How To Balance Refined + Rustic With 'Modern Farmhouse' Style

The allure of country living and all that it represents has never been stronger. Is it the slowed down rhythm of life, feeling in touch with nature, witnessing a pronounced changing of the seasons, cosy evenings by the fire, or sitting around the dining table just talking with friends and family? I think the appeal is all of that, and more.

But, how can we achieve that warm, comforting look of a country home, yet make it elevated – and do we even need to actually be in the country to get all of those feels?

The new rural look is laid-back, timeless and yet just a little eclectic – it’s ok that the dining chairs are all different – actually, I prefer it. The spaces weren’t created in one weekend with matchy-matchy pieces from one store, rather the rooms have evolved over time. When the furniture looks to be handed-down and collected, there’s a feeling that the space has always been there, and that puts us instantly at ease. Visitors will never want to leave – you’ve been warned!

A neutral colour palette feels soothing and makes these spaces easy to live in. This is not the place for a lot of bright colours, bold patterns and spaces that challenge us. But don’t mistake this laid-back look for being boring! There are a few key points to consider that really bring this look to life; considered details, layers of texture – and always including something old!

Now, I don’t live in the country, nor do I have a country house (I wish!) but I think that we can all achieve a warm, eclectic, personal home like this – no matter where you are.

Look to the past, but make it ‘now’ 

The ‘new rural’ aesthetic looks back to the past with a hint of nostalgia, but with a fresh take. We’re not looks to create a faux ‘old worldy’ look, instead we are mixing in old pieces with the new.

We are looking for pieces that have a story to tell, their surface shows that they have been used and loved for many years. They add soul to a space through their worn patina. It could be a milking stool that is smoothed from years of use or a vintage rug that shows the passing on time through a distressed finish. They hold stories and time and add so much atmosphere to a room.

Tips for adding ‘something old’:

An urn that has been sitting in a garden with a few signs of weather and moss is a perfect piece to bring inside and use to hold some sculptural branches or an indoor tree.

You might want to start a collection of antique objects – perhaps it could be vintage ceramics, or aged Italian stovetop espresso makers!

It’s all in the details

In these spaces, we want to avoid bold features that grab our attention the minute we walk into a room – instead opting smaller details that wait to be discovered. The weighty quality of a brass door handle, a silk braided lighting cord, or a thoughtful arrangement of objects on the kitchen bench. Spaces are quieter yet layered and personal.

Tips for adding thoughtful details:

Kitchens are not only functional spaces simply for preparing food, they should also be decorated. Small still life or landscape paintings can sit on the bench or atop a shelf as a way to enjoy artwork into all areas of the home.

Arrange your favourite ceramics on open shelves, they could be pieces found in a charity shop or made by a local ceramicist. They don’t have to all match, however keep the colour palette restrained. Seek out white, creams, tan and rustic glazes that mingle together well.

No surface should be left un-styled – however we need to know where to hold back too. It’s not always about showing off your entire collection (insert vintage portraits, ceramics, books, urns etc) rather it’s displaying the right thing. A kitchen bench may need one simply stunning vessel filled with foliage, but it’s finding that vessel in the right shape and size. Keep rotating your pieces that are stored in a cupboard depending on your mood and the seasons.

Embrace layers of texture

Although this new rural look doesn’t include a lot of colour, it is far from dull – because texture is the main element here. Visual interest and variety is achieved through the layering of contrasting textures.

There’s a pleasing contrast created from the roughness of a stone wall against a smooth timber floor, or knotty wooden  ceiling beams against a fresh white ceiling. These contrasts are so important to creating a neutral space that feels both pared back, and warm and welcoming. The character and so-called imperfections of these textural materials make a space come to life. Bonus points if these natural materials are sourced from local quarries or reclaimed timber yards, as they speak directly to your surroundings.

We also want to see evidence of things made by human hands. A mottled glaze of a Moroccan zellige tile with its slightly distressed edge is immensely pleasing on the eye.

Tips for choosing materials: 

Current trends and contemporary materials can work in these spaces – as long as there’s a textural element. A Venetian plaster wall finish or concrete benchtop may feel very modern, however their ‘imperfect’ finish will ensure they sit well in the overall context of the space.

Don’t be afraid to combine contrasting floor finishes to create visual interest – as well as suiting the practicalities of a space. For instance, you may choose a brick floor for the entry and transition to wood in the living spaces.