If you’ve ever opened an issue of Country Living and wondered where the homeowners of many of the beautiful homes featured purchased their textiles and upholstery fabrics, you might have stumbled into the world of “to-the-trade fabrics” and then felt confused as to why you couldn’t purchase these fabrics by the yard directly. It’s a more common question than you might think. Fabrics and wallcoverings that are sold as “to the trade” only can only be purchased by licensed interior designers and architects with approved tax identification numbers. (In fact, access to these exclusive fabric options is one of the top reasons most people choose to hire designers.) While it’s never been easier to work with an interior designer thanks to sites like The Expert, actually hiring a designer may not be in your budget. So, how do you get these exclusive fabrics? Below, I’m sharing the five most common ways plain ol’ consumers like you and me can buy to-the-trade fabrics and wallcoverings, along with my own favorite places to shop for them.Related StoriesOnline Retailers The best (and easiest!) place to purchase to-the-trade fabrics by the yard (and wallpaper, too!) is from online retailers like Decorator’s Best, The Expert, or Perigold, who sell select options from storied fabric houses such as Lee Jofa, Scalamandré, and Schumacher. These brands offer fast shipping, return windows (though sometimes a restocking fee is applied), and sales giving you prices you wouldn’t typically find or have access to. The one downside is their limited selection, meaning, if you have a specific fabric in mind, you may not be able to find it available on these sites.Read McKendree Sample Sales Occasionally, designer fabric houses will have sample sales offering discounted fabric online or in person to the general public. For example, designer favorite Chelsea Textiles usually hosts a large warehouse sale each spring where their fabrics and furniture are available at a hefty discount. To stay on top of these designer sales, I recommend signing up for email lists and regularly checking the brands’ social media feeds on a regular basis as these sample sales are often announced shortly before they happen. I also recommend following your local design center, which are found in select major cities across the U.S. The to-the-trade showrooms inside those centers will often hold sample sales where they offer fabric, floor model furniture, pillows, art, and more at discounted prices. These sales are also a great place to shop for custom fabric lampshades! Design Center Referral ProgramsSpeaking of design centers, some of the larger design centers where multiple showrooms are located (which are all open to the public to come and browse, btw!) do offer services to help non-trade consumers purchase to-the-trade fabrics. For example, New York’s Decoration & Design (D&D) Building has their Consulting & Buying Program that gives consumers the opportunity to look at and purchase fabrics at to-the-trade prices, plus a nominal fee, as does the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles. Other design centers, such as the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC), offer referral services to connect you with a designer for consultation and purchasing. David HillegasSecondhand SourcesShopping fabric remnants secondhand is an easy way to build up your fabric stockpile, especially if you aren’t looking for anything specific. Designers and workrooms often offload remnants they no longer have use for on sites such as Etsy, Chairish, and 1stDibs, the latter two being great places to find exclusive or luxury fabrics. These aren’t just small pieces, either! You’ll often find full bolts or multiple yards of fabric available. If you’re up for more of a hunt, check local estate sales or Facebook Marketplace for fabric remnants. You might even find vintage or discontinued fabric options shopping this way. Fabric ShowroomsAs a last resort, you may be able to order fabric directly from the local design showroom. It’s not guaranteed and is not a common practice, but it’s worth calling around to showrooms near you and asking if they could place an order on your behalf. If they turn you away, ask if they have local workroom (upholsterers or fabricators who work with designers to create custom upholstery, window treatments, pillows, etc.) recommendations who then might be able to place the order for you. The workroom method is especially helpful if you are looking to recover or reupholster an existing piece. There are also showrooms open to the general public, such as Calico Corners, that offer some to-the-trade fabrics, but again, their selections are usually more limited than what you could access if you were working through a designer. Related StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

When it came time to update the kitchen of her 1960s Colonial-style home, designer Molly Singer embraced the design advice she’s been dishing out for decades: finishes became punchier, paint colors and patterns veered more playful than placid. The whole project became a testament to what happens when you let a designer do their thing. Read on for a full breakdown of the 10 ways Molly tuned this space into a charming, collected farmhouse-style kitchen of her wildest, most colorful dreams. Stacy Zarin GoldbergTraditional blue cabinets provide a fresh new look in Molly’s classic-meets-cool kitchen.TOUR MOLLY’S ENTIRE HOME:Go for Nickel-Gap Paneling So that the new kitchen would be in keeping with the rest of her 1965 home, Molly skipped the standard drywall and opted for a tongue-and-groove wood treatment whose name comes from the nickel-wide spacing between boards. Covering both the walls and the 12-foot-high ceiling, the creamy paneling offers contrast to the red oak beams, corbels, and flooring, all stained with a custom 50/50 blend of Bona’s Cocoa and Natural.Get the Look:Paneling Paint Color: Pointing by Farrow & BallChoose Character-Rich CabinetryPainted a fresh shade of duck egg blue, the kitchen’s drawers and cabinets feature thoughtful details, including mix-and-match unlacquered brass hardware, furniture-style toe kicks, and—atop the two glass-fronted step-back upper cabinets—classic crown molding. Dark honed Adamantium quartzite countertops help ground the otherwise airy color palette.Get the Look:Cabinetry Paint Color: Skywalker by BackdropRELATED: Marble vs. Quartz Countertops: Which is Better? Install a Multitasking Island Thanks to endcap shelving, the 6-1/2-foot-long island can house Molly’s many cookbooks. On the other end, a three-foot stretch of zebrawood butcher block is intentionally raised half an inch higher than the quartzite island top to create two separate prep spaces. The two backless rattan stools are easily tucked underneath when not in use.RELATED: Our Favorite Kitchen Island Ideas for Kitchens Large and Small Bring in Natural TouchesA trio of shapely jute rugs dots the light-filled space and adds a happily humble layer. The contrasting finishes of the round wood-toned dining table and the black-stained Windsor chairs give a contemporary touch to the otherwise classic kitchen.Stacy Zarin GoldbergStacy Zarin GoldbergStick with a Statement StoveA 55-inch-long vent hood, crafted from the same red oak as the adjoining beams, crowns the stainless steel gas range. Along the top and the bottom, decorative bands of wood tambour paneling bring more visual texture. The stove’s extended quartzite backsplash, outfitted with an unlacquered brass pot filler, protects the wood walls, while a handy three-inch-deep built-in shelf serves as the perfect perch for Molly’s go-to spices. Layer Your LightingMolly, who is not a fan of “boring” overhead recessed lighting, opted for an array of light fixtures including task pendant lights hung over the island (the metal shades were painted to match the cabinetry), and a pair of sweet shaded sconces to illuminate the back counter.Stacy Zarin GoldbergStacy Zarin GoldbergDon’t Forget the Farmhouse SinkMolly encourages clients, especially those who have children or love to entertain, to install two sinks (and two dishwashers!) to give their kitchens max efficiency. In her own kitchen, both apron-front sinks, paired with unlacquered brass bridge faucets, are under large windows that overlook the pastoral property’s landmarks: a 100-plus-year-old spring house and an even older oak tree. Pick Pretty Patterns“If you have the opportunity to put fabric in a kitchen, take it,”says Molly. Here, she followed her own advice by embracing a graphic Art Deco-inspired motif on the sconce shades and the on-trend café curtains. Happy plaid seat cushions offer another soft moment.Get the Look:Café Curtain and Sconce Shade Fabric: Mézières by Antoinette PoissonPlaid Seat Cushion Fabric: Banon Plaid by Brunschwig & FilsRELATED: Trend Alert! Café Curtains are Back! Here’s How to Use Them. Stacy Zarin GoldbergChoose Smart StorageCustom built-ins hide the clutter of what Molly calls the “children’s pantry,” where kid-friendly foods are stashed. While the left side has fully functioning drawers and cabinets, the right side is purely decorative, as it conceals a load-bearing wall she couldn’t build into. The middle portion features double plate racks and a pair of crosshatch mesh-fronted cabinets that hold her copper cookware. Above it all, Spode’s Woodland plates add farmhouse flair.Stacy Zarin GoldbergStacy Zarin GoldbergPrep a Party PantryFrench pocket doors open to reveal this well-appointed pass-through, which connects the kitchen with the dining room and the den. The space functions like a hardworking party-prep zone, thanks to a wet bar and an undermount hammered-brass sink. The pairing of the dark inky blue cabinetry paint color and the blue-green ceiling wallpaper creates a transition between the light and bright kitchen color way and the den’s moodier palette.Get the Look:Cabinetry