of Two)Credit: AmazonSERENA & LILY Trestle Outdoor Coffee Table$1,498 at Serena and LilyCredit: Serena and LilyBlue Garden StoolNow 25% Off$279 $209 at ballarddesigns.comCredit: Ballard DesignsOutdoor Settee$1,349 at RejuvenationCredit: RejuvenationCarved Outdoor Dining Table$1,899 at greenrow.comCredit: GreenrowWovendale Rocking Chair$459 at polywood.comCredit: PolywoodDovecove Tiered Round Drink Table$139 at WayfairCredit: WayfairOutdoor Bistro Dining Chair$149 at Pottery BarnCredit: Pottery BarnRonde Teak Outdoor BenchNow 96% Off$799 $33 at RejuvenationCredit: RejuvenationBowie Metal Outdoor Bench$1,699 at Pottery BarnCredit: Outdoor BenchHighland Dunes Woven Armchair$250 at WayfairCredit: WayfairRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

Blame it on the penny candy. Or the old hurricane oil lamps. Or the hand-dipped ice cream. Once Susan Hackley and her daughter, Daphne Berger, stepped inside the 160-year-old Brewster Store, a general store in the Massachusetts town of the same name, they were smitten. Thats what cemented us here, says Daphne of the emporium famous for its inventory of classic New England nostalgia. We quickly fell in love with how authentic it all felt.Daphne had been hunting for a house on Cape Cod where her family as well as her mother and her mothers husband could steal away together. Susan had fond memories of the area, having spent summers as a child in her familys little cottage by the ocean and later returning as a college student. I could never afford a place of my own on the Cape, but I always wanted my children to love the seashore, she says.Read McKendree for Country LivingDaphne Berger with daughter, Cassia, 4, and mother Susan HackleyA few years ago, when her father passed away suddenly, Daphne made finding a coastal getaway a priority, telling her mother, Life is too shortwere going to make this happen. What she hadnt planned on was finding not one cottage but two side by side, located just minutes from the beach. Daphne, her husband, and their three children would take the 700-square-foot home in front, which they named Daffodil Cottage, while Susan and her husband would stay in the 750-square-foot Lilac Cottage. Each of the cedar-clad 1920s Capes needed an interior facelift, so Daphne began creating mood boards on Pinterest, where she discovered interior designer Marynn Udvarhelyi of Wildflower Home, who helped bring her vision to life. I wanted both cottages to feel collected, Daphne says. The updates took cues from the original structures, with slight floor plan adjustments to better accommodate visitors. Most important, especially for Susan, are the memories the family is collecting here, in a place that has long been familiar to her. To be back here and realize how little has changed in 50 years is amazing, she says. This came late in life for me, and Im super, super grateful.Tour More Cozy Country Cottages:A Sunny Entry at Daffodil CottageRead McKendree for Country LivingDaphne Bergers shingled cottage Daffodil is just a bike ride from the beach where she and her family love to go on weekends.Dreamy Front PorchRead McKendree for Country LivingRead McKendree for Country LivingNext to the front door of Daffodil Cottage, a scalloped lantern sconce by Coleen and Company in an aged verdigris finish signals a warm welcome. The spindle-leg table underneath belonged to Daphnes grandmother. The porch originally had Linoleum floors, so Daphne and Marynn tiled over the top (didnt take up the existing floor due to asbestos concerns) with faux aged tiles.A built-in queen-size daybed invites spending leisurely afternoons on the front porch, which is filled with vintage touches, including a Suzani quilt and seascape paintings. The rug also belonged to Daphnes grandmother.Get the Look: Floor Tile: Palo Alto Hex Tiles from WayfairBlock-Printed Pillow: Dani by John RobshawGingham Pillow:Mini Gingham by Heather Taylor HomeVintage Accessories Read McKendree for Country LivingRead McKendree for Country LivingA thrifted sea captain painting greets guests to the Daffodil Cottage above the writing desk in the sunroom, which shares space with the daybed. The table was Daphnes fathers childhood desk, and the Windsor chair belonged to her fathers grandmother. The hunter green tole table lamp is a find from Facebook Marketplace.Every square inch in the 700-square-foot cottage is put to use, including in the makeshift entryway, where a rustic peg rack provides a handy spot for hats and totes.RELATED: 20 Lessons Ive Learned From 20 Years of AntiquingCheerful ChecksRead McKendree for Country LivingThe living rooms new gingham sofa, slipcovered in a practical performance fabric, offers a cheerful welcome inside the front entrance. Designer Marynn Udvarhelyi reupholstered the vintage wicker chairs in blue-and-white ticking fabric and rolled out a rose-colored floral rug under the primitive coffee table (both items belonged to Daphnes grandmother). Having that juxtaposition of the warm wood tones with those light beachy fabrics made for this windswept look, says Marynn. Original windows, new shiplap to match existing planks, and freshly painted white walls keep the room airy. Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Simply White by Benjamin MoorePillows: Savannah Cross and Unfading Flower by Lauren ServatiGingham Sofa: Spruce in blue gingham by Serena and LilyRELATED: Cozy Living Rooms Youll Want to Snuggle Up In Forever Pretty PicklingRead McKendree for Country LivingDuring the renovation, Daphne opened up the living area to connect it with the kitchen and the dining room. The original pine boards between the ceiling joists were already pickled, so Daphne applied the same staining technique to the 100-year-old wide-plank pine floorboards. The dry sink, another treasure from her grandmother, sits under framed artwork of Cape Cod dunes painted by her other grandmother (Susans mom) in the 1970s. A wall-mounted dish rack and pot hanger maximize space in the compact cooking area. The essence of the interiors is quintessential country charmpure and simple. A Seascape CollectionRead McKendree for Country LivingA collection of vintage seascapes, some from Daphnes grandmother, others found on Etsy, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace, anchor a vignette linking the living and dining areas in the Daffodil Cottage. The blue chest had been left behind by the previous owner. Marynn gave it an update with a layer of moody blue chalk paint.Get the Look:Chest Paint Color: Vintage Duck Egg Chalk Paint by Dixie BellSun-Kissed CoverletsRead McKendree for Country LivingFeaturing golden yellows courtesy of gingham shams and a Jaipuri quilts, the bedroom allows for a seamless transition from a day at the sunny beach. The white painted wicker headboard provides a shapely focal point, while the pale coral patterned wallpaper offers a sophisticated nod to the coastal setting. Get the Look: Gingham Shams:Gingham by Serena & LilyWallpaper: Rushmere by Colefax and FowlerShade Fabric: Aditi by Schumacher Lofty AmbitionsRead McKendree for Country LivingRead McKendree for Country LivingFull-size bunk beds designed by Marynn maximize sleeping space in the second bedroom of Daphnes cottage. During the renovation, the drop ceiling was removed to open up the space and expose the pickled boards. The walls are covered in wallpaper depicting tiny trailing leaves. Marynn hand-painted a chest of drawers from Facebook Marketplace with mineral-based chalk paint in a muted matte yellow.Get the Look:Wallpaper: Cress by Colefax and FowlerGingham Pillow Shams: Penzance by Poppy and HonestyChest of Drawers Paint: Buttercream by Dixie BellLilac CottageRead McKendree for Country LivingSusans shingled Lilac Cottage sits behind Daffodil Cottage, with both situated on a quarter of an acre and surrounded by trees and nature paths.Stained-Glass CharacterRead McKendree for Country LivingLilac Cottages stained glass front door was installed by Bill Sydenstricker, who previously owned the cottage and founded his eponymous glass business nearby.Communal KitchenRead McKendree for Country LivingSusan and her husband typically eat their meals outside, which is why the kitchens butcher blocktopped peninsula serves as the only interior dining area. It and the cabinetry received a light spruce-up courtesy of seafoam-colored paint. The block-print pendant lights, the Smeg refrigerator, and the rattan barstools are also recent additions. Get the Look:Wall Paint Color: Chantilly Lace by Benjamin MooreCabinetry Paint Color: Sea Salt by Sherwin-WilliamsRattan Barstools:Riviera by Serena & LilyBreezy Tones and TexturesRead McKendree for Country LivingWhile both cottages embrace seaside shades, neither has overtly nautical toucheswell, with one exception. Mom does love her vintage buoys, says Daphne. The wicker sofa was left behind by a previous owner, though Susan reupholstered the cushions and painted the frame. A collection of straw hats doubles as art. I love using things that are three-dimensional, Marynn says, noting how the hats pair well with the warm wood trim.Get the Look: Floral Pillow:Unfading Flower by Lauren ServatiThrow: Super Soft Throw by Heather Taylor HomeLively PatternsRead McKendree for Country LivingIn the all-white bedroom, the natural wicker headboard and wood window trim add a warm grounding elements, while plaids, checks, and florals bring a medley of pattern.Get the Look: Wall Paint Color:Chantilly Lace by Benjamin MooreNot-So-Secret GardenRead McKendree for Country LivingSliding French doors open from Susans kitchen to the back patio, where family members from both cottages congregate around the dining table, spread out in the shade, and take turns catnapping in a nearby hammock. Theres no TV here, which was a choice we made, Daphne says. As a family, were playing board games like Candy Land, and theresa lot of drawing and reading and talking. A lot of talking.Get the Look: by Umbrellas:Business and Pleasure Co.Tour More Dreamy Cottages on the Cape:Kelly Ryan KegansKelly Ryan Kegans is a Minneapolis-based writer, editor, and photo stylist with more than 25 years of experience producing home design content for brands including Country Living, Better Homes & Gardens, and HGTV Magazine. Her own home is populated with more books than shelves, a few too many scrubbed pine tables, and moody photos of gray day landscapes, which are her happy place.

