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Each country has its unique décor style, which design connoisseurs can identify in the blink of an eye. Through this blog, Gharpedia brings you a brief snapshot of the country-style decor of selected nations. Read on to know if we’ve got it right…!
The rich variety of historical and cultural influences in our world, along with the differences between urban or rural environments and hot or cool climates, have made certain colour combinations synonymous with particular places. Regional traditions often emerge when people use locally available materials, establishing a familiar local style that continues even when other options become accessible.
Whether you prefer the faded earthy colours of walls in the backstreets of Venice, the perfumed lavender hills of Provence, or the rustic charm of Tuscan farmhouses, the regional culture and natural surroundings deeply influence country-style décor. Even the most urban, modern take on the country theme or country home design emphasises muted, soft background colours and natural fabrics. Country interior design styles or country-style home interiors represent a casual and cosy style that embodies the simplicity of country life.
Home Décor Styles from Around the World
1. New England Style
New England-style houses feature a colonial design that reflects New England’s rich history and culture. A popular architectural style in the United States, these homes typically have a high-pitched, dormered roof, two to three stories, one or two huge chimneys, narrow siding or brick facades, and an elaborate entry with a portico supported by columns. The interiors follow a muted colour palette, wooden flooring, louvered shutter blinds, and other classic elements. Other architectural styles associated with New England include Post-Medieval English, Georgian and Federal.
Also Read: 14 Best Interior Traditional Home Design Elements In 2023
2. Shaker Style
Shaker style is an American interior style, particularly in furniture, that emerged in the 18th century from the religious movement of the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, commonly called the Shakers. This style is rooted in the principles of form following function, simplicity, utility and craftsmanship. Its clean lines, lack of ornamentation, attention to detail, natural flair, and many other features make it a highly cherished design.
Shaker style features peg rails around the walls of every room, and of course, no American country home would be complete without some reference to the United States flag.
3. Scandinavian Style
Scandinavia is a collective name for the countries around the Baltic Sea and the Arctic Ocean. The colours used here often reflect the sky and the landscape – white, grey blue, and yellow. There is a tradition of having bold wall painting, with roller stripe patterns, sometimes enhanced by hand-painted spots or floral motifs. The emphasis is on natural material, natural light, clean lines, functional and clutter-free spaces, and a deep connection with nature. Remember, it is not Scandinavian if the design principle doesn’t focus on minimalism.
Also Read: Minimalist Interior Design Style: 7 Interesting Ideas for Your Home!
4. French Country Style
French country interior design style is a mix of rustic charm and refined elegance. This style offers the best of both worlds: comfortable and casual elegance that’s never ostentatious. Vintage furniture with intricate carving is the highlight of this décor style. You can accentuate the look using elegant accents such as chandeliers, ornate wall sconces, and decorative candlesticks. Exposed wood beams, which is the trademark of French country style, and warm colour palettes complete the look.
Also Read: Interior Design Styles 101 – Redefining The Decor Ideas In 2020
5. Moorish Design
Moorish home décor is known for its intricate patterns, bright colours and craftsmanship. Arches, particularly horseshoe and scalloped shapes are an integral part of this design. Moorish buildings use mosaic tilework called Zellik to create large geometric patterns that cover floors, walls, and ceilings. This style’s grandeur is rooted in rich history inspired by Gothic architecture and Islamic traditions. Most Moorish colours are made of natural earth pigments, and the most typical shades are pink, orange, terracotta, and blue-green. Moorish interiors often use carved wood, wrought iron, and stucco for decoration. Rich fabrics like silk or velvet in jewel tones and decorative elements like lanterns and patterned rugs complete the look, evoking a luxurious and exotic ambiance.
6. Indian Design
India is a diverse nation, and hence putting the Indian style of décor in a nutshell is quite a task. However, the Indian design style draws inspiration from its centuries-old traditions and cultures and also evolves from its topographic diversity. The rich palette of colours, traditional patterns and motifs, and natural and locally procured materials are the key elements of this design style. Each region of India boasts a typical design element, ranging from Jharokas and jhulas of Gujarat and Rajasthan to wooden balconies and open courtyards of the southern manors. It emphasises bold colors like reds, yellows, and blues, often combined with gold accents. Intricate woodwork, especially in furniture, is a hallmark, featuring traditional carvings and inlays. If you choose the Indian design style, then first dive deep into the vernacular styles of India to choose and collect gems from different regions.
Textiles like handwoven rugs, block-printed curtains, and embroidered cushions add texture and warmth. Indian decor often incorporates spiritual elements like brass statues, mandalas, and wall hangings. Intricately designed patterns, such as paisleys and florals, appear on fabrics and walls, creating a lively and inviting space.
Also Read: 20 Farmhouse Style Ideas to Inspire Your Next Buy
7. Romanian Revival Style
Next is the Romanian style of decor, which mixes Eastern European folk art and bargeware style. This style often features arched windows and doorways, ornate balconies and decorative cornices, and exposed timber ceilings. Shell-shaped awnings protect the door and windows from the onslaught of the weather. Stucco interiors are an important part of this design. Frescoes and mosaic artworks featuring mythological themes or nature scenes adorn walls and floors. Geometric-patterned rugs and cushions and woven bedding in warm colours are a must.
Roman interiors favour neutral and earthy tones such as beige, terracotta, and gold. Accessories like urns, statues, and ornate lighting fixtures reflect the opulent lifestyle of ancient Rome.