Paint Color: Hague Blue by Farrow & BallShop the LookUnlacquered Brass Knob$14 at RejuvenationSwan Neck Sconce$125 at pooky.comScalloped Jute Rug$298 at Serena and LilyGingham WallpaperNow 25% Off$39 $29 at spoonflower.comTOUR MORE KITCHENS:Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Just a few weeks ago, our April/May issue hit newsstands. As Country Living’s Senior Homes + Style Editor, I always take the time to post a thank you to all the creatives who brought our issue to life on my Instagram. To celebrate our most recent issue, I led with an image of a bloom-meets-laundry room (pictured above) from designer Kendall Rabun’s stunningly fabulous West Virginia project. Almost immediately, my post was flooded with comments asking what paint color Kendall used (Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball, by the way). These comments confirmed a lingering suspicion I’ve had for months: We’re entering the era of duck egg blue. Stacy Zarin GoldbergDesigner Molly Singer’s kitchen feels airy and bright thanks to a coating of Backdrop’s Skywalker.Blue has long been a designer-favorite paint color (especially for kitchens), beloved for the easy, laid-back sensibility it brings to a room. The recent shift towards greener, more verdant versions follows green’s resurgence in the design mainstream. (I mean, who hasn’t seen a beautiful green kitchen and thought about immediately starting a weekend project to repaint their own kitchen cabinets?) Duck egg blue’s steely look has been perfectly poised for design dominance because it pulls notes from both beloved shades—blue and green. Chase DanielIn this Texas farmhouse galley kitchen, the homeowner chose a timeless duck egg blue paint color to pair with the reproduction wallpaper and antique mint-colored enamel gas range.Much like actual duck eggs, which get their iconic coloring from the naturally occurring pigments blue oocynian and biliverdin, duck egg blue paint colors come in a variety of shades. Hints of black or gray give the color a muddier appearance, creating a more traditional feel that pairs well with brown wood furniture or layers of bold pattern. Brighter, clearer shades can lean coastal, but also work beautifully with traditional white farmhouse interiors.Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite duck egg blue paint colors for you to try. Just be sure to read our painting guide before putting brush to wall! FOR MORE ON PAINT COLORS:The Best Duck Egg Blue Paint ColorsSkywalker by Backdrop$59 at backdrophome.comDix Blue by Farrow & Ball$146 at Farrow & BallMeander Blue by Sherwin-WilliamsNow 30% Off$49 $34 at Sherwin-WilliamsWythe Blue by Benjamin Moore$56 at Benjamin MooreAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

Growing up in Georgia, April meant two things: the return of pollen and the Masters Tournament. Kentucky may have the Derby, but Georgia has the Masters, and if you’re asking me to pick a favorite, the Masters wins every time. The whole state buzzes with excitement as the world’s best golfers and their entourages—not to mention tons of celebrities and the most glamorous of the seen-and-be-seen crowd—descend upon the not-so-tiny town of Augusta, Georgia. As a kid, I loved watching for the spectacle of it all. My grandfather would excitedly point out all the different golfers and their stats, rattling off their handicaps and where they were most likely to make a blunder—thus, ruining their chances at winning the iconic green jacket—but I was always watching the background, entranced by the blooming azalea bushes and dogwood trees, not to mention the parade of fashion that accompanies such a gathering. You haven’t seen just how elegant athleisure can be until you’ve watched the Masters. So if you’re like me, obsessed with the colors, pageantry, sights, sounds, and bites of the Masters but not so much the golfing action itself, then you’ve come to the right place. Below, I’m rounding up six paint colors that capture the essence of the Masters, from the flowers to the food, so that you can keep that spirit of Augusta National going all year. On the hunt for more paint content? Check out our best designer-approved color guides below. 1Green Meadows by Benajmin MooreShop at Benjamin MooreThe iconic Masters green. While it may have its own Pantone color, Benjamin Moore’s Green Meadows is the closest you can get in the paint world. A happy mid-tone green with a touch of blue makes it a chameleon shade, both bold and ready-to-fade-away. 2Shy Boys by BackdropShop at backdrophome.comThe Masters simply wouldn’t be the Masters without blooming azalea bushes filling your visual field at any given moment. I mean, how does the ground crew ensure they’re always blooming perfectly just in time for the tournament? Regardless, this slipper pink shade from Backdrop is a must for any true Masters (flower) devotee. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Siesta Rose by GliddenShop at Home DepotIf the azalea bushes don’t hold your attention, then maybe the drink will. The iconic cocktail, aptly named The Azalea, is a deeper pink and mimics the darker shade of flower found on some bushes. Did you know azalea bushes typically come in three shades: white, light pink, and a darker pink that sometimes looks red?4High Reflective White by Sherwin-WilliamsShop at Sherwin-WilliamsNext to the chicly clad golfers and onlookers, you’ll see an army of people dressed in bright white jumpsuits—the official uniform of Masters’ caddies. Their white outfits contrast so starkly against the lush, verdant background of Augusta National that it’s no wonder that they’ve become go-to costumes for fans and family members alike. (Artist Teil Duncan Henley dressed her brood in them in years past to support her husband, golfer Russell Henley, who is making his ninth Masters appearance this year.) Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Osage Orange by Sherwin-WilliamsShop at Sherwin-WilliamsIf the sights and scenes don’t entice you to watch the Masters, then the promise of pimento cheese sandwiches just might. This pleasant orange perfectly mimics the creamy, mayonnaise-laden cheese spread that has become synonymous with the four-day golf tournament. 6Fashion Gray by BehrShop at Home DepotThe stunning Amen Corner at Augusta National is perhaps the most iconic scene in all of golf. Set against a beautifully manicured forest, it spans three different holes and has both sand traps and water features. The most stunning parts of the corner, though, are the dual bridges, dubbed the Hogan and Nelson Bridges, after former Masters winners Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson. The walk over their rocky gray sides can spell doom or glory for competitors, so it only feels right we honor them here with this chic warm gray.Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

If you haven’t heard it before, let me be the first to tell you: Your grandmother has all the best furniture. Back in the day, handcrafted wood furniture was the norm, not the exception. That brown furniture you think looks dated? It’s not! It is the key to a timeless room you’ll love for the rest of your life. But, what about the stuff that *isn’t* furniture? Is that timeless too? Well, yes! It is, and it’s back in style and looking better than ever. Below, I share the five things that your grandmother probably had in her house and tell you why they are some of the top decorating must-haves of 2025. So, sit down, pour a cup of tea, and get ready to reminisce on all the decorating choices you thought you didn’t like. Related StoriesFloral Wallpaper ALUN CALLENDERA timeless rose motif adds cottage charm to this pattern-filled bedroom.Big, showy floral wallpaper might transport you right back to the 1980s, but hear us out: Classic floral motifs, especially when paired with traditional furniture and a bit of trendy decor, still feel on trend in 2025. The scale, color, and patterns on many of today’s wallcoverings are rooted in the past, but have been tweaked to better fit contemporary tastes, but if your fixer-upper comes complete with floral wallpaper still in good shape, I would think twice before pulling it down. For More on Wallpaper:Stained GlassSara Ligorria-TrampStained glass adds historic flair to this new-build barn home. Want to know classic motif getting a 2025 facelift? Stained glass. Now that we’ve comfortably moved beyond the era of beige-on-beige everything, homeowners are embracing color like they haven’t in decades. TikTok is currently obsessed with stained glass and some creators are even coming up with their own DIY ways to get the look for less, proving that colorful glass elements are finding a new—and hopefully lasting!—home with Gen Z-ers.For More on Stained Glass:Café CurtainsStacy Zarin GoldbergIn Molly Singer’s farmhouse kitchen, shades of blue and green ground the fresh and airy space. We’re calling it: 2025 is officially the year of the café curtain. Thanks to the popularity of direct-to-consumer window covering brands such as Everhem and Pepper Home, picking the happily patterned or delightfully neutral café curtains for your kitchen, bath, or dining nook has never been easier. Plus, they’re renter-friendly, making café curtains the ultimate low-budget, high-impact refresh that can transform your room in a matter of minutes. For More on Café Curtains:Pieced QuiltsJane BeilesWhether they’re hand-made by a family member or thrifted, pieced quilts add timeworn charm with ease. Now, here at Country Living, we never stopped loving pieced quilts. They’re timeless and full of quintessentially country charm. However, that hasn’t always been the case with the design industry at large. Over the last few years, a return to Americana and an emphasis on handcrafted, folksy charm has catapulted the pieced-quilt aesthetic back to the mainstream. If you’ve checked popular vintage resale sites such as Chairish or Etsy, then you know these handcrafted coverings fetch a high price on the secondhand market, meaning it’s high-time to pull your grandmother’s quilt out of storage and display it proudly.Shop for Quilts:Skirted SinksMatthew KisidayThis laundry and bloom room’s skirted sink proves more really is more when it comes to pattern.Whether they’re frilly and ruffled or simple and tailored, sink skirts have long had a place in country homes. Thanks to the recent increase in quintessential cottage style, they’re finally back in the mainstream. Much like café curtains, adding a sink skirt is a quick and easy—and budget-friendly!