Large-scale pieces will complete an open-plan kitchen with a dining spot, whereas small antique-esque paintings can easily be added to small gaps above a sink or next to a cupboard. Mix-and-match frames will also create an eclectic aesthetic ideal for a country home.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Oz0fi.uE82r9.MU0UKg4qA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9a1f830133a70bfca771cc23b9d81100 class=caas-img data-headline=”Don’t forget art”> It’s not all about the textures – you can incorporate a touch of print and pattern too for added interest. French style stripe cushions, floral tea towels, a rustic linen tablecloth teamed with coloured enamelware will all add that wonderful character that’s needed for that personal touch to a rustic scheme. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qLBr8l1mIsOmD8E_Hei2cg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/237cc08ad4b5c2813452913acc276fb5 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add pattern with stripes and florals”>
Regardless of whether you’ve been using a basket to cart in veggies from the garden, or just as a prop, it’s a simple way to achieve the rustic look. The weave of rattan will add texture to a kitchen space and pairs perfectly with other wood features such as a worktop.
Plus, it’s practical. Use as a fruit bowl, for transporting cutlery to the table, or even for prepping fresh stems. The opportunities are endless, and you can source them easily secondhand too.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/5ee9bgSpwdvEmwBdOnTuhA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ebbe2ba328cfdb34ce9d3e6e9619ab47 class=caas-img data-headline=”Layer natural materials”> Tongue and groove is such a versatile kitchen wall feature to consider – it gives that wonderful cabin style feel and it looks great painted.
‘A rustic kitchen is most easily achieved by your choice of materials and colours,’ says Hege Lundh of Lundhs Real Stone. ‘For a classic, country rustic feel, light blues and whites will coordinate beautifully with warmer brown tones, which can be brought in through natural materials such as reclaimed wood or even a natural stone worktop.’
‘A more modern approach to a rustic kitchen can see a more monochromatic scheme being used, with contemporary dark cabinetry against a white backdrop and light wood flooring. The key to maintaining the rustic feel is to not go glossy, a rustic kitchen will always have a sense of tactility through the colour palette and materials – think rough woods, matte surfaces and natural textures.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XNR2pGfv71.DlS5S5pDRPw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/5c5bba23fc22fe15584e07b9fcf5d068 class=caas-img data-headline=”Paint tongue and groove in a classic blue”> Dreaming of a traditional Victorian kitchen? Hooks are the fastest route to achieving the look, and it’s a small update to make.
Adding a bar and hooks on a wall or above a hob means that you can hang pots, pans and utensils for easy access when cooking, while also adding a decorative element to a kitchen design. Opting for antique copper pans will take the look one step further too, reminiscent of classic French interiors.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/naMXv9v7hdh5oFUYgxw7kg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/7dba919e8acd388d4772967f816d37d1 class=caas-img data-headline=”Accessorise with hooks”> There’s a trend called ‘modern rustic’ which takes all the textural elements of a classical rustic scheme but with a contemporary edge.
White kitchens are the main ingredient that adds this by giving a smooth element that contrasts with the standard wood. Incorporate every other aspect like bare beams, muted tones and artisanal pieces, but let the white shine through.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8kiic9YtbLHFkTJDj1JFJg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/fd04418be4791ca189c8a1d0d7efe0ac class=caas-img data-headline=”White is ideal for a modern rustic look”> One-off finds from antique markets and vintage stores will give you a fabulous starting point for your rustic kitchen. A large cabinet can be adapted to take a sink and if it has shelving underneath then all the better.
A classic Belfast sink teamed with brass taps will finish the look perfectly and you’ll know that your rustic kitchen has unique aspects that you won’t see anywhere else.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Awz5Igx1yn00kVMLt2QN4g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/bae02391bd92050f462f98e56c8f2876 class=caas-img data-headline=”Source vintage cabinetry”> Low beams can go hand in hand with a rustic kitchen which means the space can feel dark. In this case keep the walls light with a pale cream – white will be too harsh and consider painting your kitchen island a darker tone for contrast.