HGTV star Erin Napier is adding to our list of 2025 kitchen trends to watch. In a recent episode of Home Town, entitled Intervention, she and husband Ben turned out another charming kitchen in a historic fixer-upper home in Laurel, Mississippi. Just a few features we loved: open shelving, blue cabinets (painted Blueridge Fir by Valspar), a secret pantry with a family heirloom cupboard, an old-school pendant light from Ben and Erins collection with Shades of Light, and in lieu of wallpaper, a whimsical cherry-themed tile backsplash by Mary Engelbreit (with a special guest appearance by the famous illustrator herself!).And for the countertops, a natural material that Erin says is making a comebackView full post on InstagramIn an Instagram post featuring a photo carousel of the finished project, Erin wrote, I was second guessing constantly, but I think she liked it all! Also, did you know were seeing a big return of butcher block countertops? Walnut is huge right now, and oak was the prettiest in this kitchen from @scotsmanusa.Fans of the show loved this makeover, and quite a few comments came in from folks who have butcher-block countertops and vouch for their awesomeness: We have had butcher block countertops for a few years now and we love them! And how exciting that the one and only Mary Engelbreit was on your show and made beautiful tiles .But some had questions: How does Butcher Block hold up? Anyone know?Heres Everything You Need to KnowA classic choice in farmhouse kitchens, butcher-block countertops have pros and cons like anything else. Theyre affordable, beautiful, and easy on knives, but they also need proper cleaning and maintenance and can be susceptible to scratches and dings, albeit easily repairable ones. As long as you maintain it properly, butcher block might just be your perfect countertop material. More Ben and Erin Napier NewsTerri RobertsonTerri Robertson is the Senior Editor, Digital, at Country Living, where she shares her lifelong love of homes, gardens, down-home cooking, and antiques.

There are certain choices we make in our lives that say a lot about who we are, aesthetically speaking. For example, if you choose to drive a wood-paneled 1980s station wagon, you are making a very different statement about your stylistic leanings than the person who prefers a shiny red sports car.Similarly, theres a lot to be said about how our favorite dog breeds either influence and/or reflect our decorative choices. Dogs are not accessories, of course (no letters, please!), but its safe to say that the person who chooses to bring home a Bernese Mountain Dog may also have decorative inclinations that are very different from the person who adopts a Dachsund or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Thats precisely why we embarked on this completely arbitrary assessment of what popular design aesthetics happen to align with some of the more popular dog breeds. (Mutt-lovers, dont despair: Weve got your covered, too.) If youve been needing a push in a new decorative direction, let the dogs take the lead for once.What Your Dog Says About Your Decorating StyleIf You Have...An Irish Setter or Irish TerrierYou May Love....The Fisherman AestheticCountry LivingFisherman Aesthetic champions coastal-meets-cozy charm with a distinctly Irish accent (think fisherman sweater motifs). Thats why an amiable Irish breed feels right at home among tweedy fabrics, vintage fishing creels, and waxed canvas colors. (Just make sure it doesnt get ahold of your leather boat shoes.)Shown: farmhouse designed by Erica Harrison(Room Photograph by Nick Johnson)If You Have...A Corgi, Jack Russell Terrier, or DachsundYou May Love...The Cottagecore AestheticCountry LivingCottage style enthusiasts clearly have a soft spot for all things small (and also anything English), and a small- to medium-breed can curl up right alongside you in a bedroom or reading nook outfitted with ditsy florals and ruffled accent pillows.Shown:converted schoolhouse designed by Madcap Cottage(Room Photograph by Max Kim-Bee)If You Have...A Golden Retriever You May Love...The Upper Crusty AestheticCountry Livinglived-in and layered look is especially popular with the old money set, and a Golden Retriever feels right at home basking in a patch of sun on a porch outfitted with hand-me-down wicker and faded-over-time textiles.Shown: (Room Photograph by Laurey Glenn)If You Have...A Cavalier King Charles SpanielYou May Love...The Grandmillennial AestheticCountry LivingThis bold-fashioned aesthetic has a soft spot for chintzy motifs, high-style hand-me-downs, and, yes, Staffordshire dog statues that pay tribute to its enthusiasts silky-eared sidekicks.Shown: Sarah Moore that doesnt shy away from florals(Room Photograph by Alun Callender)If You Have...A German Shorthaired Pointer, Beagle, or FoxhoundYou May Love...The Hunting Lodge AestheticCountry LivingBring on the antler mounts, antique bourbon decanters, and on-point fabricsthese hardworking hunters feel most at home in a refined-yet-rugged settingextra points for big leather Chesterfields, warm pine paneling, and pheasant chew toys.Shown:Mississippi hunting lodge designed by Rachel Hardage Barrett (Room Photograph by Becky Luigart-Stayner)If You Have...A GoldendoodleYou May Love...The Modern Farmhouse AestheticCountry LivingWhen you just cant choose between one or the other, you might as well combine the best of both worlds. Bonus: These wildly popular low-shedding dogs wont take such a toll on your neutral modern farmhouse furniture.Shown: Sommer Tate (Room Photograph by Stephen Karlisch)If You Have...An Australian ShepherdYou May Love...The Not-So-Modern Farmhouse AestheticCountry LivingExcellent at herding cattle and sheep, this rugged farm dog and frequent cowboy companion would feel at home in a more classic farmhouse thats outfitted with nostalgic kitchen collectibles, antique pine furniture, and hand-me-down quilts.Shown: Texas farmhouse by Claire Zinnecker (Room Photograph by Buff Strickland)If You Have...A Bernese Mountain DogYou May Love..The Mountain Lodge AestheticCountry LivingIf you gravitate to this hardy breed that thrives in colder weather, then you may also feel right at home surrounded in a room filled with felt hats, Navajo rugs, and a set of antlers or two.Shown: rustic Wyoming home designed by Emily Janak (Room Photograph by Lisa Flood)If You Have...A Black or Yellow Labrador RetrieverYou May Love..The Coastal Prep AestheticCountry LivingBred to retrieve waterfowl, its no surprise these natural swimmers gravitate toward a boat, the beach, or a shingled coastal cottage decked out with sea-salted decorating ideas.Shown:Anthony Baratta (Room Photograph by Erick J. Espinoza)If You Have...A Brittany SpanielYou May Love...The Cabincore AestheticCountry LivingPer the American Kennel Club, this canine companion is in sync with with an upbeat, outdoorsy family life. With their sporty dispositiontheyre considered particularly good hiking dogsand reddish-brown coloring, they feel at home among warm and rustic outdoorsy textures.Shown: Wisconsin cabin by designers Martha OHara and Bhavana Bhimavarapu(Room Photograph by Dana Gallagher)If You Have...A Bit-of-Everything MuttYou May Love...The Cluttercore AestheticCountry LivingCluttercore enthusiasts know that trends dont really matterits all about the mix (and the more, the merrier!) By surrounding yourself with a whole lot of this and a lot of that, your home will feel uniquely you.Shown: Georgian Colonial farmhouse.(Room Photograph by Alpha Smoot)All Dog Photographs, Getty ImagesRelated StoriesRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

Mary Randolph Carter, who goes by Carter, is a lifelong collector, so it should come as no surprise that she has amassed her share of titles over the years. In addition to more formal designations (Creative Director at Ralph Lauren, Country Living Contributor), Carter has been informally called everything from the queen of junk to the original Annie Hall.She is also a prolific author on the subject of stuff, and that talent is on display in her latest book, Live with the Things You Love. Filled with the interiors of tastemakers from across the country, including those of shop owner Joan Osofsky and country style icon Mary Emmerling, the pages are a testament to how a home is truly a canvas for self-expression, not to mention in keeping with the current rise of maximalism and cluttercore. Carter BergAt a time when social media has led to a homogenized approach to interiors, Carters outlook on design is refreshingly one-of-a-kind. The Richmond, Virginia, natives gravitation toward objectseverything from Underwood typewriters to folk art turkeys to Elvis memorabilia (she was the president of her local fan club)may have something to do with the fact that two fires uprooted her family at the very impressionable ages of ten and sixteen. Its no wonder shes inclined to hold on to things.Live with the things you love, and youll live happily ever after. Live With the Things You Love: And You'll Live Happily Ever AfterNow 18% OffI once read that every single object has a god inside, and thats why we cherish them, says Carter. I believe that. And I would add that each object in our homespassed on, gifted, or collectedalso has a story that reveals not only how it came to be and how it came to us, but how it shares who we are and where weve been. Taken together these collections of things create the memory and personality of the places we call home.For Carter, home includes both a New York City apartment as well as Elm Glen Farm, the colorfully collected country house in upstate New York shes owned for 40+ years. She shares both with Howard, her husband of 53 years, whodespite the four-decade influxis still keenly aware of new additions. Howard loves to walk through and count the paintings on the walls. Aha! hell yell to me from another room, I just counted 165, and thats just downstairs.Thomas Jefferson once wrote, That which we elect to surround ourselves with becomes the museum of our souls and the archive of our experiences, says Carter. I doubt my plastic chicken, paint-by-numbers poodle, wooden daisy handbag, or hand-knitted dolls would have been the objects he might have elected to surround himself with, and yet these are some of the things that are the museum of my soul that I couldnt live without.MORE FROM CARTER:Take a tour through the rooms of Carters storied Elm Glen Farm:EntryCarter BergCarter BergJust inside the front door of Carters country house, you can store your walking stick in what was once a concrete pipe, now romanced with painted swallows, and tip your hat hello to elk and a handmade flat decoy of a long-necked Canadian Goose.Elsewhere, what was once a barnacol-covered corner shelf holds Carters collection of shell-encrusted vessels. A trio of wildlife paintings hang above a primitive hickory chair. Gallery WallCarter BergCarters granddog, Cora, holds court on a sofa bedecked with vintage handmade American flags. Above it hangs a wall of assorted artwork. Paintings are my passion, says Carter. I think of each painting as an original masterpiece. No posters or prints for me. Id rather hang a landscape or a portrait found in an art school trash bin than a poster of the Mona Lisa. This is a perfect example of how I love to mix them all.RELATED: KitchenCarter BergWith its Fiestaware-yellow floor and cheerful checks, the country kitchen is a happy way to greet the day. First thing in the morning we plunk ourselves down at the island and sip big mugs of coffee, says Carter. From there I can admire all the things that brighten this big, white space and recall their stories and why I hold them so dear. Among them are polka dot pitchers, colorful plates by artist Nathalie Lt, and more original paintings, including a special commission by her brother Jimmie that was inspired by Le Caf by Pierre Bonnard. The wingback chairaka Howards thronewas rescued out of a barn decades ago. It later fell victim to a kitchen flood, but Carter revived it with a vintage serape. The picket-painted flag was a gift from her son, Sam. What makes life astounding, I think, is not the things weve collected and lived with, she says, but the people and the memories we associate with them. Everything I love is connected to someone special in my life.RELATED:Living RoomCarter BergOne of Carters first purchases for her farmhouse was this metal garden table she snagged for only $10 at a yard sale. Four decades later, she and her family still enjoy sitting around it for dinner on wintry nights. Every so often I dip a kitchen sponge in some blue paint and smear it over flaking paint and candle wax, she says. When not in use for dining, she keeps it full with books, pottery, a candelabra, and a statue of a little girl made of clay. The painting on the wall, called Round Top, reminds Carter of the views around her and remains her favorite. Music RoomCarter Berg While Carter removed the home's existing wallpaper in favor of all white walls, she took a bolder approach with other surfaces. In the music roomso named with the addition of Howards mothers baby grand pianoshe painted the floors a vibrant yellow, and gave the mantel a unique faux finish. Looking at the mantel in the music room, you would think thats exactly how I found it. Unfortunately, I didnt find anything worth saving underneath, so I decided to create what I had hoped to find using splatters of green and black paint. Elsewhere in the room, music-themed artwork mingles with colorful folk art. My favorite piece might be the little green table between the chairs signed by, or created for, someone name MOE! she says.Everything I love is connected to someone special in my life.Screened-In PorchCarter BergAfter extending the porch to make room for outdoor dining, Carter furnished the space with a collection of wicker from an antiques shop in Hudson, New York. When were not sharing a meal, you might find Howard and me competing at his vintage checkerboard, she says. The fold-up wire chandelier was a gift from her mother.RELATED:Porch CupboardCarter BergCarter took an old cupboard, painted it white, and hung it on the wall of the porch to house things shes hunted down from yard sales and flea markets over the yearsfrom ceramic pineapples to patriotic goblets and handmade toy boats.IMAGES & BOOK COPYRIGHT: Live with the Things you Love: And Youll Live Happily Ever After, by Mary Randolph Carter, Rizzoli, 2025; images Carter Berg.MORE ON COLLECTING: Rachel Hardage BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

