Rules for Rustic Design
Rustic design is a style that has taken the home décor world by storm. People encounter this style everywhere – from their favorite decorating shows to modern-day country retreats. At its core, rustic design emphasizes natural and organic materials in furniture, textiles, and décor. If you would like to create a comforting and cozy ambiance that emphasizes natural elements, then this design style is for you. Below we discuss some rules for rustic design that will guide you in your decorating journey.Incorporating Natural and Organic Elements
The natural components, such as wood, stone, and leather, are essential in rustic design and cannot be overemphasized. You may want to consider creating an accent wall with a rough texture, using large stones to claim your space before placing furniture in it, or even incorporating rawhide upholstery on your seating. These materials should be used in such a way as to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a log cabin deep in the woods. When selecting curtains and throw pillows, opt for burlap, wool, or other similar natural fabrics to promote consistency within your design style.- Wooden beams for ceiling or mantle
- Large unpolished stones
- Rawhide upholstery on chairs and sofas
- Natural wood or wool for curtains and throw pillows
Selecting Furniture with a Worn or Distressed Look
Incorporating vintage-inspired furniture pieces is one of the easiest ways to achieve a rustic look in your home. These types of pieces tend to have worn finishes, a chippy paint job, or a rugged look. When selecting furniture for your home, choose pieces with clean lines. Overly ornate furniture may detract from the rustic feel that you are trying to achieve. Your furniture choices should appear as if they have been around for years and should continue to be. Pro-tip: When purchasing furniture, look for pieces that have been handcrafted or made with reclaimed materials.- Handcrafted or reclaimed furniture
- Worn finishes or chippy paint
- Clean lines
- Avoid overly ornate pieces
Creating a Cohesive Color Palette
In rustic design, you will want to incorporate earthy tones in your color palette. This design style is all about nature, so choose colors that reflect natural elements such as outdoor landscapes. Some common colors used in rustic design are browns, greens, grays, and whites. To create balance and harmony within your design, use a neutral hue as your primary color and complement it with earth-toned shades.- Earthy tones
- Neutral hues with earth-toned complementary shades
- Browns, greens, grays, and whites
- Use colors that reflect outdoor landscapes
Finding Unique Vintage and Antique Pieces
To achieve authenticity in your rustic design, try finding unique vintage and antique pieces. When choosing vintage items, look for those with a story. Pieces that have been repurposed can add a touch of character and charm. An antique piece may perfectly capture the rustic vibe you are trying to achieve. Pro-tip: Look for antique leather-bound books, old milk jugs, and rusted metal signs that will add warmth and character to any room.- Repurposed vintage items
- Antique leather-bound books
- Old milk jugs
- Rusted metal signs
Embracing Imperfection and Asymmetry
Rustic-style décor is not for perfectionists. The rustic style celebrates asymmetry, so don’t worry about matching everything perfectly. It’s okay if your furniture pieces don’t blend perfectly, as this can add a touch of charm and character to your space. Allow for imperfections, and embrace them as part of the overall design plan. Pro-tip: Incorporate items like one-of-a-kind throw pillows, a non-traditional rug, or a uniquely shaped vase.- Incorporate asymmetry into design plan
- Don’t worry about everything matching perfectly
- Allow for imperfections
- Add unique items such as non-traditional rugs and uniquely shaped vases
Incorporating Textures such as Stone, Wood, and Metal
Rustic décor is all about incorporating different textures to add to the overall design aesthetic. Try incorporating stone, wood, and metal to bring life to your space. A textured rug with wooden beams on the ceiling will perfectly capture the rustic vibe. Add metal accents such as a lamp or a wire basket on the wall to incorporate an industrial feel to the space. Pro-tip: Incorporating textures doesn’t only have to be through furniture and décor, but it can also be by enhancing natural elements in the room.- Use a textured rug
- Incorporate wooden beams on ceiling or mantle
- Use metal accents such as lamps and wire baskets
- Enhance natural elements in the room is also a way to incorporate textures
