Imagine a traditional, English country home and it might help you to picture country style. Stereotypical country homes are either cottages, perhaps with stone walls or thatched roofs, or grand Georgian homes with climbing plants on their facades. But even if this doesn’t sound like your home’s exterior, it doesn’t mean you can’t use some country style decor and design in your interiors.

Country style kitchens could have shaker-style kitchen units, range cookers, butler or Belfast sinks, tiled floors and possibly splashbacks, and traditional taps and appliances. Colours remain soft and subtle, and wooden chairs, tables, beams and wall panelling are a common sight. Generally country homes focus on comfort and traditional designs, as well as homely fabrics and patterns such as florals, gingham, stripes and checks.

Country gardens are obviously easier to replicate if you have the space, but picking out the right plants and accessories for the style will get you halfway there. Pick roses, lavender and sweet peas, or any colourful and delicate flowers to line your flowerbeds, while smart grass lawns, water features, topiary and paving are all other country garden staples you could add, too.

Whether you want to design a country kitchen or use the style throughout your whole home, take a look at the selection of country style photos on Houzz from top architects and designers to give you inspiration.