If youve been craving the warm, laid-back feel of an English kitchen, youre not alone. Maybe its the fact that many of us have been binge-watching series filmed in old Britannia (please hurry up, Bridgerton season 4!) or that these trying times call for a comforting cup of tea. The English-style kitchen oozes conviviality and relaxation, with sleeping dogs and warmed by range cookers, says Patrick ODonnell, international brand ambassador at beloved British paint brand Farrow & Ball. English expat designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard adds: A British country kitchen vibe is filled with nostalgia, practicality, and great personal style. Even if youre not planning a full kitchen remodel, heres 12 ways to give your own kitchen an English accent:For More Kitchen Inspiration: Start with a Saturated Color PaletteCourtesy of Plain English KitchensDusty and deeply saturated, this blue pantry is a perfect example of the quintessential British color palette.Chalk it up to all that misty weather, but moody tones reign in English cook spaces. Deep, dark paint shades that lend some gravitaslike a deep blue-black or green-blackare currently fashionable, notes Ben Kendrick, homes and style director of Country Living UK. The key is to get a dullness to the color so it doesnt shout bold or brash but warm and rich and soft, says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens. The paint finish matters, too. We believe in a hand-painted finish, as brush strokes are part of the appeal, says Imogen Pritchard, U.S. design manager for Plain English. For More on Paint Colors:Focus on PatinaGleaming finishes and glossy metal fixtures are as unappetizing to these cook spaces as a cup of tepid tea. Britons favor simplicity in their rural cottages; its the countryside, after all, and it should look like it. So go for surfaces that look like theyve been around a while. Paint your cabinetry by hand with an actual brush, as opposed to opting for a sprayed factory finish, for instant authenticity, and consider studding your ceiling with a few exposed beams that look like they were felled with an axe a few hundred years ago. For faucets and drawer pulls, go for unlacquered metals and hand-brushed finishes that glow with age-old artistry your grannies would recognize. We adore aged fittings, says Helen, adding that brass and bronze work beautifully because they soften the look. Another storied metal: wrought iron, which adds a simple, practical element to a room. Dont feel like splurging on new hardware? Pick up burnished copper pots and pans from a local junk shop and hang them overhead.Unlaquered Brass Ball Cabinet Knob$16 at RejuvenationCredit: Courtesy of RetailerForge Hardware Studio Unlacquered Brass Bin Pull$25 at WayfairCredit: Courtesy of RetailerUnlacquered Brass Drawer Pull$33 at RejuvenationCredit: Courtesy of RetailerUnlacquered Brass Cupboard Latch$33 at RejuvenationCredit: Courtesy of RetailerChoose a Workhorse TableDylan ThomasA wonderfully worn farmhouse table completes designer Rita Konigs country house kitchen.No British cook worth their Maldon sea salt would abide by a teensy workspace, which is why so many English country kitchens have an oversize wood worktable (a holdover from the downstairs lairs of manor houses) thats been lugged into the middle of the room. The lack of uniformity is a must, says expat designer Kathryn Ireland. No islands for the British! A wonderful oak farmhouse table is a given. Plus, swapping your built-in kitchen islands for a standalone table is totally on trend for 2025. Install a LarderCourtesy of deVOLMuch like a pantry, the larder is the perfect place to store dried goods.Imagine a wood refrigerator that requires no electricity yet keeps things cool, not cold, and in a slightly removed spot from the kitchen, and youve got yourself a larder. Preferably a larder cupboard is a separate room or created to feel like one, says designer Cath Kidston, who lives in a 17th-century manor house in Gloucester, England. Apart from storage, it keeps all the clutter away from the kitchen space. Called a larder since its early days in France, when it was where cooks preserved meats as long as possible, its now the place Britons keep their potatoes, onions, breads, and spices tucked away in cool air. Martyn notes they sometimes feature quaint cutouts in their cabinet doors to allow for air flow but not lighta genius move that smacks of old-world invention.For More on Pantries:Go for Low-Luster CountersNo glossy quartz in sight here. British kitchens give new meaning to the term au naturel. Matte and muted is a way to instantly achieve a more lived-in look, says Helen. The warmth of a wood butcher-block island is often juxtaposed with thick, honed white marble countertops, says Martyn. Using honed marble for countertops is like driving a pickup truck with hints of rust on the paint job: It says you appreciate beauty with flaws.FOR MORE ON COUNTERTOPS:Choose Classic CookersCourtesy of deVOLInvented by a Nobel prize-winning Swedish physicist, Aga ranges have been manufactured in England since 1957.Love a cast-iron skillet? Meet the cast-iron range. The Aga [cooker] is the ultimate jewel in the kitchen, says Martyn of the radiant-heated gems. Heat-plus-food has a primal allure, and its not lost its appeal in the 21st century (though earlier versions remained on 24-7, newer models are indeed controllable). They may not be the only source of heat nowadays, but the look isnt the same with fitted appliances, says Helen of the charming clunkers. Other tried-and-true classically designed stoves include Rangemaster, Falcon, (both of which are sold stateside through Aga), and Everhot. The British have always tended to live in the kitchen, says Kathryn. Everyone likes to stand around the Aga and warm their bottoms. Pick Butlers-Style SinksCourtesy of deVOLThe smaller cousin to beloved farmhouse sinks, Butlers sinks are a favorite amongst British designers.Everything in an English kitchen is hard-working, even the sinks. A commonly used one: butlers-style sinks, which are large-basined numbers that echo the farmhouse sink style popular in the U.S. Theyre extra roomy on purpose. Butlers of yore used them to do everything from wash clothes to scour vegetables in water they hauled in from nearby streams. Ceramic sinks in a butlers style reminiscent of an old-fashioned pantry are still popular, says Ben. Shaws of Darwen has an attractive fluted front finish, and Rangemasters shallower fireclay versions can come as a double sink with a slatted, wooden-topped draining section. Founded on Valentines Day in 1897, Shaws sinks are still handcrafted by a guild of master craftspeople in Darwen, England. The underbelly of each sink is impressed with the name of the person who made it by hand. Install Layers of LightingA bare bulb and/or lackluster pendant might give American kitchens a case of the blues, but the opposite is true in the British countryside, where kitchen light fixtures have the aura of history. If the sconce and pendant look like theyve been there since electricity was invented, all the better. Im not a fan of too much overhead lighting, so I have one circuit for spots over the cooker and countertops where needed, and I have them on dimmers, says Cath. I then have a second circuit for table lamps, as they give a much warmer light to the room.Fluted Pendant Light$42 at AmazonCredit: Courtesy of Retailer Colorful Ceramic Sconce$179 at schoolhouse.comCredit: Courtesy of RetailerPair of Ruffled Sconces$106 at AmazonCredit: Courtesy of RetailerMarble Pendant LightNow 20% Off$88 $70 at LumensCredit: Courtesy of Retailer Fill Your Space with Freestanding FurnitureCourtesy of deVOLFreestanding furniture such as this pantry is a staple of unfitted British kitchens.Gasp! Some English kitchens have no cabinetry at all, using freestanding furniture for storage and work spaces instead. A classic English country kitchen has few built-ins, if any, says Kathryn. Period furniture (a hutch for all the cookery, an armoire for a pantry), a butlers pantry, and a scullery make a British kitchen unique. And no big, flashy fridges that make ice cream! If adapting to todays living, fridge drawers can be easily concealed. Pieces to hunt for at your favorite flea market: Georgian or Shaker-inspired china cabinets, exposed shelving, and hutches with a nick or two.FOR MORE:Trot Out the Dish RacksEons before dishwashers had a dry setting, Britons had figured out another way: letting dripping china air out on the humble dish rack. The best ones let your tableware sit exposed to the room, a nice (and graphic) way to add a dose of needed visual clutter in a space that can easily read as too simplealmost spartan, says Helen. Facing china into the space on wooden plate rails, too, is a common sight, she says, alongside a mass of copper pans and pots, vintage creamware and huge platters, and tables piled high with produce and accoutrements.Choose Clean-Lined CabinetryCourtesy of deVOLShaker-style cabinetry is a mist in any English kitchen. Simplicity is an absolute, says Helen. The bones of the room must be simple, or you lose the authenticity of the look. Thats one reason youll find fuss-free paneled cabinetry that looks like it was crafted by the Shakers themselves (the religion was born in 1747 in Manchester, England). Martyn adds that long open shelving is another historic detail, dating from the days when pots and pans would be stored on numbered shelving to correlate to specific dinners and dates.Select Stylish English Sundry AccentsEric Ray DavidsonDesigner Kathryn Irelands kitchen is full of collected charm. Dont have the pounds (or patience) for a kitchen overhaul? Consider dotting your cook space with classic English accessories, as Kathryn did in her own kitchen. Mixing in antiques and collectibles, from copper pots on a pot rack to antique plates mounted on the wall, all add to the eclectic beauty of the spaces, says Martyn. And lets not forget the obligatory tea pot and kettle, not only quintessential, but also a necessary part of British lifewherever in the world it may be being lived!Copper Tea Kettle$330 at Williams SonomaCredit: Courtesy of Retailer Mason Cash Mixing Bowl$50 at Sur la TableCredit: Courtesy of RetailerCornishware Crock$70 at cornishware.co.ukCredit: Courtesy of RetailersGingham Butter Dish$87 at RevolveCredit: Courtesy of RetailerFOR MORE KITCHEN INSPIRATION:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she covers design and decorating trends, home features, and gift guides. She also produces home features and styles content for the print magazine. When she isnt working, can often be found digging around antique shops for the perfect find. Follow her adventures on Instagram!

