Dreaming of some new country bedroom ideas? This gallery, with expert tips from our hand-picked country decor experts, is where to find inspiration.
Whether you live in a rural home – or just love the country look – your bedroom is the soothing heart of your decorating scheme. It's the first space you see in the morning and the last before you close your eyes at night, so getting the decor right here is vital.
Below, you can discover the essential elements of country bedroom style.
Country bedroom ideas
There are some bedroom ideas and design principles that work in any home, from urban loft to mountain chalet. Where to position your bed, the colors that set a restful tone, and how to arrange your furnishings for both style and practicality are key, whatever your style.
But the country look adds an extra element of color, pattern, comfort and a connection to nature that will define your rustic scheme.
We've spoken to interior designers the best ways to bring a refined but rustic look to the bedroom. From natural materials such as wood and wicker, to characterful furniture and floral and foliage motifs. You can find inspiration for your country bedroom ideas here.
1. Channel the country house look – with a twist
The modern country look is all about bringing freshness and contemporary attitude to your decorating scheme, channelling the grand English country house aesthetic (thank you, Downton Abbey and Bridgerton) and taking it in a new – and very now –direction.
'This is an approach that works on both sides of the Atlantic, and can be seen as much in the work of Hollywood design royalty Michael S Smith as it can in the quintessentially English designs of London-based Jane Churchill, says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors.
'With its combination of delightful pattern and pretty color, with a fun sense of scale and drama, this gorgeously shaped and upholstered headboard, from Jane Churchill, is a brilliantly executed example of how bed ideas can elevate this approach to country bedroom ideas.'
2. Layer up rugs for a new take on comfort
Coziness is key to the country look – and there's no better place than the bedroom to go deep on layers of comfort and softness.
This cocooning navy and white scheme shows how piling on the textures with area rugs, throws, velvet pillows can still look elegant – ideal if you want your country bedroom ideas to span both urban and rural styles and spaces.
'Warming up your home is as easy as adding in softer surfaces,' agrees Noemie Deed, founder of rug company Cosy Coco. 'And a luxurious rug is the perfect piece to sink your feet into.
'Consider layering rugs across the harder surfaces and open spaces. The more the merrier for a country look and to keep the cold at bay.'
3. Turn your country bedroom into a haven of luxury
If you're fortunate enough to have a large space, consider adapting your country bedroom ideas to incorporate a seating area and even a freestanding bath tub, to create a luxurious open concept suite.
Country hotel style is the place to look for inspiration, such as this room created by interior designer Alexander Waterworth at Soho Farmhouse.
You'll want a sense of separation between your sleeping space and the bathing zone, so define each area with a rug or a different decorative backdrop, such as a change in wallpaper or paint color.
4. Get creative with paint and color
This elegant scheme shows you can get creative with color in your country bedroom, simply by painting blocks of complementary tones.
Start with the architectural details, choosing a strong shade to highlight skirting, molding or window frames. Then highlight the sleeping area by painting a darker color, or even two, around the bed.
'Choosing to combine two or three different colors in a room as opposed to sticking to one shade can look fantastic as long as you stick to a few rules,' says Anna Hill, Brand Director and Colour Consultant for Fenwick & Tilbrook.
'Ensure you use harmonious colors so that even if you have two or three in one space they complement one another rather than clash. One top tip is to choose shades that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, which will ensure that even if your colors seem polar opposites they will look fantastic sitting alongside one another.
'You should also consider which direction your room is facing and choose shades accordingly. For instance, south-facing rooms are often filled with warm light so you can maximize colors with a cooler base, whereas north-facing rooms suit warmer shades of reds, pinks and greens.
'Painting woodwork and even radiators in the same color or a contrasting shade adds a modern feel to a room scheme and is also a great option for those less brave about using mixed colors on a larger scale.'
5. Perfect the art of symmetry
When it comes to country bedroom ideas, twice is nice for twin rooms. A matching pair of beds, with a double dose of identikit throw pillows and covers, will bring order to what could be a cluttered space with an abundance of furniture.
But not everything has to have its mirror image. In this smart guest bedroom from interior designer Jojo Bradley, a single chest of drawers is used as a shared bedside table. The look is still symmetrical, but the cabinet helps to create a focal point in the center of the room.