8. Tuscan Style
The rustic farmhouse colours of Tuscany are based on earth pigments and reflect the colours of the fields. Tuscan decor is rooted in the rustic charm of the Italian countryside, characterised by warm, earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, and golden yellow. Materials such as natural stone, exposed wooden beams, and wrought iron are commonly used. Furniture is often sturdy and handcrafted, with distressed finishes. Tuscan interiors include textured walls, ceramic tiles, and large, welcoming dining tables. Accessories like wine racks, pottery, and baskets add to the charm, while open spaces and large windows invite in natural light, creating a cosy yet elegant atmosphere.
9. Industrial Style
Industrial decor is inspired by urban lofts and factories, characterised by raw, unfinished elements. It features exposed brick walls, steel or iron fixtures, and concrete floors. Furniture is often minimalist, with a mix of metal and reclaimed wood. Neutral tones like grey, black, and brown dominate the palette, accented with bold colours for contrast. Lighting plays a crucial role, with Edison bulbs, pendant lights, and cage fixtures creating a rugged, utilitarian vibe. Industrial design balances functionality with a modern, edgy aesthetic.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Modern House Interior: Embracing the Latest Decor Trends
10. Balinese Style
Many people have begun to love the vibes of the Balinese interior décor style. Originating from Bali in Indonesia, this style focuses on nature and spirituality, emphasising organic materials like bamboo, rattan, and wood. Water features, tropical plants, intricately carved art elements, and airy spaces reflect tranquility and connection to nature.
Also Read: 13 Unique Interior Design Ideas and Home Decor Inspirations
11. Japanese Style
Grounded in simplicity and connection to nature, Japanese designs incorporate natural materials like wood and bamboo and are accentuated by neutral tones. Clean lines, rough-hewn textures, and minimal styling are integral to this design style. Zen-inspired, minimalist, serene, and balanced, this design creates a sense of calm. Sliding Shoji walls (rice paper screens) and tatami floors are unique to this style.
12. Mediterranean Style
Love the earthy colours, textured walls, terracotta tiles, wrought iron details, and emphasis on outdoor living? Then, the Mediterranean style is your interior style. It draws inspiration from the coastal regions of Southern Europe and emphasises a relaxed, airy, and inviting atmosphere, evoking a feeling of seaside living. This style seamlessly blends comfort with rustic, handmade elements like pottery and wood furniture.
Also Read Glance Over Architectural Styles through the Ages
13. Moroccan Style
Intricate tilework, bold colours, ornate lanterns, arched doorways, geometric patterns, and luxurious fabric define this style, which is a confluence of African, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. The Moroccan style is vibrant, and though it emphasises heavy embellishments, this style is never too loud. Though the elements may resonate with the Moorish style, they are closely related but not the same.
Final Takeaway
On a concluding note,country-style decor is about embracing the charm of simplicity while reflecting the traditions and aesthetics of a particular region. From rustic French country homes to cosy Scandinavian cottages, every style has a story to tell. If you’re drawn to vintage accents, natural materials, and a warm, welcoming ambience, country-style decor is the perfect way to bring timeless elegance into your home.
If you want to explore varied design styles, here is the Ultimate List of Interior Design Styles for your Home Interior!
FAQs on Country Style Decor from Around the World
1. What Defines the French Country Interior Design Style?
French country style combines rustic charm with refined elegance. Key elements include vintage furniture with intricate carvings, exposed wood beams, chandeliers, and warm colour palettes like soft pastels or earthy tones. Decorative accents like ornate candlesticks, wall sconces, and detailed textiles enhance the casual yet sophisticated ambiance.
2. How Does the Scandinavian Décor Style Emphasise Minimalism?
Scandinavian design is rooted in simplicity and functionality, using natural materials like wood and light fabrics. It features a clean, clutter-free aesthetic with neutral colours like white, grey, and pale blue. Large windows, natural light, and bold yet simple patterns are central to its design philosophy, creating a serene and modern atmosphere.
3. What Makes Tuscan Style Décor Unique?
Tuscan décor reflects the rustic charm of the Italian countryside, featuring warm, earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, and golden yellow. It incorporates natural materials such as stone, wood, and wrought iron. Distressed furniture, textured walls, and decorative items like pottery and baskets evoke a cosy, farmhouse-inspired ambience.
4. How Does the Indian Interior Design Style Represent Its Cultural Diversity?
Indian décor is vibrant and deeply rooted in regional traditions, showcasing bold colours like red, yellow, and blue, often paired with gold accents. Intricate woodwork, handwoven textiles, and patterns like paisleys and florals dominate the design. Spiritualelements like brass statues, mandalas, and jharokas add a distinctive cultural touch.
5. What Elements Are Characteristic of Moorish Home Décor?
Moorish design is known for its intricate craftsmanship, featuring horseshoe or scalloped arches, mosaic tilework, and elaborate geometric patterns. Rich colours like terracotta, blue-green, and orange, along with luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk, create an exotic ambiance. Carved wood, wrought iron, and ornate lanterns further enhance its opulent style.
Also Read:
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Author Bio
Huta Raval – An English Literature and Journalism Topper, Huta Raval has graduated from the L D Arts College, Ahmedabad. Post serving for 23 years in the NBFC and Public Library Sectors her desire for ‘writing the unwritten’ brought her to the creative field of content writing. Her clientele comprises of NGOs, Blogging Platforms, Newspapers, Academic Institutions, et al.