To be honest, we should have seen it coming. First, the cottagecore movementwhich happily shows no signs of waningchampioned garden whimsy and ditsy floral and botanical prints. Then there was the obsession with all things green, including kitchen cabinetry and vintage 4-H collectibles. And more recently, something called the Fisherman Aesthetic hadand still has!us craving Irish-inspired coastal interiors and cable-knit apparel straight from the Aran Islands.This confluence of events has led to... Clovercore, a twist on cottagecore that will likely appeal to those who crave cozy layered spaces but arent all that into chintzy floral motifs or overtly pastel paint colors. Clovers are naturally the signature motiftheyre especially trending in wallpaper (see below, as well as here and here)but the look is also rooted in vibrant, happy greens that evoke the Emerald Isle, often offset by a secondary pop of an equally saturated color (say, purple or yellow).Max Kim-BeeThe Celia Clover wallcovering by Schumacher lends whimsy to a bathroom. Now that were on the cusp of St. Patricks Day, its a particularly prime time to seek out clover motifs to fulfill all your Clovercore cravings, although this is a trend worth embracing year-round, not just on March 17th. Stacy Zarin GoldbergAn entry by Cameron Ruppert Interiors features wallpaper in the Klverblad motif designed by Josef Frank.On the antiquing front, you cant go wrong with a clover-shaped antique English cricket table, but Keith Winkler, Marketing Manager at Replacements, Ltd., says tableware enthusiasts may want to seek out Belleek Shamrock pottery, which was introduced in the 1880s and features an intricate basketweave pattern along with hand-painted shamrocks in two shades of green. One of the most famous collections of the pattern was the coffee set presented to President John F. Kennedy during a 1961 visit to Ireland, says Keith. (Pieces of the set later sold at auction for $20,000 as part of the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis collection!)Courtesy of Replacements, Ltd.Irish breakfast tea tastes better when poured from an antique Belleek teapot.For newer wares, you dont have to look far. Urban Outfitters recently introduced embroidered clover bedding that feels especially high-end, and designer-beloved artist Mary Maguire offers sweet petite clover paintings that are sure to infuse a home with good luck. (Wed hang one over a door like a horseshoe.) If youre looking to splurge, how about a velvet clover-shaped ottoman, a hand-turned lacquered table, or clover ceramic mug?What I love about the clover is that it has such a lighthearted, happy-go-lucky spirit, says Country Living Senior Homes and Style Editor Anna Logan. Besides, it never hurts to infuse our homes with a little more luck. More Ways to Embrace ClovercoreCross-Stitch Clover Napkins (Set of 4)$19 at Pottery BarnCredit: Pottery BarnClover Paperweight$110 at John DerianCredit: John DerianClover Wallpaper$198 at Serena and LilyCredit: Serena and LilyClover Stationery$33 at PapierCredit: PapierClover Large Tote$195 at seabags.comCredit: Sea BagsClover Shaped Accent Table Credit: AmazonClover Curtain Tiebacks$34 at AnthropologieCredit: AnthropologieChandler 4 Corners Clover Hooked Pillow$33 at AmazonCredit: AmazonTerrain Clover Ceramic Stool$198 at AnthropologieCredit: TerrainRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

When it comes to those old farmhouses we know and love, one thing is a constant, there is nothing about them that feels cookie cutter. Each has a personal, soulful look that appears seasoned over time and is filled with character-rich pieces that collectively tell a story.Heres the good news: Even if your house is newly built and in the middle of the city, you can still give it that warm and inviting farmhouse style by taking a slow decorating approach. Think: Mix, dont match; layer; collect. But, while this is a look that favors maximalism over minimalism, there is a difference between farmhouse style and a messier, anything goes boho look. In other words, you do need to be intentional with all that stuff. Here are a few things we see time and time again that give a home (yes, any home!) a one-of-a-kind, truly timeless farmhouse-style look: For More Farmhouse Decorating Ideas:Acquired-Over-Time CollectionsRikki Snyder for Country LivingWhen it comes to decorating our homes, theres a real desire to be finishedto tie up the loose ends and be done with it. But if our spaces are truly a reflection of ourselves, they should, like us, evolve over time, with additions that reflect new interests and pieces that come with new stories. (Well, this one time in Round Top...) In grammatical terms, home is an ellipsis, not a period. Perhaps no one understands that dot-dot-dot approach to decorating like a collector, who trades box- store convenience for curation over time. While psychological research says that people gain more happiness from experiences than possessions, when possessions are tied to experiences, its the best of both worlds. Brown Wood FurnitureStacy Zarin GoldbergIn an age where fast fashion has given way to fast furniture, a welcome shift is underfoot. Interior designers and discerning homeowners are shirking mass-produced items in favor of well-made antiques with classic silhouettes and a singular hue: brown. Once the scourge of the design world with resounding cries of too dark or too dated, pre-1940s stained and unpainted wood furniture is having an honest-to-woodness renaissance. Think of it this way: In a room full of exclamation points (think bold color or whimsical pattern), sometimes its good to swap in a periodsomething more understated to help balance the energy. Brown furniture is the anchor of a spaceevery room needs it for contrast, clarity, and sturdiness, says designer Ariel Okin. (Note: For a more humble, farmhouse-y feel, scrubbed pine is a good alternative to more stately mahogany.) RELATED: Brown Wood Furniture is Trending AgainHeres How to Make it WorkHodgepodge Hutches Stephen Karlisch for Country LivingIt used to be that heirloom-worthy tableware was only to be admired from afar, tucked away neatly in a hutch. The hutch, by association, took on a tone of do-not-touchnessaccessed only on special occasions. Fortunately, the dictums around dishware have lately loosenedthe notion of using the good china has become synonymous with seizing the day, after allbut the hutch and its close cousin, the china cabinet, have for the most part maintained an air of aloofness. Until now. With newfound interest around eclectic interiors, homeowners are taking their cues from the curiosity cabinets of yore (all the way back to the Italian Renaissance), with a case-goods-as-conversation-pieces mindset. By peppering in acquired items alongside (or in lieu of) fine chinathink quirky trinkets and sentimental mementos that reflect personal passions and antiquing obsessionshomeowners have helped the hutch shake off its dust. What used to be a fusty piece of furniture has become a celebration of shelf-expression. And thats far more precious than porcelain.RELATED: 6 Elements of Farmhouse Style That Are Truly Trend-ProofTeetering Book PilesCourtesy Sean A. PritchardThe unofficial anthem of book lovers all over might as well be just one moreas in, just one more page, just one more chapter, just one more book, just one more precariously built bundle on the nightstand reflecting the best of your reading intentions. As Henry Ward Beecher said: Books are not made for furniture, but there is nothing else that so beautifully furnishes a house. And why limit such beauty to the confines of shelves? Theres no warmer welcome than well-worn hardcovers occupying every surface. Walking into a home with books that spill into every nook and out of every cranny evokes an eclectic charm and a limitless curiosity, providing a friendly, get-to-know-ya glimpse at whatever makes the home- owners spirit sing, be it historical fiction, offbeat British humor, or the earliest works of Joan Didion. Its a deliberately unfussy way to tuck a conversation piece into any corner, setting a convivial tone that beautifully translates to an atmosphere of hospitality almost as if each book knowingly nudges you to sit and stay awhile, whispering, In this house, theres always room for just one more.RELATED: The Best Bookshelving Ideas to Style Your Collections A Welcoming Front DoorRoger Davies for Country LivingAs much as love a stately black door (psst: Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black is a designer favorite), a colorful front door (a Dutch door, preferably) is like a neighborly wave hello. And out here in the country, the further you are from the road, the brighter you can dare to go. Pink pairs well with a pretty Victorian, like the Texas farmhouse above owned by Bailey McCarthy, but when in doubt remember that the color red has age-old country cred. In Colonial times, a red front door indicated weary travelers were welcome to spend the night. (Try Positive Red by Sherwin-Williams to set your own inclusive tone.) RELATED: The Best Paint Colors for Front DoorsTour a Few of Our Favorite Farmhouses: Rachel Hardage BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

