Country interiors that are clean and fresh, not cluttered and frilly!

FREE IMAGES I was born and raised on a large farm in an old colonial farmhouse.  I will always love old wide plank floors, exposed wood beams, and wavy windows. That being said, I have never been a fan of "country" decorating.  Ruffled valances, roosters, chintz and faux chipping paint make me cringe.  Country can be fresh and clean and beautiful - see below...

Traditional Entry by Millbrook Architects & Building Designers Crisp Architects

Farmhouse Hall by South West Interior Designers & Decorators Sims Hilditch

Gotta have your florals or toile? Then keep the drapery, linens and upholstery tailored and crisp.

Farmhouse Bedroom by South West Interior Designers & Decorators Sims Hilditch

Keep your light upholstery for a room like the bedroom - any room close to the house entrances is more subject to the dirt brought in from gardening and livestock.

Farmhouse Bathroom by Chicago Architects & Building Designers Northworks Architects and Planners

I would also save white cabinetry for a bathroom - the kitchen of a farmhouse gets far too much traffic!

I would never have the heart to touch these floors or beams, so keeping the linens and walls white keeps the space fresh.

via Country Living

While I LOVE white cabinetry, it's very tough to keep clean in a farmhouse.  Between farm dogs and dusty boots, go with a cream or off-white if you can't do dark cabinetry.

via Country Living

Ranchers with low ceilings need all the light they can get.  A white ceiling, a mirrored wall, and glass doors make the most of the light.

via Country Living

Farmhouse Bedroom by Millbrook Architects & Building Designers Crisp Architects

LOVE this too.  You don't need ruffled valances to decorate this space.  The treetops are more than enough.