Oh that magic shared in PART ONE HERE! We must see more examples in this photo gallery of timeless simplicity and authentic European country interiors. Let’s discuss how we might emulate the look and strive to land in more refined territory.
Part Two: More Timeless Simplicity
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Utilitarian Considerations, Cozy Factor & European Sensibilities
To truly understand why European influences are so beautiful and desirable, we have to bear in mind American homes are typically much larger. With smaller room sizes across the pond, decor is not simply for show. Objects and furniture must be purposeful and multi-purpose.
That sort of daily sensibility serves us all since it eschews the disposable and unnecessary. The necessary and sustainable come into clearer focus. There’s less to organize and clean. Quality reigns supreme, and time can be spent on living than collecting the unnecessary.
Restraint need not look sterile.
Let’s face it. Daily rhythms necessitate that food and dishes come out of cupboards. Books and school supplies and pet things and clothing and products are real. We just don’t see them in tidily styled photos online!
Not sure if you’re striking the right balance? Subtract and then experiment! You can always bring more back into your mix.
Bring Charm & Customization to a White Box
Let others daydream about diamonds, pearls, and fancy bags. This European country elegance design freak will gladly imagine a tower of plaster shelves. Hahaha.
What makes such a custom luxe design element attractive and elegant? It’s a commitment and a feature that won’t happen in a single day. Maybe the fact such shelves are a more Old World artisan prospect requiring time, skills, and vision.
Transforming plain white boxes into established interiors with character and romance is no small task. It helps to see such transformation modeled.
Maybe you’ve noticed a common thread running through these rustic yet elegant interiors: the luxurious elements are largely personal, everyday elegant, purposeful features.
So often, what is avoided are show-offy, blingy, look-how-much-I-spent-here gestures.
Craftsmanship, Reclaimed Materials & Handmade Elegance
Desiree Ashworth’s (Beljar Home) former Utah home springs to mind when I think of the luxe nature of fine craftsmanship.
While traditional, Gustavian-inspired, and Old World, trim around doors and throughout the cottage feels fresh. The blue-grey-green stain was custom, and I can’t imagine how many of her admirers have asked for the formula (which doesn’t exist!). 🙂
The authenticity that old light fixtures from Europe add to a new home? Beyond! Boldness can also be a very luxe move, and those reclaimed wood ceilings are bold!
When I consider how the average suburban homeowner might access such authenticity?
I think there are practices beyond relying on pricey antiques and construction materials brought back from the European countryside. A mindful commitment to incorporate old, natural, and handmade into the mix will make all the difference. Maybe the “new” in the mix is the actual bones of the new or not-very-old home.
Another idea is to steer away from polished, new, perfect, glossy finishes that reflect perfection. Livable finishes and live finishes developing patina are friendlier.
Finally, a sense of humor can be scarce in a lot of fancy interiors. Adding whimsy, smiles and surprises will lighten the whole mood.
Budget Conscious European Cottage Looks
In the mood for English country cottage chic? You may be charmed by this:
Do visit my archives with more ideas and quotes to ease you toward the timeless and the tranquil.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
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