Warm neutral colours, soft furnishings and naturally finished wood are some intrinsic characteristics of rustic decor. These physical attributes together create a raw, fuss free and organic environment that makes us feel closer to nature. This is the intangible part of the mesmerising rustic theme. The “feel” is what I feel matters the most. If you have the common preconceived notion that rustic decor has to look shabby or completely raw, then I’m about to change your mind. It can look elegant and classy and it can be used to style any place! Intrigued? Read on to find out more.
How to create rustic theme?
The right way to go about this is to decide that you want to go completely rustic or you would prefer to blend rustic theme with another style such as vintage, classic or even contemporary. Yes, it’s possible! The trick here is to start off with a color palette and mood board. Think furnishing materials, wood finishes, wood types, ornamentation such as rattan, bone inlay, woven jute or coir etc. I have created the mood board shown below especially for you. A mood board helps you organise your scattered thoughts and limits your options thereby giving you clarity and cohesion in design. Once you have decided on the key elements, materials and colours the next step is to look for furniture, upholstery and furnishings that match your theme.
What materials can you use to create it?
Since rustic theme is all about going natural so solid wood is the preferred choice of material. Other natural materials like stones, coir, jute, linen and cotton blend well with this theme. Reclaimed and sleeper wood are the ideal choices. They have stood the test of time as they have already been in use for years. Reclaimed and sleeper wood look extremely graceful and unique. Furniture made from these woods will not only last you generations but will also be maintenance free. It hardly needs any finishing, just a coat of lacquer and you’re good to go. Their natural beauty is so striking that furniture made from these woods doesn’t need to be enhanced. If you plan to use a different kind of wood then distress finish is also a great option. For a contemporary rustic look, go for a live edge dining table. It will add such a special touch and increase the old world charm of your place manifold.
For upholstery, cotton and linen are the best materials. Textured fabrics, compliment this decoration style to a T. You can also go for subtle prints or woven designs in pastel or neutral colours such as ivory, off white, white, cream, pale blue, ecru, grey and beige, avoid loud colours unless you want one as an accent.
To keep the look fresh I would suggest that you add either bamboo wicker furniture or some hand carved or woven jute/coir pieces. Hand carving can look glorious with this theme if executed well. A distress finished carved sideboard can make the look rustic boho and a dark stained one can make it classic rustic. Exposed brick walls also add a lot of interest to rustic themed spaces. Remember, too many elements can make you space messy so stick to a few chosen ones and refer your moodpboard when in doubt!
Why should you go for rustic theme?
Not too keen on spending big but want a similar look? Mango wood is a wonderful option and it’s sustainable too. It can be beautifully carved and stained to create one of a kind furniture. When you opt for a rustic themed place you also reduce waste which is good for the environment and hence for you and your coming generations. Another way you are doing your future generations a favour by decorating in this style is by choosing solid wood furniture that is eco friendly as compared to engineered wood products that can be carcinogenic and harmful to nature.
Rustic design style is a gem and quite underrated. If it is executed well then you will be showered with compliments every time someone enters your home, bistro, resort, coffee house or farmhouse. For more information and advice about this phenomenal style you can write to me at info@kernigkrafts.com. Hope this article helps you in creating your dream space and it gives you comfort and happiness!