Country style colors refer to earthy, natural color palettes commonly found in rural settings and used to decorate country-style homes and spaces. These colors evoke a sense of warmth, comfort and nostalgia.
Typical Country Style Color Palettes
Here are some of the most popular country style color combinations:
Neutrals
– Cream
– Beige
– Tan
– Light brown
– White
These neutral tones are the basis for many country color schemes. They keep spaces feeling calm, gentle and soothing. Neutrals are commonly used on walls, floors, furniture and accessories in country decor.
Earth Tones
– Olive green
– Saddle brown
– Rust red
– Mustard yellow
– Terracotta
Earth tones add warmth and texture. They are inspired by nature – the colors of trees, soil, rocks, etc. Earth tones work well with neutrals to create a cozy, welcoming country look.
Pastels
– Baby blue
– Mint green
– Lavender
– Buttercream
– Blush pink
Soft, muted pastels complement neutrals and earth tones. They provide a touch of femininity and romance. Pastels are featured on country painted furniture, linens, florals and artwork.
| Color Family | Specific Colors |
|---|---|
| Neutrals | Cream, beige, tan, light brown, white |
| Earth Tones | Olive green, saddle brown, rust red, mustard yellow, terracotta |
| Pastels | Baby blue, mint green, lavender, buttercream, blush pink |
How Country Colors Create a Relaxed Vibe
There are several reasons why country colors have a laidback, welcoming effect:
Natural Origins
As mentioned, earth tones come directly from nature. There is something grounding and soothing about surrounding ourselves with hues from the natural world. These colors remind us of being outdoors and evoke fond memories of the countryside.
Familiarity & Nostalgia
Country colors tend to have old-fashioned, traditional vibes. They remind us of heritage homes, family heirlooms, vintage finds and antiquing adventures. These familiar colors spark nostalgia.
Simplicity & Minimalism
Country palettes use a limited color selection, typically 3-5 complementary hues. The pared-down palette creates a simple, minimalist look. Too many colors can feel visually cluttered and chaotic. Keeping it simple results in a more peaceful ambiance.
Light & Soft
Many country colors are light tints like cream, tan and pastels. Soft, muted shades have a gentle, delicate effect compared to bold, saturated hues. The light colors make spaces feel more open and airy.
Texture & Layers
Country design incorporates natural textures like wood grains, woven fabrics, knits and more. Layering textiles in linens, quilts, rugs and curtains also adds visual interest while retaining a casual feel.
Typical Features of Country Style Rooms
Here are some typical design features found in country style spaces:
Living Room
– Slipcovered sofas and chairs
– Natural fiber area rugs e.g. jute, sisal
– Stone or brick fireplace
– Wood coffee tables and end tables
– Bookshelves for displaying collectibles
– Vintage-inspired lamps and sconces
Kitchen
– White or wood painted cabinets
– Butcher block countertops
– Farmhouse sink and faucet
– Plate racks for displaying vintage china
– Gingham, floral or chicken print curtains
– Rustic dining table and chairs
Bedroom
– Wooden bed frame e.g. four poster
– Patchwork quilts
– Woven blankets and textured bed linens
– Lace curtains
– Painted bedside tables with table lamps
– Rocking chair or padded bench at foot of bed
| Room | Typical Country Features |
|---|---|
| Living Room | Slipcovered furniture, sisal rugs, stone fireplace, vintage lamps, bookshelves |
| Kitchen | White cabinets, butcher block counters, gingham curtains, farmhouse sink |
| Bedroom | Four poster bed, patchwork quilts, woven blankets, lace curtains, rocking chair |
Incorporating Country Style into Modern Homes
Country decor doesn’t have to be limited to rustic cottages and rural farmhouses. Many of its charming elements can be incorporated into contemporary spaces too. Here are some tips:
Select key furniture pieces
Add a distressed wood dining table or slipcovered sofa to bring in a country touch. These substantial pieces will form the foundation.
Use textiles and linens
Introduce cozy layers with blankets, pillows, curtains or table runners in ginghams, florals and plaids.
Include natural elements
Display eucalyptus in a vase, create a terrarium or hang woven macrame planthangers. You can also frame pressed flowers or leaves from your garden.
Add vintage finds
Scatter in old books, framed botanical prints, antique glassware or rustic ceramics discovered at flea markets.
Paint or stain woods
Give new life to a coffee table or console by applying a distressed paint technique. Or enhance wood grains with sealers and stains.
Focus on lighting
Use textured lampshades and vintage-style filament lightbulbs to emit a warm, inviting glow.
Display collected objects
Group related items together like berries and cloches or stacks of classic novels. This creates little vignettes around the home.
Conclusion
Country style will always have enduring, universal appeal. The welcoming, laidback look and down-to-earth color palette promote comfort and nostalgia. While country decor is perfect for rural homes, elements can be mixed into modern and contemporary spaces too. With some key furniture, classic textiles and vintage accents, anyone can achieve the charming appeal of country style.