Elements of Rustic Style

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

28 May 2008 02:21 PM

If you are looking for a decorating idea, why not consider the rustic style. It is warm, inviting and cozy. Think of sitting in a plush chair by a crackling fire. And although you can really go high end with rustic style, it also lends itself to budget decorating. Here are some of the guidelines of rustic style as well as some tips on creating this look in your own home.

The rustic style should induce a sense of an inspiration from nature and a sense of nostalgia. This style is very timeless and can work the throughout the year, even though it is often associated with winter. This is because of the rich colors and textures, the plush casual comfort and the feeling of batting down and retreating from the world.

Classically, rustic style will incorporate exposed beams, stone fireplaces and more. But the most important thing with a rustic style is the character. And you can use a lot of flea market found pieces, such as a rusty lantern or metal chandelier. Old shutters can be hung on the wall as decoration, indoors our out.

When furnishing a home or even a room in the rustic style, choose rough-hewn pieces of wood, such as chairs or tables with log-type feet, and reclaimed building materials that can serve as breakfast tables, benches, fireplace mantels and trim. Consider adding decorating touches and accessories of naturally found materials, such as straight tree branches as curtain rods. Hang pine cones from the windows with some ribbon, and bring in evergreen boughs to decorate the tops of bookcases and armoires.

Other ideas for rustic accessories include plus "bear rugs" on the floor, fishing lures framed and hung on a wall or simply hung loosely from a high beam or overhang, tin or galvanized buckets for storage, and anything that is old fashioned and gives the sense of outdoor life. A wood stove in an older style would be just perfect for warming a room literally and aesthetically.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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