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No cottage necessary.
From modern rustic kitchens that nod towards the natural with reclaimed wood and sleek Shaker units, to eclectic and bohemian cottage kitchens with exposed beams and flagstone floors, there's a way to incorporate rustic kitchen ideas in every home.
Kitchen designer Tom Howley says this 'lived-in, charming interior style' is coveted by many. 'Traditional cottages are known for their original features – rustic beams, exposed stone walls, weathered floors and quirky nooks,' he explains. 'Kitchens within these idyllic properties are often designed with a focus on comfort, traditionalism and tactility, making this style an appealing choice for those wanting to create an inviting sanctuary.'
Keep reading to see how you can achieve your own rustic kitchen...
'An extension of the viral cottagecore trend that has taken hold over the last few years, rustic kitchens are all about incorporating country aesthetics to create a warm and nostalgia-inspired look,' explains Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy's trend expert.
'While rustic kitchens often appear effortless, it’s important to consider a few key themes to achieve this seemingly relaxed style. My favourite colour palettes for rustic kitchens tend to be neutral, with lots of earthy accessories piled on top. With a neutral base, it’s easy to add character to the space by layering on vintage-inspired accents, as well as various shapes and textures.'
You should incorporate natural materials too, like lots of reclaimed woods, natural stones or even slate, adds Dayna, which is ideal for achieving the 'lived-in, perfectly imperfect look'.
Image: Antique European Serving Board, The Interiors Yard
Classic wooden kitchens are a staple in country abodes, but if you're looking to modernise things a little, update your hardware.
For example, you could refresh your tap or cabinet handles to contemporary designs finished in bronze or brass. Or, update your lighting by opting for an eye-catching pendant design. Combining old with new will create a perfectly rustic space.
Image: Somerton Kitchen in Fjord Green, Burbidge & Son Kitchen Makers
Inspired by traditional French provincial styling, this stylish tap also features a quarter-turn handle action for precise flow control. We love the antique brass finish.
Rather than tucking everything away (as seen in modern, minimalist kitchens), make your kitchenware part of your rustic kitchen design.
Pans can be stored on hooks and chopping boards propped against your walls, meanwhile ornaments and plants can fill your windowsill and shelves to add a lived-in look to the space.
'Open shelving is an excellent option for this trend as the sturdy shelves give a rustic, industrial look whilst also being functional for all your cooking needs,' says Bo Hellberg, CMO at String Furniture.
Image: Signature Bespoke In Frame Shaker Kitchen, Searle & Taylor Kitchens
Two shelves and plenty of hooks give you ample room to show off your favourite kitchen items. As it's made from natural materials, the colour, pattern and finish will vary – something we think adds to its appeal.
Rustic kitchens are the perfect place to indulge in long, informal mealtimes, as well as being a cosy spot to relax throughout the day.
We recommend offering plenty of inviting seating options (as opposed to formal dining tables and chairs), such as benches, stools, comfy armchairs and snug banquette seating.
Increase the rustic feel even further by adding plenty of plump cushions and seat pads.
Image: Mindy Gayer Cottage, Armac Martin
For lovers of all things patterned, a rustic kitchen is the place to get creative. Lean into all things twee by choosing kitsch wallpaper, blinds and fabrics.
You can even up the ante by choosing eye-catching cabinet colours and adding in whimsical features, such as scalloped edges and novelty details such as handles and tiles.
Image: Kitchen, Huckleberry Home x House of Hackney
This pattern is inspired by a wallpaper design that hung in the drawing room of esteemed typographer, book printer and friend of William Morris, Sir Emery Walker. We love the botanical pattern and eye-catching green tones.
Cottages and country homes are well associated with entertaining, and big, hearty meals, with enough to feed a family. As such, the stove is one of the most important elements of any rustic kitchen.
We think your stove can be made to look as stylish as it is practical if the area that surrounds it is utilised. Consider adding a ledge behind it to display kitchenware, and think about highlighting the area through the use of tiles and/or colour.
Image: Alderley Kitchen In Bone, Burbidge & Son Kitchen Makers
For a truly rustic kitchen, forgo your electric kettle in favour of this more traditional style. You can use it on the stove, including gas, electric and induction hobs, as well as range cookers.
'Incorporating organic textures and earthy tones into the kitchen is a wonderful way of creating a rustic and calming environment in the home,' says Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone.
'Bringing a touch of the outside in through raw materials and nature-inspired designs promises to instantly uplift a kitchen and connect us to our surroundings. Choosing a worktop that incorporates these earthy tones and textures will instantly create a cosy environment that links you with the natural world.'
Image: Winchester Elements Origin Sand Rustic, Original Style
A strong, square frame gives this neat pair of dining chairs a classic look. Plus, their light oak finish serves up a large helping of country charm.
To nail the rustic look, don't hide things away. Instead, make good use of shelves, countertops and tables to show off your favourite pieces of homeware and kitchen accessories.
'More is more when it comes to accessories in rustic kitchens,' advises Dayna. 'You want your shelves to appear full, but with a cohesive feel to them. I personally love open shelving in rustic kitchens, as they are great for showing off crockery, dishware and other kitchen pieces.'
Image: Ercol Teramo Medium Extending Dining Table, Furniture Village
This set of four sleek mugs is the perfect combination of modern and rustic. The tonal brown colourway is created with a hand-applied glaze.
'Rustic kitchens create an instant homely feeling that is warming and welcoming – even the most modern of kitchens can benefit from this look,' says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.
'Those looking to add a little country charm to an existing kitchen can add texture and tone through natural materials such as wooden worktops, chopping boards and wicker accessories, while textiles such as linen add softness and lend themselves very well to this aesthetic.'
Image: Pixel White Circular Mosaic Tiles, Walls and Floors
Crafted from straw with an openwork finish, this stylish pair of baskets are tactile and practical. Use them to store anything from napkins to fruit and veg.
A kitchen island is a staple in any busy kitchen, but you should consider freestanding and moveable options, or the way in which you can mix and match different pieces.
'When it comes to the kitchen island, there are endless alternatives to the traditional island,' says Al. 'A harvest table is a great option for those who are tight on space and can be easily painted to add warmth and contrast.
'Another great way of adding a unique twist is by using reclaimed wood, whether a bespoke kitchen island, floating shelf, or small cabinet, it gives an instantly lived-in and relaxed feel while making a great conversation starter.'
Image: Marlborough Terracotta Parquet, Ca'Pietra
Grind up spices with this stylish pestle and mortar, or simply use it as a decorative item. As marble is a natural material, the colour and texture of each product may vary.
'If you love wood for its individuality and natural characteristics, then choose a rustic wood floor to create a welcoming and individual interior,' advises Natalie Mudd, creative director at The Wood Flooring Co.
'Rustic wood flooring can vary in its level of character; from planks with more pronounced grains and knots, to the handcrafted variety which has an aged and weathered effect for a more antique appearance. If you want to have the perfect distressed wooden appearance in your home, rustic-grade engineered wood flooring is a good option. Look for softer, washed-out hues and organic, matt textures when selecting a floor in a rustic design.'
Image: Haddon Kitchen in Burnished Bronze, Burbidge & Son Kitchen Makers
Handcrafted by skilled artisans in India, this jute rug is ultra-durable and perfect for protecting the floor in busy kitchens. A scalloped edge and blue detailing add some extra rustic flair.
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