Open Country at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

Getting the country look doesn't have to involve scouring fleamarkets for battered old dressers and chipped chairs. Many stores offer up-to-date pieces in solid wood with a strong, country style. This dresser, for example, has the solidity and craftsmanship of modern furniture but also the open country shelves and broad lines of traditional country pieces. The Table and chair are also new but their shape is inspired by older designs.

Getting the country look doesn't have to involve scouring fleamarkets for battered old dressers and chipped chairs. Many stores offer up-to-date pieces in solid wood with a strong, country style. This dresser, for example, has the solidity and craftsmanship of modern furniture but also the open country shelves and broad lines of traditional country pieces. The Table and chair are also new but their shape is inspirec by older designs.

This room is a lighter, airier interpretation of the classic country look. There is timber furniture designed with the open country shelving and solid lines of traditional rustic pieces, but it has a modern finish. The floral prints of classic country schemes are retained but used sparingly and they're set against clear, fresh colours and plenty of plain accessories and fabrics.