While there remains some countryside left in this ever-growing urban-dense world, there will be homes to reflect it. The latest interior décor trends are keeping up with this downhome sensibility with a nod toward a charming rustic look. There are, however, ways to keep that adorable True Fashionista old-school charm yet still look, you know, ready for the 2020’s.
Rebecca Breslin of Wayfair Professional feels that the farmhouse look for this year will lean toward more of a European-inspired design, predicting a fresh take on British farmhouse style without being stuffy or overly quaint. “It’s pulling from classic prints and materials while adding whimsy,” she states, “This trend is all about mixing patterns, antique with new decor as well as paying homage to the countryside with botanicals and muted primary tones.” Case in point, courtesy of Country Living (who better, right?), are ideas like the modern rustic laundry room complete with rolling baskets. They’re visually striking and easy enough to be divided up among family members or house occupants, never mind whites, colors and towels.
In the kitchen, think of the classic oversize farmhouse table, possibly with a bench on one side, butcher block countertops, and vintage-inspired kitchen canisters to bring back memories, or instill a vision of the countryside, yet when you add floor-to-ceiling windows, trendy colors (pantone blue, anyone?) and catchy tile, now a distinctly modern tone emerges, and the two work well together in this updated version.
The Junk Gypsies stick to their guns with a great rustic yet modern touch in the bathroom featuring a tub encased in reclaimed wood set against a subway tile backsplash. Texas-based sisters’ flair for repurposing virtually anything often heads right down the True Fashionista country vs. modern path. If you like the weathered look, but prefer your stuff new, Home Depot actually carries wood that looks like its been reclaimed.
DeVol Kitchens specialize in the stylish look of countryside flair with a focus on kitchens. Their Shaker, Classic English and Haberdasher kitchens all harken back to the charming feel of days gone by. Interior designers are starting with these great looks and throwing the modern twist into the mix for the fresh update of modern times, favoring natural materials, paneled cabinet fronts, a soft palette with off-white, ivory and cream, detailed corbels and molding, and decorative lights. Custom range hoods are also often seen in these kitchens as well, states Ktchnmag. They also recommend replacing your old countertops with wrapped stainless steel or oiled wood for a remodel. Natural stone is still very much a thing, so if you’re going to use it, lean more toward a light marble or dramatic soapstone top for a luxurious look. Ensure that the surfaces have contemporary square edges instead of beveled or rounded.
Heading out to the patio, a simple bar cart can transform your outdoor entertaining area into a classic contemporary space. By adding a couple of copper lanterns intermingled with traditional barware, you’re ready to go when the weather is just right. Country Living suggests the Smith & Hawken bar cart, a simple yet study version made of mango wood.
The modern rustic living room follows the country update with a sleek, mid-century modern armchair in the middle, upholstered in one of the hottest True Fashionista materials these days: velvet. Expanding on that idea is the modern rustic sitting room complete with wood stove and minimal furnishings.
Your country bedroom gets an instant, yet classic, update with a wash of white plus a faux wooden beam across the ceiling. The folks at The Spruce even suggest, yes, barn-style sliding doors for the master bath! The one created by Canadian designer Jennifer Worts is even made from reclaimed wood.
When you’re freshening up the place in 2020, remember there’s a world of classic ideas ready to crush it with modern looks to give your home the True Fashionista update. Check out some great pieces and accessories in store and online at True Fashionistas Home.