Heirloom Quality
A Pennsylvania couple capture the true spirit of country decorating by updating rooms and refreshing collections throughout the home they have cherished for more than four decades.
A Pennsylvania couple continually update and refresh rooms in the cozy, traditional country home they have loved for four decades.
Joni and Ed Barnes’ love story with their home is almost as enduring as their 48-year marriage. Just like the personal growth the couple have experienced as they journey through married life together, so, too, has the charming raised ranch house evolved since the Barneses became its stewards in 1972.
Through the years, they drew upon Ed’s construction skills and Joni’s decorating savvy to update the Level Green, Pennsylvania, house and transform it into a family retreat. Over the last four decades, they raised two daughters, welcomed grandchildren, and created a country idyll in a place they are still proud to call home. With their growing family in mind, they embarked on a mission to expand the home’s footprint and functionality. They constructed a 600-square-foot addition that contained a family room with a dramatic tray ceiling, a bedroom and bathroom, and a laundry room. To make the kitchen more spacious, they removed a wall separating it from the dining room and installed new cabinets, beadboard backsplash, solid-surface counters and a peninsula. To enhance the home’s curb appeal, they added a farmer’s porch, stone walkways and walls.
Having free rein to decorate indoors and out is something Joni enjoys. Her love for country decor was kindled when her mother gave her a set of Depression glass dishes. “Upon researching them, I began frequenting antiques shops and eventually collected sets for both of my daughters and myself. My love of antiques and country decorating evolved from there,” she recalls.
To augment her collections, Joni explores yard sales, flea markets,
and antiques shops in Pennsylvania’s Westmoreland, Lancaster and Bedford counties. Pewter, ironstone, stoneware, redware, wooden bowls and woven baskets rank among her favorite primitivestyle collectibles. “I always believe that one should listen to that little voice in your head,” she says. “When you see something you really love, buy it because chances are, you will be sorry if you don’t. You will always find the right spot for it.”
Joni also visits country home decor stores to seek out valances, quilted pillows, throw blankets and braided seat cushions featuring her favorite hues of black, red, pink and ivory, which she has incorporated throughout her home. “Woven textiles add warmth to a room,” she explains of her enthusiasm for fabrics.
Repurposing is another component of Joni’s decorating approach. For example, rather than part with a modern curio cabinet that did not suit her decor, she treated the piece to a makeover. She painted the cabinet black and lined the interior with black fabric embellished with mustard stars. The cabinet now occupies a corner of the living room and houses some of her favorite crockery.
Today, black is a staple in the home’s decorating scheme. Joni, who is trained as a floral designer and understands the importance of color, says she is drawn to the shade because “black makes things stand out.” Among the furnishings that Joni has transformed with black paint are antique wall shelves, new picture frames, Windsor chairs and a dining table.
Blending new and old furniture is an art that Joni has mastered. Larger pieces, such as sofas, wing chairs, coffee tables and end tables, anchor rooms with traditional style. Smaller antiques, such as tables, cupboards and stools, bring a handcrafted touch to spaces. And precious heirlooms lovingly made and/or used by parents and grandparents add soul. A shoe last, baby shoes, wooden toolboxes, kitchen utensils and a moonshine jug are some of the sentimental objects that have places of prominence in Joni’s home.
Dust seldom gathers on Ed’s toolbox because Joni often enlists him to construct primitive-style furniture based on photographs of pieces she admires. His handiwork includes a dry sink, doll bench and wooden benches all destined to become future heirlooms.
Although other empty-nesters might consider downsizing or moving to a new location, the Barneses anticipate spending many more blissful years in their home. Joni looks forward to making more memories there, surrounded by the warmth of country style and the people she loves. She offers the following advice for other collectors and decorators looking to find happiness at home: “Follow your heart. The heart speaks to us.”