Rustic Furnishings:  A Little Bit Of Country... And A Whole Lot Of Comfort

After a hard day's work, coming home to a place that is comfortable, warm, relaxing and inviting would be considered a welcome respite by anyone. Such a casual home would typically have a rustic look - one that reflects the simplicity, charm and hominess of country-style or rural living.

The casual or rustic setting is defined by simple details, textured accessories and fabrics, and other rustic furnishings with a soft and low-key tone. The rustic look is also characterized by relaxed horizontal lines and arrangements without perfect symmetry. Soft curves and rectangles are also common elements of a casual room.

This decorating approach can involve the use of objects such as a coffee table recycled from an old ironing board, a side table made up of stacked boxes or old luggage piled on top of each other, or even a renovated birdhouse as a lamp base. Rugged or worn surfaces also highlight the rustic look.

The personal enjoyment derived from a relaxed lifestyle is making a good number of homeowners today fully integrate casual or rustic decoration into their homes. The incorporation of such elements extends to practically any room in the house.

Soft and comfortable furniture is a hallmark of the casual interior, with upholstered pieces often oversized. Color schemes are usually beige, gray, tan or any other neutral shade, although soft pastels are also common.

Textured fabrics are preferred to shiny material for pillows and furniture, while wool, cotton and other natural fibers are selected for weaving. Buttons, pleats and ruffles are used to accentuate upholstered pieces.

Casual pieces are usually horizontal, long and large, instead of tall, vertical and petite. A restful and comfortable effect is achieved by using large and chunky tables without compromising storage space.

In terms of furniture arrangement, diagonal is preferred to eliminate sharp corners, and matching accessories are unnecessary.

Oak, pine and other light woods are usually selected as material for furniture and wood flooring. Drawer and door hardware are often made from wrought or weathered iron, carved wood, or hammered iron.

The rustic look is also heightened by the use of treasures or found items, with the bookshelf or tabletop serving as the usual place for such collectibles.

The comfort provided by a quilt and many pillows are staple in casual bedrooms. Stained concrete, stone or hardwood are common for flooring, while antiqued metals, tin, wood or wrought iron usually make up chandeliers or light fixtures.

Stainless flatware, fabric or woven placemats, rugged stoneware and iron or pewter accessories usually decorate the dining table in a casual home. The table also matches the prevailing room theme, with plain pieces, pastels or bold floral prints helping to enhance the effect.

The country charm evoked by rustic furnishings can be also achieved using leather saddles and other objects identified with cowboys, with the rustic feel better highlighted if the accessories have greater wear and tear. A similar effect is also derived from the use of painted lampshades, the favorite Adirondack chair, room painting recreated to appear like aged plaster, and other wooden pieces.

Wooden blind and shutters and soft balloon shades are ideal for windows. Twigs, shells, pinecones, dried flowers, and baskets are also classic country favorites.

To prevent the rustic appeal from becoming cliche, homeowners can integrate other items such as botanical-inspired comforters and striped linens for beds, or have plants and flowers at certain spots to generate an association with fields and mountain meadows. In general, any piece of furniture or accessory that makes one remember the outdoors or nature is definitive of the rustic look.