| Aahh, the country life! The cozy comfort of rural living | | | | flowers. Use some creativity to put dried flowers tied |
| lies at the heart of all forms of Cottage Country | | | | with a slim ribbon in a wicker basket, or put them in a |
| decorating. However, the versions of homey, rustic | | | | more contemporary vase. Give the display a more |
| Country decorating that dominated the latter half of | | | | up-to-date look by adding small glass bowls filed with |
| the 20th century have become worn and outdated. It's | | | | stones in different colors. |
| time to give Country decorating style a fresh look for | | | | Furthermore, rethink how other accessories are |
| a new era. | | | | displayed. Contemporary looks emphasize the principle |
| Fortunately it isn't necessary to complete redecorate a | | | | that "less is more," so reduce the size and number of |
| Country style home to update its look. Whether a | | | | accessories to create more intriguing vignettes. The |
| home's version of Country is French, Tuscan, Lodge, | | | | traditional elements may be retained, but cut them |
| and more, a few new colors, materials and textures | | | | down to enhance their interest. Thus, instead of |
| will provide a new, lively look. | | | | several wood bowls holding pine cones or evergreens |
| For starters, replace the fabrics. The motifs of | | | | scattered about a room, create one bowl with two or |
| yesterday - big floral prints, barnyard animals, farming | | | | three pinecones surrounding by sprigs of fragrant |
| tools and the like - mark Country decor as kitschy. | | | | rosemary. Instead of a week's worth of wood for the |
| Instead, choose stripes and checks for upholstery, | | | | fireplace, only place a few logs in a black or bronze |
| while keeping one or two of the traditional prints for | | | | metal holder. Show off only the best copper pots and |
| throw pillows, small wall hangings or bench cushions. | | | | pans in the kitchen. |
| Painted furniture and antique quilts still say "country," so | | | | Likewise, correct any excess in thematic design. Two |
| these furnishings can be retained if they're in good | | | | kitchen towels decorated with red roosters are cute. |
| condition. Even though some Country styles call for | | | | Roosters on all towels may lead guests to feel they're |
| painted furniture to appear distressed, too many nicks | | | | about to be pecked to death in a chicken yard. |
| and dents simply make it look old and worn. Whether | | | | Remember the "less is more" guideline. |
| to repaint entirely or touch up the marks can be the | | | | Update the flooring. Hardwood floors are timeless but |
| decorator's choice, but don't give up the inherent charm | | | | braided area rugs may look dated or be worn. Give |
| of such pieces. Painted kitchen chairs or a painted | | | | the floor a new look with mustard yellow rugs, reddish |
| chest with a countryside scene are perfect for this | | | | orange rugs or brown rugs in graphic patterns. |
| decorating style. Add two or three vintage quilts on a | | | | These fairly simple and inexpensive touches can |
| rack or display a collection of folded quilts in a | | | | revive Country decor with new energy and |
| glass-front cabinet. | | | | expression. |
| Update the wreaths made of pinecones and dried | | | | |