Americana décor is making headlines again and its warmth and desire are welcome – whatever country you call home! It’s tough to resist the homespun charm of Americana, especially with today’s fresh take on this traditional favourite. Read on as we celebrate the beauty of home styling from our neighbour to the south – and how to achieve it in your home.

Not surprisingly, it starts with red, white and blue. The colours of the American flag are the foundation of the Americana palette. Whether vivid or muted, a little or a lot, there’s no doubt that you must bring at least a touch of red or blue to practically every space to achieve the real beauty of this style. Sometimes patterned cushions, a throw or a wall hanging is enough, or perhaps you want to go all out and opt for a sofa and accent chair in glorious red.

Don’t forget the white. Soft or bright, white often forms the background for Americana. It can be as simple and classic as all white walls, trim and ceiling, creating a neutral backdrop for whatever your imagination invents! Even brick is often painted white for an uncontrived look.

Embrace menswear tailoring. Americana has an edge of ruggedness that’s decidedly masculine. Think beautifully tailored suits in fine fabrics. Translate that same sophistication to your furnishings. There should be nothing frilly, fanciful or curved. Straight lines with simple skirting and clean arms and legs are your best choice. Tufting is on trend for a well-heeled look.

Choose classic fabrics. Houndstooth, tweed, suede and leather are perfect, as are stripes, plaids and ginghams, even some geometrics. Some fabrics are much more colonial while others are more contemporary. Choose according to your space and taste, but stay true to one period. Don’t forget that red and blue are your best friends.

Consider a little country influence. Americana today is rustic rather than old-fashioned country – yet there’s nothing wrong with a nod to the cottage look. Consider a display of vintage quilts, a distressed harvest table, wooden ceiling beams, natural wood floors and if you possibly can, a wood-burning fireplace.

Use lots of wood. It’s essential – on the floor, often on the ceiling and especially in furnishings. Simplicity reigns. Clean lines are a must, often almost ‘basic’ looking. Mission and Shaker-styled furnishings fit the bill. Rich, robust woods like cherry and oak are staples, often distressed or naturally worn for an inviting, lived-in look. Accent chairs and sofas may have wood trim – and don’t forget the wing back chair with solid wood legs. It’s a hallmark of Americana décor.

Put the accent on accessories. Nothing pretentious! Crafty looking wood items are popular. But don’t worry if your taste is a little more upscale. wrought iron, dull brass and nickel are welcome, again staying true to the clean lines mantra. Folk art is also popular, including primitive paintings, wood sculptures (decoys are big) and stars of all sizes and colours in wood or metal!

Enjoy the casual, relaxed vibe of Americana with your own special touch of Canadian style too!