Believe it or not we may be seeing a trend coming back into play. Many designers and decorators have shifted through the past ten years and have leaned toward bold, contemporary design that focused on clean lines, strong visual points of interest and high contrasting elements. However, as with all trends, they tend to cycle, only to reincarnate as a somewhat altered version of the original style. This may be happening with the “country look” today.
Why is the “country look” returning as a trend? Home design and décor often reflect the state of society's current economic standing. When the economy is stressed, more people spend less on their lifestyle, and migrate toward aesthetics that simplify the stress of their life. More and more homeowners are making use of what they have, re-purposing, and recycling to save money. This is the philosophy and birthplace of “country décor.” It's born out of necessity with the intent to seize that which is still a good and useful thing and to appreciate the beauty of those things most simple.
So what is the “country look?” Well, for starters, this look has no set standard as much as it has a set “feel.” The look in general has gently evolved in time. Initially the “country look” in a home was the result of the lifestyle of the family. Homesteaders, and pioneers had homes that were built and fashioned for functionality, not aesthetics. As time marched on the and the modern era slowly drifted in, and lifestyles progressed and traveled beyond the plains and farms to the urban life, the “country” look became a testament to a by gone era. It also failed to demonstrate the new found progression and success of the homeowner, something that was proving to be more and more important.
What's new in country themes? The country look today seems to fall into a few categories and you may want to research each one to find the right fit. Shabby chic offers comfort and casual elegance, French country embodies old world beauty with distinct styles, and Rustic country pays homage to all things Americana inspired. What's new? Well it may be the simple fact that today, homeowners have access to many markets now that recognize the timeless beauty of home decor. Check out sites like One King's Lane, and Country Door to find wonderful ways to find the exact "country look" you're after.
For more on decorating ideas and inspiration, see my website: Dawn's Interior Decorating Solutions.
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