It was a classic case of the girl next dooror more accurately, the house next door. Before designer Molly Singer set foot on the three-acre homestead situated just outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she was a frequent visitor to (and designer for) the house located next to it. When it came time for her own family to find a new home, she initially overlooked the often driven-past house. I think we went through five or six houses before considering this one, says Molly. Despite the stunning property and bucolic setting, the house was somewhat of a wallflower. It had simple bones and was unassuming. But, faced with a deadline and dwindling options, Molly had a change of heart. The more she explored the house and its surrounding woods, the more it resonated with her. It was just so tranquil and beautiful, she says. And totally workable.Stacy Zarin GoldbergDashing blue wainscoting (painted Hague Blue by Farrow & Ball) in the entryway sets the tone for the colorful Colonial-inspired farmhouse. Once the house was officially theirs, Molly got to work transforming the formal-minded space into a colorful home fit for her bustling family of four and their four furry friends. Colonial charm became her buzzword. The previous owners decorated it in what she describes as Colonial Williamsburg style, which appealed to her, but she had something a little more exciting and fresher in mind. Cue the classic movie makeover sequence: paint colors went bolder, patterns were refreshed, and suddenly, the house next door became the most eye-catching home on the street. I took everything up a notch, says Molly. Thats the benefit of designing your own home; you can go a little wild.Take a tour below to see how Molly brought the historic home to new design heights. A Fresh-Yet-Formal Sitting AreaStacy Zarin GoldbergContrast trim and millwork complements the bright blue ottoman in the formal sitting area.Stacy Zarin GoldbergA green velvet club chair and matching ottoman provide a cozy, curl-up corner. A rich, colonial-inspired palette of ochre yellows, forest greens, and bright blues freshens up this formal sitting area. Treating this room, which Molly admittedly spends very little time in (My kids make fun of me because I decorated these rooms and never go in them.), as a showcase space made using bold colors an easy choice. Simple upholstery with contrasting piping, a floral upholstered occasional chair, and tonal chinoiserie pillows balance the palette. On the lower-than-desired ceilings, steely blue fretwork draws the eye upward and adds visual interest without making the room feel cramped.Get the Look:Wallpaper: Abaca Harvest by Phillip JeffriesTrim Paint Color: Sloe Blue by Farrow & BallFor More Color Inspiration:A Breezy Cottage KitchenStacy Zarin GoldbergShaker-style cabinetry, complete with multiple sets of furniture-style foot brackets and painted a soft blue, grounds the airy kitchen.Full of traditional touches and designer details, the breezy blue kitchen epitomizes timeless charm. Shaker-style cabinetry, complete with multiple sets of furniture-style foot brackets, grounds the airy 12-foot tall kitchen, while creamy tongue-and-groove paneling offers contrast to the red oak beams, corbels, and flooring, all stained a custom blend.Get the Look:Cabinetry Paint Color: Skywalker by BackdropPaneling Paint Color: Pointing by Farrow & BallStain Color: 50/50 Cocoa and Natural by BonaRELATED: 30+ Beautiful Blue Kitchen Cabinet Ideas to Elevate Your HomeA Historically Inspired Dining SpaceStacy Zarin GoldbergThe same moody blue from the entry was carried into the butlers pantry. A teal gingham wallpaper was added to the ceiling for an extra pop of pattern.Stacy Zarin GoldbergMolly chose themural wallpaper to lend an "outside in" feel to the dining room.The glossy blue butlers pantry, which serves as a major connection point between the homes original footprint and a new addition, holds most of the familys entertaining pieces, including a collection of antique teacups that once belonged to Mollys mother. Just off this space, the formal dining room is filled with pattern, thanks to an enveloping Chinoiserie mural wallpaper. When preparing to install the mural, Molly and her team uncovered a wallpaper hidden under layers of paint and drywall that was eerily similar to the one shed chosen to put up. It was definitely a meant-to-be moment, says Molly. The dining rooms blush tones offer a ladylike approach to the subtle red thread running throughout the house, while the mahogany dining table and sideboard, both vintage from storied American furniture maker Baker, ground the space.Get the Look:Wallpaper: Les Oiseaux by SchumacherBuilt-In and Trim Paint Color: Hague Blue by Farrow & BallRELATED: Brown Wood Furniture is Trending Again. Heres What to Know.The Pattern-Forward PrimaryStacy Zarin GoldbergHappily beige curtains and a woven chandelier create calming moments in the pattern-filled bedroom.Stacy Zarin GoldbergMoody black limestone tile, with subtle gray veining,was chosen to ground the neighboring primary bathroom. "Every room needs a bit of black," says Molly. Though Molly knew she wanted to do something bold in the bedroom, even she wasnt immune to second-guessing her design decisions. I thought, Is this wallpaper not going to be calming? Is this going to stress me out at the end of the day? she says. She knew there was only one path forward and it meant embracing the advice she'd been giving to clients for years: If youre going to do something like this, you have to go all-in. The resulting space doubles down on pattern (see: gingham lampshades and leopard-printed rug) and is equal parts relaxing and refined.In the adjoining primary bathroom, layers of texture were employed to offset the bedrooms pattern overload. A simple, earthy grasscloth wallpaper balances the moody black limestone tile, while a classic slipper tub with a freestanding telephone faucet adds traditional elegance.Get the Look:Bedroom Wallpaper: Indian Arbre by SchBedroom Window Trim Paint Color: Sloe Blue by Farrow & BallBathroom Wallpaper: Gramercy Weave by Phillip JeffriesRELATED: More Beautiful Bedroom Ideas for Designing the Dreamiest Room EverAn Expansive Laundry RoomStacy Zarin GoldbergThe floral wallpaper lends the hardworking space a more romantic feel. When Molly told her friends and contractors that she was going to turn the old family room into a large laundry-meets-mudroom, there was one unified reaction: Everyone said I was nuts. That didnt stop her. It was the best decision I made, she says. The oversize 150-year-old French farm table, which Molly purchased on a whim from online antiques marketplace Chairish to fill the space, does double duty as a clothes-folding station and a family dumping ground. Painted a woodsy green, the cabinetry built along the back wall houses a full-size farmhouse sink and a dishwasher, ensuring this space earns its title as the hardest-working room in the house.Get the Look:Wallpaper: McCall by Ferrick MasonTrim and Cabinetry Paint Color: Green Smoke by Farrow & BallRELATED: 30 Fun and Functional Laundry Room Decorating IdeasBackyard BeautyStacy Zarin GoldbergVarying shades of green keep this space feeling fresh throughout the seasons.Stacy Zarin GoldbergThe 100-plus-year-old well house that sits at the bottom of Mollys property was once the areas main water source.Located just off the main living area downstairs, the screened-in back porch is the perfect spot for Molly, her family of four, and their four pets to gather when the weather is pleasant. Shades of green, one of Mollys favorite colors, were chosen to keep the space cheery, even throughout the long Pennsylvania winters. Elsewhere on the property, a charmingly historic well house, surrounded by trees that offer a picturesque dapple of sunlight throughout the day, serves as a reminder of why Molly and her family fell in love with this happily historic homestead in the first place.Get the Look:Ceiling Paint Color: Haven by Sherwin-WilliamsWall Paint Color: Pointing by Farrow & BallTable: Garden Table by Mainly BasketsChaise: Beach House Chaise by Mainly BasketsTour These Other Colorful Homes:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she covers design and decorating trends, home features, and gift guides. She also produces home features and styles content for the print magazine. When she isnt working, can often be found digging around antique shops for the perfect find. Follow her adventures on Instagram!

Caf curtains are officially back! A one-time staple of country kitchens, especially in the 1950s, these short-and-sweet curtains have gotten a fresh look in the last few years. Trust us, these arent the same ruffly ones your aunt had in her quintessentially 90s kitchen. The patterns are fresher, the colors are bolder, and the uses are broader. Below, we break down what exactly caf curtains are, why theyre trending again, and how you can stylishly incorporate them into your own home, plus we share some of our favorite caf curtains (including hardware!) that you can shop for right here, right now.Jump to: What are Caf Curtains? Technically speaking, caf curtains are simple, half-height curtains designed to cover only the bottom half of a window. Unlike typical drapery, caf curtains are prized for their balance of light-filtering and privacy-providing. They date back to the 1800s, when European bistros embraced half-height curtains to let in light while allowing their coffee-sipping patrons to enjoy conversation in privacy. Their popularity in the United States began in the 1900s.RELATED:Are Caf Curtains in Style? Yes! Caf curtains are enjoying a resurgence thanks to renewed interest in breezy cottage style (see: cottagecore) and pattern-happy design trends (see: maximalism). The best part? Caf curtainswhen done righthave some serious staying power. They are simply timeless, says designer Cameron Ruppert. What Fabric is Used for Caf Curtains? Though caf curtains were once crafted from materials homemakers had on handtea towels, fabric remnants, lacemost modern iterations are made from linen and cotton fabrics that feel pretty-yet-practical thanks to dynamic patterns and a variety of pleating possibilities. While there are plenty of ready-made options, custom curtain makers such as Pepper Home and Everhem have also gained a cult following for their pieces, which are fabricated from designer-grade fabrics at direct-to-consumer prices. Where Can I Use Caf Curtains?Not just for kitchens anymore, cafe curtains can bring seclusion, softness, as well as a dose of pretty, to a variety of rooms. Below, we share some of designers favorite places to hang caf curtains and tips on how you can get the same look at home. In the Bathroom Bjrn WallanderDesigner Alison Newman settled on a cheery palette for this primary bathroom. In large bathrooms, caf curtains add privacy where you need it most. To level-up your design, pick stylish finishing details such as tab tops or pleats. In a pinch, rod-pockets will do just fine. RELATED:In the Bedroom Christopher HorwoodIn this patterened attic bedroom, designer Isabella Worsley chose simple, monochromatic fabrics to balance the space. Looking for even more privacy? Pair your caf curtains with relaxed Roman shades to create an elegant, layered look that offers double the coverage when you want it. Choose materials that contrast for a more statement-making display or stick to complementary styles that happily blend in. In the Pantry Helen CathcartBlue cabinets add a pop of cheerful color to this pantry designed by Isabella Worsley. Rustic red whipstitch-edged curtains prove that jams and jellies arent the only pantry staples you need. DIYd decorative edges, which can easily be done with some crafty ingenuity and a bit of ribbon or yarn, transform store-bought caf curtains into a wholly bespoke piece. RELATED:In the Powder Room Nathan Schroder PhotoghraphyLight-filtering curtains in this powder room from Collins Interiors ensure the small space still feels airy. Dont overlook the hardware! Opt for hardware that makes a statement. In this powder room, brass rods with French-style returns bring sophistication, as do pinch pleats.Related Story In the Breakfast NookStacy Zarin GoldbergTulip-printed fabric, Guermantes by Scalamandre, provides a permanent pop of spring in this breakfast nook designed by Cameron Ruppert.Have a classic white kitchen? Caf curtains are the perfect vehicle for pattern. Pick bold prints for added visual oomph and stick to classic graphicsthink ticking stripes and ginghamfor more of a farmhouse flair. RELATED:Shop Our PicksWeve scoured our favorite sources for the best caf curtain styles at the best prices. Below, check out our editor-approved caf curtains and the must-have hardware you need to bring the look to your home. Our Favorite FloralsBlockprint Caf Curtains$35 at Birch LaneFolksy Caf Curtains$39 at Urban OutfittersChinoiserie Caf Curtains$48 at AnthropologieMughal Flower Caf Curtain$23 at AmazonOur Favorite Graphic PatternsBold Stripe Caf Curtains$20 at AmazonPlaid Caf Curtains$80 at twopagescurtains.comGingham Caf Curtains$13 at TargetTicking Stripe Caf Curtains$15 at WalmartThe Must-Have HardwareFrench Return Rod$79 at Pottery Barn KidsFinial Rod$13 at AmazonBrass Curtain Clip$13 at AmazonBrass Tension Rod$55 at RejuvenationFor More Vintage Decor Ideas Making a Comeback:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she covers design and decorating trends, home features, and gift guides. She also produces home features and styles content for the print magazine. When she isnt working, can often be found digging around antique shops for the perfect find. Follow her adventures on Instagram!