Aubergine is a good choice, it’s warming yet earthy and will give your rustic kitchen a subtle focal point.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/z7ugkRIziqgIHFulqmXPyA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1e5280d5ad713220e36e56ffe165b847 class=caas-img data-headline=”Paint your kitchen island in a rustic shade”> This look can have colour, simply mix it with the textural layers too for cohesion. Keep the scheme considered though, bright reds and pinks for example, will be too intense for this characterful look.
‘Kitchens are an area of the home where hard materials such as stone and marble tend to prevail, creating an architectural and aesthetically seamless finish that is hard wearing and practical, but if not carefully considered can feel rather cold,’ warns Felix Milns from kitchen specialists HUX London.
‘To introduce a rustic feeling to a kitchen, look to introducing colours from nature as painted finishes across the walls, cabinets and woodwork. Shades of green and blues are an ideal choice, adding a softness to the more utilitarian harder surfaces that are typical within a kitchen, as well as a natural aesthetic link to the natural world.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KnuUJjF6TbiIkRGiMgkdUg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/4043e655a6f62228ed603764fd7a5bcb class=caas-img data-headline=”Use pops of green and blue”> ‘The almost-defining trait of a farmhouse kitchen is that dreamy pared down feel with closed lower cabinets and lots of open shelving,’ says kitchen expert Al from Olive & Barr. ‘They give you a chance to display those unique bits n’ bobs that create a rustic farmhouse feel: decorative plates, cast iron pots, mason jars filled with dried, your rustic wooden bowls and utensils, anything and everything.’
‘Not only will the addition of open shelving make your space feel lighter and brighter, but you’ll also have more opportunities to bring your personality to the forefront.’ It’s also one of core small kitchens to give the illusion of more space.
Making use of kitchen organisers is a great idea, and more often than not it makes seeing what’s on your shelves a lot easier when opting for glass options. Even inside cupboards, it looks ten times nicer to decant your dried foods into jars and storage containers.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Bf7iO9_05XZv9fpwXp6k.w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/ebd280aa7411dac504e21ab9035f2e2a class=caas-img data-headline=”Open up your shelving”> The industrial trend is intrinsically linked to rustic kitchens. Feature brick walls, metal detailing and exposed pipeworks all give that rural-with-an-edge vibe.
To keep it on the rustic end of industrial, make sure to mix in with plenty of woods and warm colourways. Rustic kitchens should feel welcoming, so steer away from the ultra monochromatic modern kitchens look.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/UZ.IBDFnOW6BaXJwAgFpsw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9639d4cd9c68fc5c9819b9974f827eb8 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add industrial touches”> At their heart, rustic kitchens should be full of inviting personality. Use this space to showcase your favourite colours and objects. A touch of eclecticism is very welcome, so include rag rugs, patterned tiles and mismatched crockery.
In terms of colour, warm neutrals, blues and yellows are most associated with rustic country kitchens. Stick to one for a more pared back approach, or layer up for a quirkier finish.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KEnLVLQA.75lu427Y8k1wg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/aa8ffea82151ba1f1626eb2e2a461e76 class=caas-img data-headline=”Create a homey scheme”> When choosing rustic kitchen flooring, natural materials are a must, and if you can go for large flagstone tiles, then all the better. ‘For centuries, estates and country homes have used flagstone flooring, thanks to their hardwearing characteristics and classic appearance that have stood the test of time,’ says Isabel Fernandez, Director of Quorn Stone.
‘Now more than ever, people are wanting to create this timeless look in their kitchens by choosing large format flagstones. Most commonly, the ‘free length’ or ‘random length’ tile size is opted for, by which the widths are fixed (usually 500mm or 600mm) and then lengths are a random selection ranging upwards to 1000mm. This free length flagstone has the ability to work in all sized kitchens and gives maximum focus on the beauty of each tile.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/XxTmTxueK4iyC3XjzRn8BA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/02596ad56aeda74a1293b42bb79dbd0a class=caas-img data-headline=”Consider your flooring”> Patterned wallpaper isn’t always on trend for kitchens, but it most certainly is one of the heartland rustic kitchen ideas. If you’re nervous about wallpapering the walls, or simply want to limit pattern, then think laterally.
