10 Rustic Interior Design Styles from Modern to Scandinavian

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDSEN | Published on June 03, 2019 | Updated on March 08, 2024|

If you want to add rustic warmth and charm to your home but need help figuring out where to start, this article explores the top rustic interior design styles and is a great starting point. Although many of the following design aesthetics have similar components, each has unique elements. Understanding your style preference helps to create a cohesive and personalized space.

Rustic interiors evoke a simpler time and provide a sense of connection to the past that’s hard to resist. Although it’s common to blend different elements of each rustic style, it does help to identify the core aspects of each one.

Choosing only one style is unnecessary; mixing and blending different styles provides a contrast that makes a home feel interesting, inviting, and unique. 

“From modern cottage to warm minimalism, today’s trending designs all have one thing in common: contrast. Gone are the days of selecting one signature style and going all-in — 2024 is all about mixing and matching pieces from different eras, palettes, and philosophies. Picture an antique wooden stool paired with an ultra-modern curved sofa — the mix feels eye-catching, unique, and perfectly unexpected.” – Havenly.

Rustic style has natural overtones that parallel exterior and interior spaces. While rustic style in its most traditional sense has appeared heavy and dark, a more contemporary approach has emerged that is far more light and fresh. Feature image above courtesy of Locati Architects

Rustic Interior Design Styles | Jackson Wyoming Design
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest

The History and Origins of Rustic Decorating

Rustic interior design has a rich history that dates back to the early days of human civilization. It originated as a way of life for people living in rural areas, focusing on functionality and making the most of available resources. The simplicity and practicality of rustic design soon caught on, becoming a popular style in rural and urban settings.

One of the key elements of rustic interior design is using natural materials. Wood, stone, and other organic materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The color palette is typically earthy, with shades of brown, green, and beige dominating the space.

Rustic design also incorporates elements of nature, such as plants, branches, flowers, and natural light. Another characteristic of all rustic interior design styles is the celebration of imperfections. 

Contemporary Rustic Living Room
Image courtesy of  Alder & Tweed

Distressed furniture, exposed wooden beams, and rough-hewn finishes are all standard features of rustic spaces. These imperfections add character and charm to the design, giving it a unique and lived-in feel.

Rustic interior design has evolved, incorporating influences from different cultures and design movements. Today, various rustic styles cater to different tastes and preferences. Let’s explore some of these styles in more detail.

Rustic Dining Room
Image courtesy of  Alder & Tweed

1. Log Cabin & Lodge Design

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, rustic cabin style might be the perfect choice. Inspired by log homes and mountain retreats, this style embraces the rugged beauty of nature. Rustic cabin interiors are cozy and inviting, focusing on warmth and comfort.

Log cabin style in design refers to a rustic and traditional architectural style often associated with cabins or cottages in rural areas. This style typically features a simple and symmetrical design, with a rectangular or square shape and a gabled roof.

The exterior of log cabins is often made of logs, which provides a natural and earthy feel. The interior typically features exposed logs, timber, and stone fireplaces. Log cabin style is often used in vacation homes, hunting lodges, and other rustic settings.

Rustic Living Room Design
Image courtesy of Michael Smith Design

The log cabin and lodge design style combines the rural charm of mountain living with natural elements, natural fabrics, and weathered metals. Try layering warm colors, patterns, textures, vibrant quilts, warm cabin rugs, and leather to achieve this look.

Rustic charm is about retaining a natural look and works well with handcrafted rustic furniture, rough-hewn wood beans, animal hides, organic materials, and wrought iron. Create a color palette inspired by nature using subtle browns, greens, reds, and sandy tones to give the interior space an earthy and rustic feel.

Get the lodge look by pairing rich leather with rustic wood elements and classic tartans. Look for earth-toned accessories, earthenware containers, colorful quilts, and lodge-style lamps.

Opt for a wooden bed frame, cozy flannel bedding, and warm lighting to create a cabin-style bedroom. In the living room, choose comfortable seating like leather sofas and armchairs, and add plush rugs and throw blankets for extra comfort. Complete the look with rustic accessories like antler chandeliers and vintage signs.