With spring right around the corner, the time is right to freshen up your bedrooms to reflect the season. And you dont have to go full-on reno mode to make a big impact! Pretty spring decorating ideas like arrangements of fresh flowers, lighter and brighter colors, and flung-open windows will pull your decor out of its winter slump and right into sunnier days ahead. Simple swaps, such as saying goodbye to flannel sheets and hello to lighter linens, go a long way in transitioning your bedroom from one season to the next. Check out these 7 easy and pretty spring decor ideas to get your primary bedroom, guest bedrooms, and kids bedrooms ready for spring!Throw Open the WindowsRikki Snyder for Country LivingIts finally that time of year where we can let in some fresh air and sunshine! Give windows and screens a quick spring cleaning while youre at it, so you can fully enjoy natures work this magical time of year.For More Bedroom Decor Ideas:Bring In Some BranchesBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingNothing says spring like fresh flowers snipped from the garden. And dont sleep on grocery store bouquetsthey have come a long way! Split that big bundle into several small arrangements and place on bedside tables in all bedrooms.For Flower Ideas:Lighten Up the LinensDavid A. Land for Country Living A fresh set of crisp white sheets and shams gives the feeling of sleeping in your favorite bed and breakfast. Here in this cottage lake house bedroom, scalloped details add a sweet touch to this charming lake cottage primary bedroom. We especially love the mint and white basket quilt folded at the end of the bed for cool spring nights. A trio of patterned pillows adds a springy pop of color. For More on Bedding:You dont have to go full-on reno to make a big impact. Simple swaps in the bedroom go a long way.Incorporate Springy Colors Jean Allsopp for Country LivingOne of the easiest ways to spring up your bedroom is by swapping out decorative touches like throw pillows, lamps, or even lampshades. Trade heavy, textural accessories for lighter, more colorful versions. Mix and match patterns (florals, stripes, and gingham), so long as the color palette is kept tight.More Spring Decorating Ideas:Repaint the WallsBecky Luigart-Stayner, styling by Matthew Gleason for Country LivingA fresh coat of paint works wonders. We love how this barely pink shade (Intimate White by Sherwin-Williams) acts as a neutral in a bedroom of a Mississippi farmhouse. Painting or wallpapering an accent wall goes a long way too for a fraction of the effort and cost. For More Paint Color Ideas:Rearrange the Furniture Brian WoodcockIn many bedrooms, there may only be one spot that makes sense for the bed. If thats the case, consider switching around smaller pieces, like bedside tables and chests of drawers to mix things up. Take this opportunity to do a deep clean under all furniture, too! In this farmhouse bedroom, the bed is nestled between two windows, creating symmetry and order. Switch Out RugsDavid Tsay for Country LivingYou dont have to go into full reno mode to make a big impact. Weve found that a new rug makes a huge difference, like this fun striped one. Even swapping rugs from room to room can be a budget-friendly and easy way to change up your dcor. Remember to rotate rugs often to make them last longer. For More Rug Ideas:Amy MitchellManaging EditorAmy Mitchell is the managing editor for VERANDA and Country Living, where she writes articles on a variety of topicsdecorating and design, gardens, and holidays. Amys experience in the shelter magazine category spans more than 20 years, as shes 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.

In recent years, design enthusiasts have found themselves somewhat divided over the ubiquitous phrase modern farmhouse. Largely popularized by shows like Fixer Upper, mass retailers, and, yes, design magazines such as this one, its an aesthetic that can elicit eye rolls from designers who are getting a bit tired of receiving the same roster of requestsshiplap! barn doors!from clients on repeat. (The New York Times referred to the modern farmhouse aesthetic as this generations McMansion. Rude!)Heres the thing: The internet tends to hate on anything with widespread appeal. And while Zillows Home Trends Expert Amanda Pendleton acknowledges that features such as shiplap and barn doors are not quite as coveted as they used to be, the modern farmhouse aesthetic can still serve up a really nice balance of the new and the old. But what is that aesthetic, exactly? Generally speaking, the modern farmhouse look celebrates the staples of a historic country farmhouseopen shelving, apron front sinks, wide-plank hardwood floorswhile incorporating modern-day elements that lend the look a more contemporary I'm-not-actually-a-farmer edge. (Think steel-frame windows, clean-lined light fixtures, and contemporary art.) Monica Buck, styling by Raina Kattelson for Country LivingWhimsical wallcovering and antique beds keep a farmhouse bedroom (designed by Jersey Ice Cream Co.) from feeling same-old, same-old.Youll also find that the modern farmhouse look tends to favor neutrals (white paint, pine finishes, nubby linens) which allows for more rustic architectural accents like reclaimed mantels and exposed beams to stand out.What we love most is the fact that the farmhouse aesthetic is rooted in practicality, and that never goes out of style. If youre tempted to join the modern farmhouse family, or looking to tone down the trendiness of the one you already have, let us point you in the right direction.1. Skip the One-Size-Fits-All Exterior.Most backlash associated with this look tends to be a response to the architectural samenessparticularly when perfectly pretty old homes are remodeled or torn down in the name of strikingly similar side-to-sides that feel spit out of a conveyor belt. A few of the designers and architects we spoke with are a bit tired of the black window sashes. Others cited scale as an issue: Huge expanses of interrupted glass can undermine the innate humble nature of a farmhouse, says Cristiana Pledger, an architect in Birmingham, Alabama. But there are plenty of examples of modern farmhouses that beautifully break the mold. Stephen Karlisch for Country LivingThis new build feels like its been sittin pretty for decades thanks, in part, to its simple warm white exterior that is as timeless as it gets. For similar, try White Dove by Benjamin Moore.Annie Schlechter for Country LivingEnergy-efficient and fully recyclable, a metal roof can last 60-plus years compared to the 12-year average of asphalt.Jean Allsopp for Country LivingA charcoal black paint is a sophisticated and less expected choice for a modern farmhouse exterior. For similar, try Peppercorn by Sherwin-Williams.2. Prioritize Real Patina.For me, its all about authenticity, says Emily Doerfler, a designer in Bend, Oregon. Too often I see faux vintage or overly distressed and cheap materials being used in modern farmhouses. The key to achieving the look is using authentic materials. There is no substitute for real patina, so skip the repro sign or uniformly distressed dresser at the big box store and proceed straight to the antiques shops for the real deal. (That goes for wood beams, too.)Lincoln BarbourAn antique cabinet lends soul and substance to this all-white bathroom by Nashville designer Julie Couch.David TsayReclaimed beams and antique light fixtures bring ample old soul to a new-build kitchen in Bellville, Texas.Lincoln BarbourWeathered beams and an antique rug help the room feel layered and lived-in.3. Incorporate a Little Color. If you gravitate toward neutrals, you do you! But if Instagram has made you feel as if the only way to do modern farmhouse is with an overwhelmingly white palette, were here to set the record straight. Generally speaking, nature-inspired tonesrich greens, warm pinks, sky bluesfeel right at home in a farmhouse. Your homes surroundingswhat your land looks like, whether youre by the water versus surrounded by a lot of greeneryprovide good directional cues to inspire your color palette, says Nicole Gibbons, founder of paint company Clare. If you want to up the modern quotient, go bolder with a high-contrast pop of red or bright yellow. Annie SchlechterBright yellow bedding sets a cheerful tone in a modern farmhouse bunk room.Stephen KarlischMoss green paneling and an antique rug lend color to a modern farmhouse bathroom.4. Use Lighting as a Lever.The modern farmhouse look is all about balance, and light fixtures go a long way toward achieving that equilibrium. In a room thats already rich with patina, you may want to consider a modern-leaning light fixture. In a space that feels overwhelmingly new construction, a crusty salvaged lantern may be just what you need. On the fence? An iron pendant or chandelier can often bridge the gap.Lincoln BarbourBlack-and-brass orb pendant lights offset more traditional elements in this light and airy Nashville kitchen.A bold pop of pattern can also give a farmhouse a modern feel. A good rule of thumb: The more traditionally country the motifthink pastorals, florals, toiles, plaids, checks, and quilt motifsthe bolder you can dare to go with the colorway. A few editor favorites include Gable by Farrow and Ball, Klverblad by Josef Frank, Big Gingham by Max Humphrey for Chasing Paper, Pinwheel Quilt by Chris Benz for Wallshoppe, and Red Pink Quilt by Sara Fitz.Annie SchlechterTastemaker Holly Audrey Williams updated her Kentucky kitchen with a metallic floral wallcovering.RELATED: Beautiful Ways to Decorate Your Kitchen With Wallpaper6. Look to the Shakers.The Shaker religious sects guiding principles of honesty, unity, and simplicity informed not only how they lived, but also the artful pieces they designed. These days, the Shaker aesthetic, with its simple lines and lack of adornment, can feel downright modern, which is why its a great reference point for modern farmhouse design. (And cmon, who doesn't love a pegrail?)John GruenSo simple. So pretty.John GruenYou cant pinpoint this kitchen to any specific era, and thats precisely the point.ERIN FRANCOISA pretty pegrail-lined entry in a room designed by Leanne Ford. 7. Try a Little Lacquer.High-gloss paint finishes are yet another way to infuse a modern feel into a farmhouseand, unlike architectural elements, paint is an easy thing to swap out should you tire of the treatment. A high-gloss finishon furniture, on floorsbrings that unexpected hint of edge, says Country Living Senior Homes & Style Editor Anna Logan. I also love using a high-shine finish on a traditionally country silhouette, such as a Windsor chair. The combo creates a wonderfully playful push-pull.John GruenBlack lacquered Windsor chairs give this dining area a contemporary feel.Buff StricklandAn antique bookcase painted in a high-gloss finish (Tricorn Black by Sherwin-Williams) creates a pretty contrast with the pine.8. Mix and Match Eras.Your aged items neednt all date to the same period. In fact, plucking pieces from different decades, or centuries, helps a home feel as if its evolved over time. Plus: a clean-lined mid-century chair or sofa goes a long way toward giving a room a little edge. Annie SchlechterMid-century chairs give this Oklahoma living space a fresh point of view.ALI HARPERWho wouldnt want to tackle a crossword puzzle in this groovy little corner?Robert PetersonArtwork from assorted eras makes for a lively display in this room designed by Brian Patrick Flynn.9. Make It Personal.At the end of the day, a home should reflect you and the things you love. In the age of social media, tastemakers wield a lot of influence (they are called influencers, after all), but the best spaces are the ones that feel like a personal scrapbook, not a carbon copy. By infusing your home with quirky collections and sentimental heirlooms, youll be creating a far-from-cookie-cutter space that tells your story.Stephen KarlischVintage elements (artwork, stoneware, a wooden crate) give this new kitchen a sense of warmth.ALI HARPERGreek and Roman-themed bottle openers from the mid-1900s outfit the walls of this Alabama bathroom.Eric PiaseckiA collection of dog artwork brings personality to the room designed by Katie Ridder.For More Modern Farmhouse Ideas:Rachel Hardage BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

