Remember when country styling was the go-to in the nineties? It was all about chunky pine furniture, floral fabrics, and colors so rich you could almost taste them (sunflower yellow, anyone?). Country styling was the antidote to the neon and excess of the eighties, a way to bring some warmth and wholesomeness back into our homes.
That wholesome vibe is making a big comeback, and it perfectly suits the desire for more sustainable homes. Around 80% of interior design professionals note that sustainable design is more critical now than ever.
The idea of escaping the city for a slice of the good life in the countryside is a lifestyle shift that involves getting back to basics. This doesn't, however, mean you can't have a contemporary touch with your rural warmth.
Adding a stylish, multifunctional custom barn
Every good country home has a beautifully crafted barn. You might be housing horses, storing equipment, or creating a unique workspace or guest quarters. With a custom barn, you can tick all of these boxes modernly.
As we know, customization often means the sky's the limit, which is undoubtedly the case in the world of barns. You can choose everything from the type of wood for the structure to the color of the stain or paint. Roofing options are also abundant, as are the practical features—doors, vents, chew guards, lighting, and even window grills.
We recommend a barn with a full loft above the center aisle—ideal for storage. Or, if you're after something more iconic, opt for an A-frame style (which also has a generous loft area). A barn is a functional piece that can blend effortlessly with the surrounding countryside.

Adding a fireplace to your modern country home
A fireplace can be an effective source of heat and the centerpiece of your room. For a modern country aesthetic, you might lean towards a fireplace that balances traditional charm with contemporary functionality. A wood-burning fireplace, with its crackling flames and rustic appeal, can evoke a sense of classic country warmth.
Alternatively, a sleek gas or electric fireplace could offer a cleaner, more efficient option while still providing the modern visual appeal and comfort you seek. The key is choosing a fireplace design that fits seamlessly with your home's overall style, whether a traditional stone surround or a minimalist modern frame.
Ready to embrace countryside living in Colorado?
Let us help you. Call or Text Kenna Real Estate Group at 303-955-4220 to get personalized assistance from our expert real estate agents. Find out what your home is worth in today's market.
Pro tip: Placement and size are also crucial factors. Ensure the fireplace is proportionate to the room and placed where it can maximize its heating potential and visual impact.

Blending old and new in-home/interior design
Achieving the ideal blend of modern flair and timeless charm requires recognizing that the era of fully embracing rustic décor for country style is over. Today's approach is more refined and sophisticated, embracing a mix of modern and traditional elements that create a space that feels both current and nostalgic. The contemporary take on country style allows us to mix sleek finishes with classic rustic details, achieving a fresh look yet familiar.
The modern country aesthetic thrives on eclecticism, where rigid style boundaries give way to a more personalized approach. Instead of committing to a single style, homeowners blend smooth, modern materials like marble with the warmth of handcrafted, rustic pieces. Country style is deeply sentimental, evoking a sense of comfort and togetherness that can be seamlessly integrated with contemporary elements. By incorporating character-filled pieces and focusing on natural materials, you can create a home that tells a unique story.
Layering is a crucial aspect of this blend. To achieve a modern country look, it's essential to spotlight natural materials and add depth through texture. Think of combining earthy tones with contemporary accessories—such as pairing a sleek marble countertop with a handmade ceramic lamp or a cozy knitted throw. Layering in textural accessories and soft furnishings can bring warmth and balance to heavier surfaces, creating an inviting and lived-in space.
Drawing inspiration from nature and incorporating handmade items, you'll achieve an authentic look that beautifully merges the old with the new. But as you follow these rules, remember to inject your personality throughout your interior design, even if it means deviating from everything we've just told you!
Need to find your new countryside location?
You'll find a comprehensive selection of homes for sale across neighborhoods within the Denver area, such as Lone Tree or Highlands Ranch, at Kenna Real Estate. Our equestrian properties are particularly well-suited to those looking to live the country's way of life. See if your new home is there today!
