Are you thinking about redesigning your kitchen? Are you looking for a natural design style that reminds you of the outdoors? Consider designing your kitchen in a rustic theme. Rustic kitchen designs are a favorite amongst homeowners because it embraces a rural lifestyle by bringing the outdoors in and incorporating elements found in nature with an old-world feel. This theme embraces a down-to-earth style that makes for a comfortable and inviting space. Numerous outdoor elements are used to create a kitchen that boasts a natural woodsy feel.
Distinct characteristics that define the charm of the rustic theme include:
*Exposed wooden beams
*Warm color pallets
*Butcher block and granite counter tops
*Farmhouse sinks
*Rustic Furniture
*Driftwood
*Oversized windows
*Wrought iron accessories
*Stonework
*Antique cabinetry
*Wide plank flooring
The most important feature that is indicative to an outdoor setting is the wide variety of colors and hues found in the country. From the brilliant shades of the changing leaves to the monochromatic browns of the trees, the rustic color palette should convey a warm inviting woodsy feeling. The rustic palette should include greens, reds oranges, blues, yellows and browns. The use of natural colors found in clay, sand and stone are also great choices to include in your color selections. No need to venture to the paint store for inspiration. If your kitchen has outdoor views of the country, it will be easy to match the interior paint colors just by looking out of your windows.
You do not have to live in the country to have a rustic theme. Many people who live in suburban areas find inspiration of a country theme from rustic furniture outlets and flea markets. They are wonderful places to purchase unusual and unique finds that will compliment the design of your home. At rustic furniture outlets, you will find a wide variety of choices such as tables, cabinets, chairs and benches that will be a perfect complement to the look. Distressed cherry, mahogany, cedar and hickory woods will work well in a rustic style, but knotty pine is the most popular natural wood that you should look for when selecting floors, cabinets and islands.
Nothing says rustic charm more than installing exposed wooden beams on ceilings. They can be added to any ceiling and come in prefabricated faux materials. The beams resemble the real thing but are hollow inside which makes for an easy installation. Consider matching the beauty of the beams to your flooring. It will create a cohesive look and will add a consistency to the rustic look.
Allowing as much natural light into your space is important. The installation of large bay and oversized windows is a good way to bring the outdoor light in. Interior lighting is just as important. Rustic chandeliers and wrought iron candle sconces are a good way to keep in with the rustic theme. Install dimmers on outlets to create a soft night-time setting, and bring in lots of candles for a nice evening glow.
So many unique features define the rustic style. Making careful selections will create a natural indoor/outdoor country setting. Your kitchen will be a comfortable gathering space that is welcoming to your family and all who visit your home.
About the Author:
“Michelle Custodio is a writer and SEO specialist for JHE’s Log Furniture Place, one of the oldest and most trusted online providers of rustic log furniture. Like JHE’s Log Furniture Place Facebook‘s page and follow them on Twitter.”