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The modern way to add rustic warmth to your space.
Rustic elegance is a style that looks to the soothing colours, patterns and textures of the natural world. The palette is soft chalky neutrals with accents of green, while robust materials such as wood and chunky ceramics create a comforting, artisanal feel. It’s the perfect mood for autumn, so grab a blanket and get ready to hunker down.
It’s the quintessential colour of nature – experiment with shades that range from soft sage and olive to rich forest greens. Introduce through upholstery fabrics or accessories such as cushions, vases and throws.
Pictured: Conrad sofa, Form by Tallboy. Pamela accent chair, Anthropologie. Quinn green armchair, Sofa.com. Zuberi coffee table, Riva Legno Vivo table, both Barker and Stonehouse. Exton jute rug, Industville
A mix of textiles is key to the rustic elegance look. Layer up tactile fabrics such as linen, wool and felt – the more the merrier. Stitched, frayed and fringed edges keep things looking relaxed and informal.
Pictured: Wendy dining bench, Graham & Green. Marble and recycled glass lantern, Nkuku. Curtain made from Harmony Forest fabric, Prestigious Textiles. Chunky jute woven rug, Dunelm
Plants and greenery give a room life, so don’t hold back. Use an eye-catching tall plant to liven up an empty corner. Large foraged branches look stunning in a vase or pot as an alternative to fresh flowers.
Pictured: Frederick dining table, Wrenley dining bench, both Graham & Green. Sheepskin rugs, The White Company.
A mix-and-match approach to tableware adds to the casual luxe feel of this aesthetic. Beautiful ceramics, stylish stoneware, recycled glass and smooth wooden utensils lend a touch of artisanal charm.
Pictured: Avyn recycled glass candleholder, Nkuku. Stoneware dinner plates, M&S x Fired Earth. Arc cotton napkins, Splatter enamelware platter, acacia wood salad servers, all Toast
Freestanding cabinetry and open shelving bring personality to a kitchen. The striking shade used here provides a perfect backdrop to neutral accessories such as stoneware crockpots, bowls and shapely vases. Brass is a classic finish for taps and door handles that only gets better as it ages.
Pictured: Classic Shaker kitchen in bespoke Farrow & Ball Off Black, from a selection, Devol. Nora chair, Feather & Black
Make the practical beautiful – use everyday items such as wooden chopping boards and glass and ceramic kitchenware to add warmth and character. Arrange items of varying heights and materials to create a pleasing rustic vignette.
Pictured: Cake stand and colander, both Rebecca Williams at Toast. Mango wood round chopping board, Dunelm. Loop rectangular chopping board, Curious Egg
In a bedroom, rustic elegance suits a careful balance of hard and soft elements. Here, a raw-edged wooden headboard, a sculptural glass pendant and soft linen bedding create a serene look. Woven raffia wallpaper takes the contrast one step further.
Pictured: Headboard made from New Waney Edge hardwood boards, Davids Timber. Agatarla recycled glass pendant, Nkuku. Freja side table, Cox & Cox. Caprini drum footstool, Arlo & Jacob. Lazy Linen duvet cover, Next Home
Whether you want to go full-on rustic or just include a few pieces, think botanical prints, wooden finishes, woven baskets and items with a rough but surprisingly comfortable texture such as a jute rug.
Pictured: Vintage armchair upholstered in Woodland Forest fabric by John Derian, curtain made from Mourillon Natural fabric, both Designers Guild
If you are lucky enough to have high ceilings, emphasise the scale with a pairing of tall mirrors. Setting two side by side also works well in smaller spaces, creating a pleasing sense of symmetry and doubling the green impact of reflected plants.
Marble surfaces are unashamedly luxurious, especially when used in a bathroom. Team with stoneware and glazed ceramic accessories to keep things feeling earthy.
Pictured: Striped bath towel, George Home. Waffle bath towel, Secret Linen Store. Elements ladder, Dunelm. Sorrento pot, Heavenly Homes and Gardens. Stone-effect soap dish, M&S. Gold wire lantern, Curious Egg. Mug, Aku Ceramics at Artists & Objects
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