Stressing the essential building materials — wood, stone and brick — RUSTIC style embodies both purity and simplicity.  Inspiration for rustic style can be found in homes ranging from single-room cabins, to ranch houses, to multi-story mountain lodges.  Natural elements are at the forefront, lending a rugged feel of authenticity.

In her book “Modern Rustic”, Emily Henson identifies 4 categories of rustic style: Pure Rustic, Bohemian Rustic, Pop Rustic and Retro Rustic.  The melding of other styles with rustic isn’t surprising when taking into account the versatility and uncomplicated ease rusticity provides.

Trend spotters who blog about interior design have coined phrases like “rustic-chic” and “rustic-utilitarianism” to describe the recent growing popularity of rustic influence.  Many attribute the last decade’s economic uncertainties—and the need for creating high sophistication in design from extremely modest budgets—to the rise of the movement.

Whether it’s architecture, décor, fashion, or even food, the charms of rustic style are timeless and popular.