6. Dive into deep blue
You can't go wrong with a mid-toned blue when it comes to finalising your palette and country bedroom ideas. Calming yet warm, it's a shade that suits both older country properties and contemporary rural builds.
There are a number of ways to use the hue. In a lofty space, painting walls and ceiling will help to create atmosphere and comfort. In a small cottage or gabled craftsman house, keeping the color on the walls and painting the ceiling white will create a brighter feel.
Finally, in a tonal scheme like this, add a contrasting color – like this red lamp – to make the room 'pop'.
7. Bring in forest imagery
A connection to nature is key to rustic style, so channel the feel of the forest into your country bedroom ideas with leaf-print textiles.
You could opt for drapes or a quilt with a foliage design, but Jane Churchill shows just how effective a fabric-covered headboard can be for that romantic 'sleeping beneath the boughs' feel.
Choose a subtle-patterned wallpaper in a complementary tone to finish the scheme.
8. Incorporate characterful detail
‘This bedroom epitomizes a modern country look, successfully mixing color and styles together,' says Katrin Cargill, stylist at Linwood fabrics. 'The blue walls throw forward the fabric – Kitty, from Linwood’s The English Garden collection – allowing the delightful floral to take centre stage.
'Details such as the bespoke scalloped edge of the pelmet and rug, the pressed grasses displayed on the walls and the burst of sunny yellow on the bedside table add interesting layers. The result is a room that feels fresh and inviting.’
9. Pair rustic walls with soft fabrics
If barn wood, shiplap or original cabin-style walls aren't an option when you're picking out your country bedroom ideas, then a log-effect wallpaper like this is a superb alternative. And it works brilliantly with a more luxe approach to furnishings, for a rough-meets-smooth rustic aesthetic.
'One of my favorite décor styles incorporates neutral tones, natural fabrics and lots of layering,' suggests Andrew Cussions, Founder of Sofas & Stuff.
'This way, colors and patterns can be added and changed whenever the mood dictates, but the overall impression is always effortlessly elegant – perfect for a countryside feel.'
10. Dress the bed with a country quilt
Farmhouse bedding ideas, such as a patchwork quilt, are country bedding idea staples – whether an heirloom or antique piece or a contemporary version of this classic cover-up.
For a country bedroom, the quilt's palette will make ideal inspiration for the rest of your decorating scheme – pick out the brightest shade as your accent color, and use the tonal background as a match for your walls.
11. Make your view a focal point
Country bedrooms often benefit from lovely views of the surrounding landscape. So strategically placing the bed will make the most of the surrounding views and natural light, suggests Sharon Lillywhite, Founding Partner of Architectural Interior Design Studio, Oliver Burns.
‘Introducing an inviting seating area by the window provides the perfect opportunity to retreat, read a book or simply enjoy the views,’ she says.
12. Forage for outdoor elements
Pittsburgh-based interior designer Esther Dormer suggests bringing the outdoors in with your decor – quite literally. She has used tree trunk lamps when designing a bedroom in her country home project and regularly incorporates actual wood and greenery into these spaces to give them an organic, rustic feel.
Not into foraging for decor items? Dormer also suggests using a sheepskin rug to enhance a bedroom with a natural feel. By doing this, you can add some texture and charm to a country bedroom without having to actually go digging for outside treasure.
13. Choose textured wall finishes
‘Different textures on walls can make a country-style bedroom into an interesting and eclectic space,’ shares Houston-based Pamela O’Brien, Lead Designer at Pamela Hope Designs.
‘Shiplap has been a favorite but there are many options including thin-set brick, wallpaper, and wood veneers.’
14. Position the bed first
‘It is important to position the bed first so that you have the best view, for example, without hindering the flow of the room,’ says interior designer Jojo Bradley.
‘When it comes to your country bedroom decor ideas, start with something you love and build around it, from a statement headboard, favourite color, or a piece of art. Then the rest of the room design tends to fall into place.’
15. Add color with pillows and throws
‘Colorful pillows and throws with interesting textures will create an inviting bed that is visually appealing,’ explains Pamela O’Brien, Lead Designer at Pamela Hope Designs.
‘This is an easy way to update, too – just change out a few pillows and a throw for a fresh new look.’
Our cottage bedroom ideas have more inspiration for cozy, restful spaces.