—way to upgrade your kitchen, half bath, or laundry room. Just don’t forget to choose a performance fabric for ultimate textile longevity! Anna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, I have been incredibly fortunate to learn from some of the most talented designers and stylists in the industry. I'm constantly floored by their creativity and their ability to elevate a space with a few simple tricks of the trade. One of my favorite takeaways from magazine photo shoots is the decorative impact of a simple branch clipped from the backyard. As beautiful as fresh flowers can be—I will always have a soft spot for a cluster of white hydrangeas or café au lait dahlias—the cost can add up so quickly, and there's nothing quite like a branch to make an impact. A good branch installation will also last a lot longer than grocery store flowers—more bang for your pluck, so to speak. "I love the foraged ease they bring to a space," says Senior Home and Style Editor Anna Logan. "Plus, they're a heck of a lot less fussy than flowers and can last much longer in water—no wilting arrangements here!"David HillegasBranches serve up a pretty hit of green to a bedroom designed and styled by Heather Chadduck Hillegas.David HillegasBranches bring a spa-like feel to a primary bathroom.Designer and shop owner John Derian is especially good at branch work—I'm telling you, it's an art form!—as is interior decorator and frequent magazine stylist Heather Chadduck Hillegas. For the cleanest cut, our resident Country Living gardener Charlyne Mattox recommends using these loppers over your standard clippers. "You want to make sure you get a very clean cut, and if the branch is slightly too large for clippers, it can mangle it," she says. Erin Kelly, a Pittsburgh-based photographer and stylist, says she tries to be as respectful as possible to the tree's overall health, which means cutting where the branch meets the main stem so it can regrow the following season. "I try to pick sculptural branches with natural movement," she says. "Sometimes one or two beautiful sculptural branches are all you need for major impact."Annie Schlechter, styling by Page MullinsHolly Williams’ Tennessee farmhouse also features branches in the bathroom.Nick JohnsonYellow clippings bring color to a Michigan kitchen designed by Erica Harrison.Brie Williams for Country LivingA floral centerpiece just wouldn’t have the same impact.Another benefit of branch dressing is that it's an approach that you can use year-round, however right now is an especially good time to give it a go. "Spring is the best time to forage for backyard branches, and Dogwood, Apple and Cherry Blossoms, Magnolia, and Serviceberry are some of my favorite go-to flowering branches," says Erin. "I also have overgrown Privet hedge in sections of our property that I've let grow wild specifically for branch styling purposes. Surprisingly, it also dries really beautifully. I've been known to keep a few huge dried Privet branches in Chinese rice wine vessels for months on end as they resemble an indoor tree for those of us without green thumbs." Personally, I frequently decorate with magnolia branches, regardless of season, because that's what I can source from my Birmingham, Alabama, backyard. I'm also not sure I should admit this in writing (!), but dead branches can be quite chic. On a recent shoot of my Mississippi farmhouse, our clever stylist Matthew Gleason raided the property's burn pile—the burn pile!—for a few seen-better-days branches to style our home's English-inspired boot room, and dare I say it worked?Hector M. Sanchez for Country LivingMagnolia clippings are on display in a vintage trophy in my Mississippi kitchen.David A. Land for Country LivingBranches are an easy way to incorporate fall color.Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingOh, these? They came straight from the burn pile. If you're tempted to branch out, I've found that narrow-necked vessels such as glass demijohns or glass jugs make it easy to keep them nice and upright. Erin also suggests making sure your container has some heft. "When you're cutting large branches, be sure to use a vessel that is on the heavier side so that the branch weight doesn't topple it. If I'm using a lighter weight vessel, I'll place small rocks at the bottom, which helps weigh the vase down and allows for more strategic branch arranging." Finally, if you don't have a backyard to raid, my designer friends swear by the eucalyptus branches at good ol' Trader Joes.Related StoriesRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett has written for and edited lifestyle publications for more than 20 years. As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, she has covered all things related to country life—including design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culture—for more than a decade. Before Country Living, Rachel spent several years at Southern Living, where she served as Executive Editor covering travel, food, style, and features. Before Southern Living, Rachel was the Special Projects Director of Real Simple, where she wrote and oversaw books and special issues about food, travel, weddings, organizing, and parenting in addition to working on international editions and licensed products. Before working at lifestyle brands, Rachel started her magazine career at Glamour, where she wrote and edited relationship articles, celebrity interviews, as well as fashion and features content. When she’s not working on the magazine, she can likely be found poking around an antiques shop, perusing country real estate listings, or dreaming of opening a general store.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Just in time for spring and fueled by a renewed interest in all things twee (thanks, cottagecore!), this $27 accessory-turned-home-accent has quickly become a favorite amongst interior designers. And, you likely already have one in your closet! The happily humble straw hat adds as much easygoing charm to your walls as it does to your wardrobe. While straw hats have been a farmer-favorite since man invented the plow, interior designers such as Lilse McKenna and Ariel Okin are now using them to jazz-up their grandmillennial interiors with a country twist. Whether haphazardly hung in the entry or artfully displayed above a guest room bed, pretty-and-practical straw hats are a charming addition to any space in need of a little natural texture and perfectly placed imperfection.This hats-as-decor trend has risen in popularity alongside the ongoing revival of traditional design and the growing enthusiasm for classically pastoral pursuits—think the pandemic gardening boom and the sudden popularity of the bloom room. Traditional design icons and gardening mavens—like Dorothy Draper, Bunny Mellon, and Martha Stewart—have always known the undeniably chic appeal that straw hats possess.Today’s independent hat makers, such as Sarah Bray Bermuda and Sunshine Tienda, have taken the basic straw hat and elevated it with fanciful ribbons and hatbands. This customization is another reason designers flock to straw hats for interiors: matching your home to your clothing has never been easier—or more chic.Regardless of which hat shape you love, whether it’s a classic panama hat or a wide-brimmed gardening hat, there are easy ways to integrate them into your home. See below for some of my favorite ideas and shop some of the best hats to decorate with, just in time for spring. Related StoriesIn the EntryJessica Klewicki GlynnAn antique hat rack serves up shapely style and a practical perch for straw hats. In the BedroomLaurey W. GlennIn this pattern-filled bedroom, a collection of hats match the other touches of texture. In the Living RoomRead McKendree for Country LivingA collection of straw hats doubles as art above the sofa in this coastal cottage.In Your Closet Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingA happy collection of hats looks especially elegant in this closet thanks to a chic hat form. At the Back DoorAnya RiceCraft a charming and practical tableau at your back door with a mix of hats.Shop These Stylish ChapeausExtended Brim Straw Hat$64 at AnthropologiePanama HatNow 10% Off$27 $24 at AmazonRancher Hat$88 at NordstromPackable Bow Sunhat$65 at tnuck.comRelated StoriesAnna LoganSenior Homes & Style EditorAnna Logan is the Senior Homes & Style Editor at Country Living, where she has been covering all things home design, including sharing exclusive looks at beautifully designed country kitchens, producing home features, writing everything from timely trend reports on the latest viral aesthetic to expert-driven explainers on must-read topics, and rounding up pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about paint, since 2021. Anna has spent the last seven years covering every aspect of the design industry, previously having written for Traditional Home, One Kings Lane, House Beautiful, and Frederic. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia. When she’s not working, Anna can either be found digging around her flower garden or through the dusty shelves of an antique shop. Follow her adventures, or, more importantly, those of her three-year-old Maltese and official Country Living Pet Lab tester, Teddy, on Instagram.  