BJORN WALLANDER/OTTOIn an age where fast fashion has given way to fast furniture, a welcome shift is underfoot. Interior designers and discerning homeowners are shirking mass-produced items in favor of well-made antiques with classic silhouettes and a singular hue. Once the scourge of the design world with resounding cries of too dark or too dated, pre-1940s stained and unpainted wood furnituremahogany, in particularis having an honest-to-woodness renaissance. Folks are flocking to the soul and substance of time-honored pieces such as secretaries and highboys. (Incorporating dark wood furniture is also one of our favorite ways to help ground a colorful country house.) Still, there are a few tricks to making it feel fresh, not fussy, so peruse these ideas for embracing these stately statement-makers.Rethink the Dresser.COURTESY OF TIM SALISBURY/ANNA SPIRO DESIGNA mahogany dresser grounds a pretty pattern-filled bedroom designed by Anna SpiroTo maximize space and storage, consider subbing in a mahogany dresser (American-speak for a low chest of drawers), for a standard nightstand. (In the UK, the term dresser refers to a kitchen cupboard where you prepare, or dress, food.) For bed-height compatibility, look for a piece 26- to 30-inches tall. In the pretty art-filled room above, the dresser helps break up all the playful pattern. RELATED: 70 Bedroom Ideas For Designing a Dreamy MakeoverDivorce the Suite.Ryann FordA mahogany dining table paired with slipcovered chairs in a space designed by Meredith EllisPining for Sunday suppers around Grandmas hand-me-down dining table but still thinking it feels a little...gran? Swap the matching chairs for non-coordinating seating (or a banquette, even). Itll instantly loosen up the look, giving you the soul, sans the stuffy. RELATED: The Top 6 Dining Room Trends for 2025, According to DesignersEmbrace the Side Table.Illustrations by Joe McKendryWhile so-called serious brown furniture is typically associated with hire-a-mover-type behemoths, you can also infuse a room with ample character and charm using nothing more than a handsome side table in a unique shape. Some of our favorite styles to plop alongside a sofa or chair include a cricket table, a barley twist table, a gateleg table, and a Pembroke table.Warm Up the Bathroom. John EllisA wooden sink base in a bathroom designed by Alison Kandler.With all that chrome and tile, bathrooms can veer coldquickly. But add an unexpected antique as a linen closet or a vanity, and the room will feel awash with warmth. RELATED: Our Favorite Ways to Add Old Soul to a BathroomMove the Sideboard to the Living Room. Becky Luigart-StaynerSideboards, which typically stand taller than a dining table and feature a series of shallow drawers, were historically used in dining rooms as a means of serving food and drink. But theyre equally at home in a living room, where they provide a spot for displaying objects dart (or, okay, storing the remotes).RELATED: 95 Living Room Ideas Youll Love for Classic, Rustic, Traditional, and Modern Family SpacesPut Your Best Foot Forward. Illustrations by Joe McKendryGet a leg up on fellow antiques shoppers by knowing the names of these common foot styles. Score a Secretary.Mark RoskamsA mahogany secretary in the Connecticut home of designer Erick EspinozaIn the 18th century, the French secretaire (also known as a desk with a fall front) gave way to the distinctly British and American secretary: a slant-front desk with a chest of drawers below and a bookcase up top. Thanks to its vertical design and narrow footprint, it's equally practical in a dining room (think bar), living room (think bookcase), and bedroom (think home office). Its no wonder youre one of the more coveted pieces in the antique-furniture world. RELATED: The Best Home Office Ideas to Inspire You While You WorkSpot a Dovetail Joint. Joe McKendry for Country LivingEmployed in furniture-making for centuries, dovetailing (flaring, wedge-like projections that interlock to hold together the sides of drawers and internal components of case goods) is a sign of quality craftsmanship.(Psst: The size of the keysanother name for those flared componentscan help date a piece, as machinery introduced in the 19th century allowed for much smaller and more precise cuts.)Related Stories:

Because Ive spent more than a decade as the editor of Country Living, Ill admit a lot of people ask for my design advice, but heres the thing Ive noticed through the years: When it comes to their homes, almost everyone wants instant-gratification. Social media has a lot to do with this. How many times have you seen a one-week design challenge, or an after" unveil that seemingly came out of nowhere? Heres why thats a problem. If youre a reader of Country Living, you likely gravitate toward layered, lived-in spaces that feel truly personal. These dont happen overnight with expedited shipping on Wayfair. (For the record, we still love Wayfair.) The houses we regularly feature employ what designer James Farmer refers to as a cast-iron skillet strategy to decoratingtheyre seasoned over time, which leads to a layered, more nuanced decorative flavor.If our spaces are truly a reflection of ourselves, they should, like us, evolve over time.In recent years, a movement known as Slow Decorating has surfaced that champions a take-your-time approach to decorating a home. Like the Slow Food movement, it also encourages us homeowners to be more thoughtful about how and where we spend. For example, a basket made by a local artisan may be a bit more expensive, but theres value in supporting honest-to-goodness craftsmanship. The same goes with furniture, artwork...you get the idea.Now Ill admit that it took me some time to practice patience, but heres what Ive come to realize: The design elements in my home that I dont love all involve decisions I made in a hurry. In recent yearslargely inspired by the homeowners and designers Ive frequently interviewed for Country LivingI have embraced a few Slow Decorating lessons Ive learned and feel compelled to share them with you should it save you an impractical purchase or aesthetic regret. More Decorating Inspiration:Shop for the Piece, Not the RoomDesigner Libby Cameron is a master at interiors that feel acquired over time. (Her collected family home in Maine, seen below, is as lived-in and layered as it gets.) I like to buy what I love and move things around, she says. Furniture should be versatileit doesnt have to feel like it was bought for a specific room.If I fall in love with an antique piece of furniture, which happens frequently, I ask myself one question: Can I think of three ways I could put this [insert item] to use throughout the house? If I can envision, say, a chest of drawers used in a bedroom, entry, or hallway, I feel okay making the purchase. I find a lot of people approach buying furniture as a fill-in-the-blank strategy. With Slow Decorating, its more of a mix-and-match approach.James MerrellA living room by designer Libby Cameron features furniture that can move around as neededSweat the Small StuffIts the thoughtful little details that bring a room to lifethe quirky piece of artwork, the sentimental souvenirs, the curated collections. When I was renovating a farmhouse in Mississippi, I stocked up on pheasant glassware and vintage books by Mississippi authors well before I had any furniture. Heres why that was helpful: Acquiring those bitsy pieces here and there helped me feel like I was making progress on the project, which also made it easier to hold out for just the right bigger-ticket items, such as the sofa, sideboard, and so on. Hector M. Sanchez for Country LivingPheasant glassware, vintage plates, and faded paintings give a Mississippi kitchen a layered-over-time feelingRELATED: 100+ Best Places to Shop for Antiques and Vintage OnlinePrioritize QualityYou know the saying: Buy once, cry once. It may be slightly painful to pay more for hand-crafted furniture or a quality antique, but in the long run itll serve you better than a bookcase made of particle board. In the same way the Slow Food movement says to know your farmer, theres also something to be said for knowing the name of the person who thoughtfully made the items in your homeor the antiques dealers who sourced them for you. (Chances are theyll also have a good story to share!)Hector M. Sanchez for Country LivingA pretty wooden plate rack by Cosmo FryMix Materials and ErasThe strongest examples of Slow Decorating are those spaces that you cant quite assign to any certain era. They feel stuck in time, but in the best, hardest-to-pinpoint way possible, says Country Living Senior Homes & Style Editor Anna Logan. When you make peace with waiting it out, youre less likely to jump on trend bandwagons and wind up with a house that can be tied to a very specific moment in time. (Lookin at you, Modern Farmhouse.) Dane Tashima for Country LivingA living room of a Marthas Vineyard cottage feels unhurried in all the best ways possibleRELATED: 95 Living Room Ideas Youll Love for Classic, Rustic, Traditional, and Modern Family SpacesRemember: Finished Isnt the Goal This may be the hardest one. When it comes to decorating our homes, theres a real desire to be finishedto tie up the loose ends and be done with it. But if our spaces are truly a reflection of ourselves, they should, like us, evolve over time, with additions that reflect new interests and pieces that come with new stories. (Well, this one time at the Round Top antiques shows...) In grammatical terms, a home is an ellipsis, not a period. Perhaps no one understands that dot-dot-dot approach to decorating like a collector, who trades box-store convenience for curation over time. While psychological research says that people gain more happiness from experiences than possessions, when possessions are tied to experiences, its the best of both worlds.Tour These Houses That Get Slow Decorating Right:Rachel Hardage BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

