Many city slickers have gone country
Springtime is a wonderful mix of rain showers, cool breezes, sunshine and also warm balmy temps. As the country slowly thaws out, folks in every state across the nation start to make plans for treks from their in-town homes to the country for the spring and summer.
Exactly what is so appealing about life outside urban areas? Some say it's the fresh air they are in search of, while others seek the sunlight, and some look for relaxation.
Each year, the search for a holiday spot in Maine - or a place in which to retire in New Mexico away from the hustle and bustle, or a lakeside hideaway in Michigan - can be an arduous task.
The decor of country homes is equally as intense. Some associate "country" with things that are old fashion and grandmotherly (not that there is anything wrong with that!). In all fairness, country decor today is wide open to interpretation.
Country decor means different things to different people in different places. Depending on location, what is considered country can vary dramatically. Invariably the one thing they all have in common is a laid back casualness about the approach to interior decor. Comfort is at the forefront of country decor and interior design.
The type of dwelling can change also and impact the style of decor. Old houses, new houses, converted barns and cottages are typical to the lexicon in the country. A connection to nature is what drives many to drive into the hinterlands.
Slipcovers are used quite often in decorating homes with a casual air. Cotton fabrics and linens are also used frequently as upholstery and drapery fabrics. These lend a casual attitude and can be easily laundered and reinstalled.
Natural fiber rugs and carpets are a staple in the country. In old English country homes, they are paired with antiques and layered with century old Oriental carpets and cotton dhurries in a convivial arrangement. Sisal and seagrass rugs are great as a backdrop for almost any flavor of country decor.
Raw wood or waxed wood finishes on flooring work well with country style. These softer finishes allow the wood to show off its natural beauty and are finishes that are hard to scuff. Painted wood floors also work well. Patterns such as a checkerboard or stripes can be done to emulate an area rug and accentuate a focal point such as the placement of a coffee table or such item.
If there ever is a place that allows for mixing and matching furniture styles, it is in country decor. Of course, you must use your better judgment so as to avoid mixes that don't make sense. You should always try to mix things that complement each other in some regard: scale, size, period, color, design lines, etc.
Country living is about an easy lifestyle. Forego, the crystal chandeliers in favor of simpler lighting fixtures that aren't as precious and care intensive. These lighting fixtures can be made of iron, wood or even out of faux antlers or tree branches. Even pierced rusted buckets can make for an interesting statement light fixture that say you've gone country.
• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida.
© 2016, Creators Syndicate