via IDS 2012
One of my favourite decorating styles is what I like to call “rustic chic”. Lots of raw wood shapes, warm colours and touches of modern (like the above halogen lettering) together make my heart just skip a beat. There’s something a little romantic and winter-cabin-like about this style.
Coincidentally, it also reminds me of Canada – rugged, unique and timeless. So in the vein of my country and a little decor inspiration, here are my top 5 favourite “Canadiana” decor ideas:
1) HBC all the way
How much more iconic Canadian can you get than this?
The classic HBC stripes just scream Canada. Incorporating this somewhere in your house (like as a blanket or throw, via Apartment Therapy) is a fabulous way to give a nod to the Great White North’s most famous and historic retailer.
2) Antlers
We have deer and moose all over the place up here! Ok, maybe not all over the place (I didn’t see one until I was in my teens) but if you drive far enough into a national park or away from major cities, you’re bound to see at least one antler-ed animal. Or, at the very least, a sign warning you about them potentially crossing (hint: they don’t tend to look both ways before they cross the street). I like the idea of incorporating antlers as an accent in a dining room or den.
Awesome wall decor idea, via West Elm
An antler chandelier with a more modern vibe. Great for a dining room. Via Universal Lighting.
This decorative pillow fits nicely with the Canadian animal vibe. Via Sparrow Avenue.
3) Wood, wood everywhere
Whether it’s a table, exposed wood beams or hardwood floors, incorporating wood accents throughout the house is one of my favourite ways to get that rustic edge. I’m a huge fan of pairing modern clean white lines (walls, furniture, bedding) with raw, un-polished wood.
The exposed beams alone would do it for me. But that hardwood just adds to it. Via Apartment Therapy.
Gorgeous wooden candle holders, via Even and Odd.
4) Red and White
No Canadiana home decor would be complete without red and white accents. I mean, they are our flag colours after all! I am a big fan of colour accents to begin with, and red is a colour that really makes a statement. Some say red is aggressive, but when it comes to home decor, I find it to bring a class and uniqueness to the home. Against a white wall, couch or chair, a red piece really stands out and draws anyone into the room.
One red accent wall can add a sense of drama to a room. Via Apartment Therapy.
I love the subtlety of these striped pillows – the colours are a bit more dull, but they fit perfectly. Via House Beautiful.
Red and white clawfoot tub? Say no more. Via Houzz.
5) Caesar
Ok, so this has nothing to do with decor, but if you’re going to be hanging out in your striped blanket, hardwood floor, red and white and antler accented home, might as well have a quintessential Canadian drink. The Caesar was invented in Calgary, Alberta in 1969 and has become a staple of every Canadian’s drinking palate ever since. Cookin’ Canuck has a great make-at-home Caesar recipe – make it as spicy or mild as you wish!
mahogany bacon 