Curate Country Character

Looking for ways to decorate with objects that tell a story and recall yesteryear? Nina combined colorcoordinated elements, handcrafted collectibles and vintage textiles in a kitchen nook. During the process, she snapped photos with her smartphone and continued to make adjustments until she achieved an inspiring exhibit. “I arrange things in uneven numbers. Different heights make it more appealing and show off each individual piece,” she shares. “I love to decorate cupboards or cabinets with mostly wooden items. Add a few crocks or jars, and it gives a whole new look.” Consider trying some of her favorite styling ideas.

GO WITH THE GRAIN. Redefine walls with either vertical stained pine boards or wallpaper designed to look like weathered barn siding. Nina turned to traditional wallpaper in the alcove to minimize her husband’s carpentry to-do list.

FOCUS ON FURNITURE. Select furnishings with surfaces and shelves for holding treasures. Nina anchors the nook with an antique bench and desk so she can build two vertical arrangements.

TRY TEXTILE TACTICS. Mount peg racks on the wall and hang towels, bonnets, aprons and grain sacks so the handstitched heirlooms distinguish the wall space.

PROP WITH PURPOSE. Rely on the rule of threes to heighten visual interest. For example, Nina sets three slaw cutters on the bench beneath a trio of textiles. She places three wood items on the desk in front of a threebin box. And she repeats the mathematical guide with the jars atop the hanging shelf.

NURTURE NATURE. For hints of natural beauty during wintertime, fill firkins, bowls and bird feeders with dried flowers, herbs, grains and produce.

Larry and Nina reflect on their happy retirement in Kentucky on their new side porch. Nina’s laundry-themed outdoor display, composed of a washbasin and washboard hung on a trellis, lends charm to the setting. “I really love the look of weathered metal,” she says.