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A rustic decorating look is a usually a charmingly simple, unsophisticated classic and timeless kind of décor. It uses roughly finished or textured items and requires a high level artistic and creative mind that will effectively harmonize the pieces together. It can be created on a minimal budget and does not have to be replaced with every décor fad. The rustic look is currently trending in furniture shops so it is easier to find unique pieces that can complete the look. Impressive exposed wood and support log beams in a house will provide great mileage in creating a rustic country feel. Here are a few ideas how to go about it.
Rustic coffee tables crates – Use a rustic wooden coffee table to anchor the living room. A cheaper option would be to use wooden crates to create a coffee table and side stools complete with drawers. To create a rugged finish to the wood, sand and varnish the wood to create a finished look. Alternatively sand the wood and paint one coat of paint on it. As the paint is partially absorbed into the grooves it will create an attractive rustic look. Partially dress the table with a kikoy, masai cloth strip or mud cloth to soften the table edges.
Colours – Rustic décor looks better when used with earth colours such as oranges, orches, yellows and browns but do not let that limit you even turquoise and aqua colours will work just as well. If using warm colours, punctuate with patches of white so that the eyes have a place to rest and cool off from all the blazing warm colours in the room. Rustic décor can look cluttered and shabby so reduce number of items used and use two to three colours.
Lighting – Carefully select wall brackets, ceiling lights and chandeliers that will complement the look such as brass lanterns or wrought iron that have a rustic look. Choose warm toned bulb lights to create a pleasant glow daylight rather that bright white coloured lights. Dimmer switches work well where one can adjust the amount of light in the room to suit various moods. Use tree stump table lamps to create a country feel as it illuminates the room.
Picture Frames – Be innovative with your pictures – Mount a wooden ladder and use the spaces between the ranks to place photos onto a wall. Alternatively use an unused window frame onto a corridor wall and place your sentimental items which can vary from photos to favourite outfits for the kids or a high school tie which you may want to display and are having letting- go issues.
Chairs – Leather seats or a synthetic leather look-alike will complete the rustic look. With a rustic décor it is easy to mix and match sofas. Use weaved wicker chairs for an earthy homely look and add wooden or wrought iron bar chairs to a kitchen counter. Bar stools with a wrought iron frame and wooden seat help to warm up the cold metal while making a more comfortable seat.
Photo: mydecorideas.com
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