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Though the gallery wall has roots as far back as Europe in the 1600s, the term first saw its most recent surge in interest in the 2010s. Since then, it's waxed and waned in popularity, and taken on all sorts of forms, but a collection of art pieces remains an ideal way to add a bit of cluttercore charm to any space. British designer Rita Konig is the reigning queen of the gallery wall. (If youve pinned it on Pinterest, she probably hung it, though the collection in the photo above was curated by Watts Design House. ) Here are her Rita's for an effortlessly elegant arrangement, inspired by the perfectly imperfect English salon aesthetic.Frame to the PictureA wall will look more layered and authentic if you pick frames for the specific artwork rather than the wall as a whole. Hang to the Furniture (Or the Floor!)You want the pictures to gravitate to the furniture or floor as opposed to floating out there on their own.Mind the "Avenues"Dont let your wall look like a map of Manhattan. Anytime you start seeing too long of a road, put up a roadblock to keep the overall look loose, not stiff or gridded.Start Small Its better to begin with a few pieces you love in a tight jammed in arrangement and to slowly evolve outward/upward from the floor or furniture as opposed to buying filler or props to round out a space. For whatever reason, filler will always feel like filler, Rita says. More English-Inspired Decor Ideas:

If you havent yet noticed, antiques are having a moment, as is a more nostalgic approach to interior design (see: caf curtains, pastel tile, knotty pine walls....). Its no surprise, then, that vintage dishware is also trending, but if youre prone to maximalist tendencies or a cluttercore enthusiast, you know that (sigh) a hutch can only hold so much. As these collectionsfloral china, cabbagewarespill over shelves and out of cabinets, it only makes sense to find new ways to put them on display. After all, refraining from future antiques shopping is not an option. Fortunately, our designer friend/fellow old soul Erin Napier has a solution. On the recent season 3 premiere of Home Town Takeover, in which Ben and Erin bring their downtown-revival skills to Sebring, Florida, Erin outfitted a lucky locals dining room wall with a thoughtfully curated collection of plates. Theres nothing more Southern to me than a nice plate wall, says Erin. Its something you can add to for the rest of your life so it becomes a plate room, says Erin, referring to the latter scenario as her dream.View full post on InstagramIn the episode, Erin can be found sourcing pieces from a local antiques shop, including finds from Sebring Pottery, a nod to the towns founder, George Sebring, who was both a potter and community developer (first in Ohio, and later, Florida). She also made a point of working in her Hospitality State roots. I want to be sure were mixing plenty of Mississippi in, says Erin, who incorporated a souvenir plate from a Laurel Baptist church. Were sister cities now, she tells the homeowner.Courtesy HGTVA dining room featured on a recent episode of Home Town TakeoverAs much as we love Erins dining room installationand the Lemon Grove wallcovering that pairs particularly well with the porcelainits worth noting that a plate wall neednt be limited to a dining space. Inspired by Erins installation, we mined the robust Country Living archives for a few of our favorite takes on the plate wallsome more formal, some more whimsical. Whatever your design aesthetic, theres a version of this look that can step up to the plate.KEEP IT NEUTRAL For a more understated assortmentwhich works especially well atop a patterned wall or bold colorlook to neutral dinnerware such as ironstone or milk glass.David Land, styling by Raina Kattelson for Country LivingIn Marian Parsons bedroom, a pyramid of plates create a fresh focal point. Brian Woodcock for Country LivingWith their intricate edging, milk glass dishes make for a striking display against a blue wall.PICK A PALETTEFor a collected yet cohesive look, seek out plates with a common color threadthink pretty pastels, blue and white, or earthy browns. Similarly, a common motifflorals, fish, deerwill help your installation hold together.Buff Strickland for Country LivingArranged vertically, an assortment of (mostly) blue-and-white plates dresses up the walls of Holly Mathiss Texas bungalow. TAKE CHARGE Dont overlook pewter pieces, such as chargers and platters, which can bring refinement to a room. Annie Schlechter for Country LivingSilver chargers and trays add interest above a sleigh bed in Holly Audrey Williams Kentucky farmhouse.LET LOOSE By approaching your display more organicallythink a winding vine up a wallyoull set a lighthearted tone. (A less structured installation also makes it easier to add new pieces over time.)Dustin Adams, Courtesy of Stephanie LyntonA loose and lush installation of cabbageware by Birmingham designer Stephanie LyntonADD SOME QUIRKWhen your selections have personality, a little goes a long way. Retailers including John Derian and Anthropologie are good sources for unexpected artwork.Pamela Cook / Studio DPainted face platters by British ceramicist Michaela Gall bring whimsy to an English-inspired living room.GO FOR A GRID For a cleaner, more buttoned-up look, arrange plates in a more linear and symmetrical fashion.Annie SchlechterDesigner Philip Mitchells home features a neat arrangement of Limoges fish plates.FLANK A WINDOW When artwork isnt feeling quite right, a stack of plates or platters can make it easier to achieve symmetry. David A. Land for Country LivingTwo rows of platters add decorative interest to the living room of a suburban Cape Cod home.CONTINUE THE COLLECTIONIf you have your favorite pieces displayed in a hutch, dont let lack of shelving limit your display. Surround the furniture with more of your collection secured to the wall. David A. Land for Country LivingIn this Michigan vacation home, designer Chenault James simply continued her Blue Willow collection on to the wall once she ran out of room in the antique walnut hutch.CIRCLE ROUND A wreath-like arrangement inherently brings a festive feel to a space, which is why we love this approach for a seasonal display, such as Spode Woodland dinnerware for Thanksgiving, green transferware during the holiday season, or cabbageware come Easter. Brian Woodcock for Country LivingIn a dining room, an assortment of plates arranged in a wreath shape brings a festive feel to the sideboard.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.

