How to Decorate a Rustic Home in 8 Ways
Rustic Design
...gives off a comfortable, welcoming, feel, and, let’s face it, we all love to be comfortable in our own homes!
...can be pretty inexpensive and fairly easy to create simplicity.
...can be implemented in just one room or multiple. Your choice.
...is a fun look to go for! Searching for rustic items is as easy as going outside to bring in a bit of nature or conveniently shopping online.
What Exactly is Rustic Style?
Although there are a few things a rustic feel is not (cluttered, synthetic fibers, plastics), there are plenty of general elements that define what a rustic home vibe is.
In a rustic home, there is an emphasis on décor that is "nature-inspired" - in other words, bringing the outdoors inside. This can be done by using nature-inspired textures, wood walls, exposed beams, or a stone fireplace. Anything that highlights the natural elements will contribute to a rustic look.
Is Vintage Rustic or is Rustic Vintage?
The short answer is: Maybe and sometimes.
Most vintage home décor gives off a warm and cozy feel...maybe because it's been around for a while and we wish we could hear its life story.
It is often considered chic to have a few vintage items in your home. But unless the vintage décor is made of a natural element (wood, fabric, etc.) it's not really rustic where the focus is more on the "natural".
Not all rustic is vintage. Because vintage usually refers to items more than 20 years old, not every natural piece (wood, floral elements, chunky fabric, etc.) has been around that long.
Shape Your Rustic Home
Some homes are already shaped to naturally create a rustic space; for example, having stone walls, exposed bricks, distressed wood, wood beams on the ceiling, or a shiplap wall all contribute to a rustic style. Country homes or log cabins tend to lend themselves well to a rustic vibe.
Or maybe having your dream farmhouse isn’t in the plans. What now?
If you can't change the structure of your home, the best way to add more rustic charm to your space is through rustic décor! The good news is that you really don't have to start saving up for a farmhouse and a barn. Just keep a few of these general and simple perspectives in mind when designing your space. When you implement these rustic home décor ideas, you will see your entire space transform into a rustic oasis in no time!
8 Rustic Home Decor Ideas
Neutral Color Palette
Create a simple rustic look by sticking to a clean and neutral color palette.
White, Cream/Ivory, and Gray are great neutral wall color options.
Pick white paint or whitewashed wood for large areas of your home like walls or cabinets.
Natural Fabrics
Continue your rustic décor with natural fabrics that bring warmth to each room of your home. The following fabrics will add elegant and soft rustic touches throughout your space.
Soft burlap curtains create a natural, holistic feel over windows.
Organic cotton or linen throw, table runner, and/or accent pillows are great choices.
Woven baskets are great for storing blankets, toys, or décor.
Enjoy a variety of fabrics in your living room, bedroom, entryway, dining room, or all of the above!
Rustic Style Has Feelings too...as in TEXTURE
To complement a neutral wall color palette, add lots of natural texture to your rustic home to bring contrast and a cozy element to your space. Stick with mostly neutral colors, but you can add a few earthy colors as accents.
Think chunky fabrics, nubby area rugs.
Jute, sisal, cotton, or wool are great accent rugs for floors.
A funky, chunky knitted blanket is an absolute must-have for cozying up by the fireplace!
Real Wood Furniture and Home Decor
Nothing says rustic home décor better than wood accents! If you can make structural changes to your home, consider wood beams or distressed wood-paneled walls to take your rustic home to a whole new level.
For more subtle wood accents, consider adding reclaimed wood furniture and décor to your home. Reclaimed barn wood is one-of-a-kind, and brings a weathered and rustic look that can be both modern and country. Below are some places in your home where you might consider adding rustic pieces made of wood that bring the natural beauty of the outdoors inside.
Wood Furniture
Wood Decor Ideas
Leather
Leather can be a complementary material to include in your rustic décor. It brings another natural element to your home that is cozy and inviting. Below are some rustic décor ideas that use leather.
Leather Furniture
Trays
Farmhouse Accents
If your style is a little more country, here are some beautiful farmhouse décor ideas to incorporate into your home.
Custom wood sign or wall art for kitchen, living room, bathroom, or any room of the house!
Farmhouse style sink
Shaker kitchen cabinets
Plants
Nothing brings nature inside more than plants! Real or faux, adding greenery to your home will further elevate your rustic style. Use wood, terra cotta, or stone planters to decorate your house.
Need ideas for where to place plants? The dining table is a perfect place to display greenery, as well as a fireplace mantel.
Rustic Home Decor Accents
Incorporate a few of these items throughout your house for even more rustic décor vibes.
Wrought Iron Pieces - Moss Decor - Natural Accents (twigs in a vase)
Natural Slate - Exposed Bark - Floral Accents (fresh flowers on the coffee table)
Glass Mason Jars - Twine - Antlers
Petrified Wood Pieces - Clay or Stone Dishes
Shop Rustic Home Decor
When you incorporate these rustic home décor ideas into your space, you'll create a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that is synonymous with rustic style. Remember that making any change in our lives and homes takes time. Try not to sprint to the end. Instead, take your time, stop to smell the roses, and enjoy incorporating rustic style into your home!
For more rustic home décor ideas, be sure to visit our website or come see us in person at our warehouse in Perkiomenville, PA. From barn doors to reclaimed wood dining tables, we have everything you need for your rustic home! If you're looking for custom-designed furniture, contact us with your ideas or to get started!