Rustic Interior Design Styles 
Image courtesy of Jake Arnold Design

2. Modern Rustic Design

Modern rustic design might be perfect for a more contemporary and refined look. Inspired by the fusion of rustic and modern design, this style combines natural elements with sleek and clean lines. These interiors are characterized by their sophisticated and timeless feel, focusing on quality and craftsmanship and celebrating natural beauty.

In a modern-style interior, natural materials like wood and stone are often mixed with sleek finishes like glass and metal. The color palette includes warm neutrals and shades of gray, white, and black, creating a minimalist and refined look. Rustic modern kitchens often feature sleek cabinetry, raw materials, wood floors, quartz countertops, and high-end appliances.

Modern Rustic Interior Design
Photo courtesy of AMB Design

To create a rustic modern-style bedroom:

1. Opt for a platform bed with a leather or upholstered headboard, crisp white bedding, and minimal accessories.
2. In the living room, choose streamlined seating like leather sofas and armchairs, and add modern accessories like abstract artwork and metallic accents.
3. Remember to incorporate natural textures like wool and linen to add warmth and depth to the space.

Incorporating honed, hammered, and distressed finishes and objects elevates a modern, rustic room. Add miscellaneous items such as industrial décor, bold kilim patterns, natural wood finishes, dark leather chairs, reclaimed furniture, and ottomans to achieve a modern rustic approach. Key elements of a modern rustic space are an open floor plan, exposed natural architectural elements such as wood beams, and contemporary furniture. 

Modern Rustic Bedroom
Photo courtesy of Lindye Galloway Design

Incorporate honed, hammered, distressed finishes and objects for a modern rustic dining room. Add miscellaneous items such as industrial décor, bold kilim patterns, natural wood finishes, dark leather chairs, reclaimed furniture, and ottomans. Key elements of modern rustic dining areas are exposed natural architectural elements such as wood beams and contemporary furniture. 

Modern Rustic Dining Room
Photo courtesy of Brownstoner

3. Rustic Industrial Design

For those who prefer a more edgy and urban look, rustic industrial style might be the perfect choice. Inspired by old factories and industrial spaces, this style combines rustic elements with raw and unfinished materials. Rustic industrial interiors are characterized by their natural and gritty aesthetic, focusing on functionality and practicality.

You’ll often find exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and metal accents in a rustic industrial interior. Natural palettes are used, combining a mix of grays, neutrals, and rustic colors. 

Most industrial spaces incorporate weathered wood, exposed brick, concrete, and industrial lighting fixtures. Mechanical components in lighting are often reminiscent of steampunk culture. 

Floor lamps with metal finishes fit well with this style. Rustic industrial kitchens often feature stainless steel appliances, concrete countertops, and open shelving.

To create a rustic industrial bedroom, opt for a metal bed frame, industrial-inspired lighting, and a mix of textures like leather and metal. Choose a comfortable sofa with a distressed leather finish in the living room and add vintage-inspired accessories like steamer trunks and metal storage bins.

Industrial interior design is an excellent option for creating a cozy living room or a modern office space. Rugs are faded or combine dark tones rather than vibrant or geometric patterns. Large sectionals help close off larger spaces and divide the living areas.

Industrial Design in a New York City Loft
Photo courtesy of Kathy Kuo Home

Stemming from the Industrial Revolution, this look combines exposed brick, reclaimed wood tables, leather sofas, and metal furniture—all in nature’s homey palette. It’s bold, refined, and functional for the whole family.

4. Southwestern Design 

Southwestern interior design draws inspiration from the desert landscapes of the American Southwest and often blends Spanish, Mexican, and Native American influences. As with most rustic styles, Southwestern design features wood, earthy colors, texture, wrought iron, handcrafted furniture, and terracotta.

This style often incorporates adobe walls, wooden beams, and wrought iron accents. Southwestern design also features traditional Native American patterns and motifs, such as geometric shapes and bold colors. Southwestern interior design’s overall look and feel are cozy, comfortable, and inviting.

Colorful textiles such as sturdy woven fabrics, suede, and leather add vibrancy to the space. The colors used reflect hues found in nature. Mix graphic weavings with calico and plaid, soft leather, and natural hides. 

