Decorating 101: Rustic Style

Rustic décor remains one of the more popular styles for decorating a home. This is a décor style that’s warm and inviting, whether you make your home in a densely populated city or a wooded rural area. Nothing creates that comfortable and welcoming feeling quite like a home decorated in rich, warm shades. Those who just adore natural wood are sure to love this style of decorating.

Rustic décor uses rich colors found in nature, such as shades of forest green, cream, and brown tones. Items such as walls, floors, ceiling fans, and furniture are often made of wood. Hardwood floors, while beautiful in any home, are absolutely exquisite in this style. Throw some braided accent rugs at the foot of the bed or in front of a sofa, which will add to the homey, comfortable look and atmosphere.

For the Walls
Some types of paneling are outdated. However, you should be able to find wood panels that are applied horizontally, creating an amazing look. If you’d rather paint the walls, go with colors that are rustic. By painting only a couple of walls, you can add even more interest to the room. For example, you can create some contrast by painting one forest green and another in a rich tan color. Wall tapestries make a great addition to a rustic décor. Look for rich tapestries with scenes of nature, mountainous terrain, and forest landscapes.

Furnishings for the Rustic Home
Leather and solid oak furniture are the perfect complement to this look. Any exposed wood on the sofa, love seat, or recliner should match your coffee and end tables. Dark green, rust, and creams in a plaid or striped pattern are a great option if you choose to use a fabric for your furniture. The key to this type of décor is to stick with colors and textures that mimic nature.

A long wooden pine or maple table would go great in the kitchen. With the addition of a bowl filled with fruit, your dining table is completed! Surround the table with mismatched wooden chairs or even benches. The older and more worn the pieces, the more rustic your décor will look. Rustic kitchen accessories often include prancing roosters, stone and ceramic pots filled with herbs or sunflowers, and a cozy rug placed in front of the sink area.

Don’t Forget to Accessorize!
When it comes to accessories for this type of décor style, you want to look for items with an antique or worn look. Not only do leather and wood make perfect accents, but they keep the natural theme flowing throughout the home. For instance, a distressed wooden trunk or antique-style mirror makes the perfect addition to a living room or bedroom. If you’re looking for mirrors, try your local flea market. It doesn’t really matter if what you find contains a few dings, as that will only add to the rustic appeal.

Rustic décor is all about warmth, security, and family. No matter where you reside, you can create comfortable, inviting spaces in your home. A home should make you feel warm, comfortable, and secure at the end of the day. You won’t find a home quite as welcoming and beautiful as one decorated in the rustic style. Country or city—it doesn’t matter. This is one style you will truly fall in love with.