As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the countrys most talented designers, stylists, and tastemakers. After conducting hundreds of interviews and working behind-the-scenes on countless photo shoots, Ive learned plenty along the way, including the value of slow decorating, the enduring appeal of an unfitted kitchen, and the best secret sources for buying antiques online. (Its no secret that I have a thing for antiques.)Despite the beauty of a homes custom-upholstered sofas and original knotty pine walls and breathtaking views, what I find most fascinating on photo shoots are all of the little tricks and tactics designers and stylists swear by when it comes to making a room look camera-ready. While we cant all afford to hire a designer or buy a shingled house on the Cape, we can steal a few secrets to make our own homes feel more polished and put together.Read McKendreeA well appointed sofa in a living room designed by Katie Rosenfeld For example, for a truly high-impact arrangement, I now know theres nothing quite like a giant tree branchIm partial to magnoliaslipped into the narrow neck of a demijohn. (I have since saved so much on flowers.) I have also learned that every household needs a good steamer and thatdont ask me whyodd numbers of objects always make for a more visually pleasing grouping.Get More Stylists SecretsMy favorite, trick, howeverthe one I have embraced for years nowis to always size up on your pillow inserts. In other words, that 22-inch pillow cover will look better, and fuller, with a 24-inch insert (preferably down or down-alternative), not a 22-inch insert, which is what most people would assume. (Psst: Those in the know swear that Restoration Hardware has the best inserts. If they dont have your size, this Istanbul, Turkey-based Etsy shop has every configuration imaginable.) Ive found that even cheap-ish pillow covers will shine when filled with a quality, larger-scale insert.Nick JohnsonNo slouchers here. Plush pillows cozy up a living room by designer Erica Harrison.Still, if youd rather not buy all new pillows (I get it!), Texas stylist Becki Griffin has another quick fix. She recommends filling the floppy corners of your not-so-plush throw pillows with a generous handful of Poly-fil. It costs a few dollars, but your pillows will look like a million bucks, she says.For what its worth, a plusher pillow is also a lot more fun to karate-chop, if that's something youre into. Brian Woodcock, styling by Heather Bullard for Country LivingIn an Alabama farmhouse by Paige Thornton, a sofa sits pretty with plush pillows. 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.

In 2017, Academy Award-winning actress and repeat house flipper Diane Keaton offered fans a peek inside her 9,200-square-foot Los Angeles farmhouse, which she built from the ground up and designed over the course of three and a half years, in her book The House That Pinterest Built. (Diane was introduced to the platform by none other than the OG of the "Coastal Grandmother" aesthetic, Nancy Meyers, and used it to find inspo for the build-outhence the book title.) Not surprisingly, the home is full of Pinterest-worthy designs and featuresand now, it's up for sale! Per Realtor.com, the Annie Hall star recently listed the property for a cool $29 million. Related StoryIf you're a fan of black-and-white decor schemes, outdoor fireplaces, and massive kitchen islands, be prepared to fall in love. With just a quick look around, youll see just how talented Diane is when it comes to design. The farmhouse-style residence showcases her knack for style and structures, and brings together tons of our favorite modern modern farmhouse decor elements. Inside youll find distressed brick, chicken wire cabinet fronts, raw wood beams, old chicken feeders repurposed into pendant lights, shiplap-covered walls, subway tile, and a plethora of antiques. Beyond the beautifully executed design and Diane's celebrity star power, covetable features of the gated Sullivan Canyon property also include a guest house and a heated outdoor pool. Curious to see what could be yours? Head over to our Tour of Diane Keaton's Pinterest-Perfect Farmhouse and get ready to have major farmhouse FOMO. More Real Estate News:Sarah ZlotnickSarah Zlotnick is the Lifestyle Director at Country Living, where she has run point on travel, rural lifestyles, and all things vintage and antiques since 2021. Previously a lifestyle editor at Washingtonian and Philadelphia magazines, she has been championing small businesses and regional destinations for 15 years. She also holds a bachelors degree in American Studies from Georgetown University, a major her younger self would be quite surprised to learn has come so in handy. First and foremost a service journalism enthusiast, she loves an in-depth explainer on an everyday topic or a deep dive into the history of vintage objects. When shes not editing and writing, youll find her needling her husband to pull off the highway so they can explore a new small town or cozying up with a juicy murder mystery.

She sure loves a good neutral.

There are a few words in the design lexicon that always seem to stump people. Whether its the age-old debate between sofa and couch (they are not the same!) or, in this case, drapes and curtains, it can be hard to nail down exactly what the difference is and why it (may or may not) matter. Have no fear, Im here to help. As a design editor, I deal with these terms regularly. Below, youll find everything you need to know about drapes and curtains, what the real difference is, where blinds fit into the equation, which style may work best for your home, and all the things you need to consider before purchasing. Jump to:Related StoriesDrapes vs. Curtains: Whats the Difference? Read McKendree for Country LivingGreen-and-white patterned curtains keep this coastal cottage bedroom designed by Marynn Udvarhelyi feeling fresh and breezy.The terms drapes and curtains are very often used interchangeably when referring to fabric window treatments, but in reality, they are distinctly differentand it all comes down to formality and construction. Drapes are often made-to-measure for specific windows and crafted from higher-end designer-exclusive fabrics, also known as to the trade fabrics. These window coverings are typically thickerthink lush velvet or thick woven cottonsand lined for enhanced light-blocking capabilities. Drapes are almost always more formal than curtains. Curtains are breezierespecially sheer curtainsas they arent typically lined in the same manner as drapes. The fabrics used in their construction are also generally not as heavy-duty as those found in drapes. While curtains can be made-to-order, they are often prefabricated in standard lengths and widths. For example, you can buy curtains at popular retailers (Anthropologie, Target, etc.), but not drapesthough sometimes those retailers include drapes in their category headers as a way to make sure consumers searching for any type of window treatment online are seeing their pieces. (As if it wasnt confusing enough!) What About Blinds or Shades? Read McKendreeDesigner Katie Rosenfeld layered wood shades and block-print drapes in this crisp, yet casual Maine beach house. You may ask yourself: Do blinds fit into all of this? Yes, they do! Before we get into that, though, lets quickly address the difference between blinds and shades. Blinds are comprised of single pieces of material (like strips of wood) strung together that tilt to block out light. Shades, on the other hand, are typically made of one piece of material (either yardage of fabric or natural materials tightly woven together into a single piece) that you can raise or lower as desired. Blinds and shades both look great on their own, but they can also be used for layering. You can technically pair both with drapes and curtains, but designers often prefer bamboo or woven wood shades for added visual texture and contrast. (I have these woven wood shades in my home and absolutely adore them. They are customizable and ship via Amazon!) Blinds and shutters, another popular louvered light-blocker that are usually wood, typically nestle neatly within the window frame, so they shouldnt cause an issue for your fabric window coverings (provided you have deep enough window casing). Shades can also nestle within the window, but can also hang outside and have a more pronounced face. Are Curtains or Drapes Better for My Home?Marta Xochilt Perez for Country LivingClassic ticking stripe curtains add humble country charm to this lake house living room.Like many design rules, choosing the best window treatments for your room comes down to personal preference. If youre torn between the two and cost is not a concern (well get more into costs below), the best rule of thumb is to weigh these two factors: style and light filtration. Drapes are more refined due to the structured look provided by the thicker, heavier fabrics used to make them. (Some designers even add drapery weights to maintain a prim and proper appearance.) Drapes also typically filter more light because of their heavier construction. If you live in a classic Colonial-style home or one filled with more traditional elements, opt for drapes. Curtains, on the other hand, are lighter and breezier, making them a more popular choice for the casual living found in farmhouses and cottages. Important Things to Consider Matthew KisidayThe drapes in this West Virginia bunk room designed by Kendall Rabun are crafted of Quadrille Fabrics "Argentine."CostRegardless of what style you choose, window treatments can be found at various price points. In general, curtains are typically less expensive than drapes because of the type and amount of fabric used. Drapes may also feature additional design details that increase their cost, such as pleating, custom header types (the way the curtain looks and functions at the top), or specialized trims. Brands like Pepper Home and Everhem have revolutionized the window treatment game, offering custom curtains with stylish fabric options at direct-to-consumer prices. If you love the more formal look of drapes but they arent in your budget, check out local or online estate sales for vintage drapery panels that might work in your home. Just keep your window measurements handy! Or, you can even buy premade curtains, then add your own DIY trim or embellishment. Light FiltrationAs weve mentioned, drapes are typically better at darkening a room than curtains. Drapes will provide more light filtration, so if thats a priority for you, go for drapes or budget-friendly blackout curtains. If you prefer some light peeking through, opt for curtains. And, remember, you can always pair your curtains with a shade for extra darkness. They even make blackout shades that look a lot better than those vinyl roller shades of the past.PlacementDesigners might say that certain rooms benefit from certain types of window treatments, but in reality its up to you to decide what works within your budget and your style preference. Bedrooms benefit from the darkness of drapes but may feel heavy or stuffy if the rest of your furnishings are more casual or classically farmhouse. Formal spaces, such as living and dining rooms, are perfect for drapes. Communal gathering areas, like the kitchen or family room, are great for curtains. And, rooms where you want even more light but still desire the layered look window coverings givethink powder or laundry roomsare the perfect place for sheer or caf curtains. RELATED: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.

