Rustic nature colors refer to earthy, natural tones that are often found in rural, countryside settings. These colors evoke a sense of warmth, comfort and simplicity. Using rustic nature colors in interior design can create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. In this article, we will explore what rustic nature colors are, look at color palettes featuring rustic tones, and give examples of how to incorporate them into home décor.
What are Rustic Nature Colors?
Rustic nature colors are neutral, organic hues that come directly from the natural world around us. They are inspired by things like weathered wood, stone, foliage, dirt and clay. Rustic colors are muted and subtle, never bright or flashy. They give a calming, grounded feeling to any space. Here are some of the most common rustic nature colors:
| Browns | Rich cocoa, milk chocolate, mocha, chestnut, tan, khaki |
| Grays | Charcoal, smoke, iron, silver, ash |
| Greens | Moss, olive, sage, forest, jade |
| Tans | Beige, sand, putty, straw, buff |
| Reds/Oranges | Terracotta, clay, rust, copper, amber |
Browns and tans are likely the first colors that come to mind when thinking of rustic nature palettes. But earthy greens, cozy grays and warm reds play an important role as well. Often, rustic schemes will use a combination of these colors layered together to create depth and visual interest.
Rustic Nature Color Palettes
Here are some examples of popular rustic color palettes that incorporate natural, organic hues:
Farmhouse
The farmhouse palette is inspired by weathered wood, galvanized metal, burlap and other common materials found on farms or in country cottages. Yellowed whites, light tans and reds capture the timeworn patina of well-loved farmhouse interiors.
| White | Antique White | Burlap |
| Tan | Khaki | Rust |
Forest Cabin
Deep greens paired with woodsy browns and taupes create the cozy, nature-inspired forest cabin look. Accents in crimson and mustard yellow provide a vibrant pop.
| Hunter Green | Moss Green | Olive Green |
| Chocolate Brown | Taupe | Crimson |
Desert Oasis
Warm southwestern tones like terracotta, mustard and sage green transport you to the sunny desert landscapes of the American Southwest. Pale blues add a cooling accent.
| Terracotta | Sage Green | Mustard |
| Sand | Dusty Blue | Adobe |
Mountain Lodge
Rich browns and smoky grays reminiscent of mountain timber evoke the coziness of a ski lodge or cabin in the Rockies. Pops of red bring visual interest.
| Chocolate Brown | Smoke Gray | Oxblood Red |
| Taupe | Charcoal | Ivory |
How to Use Rustic Nature Colors
Here are some tips for gracefully incorporating rustic nature themes into home décor and interior design:
Textiles
Layer in pillows, throws, rugs and curtains in earthy solids, plaids, ikats or tribal patterns. Stick to natural fibers like cotton, wool and linen.
Furniture
Look for wooden furniture with visible grains and knots that show natural imperfections. Painted pieces in washed white or light tan work too. Worn leather and suede upholstery also fit with rustic style.
Accessories
Display found objects from nature like sea shells, geodes, branches or stone. Woven baskets, ceramics with crackled glazes and antique glassware also enhance rustic spaces.
Metallics
Warm metals like bronze, copper and brass patina beautifully. Incorporate through lighting fixtures, decorative bowls or accents.
Paint Colors
Stick with neutral earth tones as a backdrop. Layer on shades like beige, almond, olive, slate or tan. Tone-on-tone variation creates subtle depth.
Floors
Hardwood with visible knots and cracks has great rustic appeal. Also consider flagstone, terracotta tile, cement or wood-look porcelain.
Fireplace
The heart of any cozy, rustic room. Choose materials like natural stone, exposed brick or even unpainted wood paneling.
Rustic Bathroom Ideas
Bring the beauty of nature into your rustic bathroom design with these ideas:
– Rich wooden vanities with stone sinks
– Hanging pendant lights or sconces in black, bronze or brass
– Organic textures like jute rugs, linen curtains, stone tile or marble
– Plants like succulents, air plants or eucalyptus for greenery
– Large framed botanical art prints
– Vintage or antique accessories like mirrors, soap dispensers or trays
– Neutral paint colors like beige, gray and light brown
– Walk-in showers with wood-look tile, rainfall showerheads, and sliding barn doors
– Clawfoot bathtubs or freestanding soaking tubs
– Mason jar soap dispensers, towel holders and toothbrush cups
Rustic Kitchen Ideas
Some ways to add rustic charm to your kitchen:
– Open wood shelving using barnwood or reclaimed boards
– Butcher block countertops and islands
– Farmhouse sink, preferably in hammered metal or fireclay
– Exposed brick backsplashes
– Pendant lights, ideally vintage-inspired with Edison bulbs
– Use of stone or brick on walls, floor or as backsplash
– Mix stainless steel appliances with wooden cabinets
– Cast iron, copper or enamel cookware displayed as décor
– Vinyl tablecloths or café curtains in gingham, floral or plaid
– Wooden cutting boards, bowls and utensils
– Glass cannister sets for a farmhouse vibe
– Rustic bar stools with saddles, wood seats or leather
– Dried herbs and plants hung from ceiling or walls
Rustic Living Room Ideas
Make your living room warm and welcoming with these rustic touches:
– Stone fireplace as a focal point
– Solid wood coffee tables with metal accents
– Tufted leather sofas or wingback chairs
– Animal hide rugs like cowhide, sheepskin or faux fur
– Woven wool or cotton area rugs
– Wooden crates and boxes for storing blankets or firewood
– Antler, driftwood or pinecone decorations
– Galvanized metal pails, vases or pots for flowers
– Macrame wall hangings or tapestries
– Neutral color scheme with earth tones and tans
– Throw pillows in plaids, tribal prints or solids
– Handcrafted pottery, art and accessories
Rustic Bedroom Ideas
Incorporate nature into your rustic bedroom with these ideas:
– Wooden bed frame or headboard, ideally reclaimed or vintage
– Woven wool or cotton blankets in earth tones
– Neutral bedding like linen sheets in white, beige or tan
– Nightstands made from old crates, trunks or dressers
– Hanging pendant lights or sconces in metal
– Ceramic lamp bases with burlap lampshades
– Paint walls in relaxing colors like sage, sand and olive
– Add texture with stone, exposed brick or wood accent wall
– Incorporate a sitting area with distressed leather armchair
– Area rug in sisal, jute or braided
– Dried flowers or greenery for natural scent
– Display found objects like antlers, driftwood and geodes
Conclusion
Rustic nature colors and materials bring laidback warmth and coziness to any interior space. Neutral earth tones, natural textures, reclaimed wood and vintage touches evoke the welcoming vibe of a country farmhouse. Whether it’s your living area, kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, you can easily incorporate rustic style through color, decor and furnishings. Focus on crafted, authentic pieces that feel connected to nature. With just a few simple updates, you can create a relaxing rustic oasis right at home.