Country LivingCountry Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?As the dog days of winter draw to a close (fingers crossed), our editors have our eyes set on spring specifically ways we can bring a breath of fresh air to our homes. Because while we can't control the weather, we can make our living spaces feel spring-ready, right? From artificial trees that look good enough to compete with the real ones to cheery cafe lamps that have become spring's standout trend, there are so many ways to freshen up your home for the upcoming season, but our favorite might just be slapping a gorgeous new wreath on your front door. A wreath sets the tone for the rest of your home's aesthetic for any visiting guests, so if you really want to update to a more spring-ready style then it's the best place to start. While some retailers may lead you to believe you need to spend upwards of $100 or more to get a high-quality wreath, I've found tons on Amazon that are just as beautiful as their pricier counterparts and have great reviews. 1Nearly Natural 24" Peony Wreath$40 at AmazonThe name Nearly Natural rings true when it comes to the beauty of this wreath. I imagine you'll have neighbors knocking down your down all day asking where you got it, so buy at your own risk! It features vibrant peonies in mixed hues alongside hydrangeas and other greenery to create a whimsical looking wreath that brings so much style to any front door. 2Worth Imports 22" Forsythia Wreath$28 at AmazonForsythia is a classic spring floral that instantly brightens up any space. This one comes pretty condensed in the packaging, so you'll want to be sure to fluff out all the branches to get that classic forsythia look. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Baauye 20-Inch Tulip Wreath$46 at AmazonReviewers rave about how vibrant the colors of this tulip wreath are. The classic silhouette is ideal if you're looking for something more streamlined as opposed to the whimsical style of some other wreaths. 4Nearly Natural 24-Inch Spring Garden WreathNow 54% Off$118 $54 at AmazonThe most beautiful spring wildflowers shine in this whimsical wreath, accented by fern leaves and hydrangeas on a twig base. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5J'FLORU 22-Inch Artificial Spring Wreath $20 at AmazonReviewers emphasize the importance of fluffing out the branches on this 22-inch wreath. While it arrives fairly compacted, a little bit of TLC will have it looking like a real floral wreath in no time. 6AMF0RESJ Artificial Spring Wreath $18 at AmazonWith the mix of vibrant yellow and red with pastel pink and purple accents, this wreath would look great on your front door well into the summer months, a huge perk for those of us who tend to forgot about wreaths and leave holiday-themed ones up for months on end.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7DN DECONATION Bunny Spring Wreath $40 at AmazonThis bunny wreath is perfect for Easter, but we wouldn't blame you if you left it up through the spring season because it's just that cute. It comes in a pink and green colorway as well as a pink, purple, and yellow option if you prefer something more thematic. 8Qunwreath 18-Inch Green Hydrangea Wreath$37 at AmazonHydrangeas are technically a summer-blooming flower, but their beauty is truly timeless. The subtle green and white color scheme on this one lends it more to spring, but you could easily leave it up through the summer months, too. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Sggvecsy 24 Daisy and Lavender Wreath $36 at AmazonThis fun wreath features a bevy of gorgeous spring blooms, including daisies, dancing lady, jasmine, and lavender. All that's missing is the glorious smell of fresh blooms, but you could easily sneak in some sprigs of dried lavender to throw visitors off. 10egolot Lavender Flower Wreath Now 14% Off$50 $43 at AmazonThis gorgeous wreath includes a menagerie of faux lavender blooms that'll bring an array of purple hues to your front door. Tuck in some dried lavender sprigs and just wait for your guests and neighbors to ask if this wreath is real. Hannah JonesCommerce EditorHannah Jones is the Commerce Editor for Country Living. Her eye is always on the next up-and-coming products to include in gift guides and she's ready to test everything from dog beds to garden tools for product reviews. When shes not scoping out the latest and greatest items on the market, you can find her hanging with her two rescue dogs.

Peruse real estate listings for country homes from the 18th and 19th centuries, and youll likely notice a frequently cited feature: wide-plank hardwood floors. Popular with Americas early settlers thanks to a wealth of vast and untouched old-growth forests, these floorboardsranging from five to 30 incheswere born out of practicality.Eric Piasecki / OTTOReclaimed heart-pine floors feel right at home in a South Carolina carriage house designed by Schafer Buccellato Architects.Felling enormous trees was laborious, so the fewer cuts made to a tree, the better. Once felled, the trunks were often cut into quarters, and then the planks were cut at a 45-degree angle from those quarters, creating what is referred to as quarter-sawn wood. (This technique helps prevent boards from bowing upward.) Nicks and scratches are the architectural equivalent of hard-earned wrinkles and laugh lines.Courtesy of Christopher Horwood/Artichoke Ltd.Wide plank floors add soul to a kitchen designed by Artichoke. As the countrys timber supply depleted and building practices became more refined, hand-hewn boards became harder to come by. Today, theyre prized for their humble history, old-school craftsmanship, and the sense of character that comes from those who plodded their planks beforeso much so that theres a growing number of suppliers of salvage, including Evolutia (Alabama), StoriedBoards (New York), and Antique Beams and Boards (Ohio), to help homeowners create a well trodden look. Rikki Snyder for Country LivingWide plank floors up the charm factor in this old home designed by Christina Salway.Related StoriesRachel BarrettRachel Barrett is the Editor-in-Chief of Country Living. She can't pass up a vintage seascape, drives an '89 Woody Wagoneer (that is, when it'll start), and hopes to buy you a lemonade at a future Country Living Fair.

Stonewhether natural or manmadeis a top choice for kitchen countertops, but with so many options and differing opinions on which countertop material is best, the decision for your own kitchen can be overwhelming. Good news: You dont have to be a gemologist to make an informed decision about which stone countertop is best for your home! Marble and quartz, two darlings of kitchen countertops, share similarities as time-tested surfaces that add value as an investment to your house. But there are five key differencesand one major decisionto consider before making the final call about which stone countertop material is best for you. Below, we break them down and give you expert insight into the pros and cons of each material. Jump to:Lisa PertoleA pencil profile on these marble countertops is a streamlined counterpoint to the salvaged details that take center stage in this Texas kitchen designed by Grace Mitchell.Aesthetic AppealMarble: As a natural stone, marble slabs offer one-of-a-kind veining and colors, which adds instant age, history, and even a hint of romance in a home. From the most stately homes to rural countryside cottages, marble is the go-to choice for a house where natural building materials, such as wooden floorboards and clay plaster walls, are character-adding elements to a room's personality and architecture. The material also ages over time with a patina that radiates warmth and charm in the kitchen. Quartz: Quartz surfaces also have timeless appeal with looks that mimic nature in a man-made product, which equates to endless color combinations and finishes. Quartz, engineered with ground quartz, polymer resins, and pigments, is also the favorite countertop material in home renovations, according to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study that found 39 percent of homeowners favored the material as a countertop (versus just 4 percent who chose marble). Among the quartz brands favored with kitchen and interior designers are Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone, which offer a fantastic selection with a mix of styles, says designer Paula Dixon of Paula Dixon Design. Calacatta Gold for marble is a nice neutral with various hues to work with many design styles. For a bolder, darker choice, we like to use Nero Marquina [black marble] in a honed finish. FOR MORE:Rikki Snyder for Country LivingIn this Hudson Valley fixer upper, designer Christina Salway installed an ogee-edged Carrara marble to surround her sink and range.DurabilityMarble: Marbles smooth surface makes it an ideal choice to spread out dough and prepare baked goods. It also withstands heat, unlike quartz. But marble is also soft and porous, so it can more easily scratch, stain, crack, and chip. Acidic liquids such as wine, citrus, vinegar, and tomato juice can also cause discoloration. But, just like other finishes that patina over time, marbles natural aging qualities add character over time. And even with the wear and tear, marble can last some 20 to 50 years. Quartz: Quartz countertops are a hardier material, making them more difficult to damage. Quartz surfaces are also naturally bacteria resistant because of its non-porous surface. Since the countertops arent easily damaged, some manufacturers offer a longer extended warranty, anywhere from 15 to 25 years.Keep in mind that quartz and quartzite are not the same thing. Unlike engineered quartz, quartzite is a natural stone formed from sandstone and quartz. Like marble, quartzite is heat-resistant and requires regular sealing to prevent staining. Quartzite is also more porous than quartz. FOR MORE:Marta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingIn this Minnesota lake house, the large kitchen island and surrounding counters were topped with Calacatta Laza Quartz.MaintenanceMarble: Marble requires regular upkeep, such as sealing every six to 12 months, to prevent bacteria build-up. Also, be sure to clean up spills from wine or acidic juices immediately to avoid staining. For regular upkeep, its best to clean marble with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Quartz: Quartz counters are low maintenance. The surface does not require sealing and standard household cleaners are all thats needed for regular upkeep.ZIO AND SONSReclaimed or salvaged marble pieces, which tops this New York cabins kitchen island, are a great choice for those on a budget.PriceMarble: Marble typically costs more than quartz because its a natural stone, whereas quartz is engineered and easier to manufacture. Also, since marble requires more maintenance, it can be more costly over time. The quality of marble is a variable in its price. The thickness of the slab and rare patterns and colors drive elevate the price, and custom cuts, edge designs, and the complexity of the installation are other contributing factors. But in general, marble costs about $100 per square foot, with installation averaging about $3,000. Quartz: Quartz surfaces vary widely in price, depending on customization, anywhere from $50 to $200 per square foot, with countertop installation averaging $4,500.Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingDesigner Trinity Holmes chose a simple Carrara quartz for this pattern-filled farmhouse kitchen.Home ValueThe good news is that both quartz and marble countertops add value to your home, as both are considered high-quality materials. Design pros offer these tips for scoring more affordable marble and quartz. Consider prefabricated quartz that comes in standard sizes and styles, which reduces labor costs. Check out architectural salvage yards and re-use stores for marble remnants that can be retrofit for your kitchen. Repurpose leftover pieces of marble and quartz (from your larger kitchen project or someone elses) in smaller areas around the home, such as on laundry room counters or bathroom vanity tops. Mix materials to stretch your budget and to create a more personalized look. Instead of using marble throughout the kitchen, create zones for specific functions. For example, carve out a smaller counter space as the baking area where marble is best suited, then use quartz around the perimeter of hard-working surfaces that are subject to spills and more everyday wear and tear. FOR MORE:Brian Woodcock for Country LivingA light gray quartz, London Gray by Caesarstone, covers this Alabama lake houses stained pecky cypress island.Whats the biggest deciding factor? Your lifestyle.The first step I consider is the homeowners lifestyle, says Paula Dixon. For families with children, quartz is often the choice for the durability and low maintenance. If the kitchen gets a lot of use with cooking and potential spillsquartz is the better option. For homeowners who want a natural stone and are OK with etching and staining, marble is the design choice.But for others, especially those who prefer a natural, perfectly imperfect look, marble stands the test of time. Marble has a timeless, luxurious look, Paula says. If youre looking for a high-end feel and are OK with maintenance, marble will be the way to go. FOR MORE COUNTERTOP OPTIONS:Kelly Ryan KegansKelly Ryan Kegans is a Minneapolis-based writer, editor, and photo stylist with more than 25 years of experience producing home design content for brands including Country Living, Better Homes & Gardens, and HGTV Magazine. Her own home is populated with more books than shelves, a few too many scrubbed pine tables, and moody photos of gray day landscapes, which are her happy place.