Spring is here and that means its time for a little room refreshing. The weekend is just the right amount of time to do a living room makeover. Yes, its true! Were not talking about moving walls or installing hardwood floors or even painting the walls a pretty living room paint color. We mean the most instant gratification, high-impact, low-effort, and low-budget ways to refresh your living room in two days or less. And if you use your time wisely, we bet you can even mark off multiple living room makeover ideas from our list below. Once you get going in the living room, were guessing you wont stop there. Many of these living room ideas, like bringing in fresh flowers or hanging a gallery wall, work in bedrooms and kitchens, too. Styling one set of bookshelves? Might as well style them all throughout the whole house. But first, the living room: Swap Out Decorative PillowsDavid A. Land for Country LivingLets just call them what they arethrow pillows are the secret weapon to making a living room feel redecorated in a snap. Often packed with color and pattern, they deliver quite the graphic punch to sofas and chairs. If youre not in the market to replace them completely, we recommend swapping out, say, the cute lumbars on a pair of chairs for a cushier set from the sofa. Just rotating the sizes and styles around the room can make a huge impact. Pro pillow tip: Size up on your inserts! For example, a 22-inch pillow cover looks loads more luxe with a 24-inch insert. Trust us on this!MORE LIVING ROOM DECORATING IDEAS:Rearrange the FurnitureMatthew KisidayFor an instant refresh that only takes a little labor (and maybe a helping hand from a friend), consider rearranging your living room furniture. Its likely easier to move chairs, for example swapping this club chair with the pair near the French doors. Side tables and accessories (try this no-fail designer formula for styling your coffee table) are easy to move around, too. And, if you move it back in a month, no loveor moneylost (talk about a living room makeover on a budget!). Another pro tip: If you have a pair of chairs, trade positions so the wear and tear on the seats and arms is more even over time. The same goes for sofa and chair cushionsits a smart practice to vacuum, flip, and rotate sofa and chair cushions monthly.MORE LIVING ROOM FURNITURE IDEAS:Bring In Fresh FlowersRoger Davies for Country LivingNo matter the season, fresh flowers go a long way in boosting the mood in your living room. This family room coffee table features a potted houseplant, but we also love a loose arrangement of clippings from the yard or a more clustered vase full of one type of bloom from the grocery store (some of our favorite grocery store flowers are hydrangeas, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums). Pro Tip: When it comes to arranging flowers, our garden editor swears by this 3-5-8 flower arranging rule. MORE FLOWER AND PLANT IDEAS:Style Your Bookshelves ALI HARPERGet those messy bookshelves in ship-shape once and for all! Display books, collections, accessories, and mementos by following these simple bookshelf ideas and tips that make bookshelves look organized and layered at the same time. Instead of pushing books all the way back to the wall, pull them closer to the edge of the shelf for a more filled-in look. Arrange books both vertically and horizontally.Tuck in favorite accessories for visual interest and hang small artwork or photos on shelf dividers for a truly layered look.When clustering items, place them in odd numbers to create balance.MORE IDEAS FOR STYLING YOUR HOME LIKE A PRO:Hang a Gallery WallRead McKendree for Country LivingWe are huge fans of gallery walls around here! These artful, often perfectly imperfect, wall arrangements just make our hearts skip a beat. And we especially love a gallery wall in a living room, where you can really sit back and take in this clever design element that is greater than the sum of its parts. Whether its comprised of vintage paint-by-numbers or precious family portraits (or a combination of the two), plan on a long day or two to get your arrangement right with these four simple steps. Pick objects to hang. If you dont have a theme in mind, choose pieces in like frames for a cohesive look. Sprinkle in non-framed items for dimension, if desired.Trace objects on butcher paper and cut out.Tape cut-outs to the wall using blue painters tape. Move them around until you get your arrangement just right.Hang items with nails. Secure with anchors if necessary.MORE LIVING ROOM WALL IDEAS:Elevate LampshadesRead McKendree for Country LivingYouve heard the phrase, Its all in the details. And in this case, with these gorgeous little pleated sconce shades, we overwhelmingly agree. The pattern play happening in this Cape Cod beach cottage is already 100 percent, but the addition of these sweet fabric-covered shades takes the whole living room look to the next levelso tailored and special.MORE IDEAS TO COZY UP YOUR LIVING ROOM: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.

