Interiors: Going rustic
Rustic has become the new minimal in the fast-changing world of interior design. In some ways, the trend is the antithesis to the pared down style of the 90s. Back then, the minimalist trendsetters tried far too hard without even realising it. If you opt for the rustic look in your home, you’ll never be accused of doing that.
The key ingredients of the rustic look are natural materials, from timber to washed linen, artisan chopping boards, chunky china and enamelware. Colours are muted and earthy, ranging from washed out blues and greys to downbeat beiges and grassy greens. As more and more people are looking for ways to improve upon the quality of their lives using organic materials in their homes, rustic style is one of the best ways to enhance this.
The charm of rustic
Rustic feels all a bit like going back to nature and, ironically, it is a style that has been most enthusiastically embraced by city dwellers who are often desperate to adopt the cottage in the country style. Cottagey may feel a bit too stagey for most urbanites, however; the metropolitan crowd could be accused of trying too hard as the starkness between cosy country and city skyline is often a step too far.
Elements of nature will help you produce a cosy feel to your design; however, try not to over do it as what you do not want is to end up with a home that resembles a log cabin that you would expect to find Yogi bear living in. You are looking to build your rustic interior design in a subtle way so that your home is a feel good environment mixed with style.
It’s not only the urbanites who are busily embracing rustic charm. It’s starting to become popular across the board from Georgian rectory to suburban cul-de-sac. The charm is that rustic is cosy and relaxed. There are also several different ‘flavours’ of rustic style, which range from Scandi rustic to rustic luxe.
What type of rustic is your style?
Scandi rustic
The most relaxed of the rustics, favoured by those who want to combine style with robust designs. Fans of this style love chunky tableware and natural wood and can’t get enough of the Georg stool by Skagerak.
Rustic luxe
This is the preferred British take on the rustic look. The style is all about hand-made, artisanal and key brands that offer a broad choice in this brand including Folklore and Russell Pinch and also handmade porcelain from The New Craftsmen.
Rustic Lite
This is the more affordable way to do the look. Basics are sourced from Ikea and they want to add character to their interior design. Key looks are printed kitchen textiles and plain artisan style tableware.
White and wood
This is the rustic look for perfectionists and is often teamed with a white under-used sofa. Touches of terracotta and soft textiles can soften and relax this look.
Industrial rustic
This is the preferred urban take on rustic. It’s the desired look for the urban factory conversion and will be the perfect counter-balance to anyone who loves rustic but feels the contrast between urban and earthy is a step too far. Surfaces are distressed, limed or unvarnished.