Apr 20 2010
Rustic Decorating Warms Up Your Home
Rustic décor is one of the most popular styles for decorating a home. Whether you live in a densely populated neighborhood of a big city or in a wooded rural area, this style of décor is warm and inviting. Nothing feels more comfortable or welcoming than a home decorated in rich, warm shades – and those who love natural wood are sure to find this style of decorating a favorite!
Shades of forest green, cream, brown tones and any other rich colors found in nature are used in rustic décor. Walls, floors, ceiling fans and furniture are often made of wood. Hardwood floors are beautiful in any home, but exquisite in this style. Braided accent rugs, when thrown at the foot of the bed or in front of a sofa add to the homey, comfortable look and atmosphere.
For the Walls
Some types of paneling are outdated, but you can find wood panels that are applied horizontally which creates an amazing look. If you would rather paint the walls, be sure to stick to rustic colors. Add even more interest by painting only a couple of walls. You may want to paint one forest green and another in a rich tan color to contrast. Wall tapestries are perfect when used in the rustic décor style. Scenes of nature, mountainous terrain and forest landscapes all make exquisite tapestries that make a room look rich.
Furnishings for the Rustic Home
Leather and solid wooden furniture complement the look perfectly. Coffee and end tables should match any exposed wood on the sofa, love seat or recliner. If you choose to use a fabric for your furniture, dark green, rust and creams are beautiful in a plaid or striped pattern. As with the rest of this type of décor, stick to colors and textures that mimic nature.
In the kitchen, a long wooden pine or maple table is perfect. Add a bowl filled with fruit and your table is complete! When it comes to seating, use mismatched wooden chairs or even benches! The older and more worn the pieces look, the better. Accessories in a rustic styled kitchen often include prancing roosters, stone and ceramic pots filled with sunflowers or herbs, and a homey rug placed in front of the sink area.
Accessorize!
When it comes to accessories, look for items that have an antique or worn look. Again, leather and wood make perfect accents, and keep the natural theme flowing throughout your home. A distressed wooden trunk is a perfect addition to a living room or bedroom, and antique style mirrors create beautiful walls. Flea markets are a good place to find mirrors, and it really doesn’t matter if they contain a few dings – it just adds to the rustic appeal.
Nothing speaks warmth, security and family like rustic décor. No matter where you live, you can create comfortable, inviting spaces that all who enter your home will love. The purpose of a home is to give you comfort, security and warm feelings at the end of the day. No home is quite as welcoming and beautiful as the rustic style home! Country or city, this is one style you will truly fall in love with.

Rustic Switchplates
Nothing compliments rustic decor and barnwood furniture like the hand-carved rustic switchplates from Rustic Wood Studio of Phoenix, Arizona. There are four unique styles to choose from, or work with the studio to create a style that matches your decor. Ideal for Western, Southwestern, and Mountain living. Available nowhere else in the world! http://www.RusticWoodStudio.com
I would love to hear from you….
I was wondering if you can mix rustic decor with a more modern decor. I love wood products but I also love the clean look of a modern home. Do you have any suggestions on how to mix the two styles together?