Renters Guide to Style: Country

Country style remains a classic and popular interior design choice all over the country. While the meaning of country style may vary depending on region, here are some ways renters in all 50 states can easily incorporate a bit of that down-home flavor.

Incorporate wood

While you may not be lucky enough to rent a place with exposed wood beams or columns, you can fake the feeling by adding design elements. The nice thing about country style for renters is that woods can and should be mixed, such as this dark antique sideboard mixed with newer spindle-back chairs and a rough-hewn wall accent.

Display useful items

Pots on hooks, decorative plates, and cookbooks on display all help make for a comfortable, homey country style that is easy for renters to re-create. Other country elements, such as a neutral rug and the antique display pieces, bring the look together seamlessly.

Create atmosphere

This dreamy bedroom is well within reach for renters. The walls are neutral and the room simple. But the country flair comes from distressed painted wood, soft lighting, and lots of cozy layers of soft goods. The country checkered quilt and ruffle accents add comfortable country atmosphere.

Rummage through the barn

You may not have an actual barn to rummage through, but keep the concept in mind as you scour antiques stores, flea markets and home goods stores for accessories. These chairs could be from an old-fashioned country store. Antique signage or barn boards can be easily tacked under the counter and removed when you move. Ladders, salvaged window panes, vintage rocking chairs and weathered crates all make wonderful décor.

Corral family treasures

When there are no built-ins or walk-in closets in your rental, baskets come to the rescue. Not only are they functional, they also quickly add country charm. You can add family photos and inspirational words on a laundry room wall, or a photo frame corkboard, to keep family memories and the next day’s plans easily at hand. Family life and vintage treasures are a big part of country style.

Keep things simple

While country style can quickly get overwhelming, that needn’t be the case, particularly for renters. Even this simple, elegant little linen curtain brings the nonchalant elegance of country living to a standard kitchen. Another boon for renters? Country style works beautifully with a neutral color base, which most rentals have.

Texture is key

This well-layered country-style bedroom is inviting and comfortable with various textures. The plush carpet and cushy linens add softness to lamps and distressed wood. The large windows bring lightness into an otherwise heavy room, and gives the whole bedroom an airy feel.

Top image from Zillow listing.