Interior trends: what is rustic decor style?
You’ve probably heard the term ‘rustic’ thrown around in tow with all sorts of decor styles. Elements of rustic style can be seen in the iconic exposed brick of industrial decor, the rugged cosiness of traditional farmhouse decor and the cottagecore decor trend, as well as the celebration of all things organic found in Japandi interior style and biophilic design.
It’s safe to say that the charm of rustic decor style is its relaxed and natural feel - its unpretentiousness. In fact, rustic decor has become so popular that it’s become a trend in itself. So, today we’re going to be taking a closer look at the rustic decor trend, its defining characteristics, and how you can incorporate it in your home.
What is rustic decor?
At its core, rustic decor is laidback, friendly, and approachable. If it were a person, it would be a Birkenstocks plus messy bun kind of vibe. With a focus on natural and organic elements, rustic decor is aged and untreated, utilising materials that have come directly from the earth—like clay, wood or brick. Honestly? Rustic decor is one of our favourite trends and it so happens to be one of the easiest to recreate. Just opt for natural earthy tones and materials and you’re most of the way there. However, here are a few of the key characteristics to get your decor project started.
Key characteristics of rustic decor
Key rustic decor characteristic: warm and earthy colour palette
Whilst rustic decor focuses on a neutral colour palette, it’s not prescriptive. You could stick to oaty whites and soft beiges and greiges, like White 04, Beige 02 or Greige 02, but you could also warm things up with Red 03 or even Red 01. Or what about creating an idyllic, nature-inspired space with relaxing greens, like Green 02 and Green 05. Add texture to your walls with leafy, biophilic-inspired wallpapers like Botanical 03 and Botanical 05.
Key rustic decor characteristic: rustic metals
Alongside natural materials and organic textiles, rugged metals are an important component of rustic decor. Whilst items like an industrial pendant light or reclaimed wrought iron radiator and bed frame can be easier to get hold of, things like bathroom fittings can be a bit more difficult. With this in mind, you don’t have to go reclaimed when it comes to rustic metals, just make sure that they’re not too shiny or brand new looking, like weathered copper or dark tempered metals.
Key rustic decor characteristic: natural, organic textiles
When it comes to fabric and upholstery, rustic decor leans towards organic and eco-friendly textiles like burlap, linen, hemp or wool. Texture is key, so look out for handwoven wool kilim rugs in rich, earthy colours or thick pile Flokati rugs. Sofas, tablecloths and curtains look great in soft linens, whilst cushions are a good opportunity to layer up: from woollen weave, burlap, and hemp.
Key rustic decor characteristic: antique or handmade furniture
When it comes to choosing furniture for your rustic home, don’t go brand new. This could be anything from an antique dresser or large farmhouse style dining table, whose nicks and bumps tell a story to a beaten-up old steamer trunk (extra points if it’s still got passenger stickers on it) as a table. Alternatively look out for handmade pieces, especially ones that have had a former life, like a driftwood coffee table in a coastal home.
Key rustic decor characteristic: raw, weathered, and natural materials
Rustic interiors are defined by ruggedness and letting natural beauty shine. Whilst wood is one of the most important components of the rustic decor trend, stone, clay and other natural elements are significant factors too. The focus is to create a relaxed atmosphere through the use of largely untreated (with the exception of floorboards) and weathered materials. This could be achieved through architectural elements like exposed beams, or wood trim around doors, windows, and doors or weathered, antique furnishings, a large stone sink, or achieve those warming terracotta tones with exposed brickwork, terracotta floor tiles or pots.
Rustic decor is one of the simplest and most satisfying trends to try out at home, so why not give it a go? Alternatively, if you’d like something a little more contemporary, why not take a closer look at the modern farmhouse decor trend.