Paper the backs of glass-fronted cabinets and inside drawers for joyful bursts of colour and pattern without your overall scheme being overwhelmed. Plus, this take on kitchen wallpapers is easier and more affordable to change should you get tired of your choice of design.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9i25VW28hLvfg101oWitzA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/3659a60c5abf868d768d12f288cbcb10 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add unexpected pattern”> ‘Regardless of whether you live in a modern renovation or rural cottage, traditional Shaker kitchen ideas and cabinetry is perfect for creating a welcoming, lived-in look,’ says kitchen expert Tom Howley.
‘Charming cottages and period homes almost always have challenging features such as chimney breasts, sloping ceilings, quaint proportions, quirky nooks and uneven floors. Choosing a bespoke shaker design allows you to preserve and work around these original features, enhancing your space’s look and individuality.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/6IYLNGZx2VFzFS_4k.wfJw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/db30a246a98b6b778524a76e04564d06 class=caas-img data-headline=”Choose Shaker style cabinetry”> Panelling is a simple and chic way of integrating rustic kitchen ideas into your space. These sleek lines on your cabinetry will add interest and the subtlest suggestion of pattern. For a more full-on approach, take your panelling up onto your kitchen splashback too. ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/xTsUnDxMR19SQKRlVaVt7w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/67f79fdff200753445a2907f175f01ae class=caas-img data-headline=”Add interest with panelling”>
‘Of all the ways to add a pinch of rustic charm to your kitchen, getting creative with your kitchen lighting ideas is probably the quickest, easiest and most-effective,’ says Al from Olive & Barr.
‘The lights you opt for a great way of adding a touch of country charm to your kitchen. From adding filament bulbs to your industrial-style fixtures to hanging Mason jar pendant lights above your island, to illuminating your prep space with a reclaimed patina light shade that matches the materials used in the rest of your space.’
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/AMzZUHCtVrWhjgm9xEKfxA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1b7ceb22d46ede01fc447e8161149e70 class=caas-img data-headline=”Think about your lighting”> Cupboard or sink skirts are a very traditional way of bringing warm farmhouse kitchen ideas into your space. ‘Instantly softening, a sink skirt is also a great way to inject colour and pattern into your kitchen or pantry,’ says Karla Patterson, designer at British Standard. ‘Affordable and stylish, it’s also a clever way to conceal any unsightly storage and kitchen sink ideas.’
Choose a contrasting colour to your cabinetry to make a statement, or use pattern to pick up on it if you prefer a more toned-down finish.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/MlxAAvTaPuIb6Paa_88A.A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/1e6b8dfc2a899c4a0d7e431f856bffa4 class=caas-img data-headline=”Add a cupboard skirt”> Avoid allowing your space to feel too ‘done’ if you want to achieve rustic kitchens. One way to make sure it has a lived in feel is to mix and match materials, colours and textures.
You’re nearly looking for the kitchen to feel as if it has evolved over time. Sticking to natural materials and a tonal palette is a useful way of guiding your choices so everything still sits together peacefully.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/UdtRdI54ASIWOREDGG1Hhg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/56926200a3e6f83902bca109e1c7da74 class=caas-img data-headline=”Mix and match materials”> ‘Pale greys, white, cream and black with wooden accents tie things all together into a wonderfully rustic space that looks as perfect in the depths of winter as it does when the summer sun pours through the windows,’ says Al from Olive & Barr. ‘That’s what a neutral colour scheme does for a space.’
Remember that the key to rustic kitchens is an inviting sense of warmth, so tie in joyful bursts of nature-inspired blues and greens.
” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/nM4v3hR6lGruBJXxTmfBsw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/f88f6cf217dcd0dd641b299e3e7f3170 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use warm neutrals”> Brass can add a new dimension to rustic kitchens, taking a hint of glam from shabby chic kitchens. ‘Burnished brass and matt gold handles add a whole new dimension to kitchens,’ says Tom Howley. ‘Brushed or aged finishes can enhance the brightness of white paint finishes. They also echo harmoniously with the ever-popular greys and dramatic dark palettes.’ ” data-src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/9UHdIbSuROryv3zFrHVtZA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/ideal_home_591/9651a0ed96cecd24b2b53f93ac84b5d5 class=caas-img data-headline=”Use touches of burnished metals”>
