English Country Style Imparts Comfort and Luxury

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Want a classic, era style that hints of Britain's glory days; not that of the castle, but rather, that of the comfortable, wealthy country home? Then what you're looking for is English Country Style.

Mixing and Matching

Being "country," this style implies some of the mixing and matching of other styles and periods, making it okay to have that Asian rug along with the French antique pieces you found at an estate sale. Just know that nothing should have the look of catalog ordering. Instead, it should look like it's been passed from one generation to the next for decades.

The Warmth of Wood

Your wood furnishings and the wood in your architecture should speak of warmth. Use dark, stained colors like those found in mahogany or walnut, with the patina of polished wood decades old.

Colorful Garden Ambiance

Paint colors should be executed in a traditional setting, with bright, rustic hues. Fill those walls with an abundance of photos of flowers and gardens elegantly displayed. Bring in that garden feeling, especially in rooms like the kitchen and bedroom. You can even go so far as to paint your garden design right onto your wooden floors.

Fabrics for your overstuffed chair or curtains can carry the country voice with florals, ginghams, and plaids, but keep it more on the feminine side, with fringes and trims and embroidered pillows.

Accessorize

Use accessories in abundance – candleholders of silver, flower-filled vases of crystal, and picture frames of distressed wood. Clutter is okay in country styles, and English Country is no exception.

Even though this style reveals a touch of wealth, don't lose that comfortable feeling. After all, it must speak country, no matter what the language.

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