What is preppy style? Well, theres only one definitive source you can reference time and time again: the 1980 classic book, The Official Preppy Handbook. If it must be pinned down, the look is English-American with a dash of seaside resort and womens handicraft. Its where the Chippendale secretary meets the needlepoint-covered brick doorstop, authors Lisa Birnbach, Jonathan Roberts, Carol McD. Wallace, and Mason Wiley write. And while the style has evolved and changed over the decades, the core tenents called out in the book have not: classic, handsome, patina, and mothers.So, then, what is preppy style with a little country flair (our personal favorite take on the look)? Theres less of an emphasis on perfection, plenty of timeworn charm, and more of a celebration of the classic and beloved elementspreferably handed down through the generations!that bring a room together. Think clean paint colors, happy stripes and checks, and a slew of brown furniture. Its somewhere between grandmillennial and coastal grandmother and, as a born-and-bred Southerner, this style is right up my alley! Below, find some of the top preppy elements for you to peruse in-between browsing the latest offerings at Tuckernuck or Draper James. Love Preppy Style? Check Out More Decorating Ideas:1Pick Pine PiecesRead McKendreePreppy design is full of antique furniture. While glossy mahogany might seem like the natural choice, pretty scrubbed pine takes preppy in a more humble direction, especially when paired with soft colors. 2When in Doubt, Add a SkirtLaurey W. GlennTheres really no space a skirted sink doesnt work. From laundry rooms to kitchens to powder rooms, these simple fabric panels provide low-effort upgrades at an equally low cost.RELATED: Our Hall-of-Fame Galley Kitchen IdeasAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Stick To ScallopsKerry KirkNothing says preppy style quite like a good scalloped accent. In this blue-and-white powder room, touches of brass and a woven basket for extra linens add to the preppy appeal. RELATED: These Design Ideas For Half-Baths Exude Classic Charm4Feel Out FringeLaurey W. GlennYes, fringe! Theres nothing quite as preppy grandmillennial as a good fringe, especially if its bullion or jute. This simple cream fringe is just the right finishing touch for the skirted table in this entry from designer Whitney McGregor. RELATED: Give Your Guests the Warmest Welcome with These Entryway Decorating IdeasAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Go All-In On GinghamRead McKendree for Country LivingGingham has long been a go-to pattern for preppy interiors. Whether its a big splashy moment like this sofa or a smaller accent layered in via pillows or blankets (or even a lampshade!), gingham is the perfect happy pattern thatwe thinkcan act like a solid. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: 90+ Living Room Ideas Youll Love for All Styles of Homes6Show Some Team SpiritBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingThis doesnt mean you suddenly have to veer into varsity decor throughout your house, but there is something undeniably chic about subtle varsity accents, especially in a kids room or den. RELATED: That Vintage College Pendant Might Be Worth More than You ThinkAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Go for GlossLaurey W. GlennIll let you in on a little designer secret: an unexpected glossy paint finish can totally transform and elevate a room. The subtle gloss finish on the cabinetry in this multi-purpose mudroom by designer Lizzie Cox bridges the spaces workhorse purpose and more ladylike feel. RELATED: Why Every Gardener Should Have a Bloom Room8Pick the Perfect WhiteRead McKendreeNothing feels as fresh as crisp white walls. In this breakfast nook-meets-living room designed by Max Sinsteden, a cheery bright white sets the tone for more classic blue-and-white accents and rattan and wood furniture, while a preppy-approved chintz chair peeks in from the corner. Get the Look:White Paint Color: Seapearl by Benjamin MooreAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Embrace the Upper Crusty AestheticGridley and Graves for Country LivingPreppy doesnt have to mean pristine. In fact, old school prep was anything but! Think worn L.L. Bean tote bags, perfectly patinaed wood walls, and a casual elegance that only comes from prioritizing timeless comfort. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Upper Crusty Design 10Try a Pair of Twin BedsBecky Luigart-Stayner, styling by Matthew Gleason for Country LivingLaden down with happy patterns, a pair of classic wood twin beds, preferably with four posters and detailed woodwork, is a great addition to any prepsters guest room. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Designers Weigh In On the Best Way to Use Color in a Country HouseAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Prioritize Built-InsStacy Zarin GoldbergBuilt-ins ooze traditional style, no matter what room theyre in. In this airy blue-and-white kitchen, the built-in cabinetry serves as a passageway from the kitchen through the butlers pantry to the family room. Fill the shelves with your familys hand-me-down china for the ultimate preppy display. TOUR THIS HOUSE12Make a Nod to NauticalJackie Greaney and Paul Havel for Country LivingNothing is quite as classic or effortlessly chic as a good coastal-inspired room. Stick to crusty antiques over newly made pieces to really hammer home that colllected-over-time preppy feel.RELATED: These Beach House Decorating Ideas Will Make Waves in Any HouseAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below13Layer Pattern on PatternRead McKendreeTake a mix-and-match approach to patterns for a leveled-up preppy feel. In this bedroom designed by Stephanie Woodmansee, stripes, florals, and geometric prints combine for a complete look. RELATED: Our Favorite Bedroom Decorating Ideas of All Time14Mix Wicker and RattanDonna DotanOn the porch, wicker and rattan furniture is a preppy-must, adn the same can be said for inside spaces as well. In designer Ariel Okins colorful sunroom, these classic materials get a punchy update thanks to green upholstery. RELATED: The Best Screened-In Porch Ideas for SpringAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below15Paint Your FloorsBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingCheckered floors have been around for ages, but its the preppy grandmillennials we have to thank for their recent resurgence. TOUR THIS KITCHENRELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Painting Your Floors 16Accent with Cane Becky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingClassic caning can elevate almost any space. In this bedroom, accent panels on the headboard and a DIYed lampshade blend a preppy mainstay with contemporary cottagecore. RELATED: Heres Everything You Wanted to Know About CottagecoreAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below17Choose Classic SilhouettesStacy Zarin GoldbergWhen in doubt, pick furnishings that feel timeless. In this living room designed by Cameron Ruppert, a traditional English roll-arm sofa elevates its cozy seating area. RELATED: The Top 20 Types of Sofas and How to Choose the Right One for Your Room18Bet on Blue and WhiteAlec Hemer for Country LivingIts hard to beat a classic color combo, especially one as timeless as blue and white. In this butlers pantry, charming blue beadboard is the star while simple white accents complete the traditional palette. RELATED: These Are The Best Blue Paint Colors, According to DesignersAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19Bring Out Your Brown FurnitureHector M. Sanchez for Country LivingBrown furniture is a staple of traditional design, which means its a staple of preppy style. Dark wood furniture has gotten a bad rap over recent years but as traditional design makes its way back into our collective design consciousness, so has beautiful brown furniture. RELATED: Brown Furniture is Trending Again! Heres How to Incorporate It Into Your Home. 20Take a Chance on Block PrintRead McKendree for Country LivingIn recent years, the block print aesthetic has been co-opted by preppy pattern-lovers. Its classic motifs feel fresh in new, exciting color combinations, such as in the yellow-and-white bedroom by designer Marynn Udvarhelyi. RELATED: 35+ Guest Bedroom Ideas to Create a Cozy and Welcoming SpaceAnna 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 at Country Living, we love old houses. (Yes, even the potentially haunted ones.)renovating instead of demolishing. (Just make sure you do your homework before buying!) Below, weve gathered up a few of our favorite architectural and design features found in old houses that we think are worth celebratingand bringing back!Love Old Homes? Check Out These Other Stories: 1Dutch DoorsTim Street PorterThe Dutch may have mastered dreamy oil paintings and the tulip trade, but to us their best invention is the simple two-piece door meant to let air in and keep animals out. Chock full of quintessentially country charm, the Dutch door comes in a variety of styles that work throughout the house. Just be sure you pair it with the proper hardwarepick bolt locks for farmhouse ease and quadrant locks for a cool-girl Colonial feel.RELATED: Check out even more Dutch doors we love!2Transom WindowsEric PiaseckiTransoms above doors arent just beautiful, theyre also practical. When left open, they allow rising hot air to circulate, making them a perfect choice for kitchens or throughout warm-climate homes. