As any renter knows, apartments are not the easiest places to express creativity in your decor. No matter what decorating style you favor, chances are good that you can only change the space up to a certain point - the walls and floor. And even if you find your style, can you bring that style to the next apartment or home? Let's say you love country. Will that style adapt to your next space? Absolutely! Country is one of those styles that can fit in anywhere. The secret is to simplify the style and choose items that are useful and decorative - in your current or future space. For instance:
1. Furniture.
Photo: Pamela Cole Harris
You can find fabulous furniture at yard sales, thrift shops or flea markets. First, look at the lines of the piece. Are they simple and versatile? Then look at how the piece is made. Is it well constructed of solid wood? You can repaint or refinish the piece to fit with your own country style. But don't acquire too many pieces. Stick to the basics that can fit in any size or style apartment or home.
2. Rugs.
Photo: Andrew Beierle
A handmade rug - whether hooked, woven, or braided - can bring any space together. It brings color to a space and hides any imperfections in the flooring. Make sure it will hold it's own in a smaller or larger room if you are going to move.
3. Linens.
Pamela Cole Harris
You can find vintage linens at yard sales, thrift shops or flea markets. Mismatched pillowcases, sheets, or tablecloths can be used for upholstery, pillows, curtains, or even framed art.
4. Walls.
Photo: Andrea Kratzenberg
Inexpensive fabric can be used to create a country look on any walls. All you need is some laundry starch and a fabric that blends with your decor. Best of all, this budget idea can be easily removed when you move. Just wet the fabric and pull it off. To use again, just wash the fabric, then reapply the starch. Be sure to check if the yardage will fit before you put it up in the new place.
5. Display Containers.
Photo: Sandra Herd
Glass containers can be used in the kitchen, bathroom or any room where storage is needed. And you can make them for pennies. Need a way to display potpourri? Put it in a glass pickle or mayonnaise jar that has been cleaned. Decorate the lid by painting, covering with fabric, or gluing buttons or even rocks to the top. If you must move, it is easier to move smaller items when they are in containers.
6. Baskets.
Photo: Sandra Herd
Baskets are an important part of any country decor and like glass containers, can be used as display or storage. Find picnic hampers or baskets that can store linens, office supplies and any number of items. They are perfect for moving as well.
Country decor can fit into almost any space. Pick country pieces with clean design, straight lines, and introduce country coziness in any space with pillows and rich fabrics. With a little planning, your decor can move from one space to the next without putting your rental agreement in jeopardy. The only country style that won't fit everywhere is "gingham, ducks, and roosters on every available surface" school of country decor. And if you belong to that school - well, we have to have a talk, girl!