Mary Emmerling's Eclectic Country

Last week I bought a decorating book, which I haven't done in ages.  It is Mary Emmerling's Eclectic Country. 

I bought the book to look at while getting ready for a routine medical screening I was not looking forward to. 

My husband, funny guy, put this post-it note on top of the book, which reads "when regular country is not good enough."


My husband has little interest in decorating styles.  He will tell me if he hates something.  But for the most part, as long as I am happy, he is happy. 

In making choices for my kitchen and home, I was feeling that I "should" make classic choices, and lean a bit toward the monochromatic look which allows for you to change out accessories to get a new look.  You know, paint the kitchen white or cream, or as everyone has been doing for the last few years, gray. And go more modern.  But when I tried white on some of them, it didn't feel right. 

I still like a country/cottage/coastal vibe, which is why I bought Mary Emmerling's book.  I like a mix of things.  I love seeing disparate things nicely paired.  I like color and decided to let myself have color on the cabinets, even though classic style would go in another direction. 

I am doing the painting of the cabinets myself, partly because having workman in the house is stressful to some in my family.  It's a big job, and will take a while.   

I'll show pictures when I am done. 

2 comments:

Countryfolk Keepsakes said...

Ha! Ha!! How I laughed when I read his sticky note.
Dixie, go with what you like. Pick the colors and style that makes you happy. It's your home and like the old saying goes, "The kitchen is the heart of a home." ♥
I've never been one to go the trendy route. I've always go with my heart and haven't been disappointed yet. I cannot wait to see when you're done painting. Your kitchen will look fantastic!!!

KittyAnn said...

You & I think alike Dixie...I hadn't thought about Mary Emmerling since the last time I redecorated which has been quite some time ago now. I had to run to the bookshelves and find her books after reading your post (love the stickie!)... only found one, ME's *New Country Collecting* from 1996, I know I had at least two more from ME but most likely have been loaned out - never to be seen again! I rather enjoy painting and such, would rather do my own when possible. My home is definitely *mine* as no one else would have chosen the paint colors I love. I too thought I'd follow the *classic* route at one time, lasted about 2 yrs and I could stand the bland & boring no more! I now how different colors in most every room and I love it. Go with what makes you happy to look at every day, after all we spend so much time in our homes, especially the kitchen, might as well love it! :D Best, Ani in NC


"Do not let what you cannot do
keep you from doing what you can do."

John Wooden