Red, White and Ooh!

A Subtle Approach to Patriotic Decorating

There’s something refreshing about a red, white and blue color palette. I think I’m attracted to it because nothing says summer more than decorating with this patriotic theme.

We love this twist on red, white and blue from Southern Living.

The history of Americana decorating goes back – you guessed it – to our country’s independence. If the traditional primitive country, red-white-and-blue look isn’t for you, you can take a more subtle approach. Here’s some ways to incorporate a patriotic theme into your home décor without being kitsch.

Red, White, and Blue Color Combination

You don’t have to match our nation’s flag. Choosing a red/white or a blue/white theme is still patriotic without being too literal. Or consider using different tones of blue paired with red and white for a more sophisticated look.

Country Living showcases a red-and-white themed room
with muted blue painted floors, a life preserver and vintage quilt.

Flags

Incorporating a flag motif into your decorating can be as easy as adding a throw pillow, blanket, framed flag or folk art to your space.

Stars & Stripes

Using elements of our grand ol’ flag is yet another way to get that patriotic feel. Stars as wall art or a striped area rug underfoot can be the perfect touch to your patriotic inspired room.

Vintage Quilts

Old, handmade quilts are a favorite of patriotic decorators. They exude comfort as well as a nostalgic nod to our past.

Another subtle patriotic themed living room from Country Living.

Advertising from World War I and World War II

There may never have been a more patriotic time than during the World Wars. Uncle Sam, Ruby the Riveter and other iconic symbols from these eras are popular subjects for reproduction and antique décor.

Nautical Décor

Another aspect to patriotic Americana decorating is a nautical motif. Because much of patriotic decorating is centered on the symbols of New England, nautical symbols fit in perfectly, such as:

• Lighthouses
• Ships in bottles
• Old lobster traps
• Fishnets
• Fishing weights
• Carved shore birds and decoys
• Shells
• Anchors
• Lanterns

You’ll find oodles of handmade and vintage patriotic décor on Etsy.

Vintage Maps

Commonly overlooked decorating items are vintage maps. Find old maps in magazines, in antique shops, and in bookstores that carry antique books. Once framed, these worn, yellowed maps are a fantastic wall accent. If you like to do handcrafts, you might decoupage a few to an old desk top. Using these materials in unusual and unexpected ways brings character to your home.

So go ahead, try a little patriotic decorating this summer!

 

10 Must-Haves for Every Outdoor Room

Transform an ordinary outdoor area into space that adds value and comfort to your home.

1.     Furniture

The backbone of every outdoor room is the furniture. Think about how you will use the space and choose furniture that best fits your needs. Will you primarily use the space for lounging and reading a book? Enjoying your morning coffee and newspaper? The options, styles and colors of patio furniture that are now available are abundant.

 

2.     Something Under Foot

Bring the luxury of an indoor room outside by adding an outdoor rug. It will not only add comfort, but also color and style to your space.

3.     Pillows + Throws

Another inside-the-house luxury must-have coming outside are textiles. Throw pillows crafted from all-weather fabric and cushions are an essential part of creating a cozy space.

4.     Lighting

Extend the life of your outdoor room into the evening hours by adding lighting. Candles (real or electric), solar lights and electric hanging lights are great options and create ambiance.

5.     Plants

Chances are your outdoor space will be near your landscape, but consider bringing potted plants into your “room.” Plants add color while adding to your room’s coziness factor. Depending on the amount and size, plants can also be helpful in noise reduction.

6.     Shade

Vitamin D is great, but too much sun isn’t. Remember to add shade to your space with natural elements such as trees, hanging vines and larger plants, or with structures such as pergolas, trellises or umbrellas. If your patio is south facing, consider adding a roof or a sun sail for maximum coverage.

7.     Color

Just like an interior space, color plays a huge role in determining style. Cushions, pillows, rugs, accessories and plants should be part of the color palette that you create.

8.     Fire & Water

Sitting around a fire is a backyard staple. Instead of building a fire pit, consider buying a stand-along fire pit or a fire pit table. Another great way to add ambiance and reduce background noise is to add a water feature. Whether it is a waterfall or a trickling tabletop fountain, nothing beats the sound of water for relaxing.

 

9.     Dining

Even if the main purpose of your room isn’t for eating, having a place to set down your drink is a must. Add side tables to your space or a stylish serving tray to your ottoman.

10.  Privacy

Integrating elements that provide privacy to your outdoor space adds to that “room” feeling. Instead of walls, think curtains, climbing vines, hanging baskets, and shrubs.