Use Wood Elements
Wood instantly brings warmth and texture to a space. Consider installing wood flooring, ceiling beams, shelving or cabinetry. Distressed, reclaimed wood with visible knots and imperfections fits with the rustic aesthetic.
Display Pottery and Baskets
Terracotta pots and woven baskets in natural hues complement rustic decor. Use them to store fruits and vegetables on open shelves or as decorative elements on countertops. Their organic shapes and textures bring natural flair.
Add a Brick or Stone Backsplash
Brick or stone backsplashes create eye-catching focal points while also providing an earthy, rustic look. Use authentic reclaimed brick or natural stone tiles in earthy red, brown and beige tones.
Use Galvanized Metal
Metallic accents like galvanized steel or tin distresswares (utensils, buckets, etc.) add vintage charm. Incorporate galvanized metal pails, carts, containers or even table/chair legs into the design.
Display Vintage Kitchenware
Old-fashioned, nostalgic pieces like antique cake stands, biscuit jars or enamelware pitchers make great decorative accents. Place them in open shelves as collections.
Add Rustic Hardware
Swap out generic kitchen knobs and handles for rustic iron, bronze or pewter hardware with interesting designs. Hammered metal, farmhouse style or wire pulls suit a rustic mood.
Use Repurposed Items
Give salvaged or recycled materials new life as rustic kitchen storage or decor. Ideas include using an old crate for utensil storage, a galvanized livestock trough as a sink or vintage windows for cabinet doors.
Opt for an Apothecary-Style Island
Large wooden islands with thick, chunky tops and open shelves have an old-fashioned farmhouse feel. The stepped display shelving is ideal for showing glass jars, crockery and vintage kitchen tools.
Install a Farmhouse Sink
A deep, wide ceramic or porcelain apron-front farmhouse-style sink evokes old-fashioned rural life. Choose a classic white color for a crisp, clean look.
Add Rustic Lighting
Wrought iron chandeliers, vintage lampshades fitted to Edison bulbs or antique pendants add ambiance. For softer mood lighting, hang exposed bulb string lights.
Incorporate Repurposed Wood
Use reclaimed wood for the kitchen island, open shelving, countertops or other decor. Old wood sliced from barns, fencing or wine barrels makes each piece unique. Distressed finishes enhance the rustic vibe.
Create an Accent Wall
One accent wall covered in reclaimed wood planks, brick or textured stone creates a striking rustic focal point. Earthy neutrals like beige, taupe or cream work well.
Plant Indoor Herbs
Fresh herbs growing indoors in rustic pots or planters tie into the homesteading spirit of rustic decor. Basil, thyme, oregano and rosemary look right at home in farmhouse kitchens.
Add Rustic Window Treatments
Natural linen or burlap cafe curtains, roman shades or wood blinds work for rustic windows. For a dramatic farmhouse statement, hang a large repurposed barn door.
Incorporate Nature
Bring the outdoors in with natural greenery, flowers and other organic elements. Rustic kitchens suit dried botanicals, succulents, fresh herbs and plants with exposed wood planters.
Rustic style offers an easy, enjoyable way to give your kitchen a cozy, welcoming character. Using natural materials, vintage accents and repurposed items lets you create a comfortable, lived-in space reflecting your unique personality and tastes. Experiment with different rustic elements until you find the perfect farmhouse flair.
