Country style need not be overly rustic or cluttered. The key components are comfort and casual ease, which are achieved through basic but fresh finishes, unfussy furniture, and flexible, functional arrangements. While the concept of country dwelling brings to mind sprawling provincial estates and quaint cottages, a casual take on the look also works well with condo units.

First published in Real Living, Real Homes section, March 2009. Photos by Vincent Coscolluela, styling by Gwyn GS Guanzon and Coni Tejada; adapted for use in Female Network)