What is Modern Rustic Style & How to Bring the Look Home

What is Modern Rustic Style & How to Bring the Look Home

What is Modern Rustic Style & How to Bring the Look Home

What is Modern Rustic Style & How to Bring the Look Home

When it comes to interior design, there are few trends that sound more like an oxymoron than “modern rustic” style. But it’s precisely the contradictory mash-up of sophisticated touches with less refined elements that makes this wildly popular style feel so approachable and inviting. It’s all at once sleek yet rough, resulting in spaces that feel relaxed and chic but never pretentious.

Followers of the modern rustic style know that achieving this look is about prioritizing comfort, bringing nature and natural elements to the indoors, incorporating a palette of warm, neutral tones throughout, and integrating sleek industrial-inspired touches to add an informal elegance. And the best part is that you can make this style work no matter the type of home you live in. Want to know how to bring modern rustic style to your space? Here are some design tips to get you started

Bring the Outdoors In

Open spaces with lots of natural light are an essential feature of this style, so skip the heavy drapery. Opt, instead, for light and airy window treatments. Incorporate natural elements like stone and weathered wood into the décor, such as shelving that features slate or an unfinished live edge. Layering in plants and accessories, such as a wooden bowl or woven seagrass basket, can also help bring the outdoors in.

To add instant rustic charm and warmth to your space, integrate reclaimed wood on walls or install wood flooring that has a distressed or hand-scraped aesthetic. And for doorways, consider using sliding barn-style doors in reclaimed wood to provide a dramatic contrast against light-colored walls.To add instant rustic charm and warmth to your space, integrate reclaimed wood on walls or install wood flooring that has a distressed or hand-scraped aesthetic. And for doorways, consider using sliding barn-style doors in reclaimed wood to provide a dramatic contrast against light-colored walls.

Expose Architectural Elements

Modern rustic style tends to emphasize a home’s original architectural elements. Leaving brick or stone walls exposed and ceiling beams visible are distinguishing characteristics for this design trend. These details add a cozy, nostalgic character to a room in a way that uniquely complements more modern design elements. But don’t worry if your space lacks some of these original features. Home improvement stores now carry faux beams and faux brick walls so that the look can be replicated anywhere.

Layer In Texture

Add visual interest to rooms by highlighting varied textures. Think glazed ceramics juxtaposed with more coarse materials like jute, sisal, or seagrass rugs or smooth leather upholstery paired with plush sheepskin rugs. Incorporate tactile-rich textiles like wool throws and linen accent pillows for added dimension.

Stick to Subdued Colors

If expanses of bright and bold colors are your thing, this is not the style for you. Modern rustic style trends toward whites, warm neutrals, and earth tones. Fabric choices lean toward solids rather than prints, with materials emphasizing natural textures. A modern rustic palette doesn’t have to imply boring, but it should radiate a relaxing and welcoming vibe.

Add Modern & Industrial Accents

Modern rustic style is intrinsically eclectic. So, to keep the aesthetic from steering too close to classic farmhouse design, bring in some modern touches to help balance the look. Add some abstract artwork to the walls. Incorporate lighting fixtures that have a contemporary or sculptural quality for sophistication. Opt for sleek metal hardware to provide contrast to any rough-hewn wood.

Be Deliberate in Your Furniture Choices

Because this design style features many organic elements and textures, your furniture choice will play an essential role in achieving that perfect blend of modern and rustic. Select furniture that features straight lines and refined styling. Avoid turned legs and overstuffed chair upholstery, which will have a more traditional and old-fashioned look. Furnishings that are accented with metal will provide a striking counterpoint to the natural design elements associated with this style. Pieces with a mid-century modern feel or industrial aesthetic will also work well.