Modern Rustic style is taking over
We wrote this article as a brief introduction to Modern Rustic architecture and style. You will see how to apply this style to any dwelling or workspace that you wish.
On this website, we particularly write about alternative living spaces. We have written quite a bit about tiny houses, boat houses, houseboats, and cabins. The modern rustic style can apply to and
What is Rustic Design?
The easiest way to understand what modern rustic style is, is to break it down. So let’s first consider what rustic architecture is:
Rustic architecture is not as easy to define as it may seem. The reason being that it encompasses many different styles and ideologies. For example, it can refer to dwellings as different as a Tuscan villa, a Log Cabin, or a restored costal dwelling.
The main streaming of any rustic designed dwelling, however, is pretty basic. So, we will do our best to explain the main elements of rustic design.
1) Rustic design is Natural:
This means lots of rough elements. For example, hardwoods and stone are very common elements. Smooth finishes, on the other hand, are not very common. In general the more natural and rough the stone or wood the better.
2) Rustic Design is Neutral in Color:
Neutral warm colors are predominant in t Rustic design. There is plenty of room for contrast, however, and contrast is actually a fundamental part of this style. The main color scheme is usually in the earth tones, such as grays, browns, and greens. White is also common, however, more as an accent than
3) Rustic Design is Rough:
There is always a certain roughness that accompanies rustic homes. A rough stone fireplace, for example, is a great way to emphasize the rustic look. Shiny stones are not very common. The same goes for the tile in the bathrooms or kitchen.
Generally
What is Modern Design?
So, now let’s take a moment to reflect on the basics of modern design. In this way we can better understand how to combine these two very distinct styles.
1) Modern Design is Minimalist:
Modern design was actually developed back in the 1930’s. I guess it’s not as modern as you might think! It was basically the response to the end of the victorian era, based heavily on the baroque style.
The basic ideology was to get rid of everything that wasn’t necessary, thus celebrating open space and light. Baroque curves were replaced by straight lines and large open spaces replaced dark crowded rooms.
2) Modern Design uses “Modern” Materials:
What are “modern” materials? Lots of steel, glass, and concrete are used in modern design. Ribbon windows and Curtain walls are also key parts of the modern style. Bricks are also common, while not usually dominating any one room.
3) Modern Design uses Lots of Open Space:
This is probably one of the most noticeable features of modern design. Open space is very important. Large windows and lots of natural lighting are common in order to expound on the open space that is so typical of modern architecture.
Open floor plans where introduced in many homes the had previously been separated unnecessarily. Walls that separated living rooms from dining rooms and kitchens are often taken out or not included in the design. Which allows for a much more open airy feeling and better use of natural lighting.
In many cases exterior walls are “taken out” in that they are so filled with glass that they appear to be gigantic windows instead of walls.
Combining Modern and Rustic
So, now that we have defined both what modern design is and what rustic design is we are ready to put them together. Notice the main elements of Modern rustic and how they combine the elements from above.
Basically put modern rustic combines the modern feel of sleek furniture and open spaces with the rough and rustic feel of natural materials and tones. Informal elegance is at the heart of modern rustic.
Rough stone, raw wood, and used brick are basics in modern rustic materials. Steel and glass are also very
Simple, natural, and neutrally colored fabrics are usually used in throw rugs over stone or wood flooring. Similar fabric is often found on sleek furniture, mixing the two styles elegantly yet rustically. This results in the charm that you would expect from a rustic ambiance along with the practicality that defines modern contemporary.
The color scheme is always neutral. You should avoid bright colors, however, use contrasts artfully. Extensive use of white accents the openness. However, you should combine it with many neutral earth tones. For example, dark, rough wood rafters combine nicely on white walls. Or a dark cowhide throw rug accents a rough, light stone floor quite well.
As far as decoration accessories go, it can get quite tricky. Remember that modern decoration and architecture did away with unnecessary decorations. However, such accessories are key to rustic decor. Therefore, mixing a reasonable amount of rustic accessories is acceptable and desirable in modern rustic decor.
When using accessories, however, you should concentrate on the practical. For example, an antler chandelier adds to the rustic feeling while keeping to the practical ideology.
Conclusion
Modern rustic design combines two completely different styles in a majestic and artful way. When done right it can captivate, inspire, and relax even the strongest critics.
We hope this article has helped you to understand what defines modern rustic architecture and design. You will surely enjoy this particular style even more now that you can understand and identify its key elements.
Thank you for your time, and enjoy your day!