Southwestern Interior Design Style
Image courtesy of Architectural Alliance

Take color cues from the vibrancy of the sunset, cactus flower blooms, and the eye-popping colors of Mexican art, or go subtle with shades from the desert, the prairie, or gentle mountain valleys. 

Southwestern décor is natural and warm with a hint of rugged appeal. Wrought iron, hand-painted pottery, and sculptures are typical decorative accents—terra cotta tiles or light wood flooring help to achieve this look.

This style uses found objects like horseshoes, antlers, saddles, and other rustic paraphernalia. Furniture is upholstered in leather with extra details like fringe and nail head trim, but it is also regularly covered in thick, hand-woven wool textiles. Cowboy memorabilia from the 1950s adds a whimsical touch. Decorate with throw pillows and blankets in cactus green, terracotta, rust, blues, bright reds, and yellows for a Southwestern outdoor oasis.

Southwestern Living Room in Joshua Tree, California
Image courtesy of The Joshua Tree House

5. Farmhouse Design 

One of the most popular rustic interior design styles is the farmhouse style. Inspired by traditional farmhouses, this style combines rustic elements with modern sophistication. It is characterized by its warm and welcoming ambiance, focusing on comfort and functionality.

A farmhouse-style interior often features exposed wooden beams and reclaimed wood furniture. The color palette is typically neutral, with shades of white, cream, and beige creating a light and airy feel. Rustic farmhouse kitchens often feature open shelving, farmhouse sinks, and large wooden dining tables.

Farmhouse design is comfortable and cozy, incorporating vintage accessories, handcrafted furniture, and an eclectic mix of fabrics, textures, and treasured possessions. Use vintage textiles, family heirlooms, simple furniture, antiques, and down-to-earth accessories.

Fabrics on sofas and chairs are usually solid white or cream, accented with pillows and throws with floral themes, stripes, checks, or plaid. Add wooden crockery, plenty of baskets, and pottery.

Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen
Photo courtesy of Rue Mag

To create a farmhouse-style bedroom:

1. Opt for a wrought iron bed frame, vintage-inspired bedding, and cozy textiles.
2. In the living room, choose a comfortable sofa with soft, natural fabrics and add decorative throw pillows for a cozy touch.
3. Remember to incorporate natural elements like plants and flowers to bring the outdoors inside.

Farmhouse Bedroom Designed by Kathleen Walsh
Photo courtesy of Rue Mag

6. Rustic Country Cottage Design

If you love cozy and charming spaces, rustic cottage style is a great option. Inspired by quaint cottages and country homes, this style embraces the simplicity and charm of rural living. Rustic cottage interiors are characterized by their warm and inviting atmosphere, focusing on comfort and relaxation.

A cottage-style interior often features soft and muted colors, antique furniture, earth tones, the use of natural materials, stone walls, floral patterns, and vintage-inspired accessories. The furniture is painted or distressed, giving it a worn and weathered look. Rustic cottage kitchens feature open shelving, farmhouse sinks, and vintage-inspired appliances.

Rustic Country Cottage Design Style
Photo courtesy of Heidi Callier Design

To create a cottage-style bedroom:

1. Opt for a wrought iron bed frame, floral bedding, and soft lighting.
2. In the living room, choose comfortable seating like overstuffed sofas and armchairs, and add cozy textiles like knit blankets and throw pillows.
3. Complete the look with cottage-inspired accessories like vintage clocks and floral artwork.

Rustic Country Cottage Bedroom
Photo courtesy of Amber Interiors

7.  Rustic Coastal Design

Inspired by beach houses and coastal retreats, rustic coastal design style embraces the relaxed and laid-back vibe of coastal living. Rustic coastal interiors are characterized by their light and breezy feel, focusing on natural materials and textures.

A coastal-style living room often features light, airy colors, natural fibers, and nautical-inspired accessories. The furniture is usually wicker or rattan, making it look casual and beachy. Rustic coastal kitchens often feature light-colored or white cabinetry, the use of organic elements, open shelving, and natural stone countertops.

