Rustic Decorating Ideas

Decorating you home - or even just a room in your home - in a rustic fashion can give it a comfortable, worn in feeling that makes it a great place to relax and helps it to feel like home. The term rustic means different things to different people. For some, rustic refers to a style of furnishings created with branches, twigs and logs, while for others rustic means more of an old-time country charm. Whatever rustic means to you, here are some rustic decorating ideas that you can incorporate into your own home.

Think Neutral
One of the basic components behind rustic decor is that all of the colors come from nature. Choose warm, natural colors like tans, greens, rusts, browns and wood tones. These colors will bring a feeling of the outdoors and will create a warm and cozy space, which is much of what decorating in a rustic style is all about.

Use Texture
If there is one element that stands out most about rustic decor it is texture. Although rustic color palettes are neutral, they are not boring mostly because of all the texture that comes along with them. Rustic furniture is often made with logs and twigs which are filled with texture. Avoid wood that is finely planed and instead opt for rough-hewn finishes on the wood in your room.

Recycled wood flooring made from old barn siding that has been refinished can be a gorgeous addition to a rustic decor and is good for the environment at the same time. Although more expensive that many other types of wood floors, recycled wood offers texture and patterns unmatched by any other wood flooring and can bring a rustic feeling to any room.

To really bring a rustic feel to a room try adding accents like stone to a fireplace or wall. Leave beams exposed or add faux exposed beams, or even unfinished logs to heighten the rustic feeling in a room.

Use Comfortable, Cozy Accents
Much of decorating in a rustic theme comes from the decorative accessories. Choose items that look old or rustic rather than shiny and new. Shop at antique malls or auctions to find old weathered furniture or decorative items to use in your room. Try using items in unexpected ways. For instance, you could use an old wooden chest as a coffee table or decorate your walls with old tin signs rather than traditional artwork. For textiles, try using antique or vintage quilts. The more character and charm you can bring into your space the more rustic and comfortable it will be.

To find unique rustic furniture and decor try shopping at craft fairs during the summer months. You will often be able to find someone making old-time willow or log furniture that will compliment your decor perfectly. Flea markets, thrift stores and antique malls are also great places to find items for decorating in a rustic style.

With a little creativity and a love for all things old creating a rustic retreat can be both fun and easy.