5 Decorating Ideas from a Country Home in Antipolo

Homeowners Cesar and Malu Gutierrez have built a country home on a flourishing plot of land in Antipolo. Inspired by the traditional look of classic American houses, their space has a relaxing, soothing, and inviting appeal.

If you have always dreamed about living in a dollhouse-like cottage, here are tips and tricks to try:

Build brick columns

Many country homes are completed with brick walls. However, installing a brick wall may take up too much money, time, and effort. A full brick wall can also make the room seem stuffy and closed in.

With this in mind, you can try putting up brick columns on two corners of your room instead. You can visit a hardware store to ask for advice or hire the trusted neighborhood karpintero to do it for you. Just remember to cut out or print out as many examples as you can find.

RL Tip: Make sure that you are not installing bricks on load-bearing walls.

Choose light-colored wood

If you are still building or renovating your own home, you should choose light-hued wood over dark-colored wood! Always look for bleached wood for ceiling, walls, floors, and other building materials.

When looking for furniture, including your chairs and tables, you should look for the same light-colored wood. Light-colored wooden furniture appears bright, clean, and maaliwalas.

Look for upholstered furniture

Speaking of furniture, you should also find upholstered furniture pieces for a country home-inspired space. A cushy armchair and a comfortable sofa can make your home seem even more welcoming.

Purchase curtains, throws, pillows, and area rugs

To add a country feel to any home, you should also bring in soft furnishings! Soft furnishings like curtains, pillows, and area rugs can make your space seem even cozier. You can also use a throw or a fabric draped over the back of your armchair or sofa. A throw can make an old seat seem interesting and inviting.

Opt for gingham prints and country-inspired details

To complete your home, you should look for gingham patterns for your curtains, pillows, or one piece of furniture. Just use it for one furniture or accessory piece so as not to overwhelm the space.

You can also bring in wrought-iron chandeliers and vintage-style birdcages. 

Click here to see more photos and view the full home tour.

 Read the original article ("Country in the City") in the November 2014 issue of Real Living Magazine. Download your digital copy of Real Living on the Real Living App now! Log on to summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living for more details.