Country Living Room with Lovely Prints & Textures
Image courtesy of Beth Webb Design

9. Rustic Bohemian Style

Inspired by global travels and artistic expression, this style combines rustic elements with colorful and vibrant patterns. Rustic, bohemian interiors are characterized by their free-spirited and unconventional feel, focusing on self-expression and creativity.

You’ll find bold, vibrant colors, mixed patterns, and eclectic accessories in a bohemian interior. The furniture is often vintage or handmade, with a mix of textures and materials. 

Rustic, bohemian kitchens generally feature open shelving, colorful tiles, and unique artwork. In the living room, choose comfortable seating like floor cushions and poufs, and add bohemian accessories like macrame wall hangings and colorful rugs. Remember to incorporate plants and natural elements to bring a sense of tranquility to the space.

Rustic Interior Design Styles | Rustic Bohemian Interior Design
Image courtesy of Justina Blakeney

10. Rustic Scandinavian Style

Inspired by the simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian design, this style embraces a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. Rustic Scandinavian interiors are characterized by their light and airy feel, focusing on natural materials and neutral colors. 

A Scandinavian interior often features light and muted colors, clean lines, and functional furniture. The color palette is typically white, with pops of gray and black creating a minimalist and modern look. Rustic Scandinavian kitchens often feature open shelving, sleek appliances, and natural wood accents.

A modern version of Scandinavian design is Japandi. Japandi design is the remedy to a busy life, combining Japanese elegance with Scandinavian earthiness. It’s an aesthetic inspired by a neutral color palette, organic textures, rustic elements, warm wood tones, natural & handmade materials, and minimalism. 

A Serene & Minimalistic Japandi Living Room
Image courtesy of Studio M6 

Incorporating Rustic Elements Into Your Home

Now that we’ve covered the different rustic interior design styles, it’s time to start incorporating the rustic aesthetic into your home. Whether you want to completely transform your space or add a rustic charm, a few key elements can help you achieve the rustic look.

First and foremost, consider using natural materials like wood, stone, and metal in your design. These materials add warmth and texture to the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Look for furniture made from reclaimed wood or distressed finishes for an authentic rustic look.

Next, pay attention to the color palette of your space. Rustic interiors often feature earthy tones like brown, beige, and green. Consider painting your walls in a warm and muted color, or add pops of color with decorative accessories like pillows and artwork.

Incorporating natural elements like plants and flowers can also help bring a touch of nature indoors. Add potted plants or a small indoor garden to add life and freshness to your space. You can also incorporate natural textures like jute rugs, wicker baskets, and linen curtains for a rustic touch.

Remember to pay attention to the lighting in your space. Rustic interiors often feature warm lighting, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Consider adding dimmer switches or using lamps with soft, warm-toned bulbs to create a rustic ambiance.

Rustic Interior Design Styles
Image courtesy of  Lindye Galloway Design

Top Rustic Interior Design Trends

As with any design style, rustic interior design is constantly evolving. Here are some of the top rustic interior design trends that are currently popular:

1. Mixing rustic and modern elements: One of the latest trends in rustic interior design is to mix rustic elements with sleek and contemporary finishes. This creates a unique and eclectic look that is both rustic and contemporary.

2. Bold and vibrant colors: While earthy tones have always been a staple of rustic design, bold and vibrant colors are becoming increasingly popular. Adding pops of color to a rustic space can create a more lively and energetic atmosphere.

3. Sustainable and eco-friendly materials: With a growing emphasis on sustainability, many homeowners opt for eco-friendly materials in their rustic interiors. Reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and natural fibers are popular for creating an environmentally friendly rustic space.

4. Minimalist and clutter-free design: Many rustic interiors embrace a minimalist and clutter-free aesthetic inspired by Scandinavian design principles. You can create a serene and calming atmosphere by keeping the design simple and uncluttered.

5. Mixing patterns and textures: Another popular trend in rustic interior design is to mix different patterns and textures. Combining rustic elements with bold patterns and textures can create a visually exciting and dynamic space.

Remember, trends come and go, so choosing elements that resonate with your style and taste is essential. 

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