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: These Are Our Best Farmhouse Kitchen Ideas Ever Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Interior ShuttersBrie Williams for Country Living Interior shutters were once a staple in homes, especially those built in warm weather climates, yet we rarely seem them on newer builds. Not only are they a zero-energy way to keep your house cool, but they also provide unparalleled levels of privacy. Plus, theyre dripping with old school charm! RELATED: These Are The Must-Have Window Treatments for Your Sliding Glass Doors4Fanciful Knobs and HardwareBecky Luigart-Stayner for Country LivingA doorknob is never simply a doorknob. At least, not in our world! In fact, its the handcrafted hardware found in older homes that makes them so charming in the first place. If youre looking for an easy upgrade, swap out your builder-grade hardware for something special. Explore architectural salvage shops and sites for the real deal or check out designer-favorite shops such as Rejuvenation or Antique Hardware Supply for a curated selection of ready-to-install porcelain and glass knobs. RELATED: Looking for Antique Hardware? Check Out the Best Places to Shop for Antiques, According to Our EditorsAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Butlers PantriesBrie Williams for Country LivingThe butlers pantry, also known as a scullery, especially across the pond, historically sat off the kitchen near the dining room and was used as a place to store dinnerware and serving pieces and to stage food during formal gatherings. Today, theyre prized for their incredible storage and ability to show off special collections of dinnerware. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Love the Look of an English Kitchen? Here are 12 More Ways to Bring Classic English Charm to Your Kitchen6Separate RoomsHelen NormanOpen floors plans are all well and good, but do you really want your dinner guests staring at your messy kitchen? Probably not. Post-pandemic, designers and homeowners are returning to the era of purpose-driven rooms and saying goodbye to the open floor plan, opting instead for closed-off dining rooms, lounges, and offices.RELATED: This Trend Signals the End of the Open Floor Plan EraAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Built-In FeaturesStacy Zarin GoldbergWoodworkers of yesteryear roll in their graves every time someone buys a standalone shelving unit. (Theyre simply never the right proportion!) The charming built-in shelves and china cabinetsand even the ever-charming dining banquette!found throughout older homes were constructed right along with the house, so they blend in seamlessly with the structure itself. RELATED: Caf Curtains Are Back! Heres How to Get Them Right8Stained GlassSara Ligorria-TrampPopular throughout America since the Victorian era, stained glass windows were the original dopamine decorating. In the age of builder-grade sameness, its high time stained glass accents make a comeback.TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Find Out More About Stained Glass and How to Use it in Your Home TodayAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Sleeping PorchesRead McKendree for Country LivingWhats more luxurious than sleeping with the windows open? Sleeping on the porch! Popular in old houses throughout the south, these porches offered cooler sleeping conditions during long, humid nights in the years before air conditioning. TOUR THIS HOUSERELATED: Our Best Screened-In Porch Ideas Ever 10ClotheslinesIngalls PhotoTheres something so charming about a humble clothesline billowing in the breeze. Plus, who doesnt love the smell of freshly dried sheets? Were calling it now: 2025 is the year this energy-saving laundry method makes a comeback. RELATED: Our Best Laundry Room Decorating Ideas of All-Time 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. Elizabeth FinkelsteinElizabeth Finkelstein and her husband, Ethan Finkelstein, are the brains behind the popular Instagram and newsletter Cheap Old Houses. Together, they restore historic homes in HGTVs series Whos Afraid of a Cheap Old House? Elizabeth grew up in an 1850s home lovingly restored by her parents, so her love for crown molding and peeling wallpaper runs in her gene pool. She holds a masters degree in historic preservation and has put in years of professional work restoring old houses. While not filming or nurturing the vast and wonderful @cheapoldhouses community, the couple spends time restoring their own cheap old farmhouse a little slice of heaven they snagged for a cool $70,000.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?Living small has been a big trend for a few years now for a number of economic and environmental reasons. To meet the demand, many tiny house makers offer downsizing solutions that offer simplicity without sacrificing a bunch of the good stuff. But more-is-more living in smaller footprints is hardly a new thing. Studio apartments have existed since the 1880s. California bungalows hovering around the 1,000-square-foot mark were being built as long ago as the early 20thcentury. And then there are the shotgun houses, which became popular in the early 19th century. These were built primarily in Black neighborhoods in Southern cities like New Orleans, Louisville, Charlotte, and Houston, Texas Third Ward. While many original shotgun houses have been lost to gentrification and urban renewal, they still exist. You can take a gander at this unique form of architecture as you stroll around New Orleans. (You even sign up for a walking tour where they are the star of the show.) For a shotgun house with a twist, head to Chip and Joanna Gainess Silos in Waco and then head over to 7th Street to check out the one they renovated on an episode of season threes Fixer Upper. Still, walking by a shotgun house by can only tell you so much. Thats why were here with the 411 on what exactly makes a house a shotgun house, why these homes are called shotgun houses, where you can find them, and more!Ablestock.com//Getty ImagesRELATED:What exactly are shotgun houses?Thats easy. Shotgun houses are one-story and very narrow structureswere talking one-room wide, so maybe 12 feet total!that average anywhere from 650 to 1,050 square feet. Because they were built with efficiency and affordability in mind, they were built very close together. That means theres an absence of windows on the sides of the homes for a little privacy. Inside, youll find the front door opens directly to the living area, and then there are two or three rooms directly behind that initial roommaybe two bedrooms and then a kitchen in the very back. Because theres no central hallway, you have to walk through one room to get to the next. In most cases, all the doors line up exactly, for a very specific reason: You can open all the doors or the transom windows on the front and back doors and get a pleasant breeze that flows right on through the entire home. Thats especially important when theres no AC and youre stuck in New Orleans or Houston during those hot and humid summers.The gabled porch was also an important architectural element. Not only did it offer additional living and entertaining space, it also allowed residents to interact with their neighbors and keep abreast of all the happenings on the street.Youll for sure notice there was nary a mention of a bathroom. Thats because indoor plumbing wasnt a feature of the original shotgun houses. As indoor bathrooms became more common, later owners added one, usually to the very back of the home, right behind the kitchen. Education Images//Getty ImagesThe birthplace of Elvis Presley in Tupelo, MississippiWhy are these homes called shotgun houses?Thats less easy. Some say that shotgun houses got their name because of the linear nature of the design. Think about it: If a bullet were fired through the front door, it could go all the way through the back door unobstructed. However, theres also a less ammo-forward, more amicable explanation for the term. The word shotgun is apparently derived from the West African Yoruba word togun, which means house or gathering place. Whats the difference between a shotgun house and a railroad house?Great question. Remember how we said a shotgun house is super narrow and has no hallway, so you have to walk through one room to get to the next? Thats different from a railroad house, which is also super narrow (like a train car), but its outfitted with a central hallway and a series of rooms that open up off of (usually) one side. Want another major difference? Shotgun houses were popular primarily in the south. Railroad-style houses originated as a New York City apartment design style in the mid-1880s because of overcrowding in tenements.TOUR OUR FAVORITE TINY HOMES:Why does New Orleans have so many shotgun houses?It turns out New Orleans was a popular destination for refugees from Saint-Domingue after the Haitian Revolution. The shotgun design was apparently quite popular in the Caribbean, so when these new arrivals began building their own homes in the States, they brought the layout with them. It caught on, and by the 1900s, there were companies (including Sears & Roebuck) that offered pre-fab models to prospective homeowners looking to build cheaply on narrow lots. You can still find a bunch of shotgun-style homes in New Orleans because residents remain excited about honoring them. People are constantly remodeling and even turning doubles (two shotguns built side-by-side) into singles to get more square footage. It helps that New Orleans has a strong preservation presence, which means theres more old-school architecture to admire there in general.RAUL RODRIGUEZ//Getty ImagesWhats this about a double-barrel shotgun house?Double-barrel shotgun houses save even more space than a single shotgun house. Theyre basically a shotgun-style duplex, with two single shotgun houses located side by side and sharing a central wall and front porch.What are the disadvantages of a shotgun house?The most obvious disadvantage of living in a shotgun house is lack of privacy. Its not super fun to have loved ones trek through your bedroom every time they make a trip to the kitchen or bathroom. Plus the middle rooms can be quite dark because there are no windows. But there are certainly other drawbacks. If the house has a historical designation, getting renovations approved could be more difficult. The lots where shotgun houses are built are often quite small, so someone else is going to have to host the family reunion. And finally, youre not going to have a whole lot of closet space in a shotgun house, so if youre a clotheshorse looking for a walk-in closet, this may not be the style of home for you. BRUSH UP ON OTHER ARCHITECTURAL STYLES:

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.