16. Consider warming things up
‘For period properties where the home can feel cold in the winter months, we like to install underfloor heating throughout,’ says Sharon Lillywhite, Founding Partner of Architectural Interior Design Studio, Oliver Burns.
‘If this isn’t an option, a thick rug by the side of the bed offers a luxurious treat underfoot when you wake up.’
Beautiful wooden and stone floors are a hallmark of country properties, but they lack the softness needed in a bedroom. Choosing a rug allows you still to see the flooring around the edges, while providing a soft landing for feet when getting out of bed first thing in the morning.
17. Repurpose furniture
Consider repurposing original wood or rustic items that might work in the space, using a side table beside the bed, for example, or a hallway console in the bay of a window. But don’t feel the need to fix up vintage furniture too much.
‘Highlight the age and the beauty of the natural wear and tear,’ suggests Laura Mooney, Owner and Head of Creative at The Mohicans Treehouse Resort. ‘You might be pleasantly surprised to find a charm and authenticity that can't be bought, duplicated, or replaced,’ she explains.
18. Make fresh flowers the standard
Country bedroom ideas are all about bringing the outdoors in, whether through fabrics, wallpaper or fresh flowers. If you prefer a more modern approach to your country interiors – perhaps you're considering grey bedroom ideas – fresh flowers are the perfect addition for lightening and brightening the space.
19. Dare to do whimsical
‘One of the most important aspects when designing a country room is bringing in a sense of charm,’ shares interior designer Kathy Kuo. ‘I typically do this through vintage pieces – whether in the lighting, artwork or decorative accessories.’
Kuo suggests looking for fun pieces you love that are timeless, chic and accentuate your personality. This makes your room unique and adds some character.
20. Layer your lighting
Mood-building bedroom lighting ideas are a must in a country bedroom.
‘A bedside lamp for reading, or accent lights to create warmth, will bring a soft and relaxing ambience to a country bedroom,’ says interior designer Jojo Bradley.
‘Practically, make sure there are plenty of plugs by your bedside tables, and try to position these so that they are hidden by the furniture. With switches, keep them within reach from the bed.’
21. Create synergy between the indoors and outdoors
Weaving in natural finishes such as linen, wool and silk helps to create a synergy between the indoors and outdoors.
‘This approach to designing country homes allows us to work in harmony with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes and stay true to the history of the building,’ shares architectural designer, Sharon Lillywhite.
22. Don’t shy away from modern accents
Consider adding modern hints to your country bedroom ideas.
Kathy Kuo of Kathy Kuo Home suggests placing a bench at the end of your bed, with industrial or rustic leather legs to add a touch of variety.
‘You can even add hide fur pillows onto your bedding or top an ottoman with a stylish tray to mix old world with modern chic,’ Kuo suggests.
23. Use nature motifs in your decor
It's their close connection with nature that makes country homes so special – and you can never have too much of a good thing. Reflecting the landscape outside your window is a great start when you're looking for country bedroom ideas. The decor will truly make your home feel a part of its surroundings and create a calm, harmonious look.
Country wallpaper ideas with a floral design could echo your garden. Or choose a delicate, leafy print that replicates trees and woodland.
24. Raise the roof for a lofty feel
In this Wiltshire cottage, the ceiling was stripped back and the roof clad in oak for an airy, lofty feel.
Although the extra space could feel intimidating, the wood and original stone wall bring a natural warmth and texture to the scheme and celebrate the ancient architecture of the building.
Using natural elements like these is an essential part of any country decor scheme, but it's especially soothing in a bedroom.
25. Decorate with folksy wallpaper
If you're not a fan of florals, there are plenty of other ways to bring a decorate with wallpaper when you're looking for country bedroom ideas.
The Allotment wallpaper by Sanderson evokes veggie patches and market gardens, and is a modern country take on traditional toile.
A row of hooks on a rustic board completes the quirky rural look.
26. Embrace views with a Juliette balcony
Enjoy stunning countryside views from a bedroom balcony.
‘An oak framed balcony can be entirely self-supporting and fits well in rural settings,’ says Ed Brechtmann, project development manager at Border Oak. ‘Depending on your budget, they can be built with enough space for sun loungers and planters. We’ve even installed a bath on a balcony!
