Rustic-themed homes have quickly become popular as homeowners want the benefits of a relaxed country lifestyle without giving up the benefits of living in the suburbs. Unless you have a country cabin already, there are fun and even inexpensive ways to create the peaceful, rustic look in any home, even one nestled in a suburban neighborhood. These ideas range from big to small and can be used in part or in whole.

Remodeling Options

Homeowners starting a major home remodel have the most leeway when it comes to choosing a design theme for the home. According to Zillow, rustic homes are generally open concept with soaring ceilings, such as those found in a barn and use very little or no drywall. Instead, homes can use bare, stained or painted plank walls or even brick or stone accent walls, particularly surrounding fireplaces. Other design ideas include using salvaged metal for walls, having stained open beams in ceilings and choosing large farmhouse sinks with apron fronts.

Natural Colors

Rustic homes make use of natural colors, particularly browns and grays. However, to avoid a home that is entirely brown, homeowners can bring in other tones found in nature, such as soft blues and greens as well as creams and soft whites. Colors to stay away from are bright, glaring ones.

Furniture from Nature

Homeowners can choose from numerous pieces of furniture that are designed with the country in mind. For example, farmhouse tables with bench seating have become popular, especially for large families. Other options to look for include end tables made from tree trunks, log bed frames, plank headboards and tables or mantelpieces with roughhewn edges.

Rustic Touches

To complete the rustic look, individuals can add some quaint touches to make their homes inviting and comfortable. Many stores, such as MyBarnwoodFrames.com, specialize in these accent pieces and make it easy to pull the look together. One can look for bare wood picture frames, vintage metal signs and chunky cable-knit blankets to create a cohesive rustic look.

Country-themed homes are the perfect antidote to a long winter with their cozy wood accents and cable-knit blankets. However, the rustic style is equally suited to summertime when the natural colors inside blend with the beauty of nature outside the home. Whether a homeowner is remodeling with the help of a designer or making some do-it-yourself changes, these ideas are sure to create a country oasis in the midst of the suburbs.

Guest Post By:
Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.