Simple Rustic Lights for the Modern Rustic Interior

Photo courtesy ApartmentTherapy.com

A cornerstone of the modern rustic design style is simplicity.  This means clean lines, a neutral palette and natural materials selectively utilized. 

The  Travaasa Inn in the Texas Hill Country is a great example of a simple yet effective mix of modern and rustic — the sort of style that works well for people who like their interiors to have a nature-inspired appearance but in a clean and modern way. An editor at ApartmentTherapy.com summarized five ways in which Travaasa created an interior style that reflected the natural landscape but kept it comfortable and accessible for those who prefer a modern versus log cabin look.

1) Keep walls neutral and warm Beiges, creams, whites and greens work really well when looking for a base to kick off your rustic modern style.
2) Incorporate patterns that reflect nature We like seeing patterns that have a natural feel to them, whether because of a nice thick texture or because they reflect elements seen in nature.
3) Simple, organic textiles That being said about patterns, the large majority of textiles should sport a solid, simple, fresh look.
4) Rough woods and rich finishes You don't have to invest only in lamps made out of old tree trunks, but incorporating a few items with a rough wood finish and/or seeing that the finishes you do have in your space are dark or rich will help cement a rustic modern look.
5) Oversized side items and accessories To avoid a cluttered look, mix in some intentionally oversized pieces to bring in interest. They'll take up a lot of visual space without having to fill a room with lots of unneccessary accessories.


Rustic-lighting.com has many offerings for simple lighting designs.  Here are just a couple that incorporate the idea of a richly finished yet simple design as shown above on the headboard lights.

Rustic-lighting.com
Alpine Sconce - Rustic Plain

 

Rustic-lighting.com
Sierra Sconce - Rustic Plain

Modern Rustic Defined

The  term rustic design is evolving.  What previously brought to mind cabin and ski lodge replete with plaid blankets and antler chandeliers now evokes a more refined interior.  Today's rustic style places an emphasis on natural elements, organic materials and raw textures.  It is modern, simple and clean but with a warmth.

This rustic style works well with modern--as a mix of old to the new.   Distinctive materials such as raw wood or metal with minimal stains or varnishes, simple rug choices such as jute or sisal, a balance of white and neutrals, and understated living spaces with minimal embellishments define the new rustic style.  This comfortable style stresses a minimalist calm that relies on scaling down and focusing on just a few good quality things that feel pleasant.

Farmhouse Modern, Mountain Modern, Cowboy Modern are all derivatives of Rustic Modern.  Combining hand hewn and handmade elements that retain their naturalness with the simplicity of modern design and furnishings creates an aesthetic that is accessible.  For instance, pairing a wood farmhouse table with modern side chairs and a rustic metal chandelier is a mix that one would label rustic modern.  Rustic redefined.

Rustic-Lighting.com offers a great selection of metal light fixtures--hand-crafted, hand-finished and all in simple, elegant designs that merge with the modern rustic design style.  Imagine one in the space at left.  Perfect.

Kincade Pendant
From Rustic-Lighting.com