’A more modest Juliet balcony, which has no outside space, can still have a huge impact – making the most of a view and bringing light into the room, for minimal disruption and cost.’
27. Build furniture into alcoves
When you're looking for country bedroom ideas, take your cue from original, quirky features. After all, they're a huge part of what makes country homes so special.
‘Many country bedrooms are blessed with a central chimney breast,’ says Megan Baker, head of design at My Fitted Bedroom. Such features add character but can present a challenge when it comes to freestanding furniture.
‘Fitted furniture makes the most of the available storage space and can also deal with any uneven flooring or wall issues. We recommend doors that reach the full height of the room for a neat and uniform look.’
28. Be creative with bedside storage
When it comes to bedroom storage ideas, think beyond the conventional narrow bedside cabinet – or get creative and repurpose a piece of furniture from elsewhere and use it by your bed.
If you have the width beside your bed, a small chest of drawers will provide additional storage. Or choose a tall but narrow design, like this reclaimed filing cabinet, in space is tight. A bedside table on legs or a wall-mounted design will leave more floor visible, creating the illusion of extra space.
‘The perfect design will provide plenty of storage so you can keep the surface uncluttered but also have everything at your fingertips,’ says Henry Tovey, furniture designer at Neptune.
‘A bedside light will provide soft illumination for reading but also work as a focal point and add height to your scheme.’
29. Celebrate beams with a light that draws the eye upwards
A sparkling crystal chandelier makes a stunning contrast to the rough wood of a rustic home and draws the eye upwards so this original feature can be appreciated.
Don't be scared to choose an oversized design. A light fixture that looks huge in a shop will appear perfectly to scale in a converted farm building such as a barn, and will actually make a larger bedroom appear more life-sized.
Leaving timber beams exposed draws attention to your bedroom's height, while celebrating the original features.
'With beautiful architecture you don't need to overcomplicate the interior design,' advises Merry Albright, creative director of Border Oak. 'Keep the decor calm yet stylish.'
30. Use soft furnishings to add color and warmth
Soft furnishings are the perfect way to transform a room without having to redecorate completely.
'Chalky color palettes based on heritage prints always work well in country bedrooms,' says Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV. 'They are easy to incorporate, with of plenty of blankets, throws and varying cushion sizes.'
When it comes to bedroom window dressing, if you have the room either side of your window, then full-length curtains will create a cosy, comfortable and inviting feel.
'Choosing a quality thick fabric will also provide an extra layer of insulation, which can be necessary in older country properties, as well as creating a sense of luxury,' Leigh continues.
'For more compact rooms and windows, Roman blinds are a good option as they take up less space and use less fabric. They are also flexible, allowing varying amounts of light into the room.'
31. Style a soothing space with symmetry
Keep a sense of calm and order in even a small and characterful space by using the power of symmetry. Here, matching beds, identical bedding and twin wall lamps transform a cramped room beneath the eaves into a haven of serenity.
Despite the toning palette and paired furnishings, the mix of patterns and prints keeps the overall effect original and interesting – and doesn't distract from the beauty of the wooden beams.
32. Mix and match patterns
Nothing says sumptuous like a generous bed piled high with cushions and throws, and they are easy to change with the seasons, to keep your country bedroom ideas fresh and evolving.
‘Start with three fabrics – the key is to vary the pattern scale,’ says Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV. 'Pick a large-scale pattern as your main one; the second should be half its scale, like a large floral paired with a plaid or geometric.
‘The third can be similar to either of the first two but using matching colors. When mixing two or three patterns, consider breaking them up with plains.’
33. Add a window seat
'Window seat ideas are the perfect way to transform the area under a window into a useful space,' says fabric and furnishings designer, Susie Watson. 'It also allows you to introduce additional soft furnishings into the scheme – a mixture of cushions and a throw will add color, pattern and texture.'
'I always recommend hanging curtains high and wide, to maximise natural light and the frame the wonderful countryside views,' Watson continues.
'I have developed a particular look for my curtains. Typically, they are heavily interlined and hand-headed with soft double pleats. The look is elegant yet relaxed – perfect for country houses. And a weighty curtain makes a room feel soft and comfortable, and keeps out the draughts.'
'Pattern can layer on pattern, as long as the colors are complementary. I always finish my curtains with a trimming set into the leading edge, adding a splash more colour and interest.'