Rustic Kitchen Design Ideas

A rustic colour scheme can transform your kitchen into a cosy and inviting space, and it doesn’t have to be a big project! Refreshing the paintwork is a great way to achieve this look on a budget, and we’ve got plenty of rustic kitchen ideas to help you get started. Whether you’d prefer a rustic contemporary kitchen or a traditional country kitchen, these rustic kitchen designs combine style and cosiness with practicality.

Tips for creating a modern rustic kitchen

Our Creative Director, Marianne Shillingford, shares her top tips for creating a modern rustic kitchen:

“Muted paint colours are an excellent choice for a modern rustic kitchen. If space isn’t on your side, stick to lighter paint colours to enhance brightness, like soft cream and beige. In large kitchens, dark neutrals like terracotta and earthy greens bring the outside in.

When it comes to furnishing a modern rustic kitchen, the worn-in look of a country kitchen can easily be achieved with antique or upcycled furniture made from reclaimed materials. Wood, cotton and stone have a lived-in feel and bring different textures to the space.”

The best colours for rustic kitchens

Discover the best colours for rustic kitchens below, from timeless neutrals to statement shades.

Earthy green
 

Muted, earthy greens are an excellent choice for rustic kitchens. They’re close enough to neutrals to ensure a timeless feel but also bring a splash of colour to your space. Shades like Willow Tree and Bamboo Stem are ideal for walls or cabinets – pair them with soft cream rather than bright white to embrace the rustic, country-inspired look. 

Rich terracotta
 

Rich terracotta hues are perfect for modern rustic kitchens. Bold and bright with neutral undertones, they’re reminiscent of Mediterranean interiors and warm, sunny days. Our favourite shades are Tuscan Terracotta and Copper Blush –pair them with cream or beige cabinets and furnishings to keep your kitchen bright and airy.

Warm neutrals

If you love the look of terracotta but want a more subtle brown-toned shade, choose warm neutrals like Sandstone and Caramel Cream for your rustic kitchen design. Warm greys like Morning Oats are another excellent option for modern rustic kitchens, blending contemporary style with a soft, homely feel. Planning a full kitchen transformation? Learn how to design a grey shaker kitchen in our guide.

How to accessorise your rustic kitchen

Accessories are key when designing a rustic kitchen. If you have a large or open-plan kitchen, consider displaying vintage plates, teacups and other ceramics on shelving or in open cabinets for a traditional country kitchen feel. Antique vases, enamel serveware, cookbooks and wooden chopping boards are functional and stylish rustic accessories, so display them on counters, hooks or shelves.

Storing dry goods in glass jars is another practical and stylish way to accessorise a rustic kitchen. Potted herbs can be kept on windowsills or wooden shelves – we recommend terracotta or metal pots to enhance the rustic look.

Soft furnishings, such as rugs, seat cushions, curtains, or blinds, are another rustic kitchen essential. When choosing these pieces, consider how texture and print could complement your colour scheme.

Visit our hub for more kitchen inspiration, including colour ideas and expert design advice.