Americana is a well-known, classic design style with a variety of interpretations. While often associated with colonial or traditional items such as quilts and checkered tablecloths, this beloved theme can be reimagined in a modern way with subtle hints of patriotic elements. Examples include a contemporary dining table that combines red chairs and blue accents, or navy wall trim flanking red towels. The bottom line? Don’t force it; let the theme evolve in an understated way.
DO: Add touches of red and blue interspersed with your existing pieces.
DON’T: Blanket the space in a sea of red, white, and blue.
Subtly goes a long way when it comes to bold colors. Add navy or red touches in trim, fabrics, and curtains, while mixing in white wood tones and natural elements to keep the look light and meaningful. To create a balanced theme, use more red with tiny hints of blue or vice versa. And remember: too much of anything can be too much!
AMERICANA BATHROOM: 1. Shower Pan Tile: Savvy Glazed Mosaic in White Penny; 2. Light Fixture: Urban Renewal Wall Bracket Light by Generation Lighting; 3. Tile Flooring: Vestige 7×22 in Daybreak; 4. Shower Wall Tile: Passion 3×8 in Azul; 5. Countertop: Quartz in Calacatta Miraggio Cielo; 6. Cabinets: Antigua Maple in Bleu; 7. Faucet: Cia Widespread Sink Faucet in Polished Chrome.
DO: Incorporate items with meaning. Find pieces that tell a story.
DON’T: Make your home feel like a museum.
Use design to express your personality through pictures and other treasured items. A flag that belonged to a family member can make all the difference in communicating an authentic theme, so let that statement piece be the star of the show. But, remember that homes are meant to be lived in, and too many antique items may make your space feel more like a history lesson. Mix modern items with older gems to create an updated, balanced look.
DO: Introduce other colors with your reds and blues.
DON’T: Ignore the home’s overall flow when incorporating your theme.
Yellows, greens and natural wood tones will balance your theme—but be sure to carry the Americana style throughout the house via gentle touches in secondary spaces. Repetition brings cohesion to any design, as long as you stay in a subtle lane. The result will be a look that balances today’s modern style with nostalgic nods to the past.
Matty’s Go-To Americana Paint Colors
Alabaster: Soft, warm white that feels bright and cozy; Antique Red: True red with no influences of pink or purple that won’t overwhelm the space; Regatta: Light navy that reads blue in both bright and dim lighting; Loyal Blue: Brighter blue for a bold statement; Rainstorm: Dark, rich blue with a moody sentiment.
At Home with Schell Brothers magazine is published bi-annually to share inspiring stories, local flavors, innovative home designs, and more. From our family to yours, we hope you enjoy each page and look forward to upcoming issues.
Did you enjoy this article? Be sure to explore the rest of this issue for more captivating content. Read Summer 2026 Edition