What You Need to Create a Solid Rustic Living Room
Interior design choices truly are a matter of personal preference. While some people prefer to decorate their rooms in a sophisticated way to create a minimalist look, others favor a homelier and more comfortable style. If your preference is for the latter, then rustic interior design is a good choice for you. This is a look that you can apply to any room in your home, and it is suitable for houses of all styles and ages. Compared to many other interior design styles, this is one that is relatively easy to recreate. Here is an overview of the rustic style and the characteristics that define a rustic style living room.
What is a Rustic Living Room?
To recreate a rustic style in your living room, it is first important to understand what the rustic style entails. The term rustic usually refers to a style that is warm and comfortable. Rustic style is not a stand-alone style as it encompasses any style that is comfortable and uses natural materials. Therefore, the rustic style has many application in interior design. The aim is simply to create a homely space that is welcoming and uses a range of natural materials and handmade items. This style is often associated with farmhouses, coastal living, and the Tuscan countryside, as each of these interior design styles has rustic elements. The following are some of the characteristics of the rustic style that you should incorporate into your rustic living room.
Materials Used for the Rustic Interior Design Style
According to Living Spaces, natural materials are a key element of rustic design. Some of the materials that you should try to incorporate in a rustic living room include stone, wood, leather, ceramics, and natural fibers, such as wool, cotton, or felt.
Architectural Features
Natural materials are evident in the architectural features of a rustic style living room, says Homedit. Living rooms in this style will have large wood doors, wooden ceiling beams, wood-framed windows, and wood paneling is often used on the walls. Exposed stone or brickwork can make an interesting feature, and a large, stone, open fireplace is a stunning focal point.
Colors and Patterns
Almost any color goes with the rustic style. Often, people choose to have neutral walls as a backdrop for their room as this gives a bright and spacious look. Some people use pastel colors to give rooms an element of warmth. On the other hand, you could opt to use deep, rich colors as these can also create a warm and comfortable feel in a room. If you choose deeper colors, try to stick to earth tones, such as reds, browns, greens, and grays. You can also incorporate patterns in a rustic style living room. Patterned curtains, cushions, and throws add interest to the room. Some typical examples of patterns used with the rustic style are checked patterns and floral designs.
Rustic Floor Options
The floors are another element of your living room that should use natural materials. The three most common options are wood, stone, or ceramic tiles. Each of these has its own benefits, and they are all practical options. If your floorboards are in good condition, it is easy to strip and varnish them. Otherwise, you can add wooden flooring over the top. Stone and ceramic tiles are typical of the farmhouse rustic style and can create an interesting look. You can add warmth by topping these floors with a large rug.
Choosing Furniture for Rustic Living Rooms
Wood furniture is the best option for a rustic living room, says House Beautiful. Untreated wood is most typical in this style, and you should avoid varnished and ornate pieces. Large, handmade pieces work well, and you can add cushions for comfort. In addition to seating, consider adding a large, wooden coffee table and a dresser to store and display your things.
Lighting for Rustic Living Rooms
Your choice of lighting is important when you are trying to create a warm and comfortable space. The main source of light will come from the ceiling light. A large wooden light fitting is ideal for the rustic style, although cast iron fittings can also work well. To create areas of muted light around the room when you do not want a bright light from the ceiling, you can add either table or stand lamps to the room. Position these in the areas where you are likely to need them the most, such as by the chair where you sit and read.
Accessorizing a Rustic Living Room
Adding accessories to a room is important to personalize the space and reflect your personality. Almost anything goes when it comes to accessorizing a rustic living room as this is not a minimalist look. However, you should retain the natural theme in your choice of accessories. For example, opt for handpainted ceramic vases and ornaments to add personal touches to the space. If you want to add a mirror as an interesting feature or to add light and space to the room, then choose one with a wooden frame. Similarly, if you have paintings or photographs on the wall, these should also have wooden frames. To add to the comfortable feel of the room, add plenty of soft furnishings with patterns and warm colors. Rugs, curtains, cushions, and throws are all soft furnishings that you should include in a rustic living room.
Rustic Living Rooms – The Final Verdict
Rustic living rooms have a warm and cozy feel that many people would associate with country farmhouses. Using natural materials and handmade items are important aspects of this design theme. Beyond these, there are very few rules for the rustic style, as the aim is simply to create a space that is comfortable and welcoming. It is a great style to choose if you want a homely design that gives you the freedom to reflect your own personality.