Well, folks, the time has come to share more about the plans and design direction for my new home, Bayberry House. It has been a whirlwind of home improvement projects since I moved in a couple of months ago. From refinishing the upstairs floors to installing a radon mitigation system and a water softener/water filter, I've been keeping busy. And the list goes on.
However, when it comes to decorating, things have been a bit slower. But fear not, I have made progress on my side porch and back deck, creating cozy and functional outdoor areas to enjoy this summer. Now, let me give you a quick recap of my journey.
For about nine years, I lived in a large home in St. Marys, PA. After that, I rented an apartment in Pittsburgh, PA for a year, sold my St. Marys' house, and bought Bayberry House, a five-bedroom home. Since the people who purchased my previous home wanted it fully furnished, I only had the furnishings from my one-bedroom apartment. Surprisingly, they worked well enough to make my new house stylish and functional.
So, where do I go from here? Let me take you on a journey through my plans and inspirations for creating a Modern Country Colonial style in my new home.
Modern Country Colonial: A Refined Eclectic Style
While the term "country" may raise eyebrows in the design world, I wanted to embrace it in my Modern Country Colonial style. I'll be honest; I tend to steer clear of trends that have become too popular. So, please know that I'm not after the farmhouse style that's all the rage these days.
For me, Modern Country Colonial means creating a bright, clean, and orderly space. I love using the color white to create a crisp and light-filled atmosphere. However, I also appreciate the unique and unexpected use of color in a space. A colorful home is a must for me.
Image: @redesignhomellc on Instagram
Another aspect of modern design that I adore is its intentionality. As someone drawn to various styles, I need to limit my selections to what is functional and makes my heart sing. A Modern Country Colonial home is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a smarter home that incorporates modern technologies and features.
Image: Humprey Munson
Now, let's talk about the "country" part of Modern Country Colonial. The country invokes a sense of joy and inspiration in me. It's a feeling as much as it is a look. Picture gathering around an outdoor fire pit with close friends, wearing jeans and a button-down shirt, and enjoying seasonal, simple, and fresh snacks. Imagine baking a pie with rhubarb from your grandparents' garden and feeling the warmth of a cozy kitchen.
Image: Manhattan Nest
In a Modern Country Colonial home, everything has a story. It's about real wood, weathered from age, not paint. It's about using mason jars as vases and finding unique vintage treasures. It's gingham, plaid, cozy, and welcoming. It's home.
Image: @burtsbrisplease on Instagram
As for the "colonial" part, well, my house is a colonial, so it just makes sense to work with its style and bones. Colonial design emphasizes handcrafted elements, rich subdued colors, and natural materials. Blending traditional and rustic elements feels right in a Modern Country Colonial home.
Image: @lauralmercantile on Instagram
Image: @maxhumphrey on Instagram
So, my mission is to bring this Modern Country Colonial vision to life in Bayberry House. I want my home to reflect who I am, always welcoming to others. And now, it's time to embark on this exciting styling journey.
I hope sharing my thought process has inspired you to create a home you love, regardless of the style you choose. Stay tuned as I dive into specific plans for each room and begin the kitchen remodel. It's going to be an exhilarating adventure!
Note: All images used in this article are credited to their original sources. You can find more inspiration on my [Pinterest board](link to Pinterest board).
