Rustic wood creates a feeling of comfort and tradition in today’s fast-paced world.

Wood is a natural and beautiful design element.

Often we opt for smooth and refined wood for our homes, and that’s a good choice. Also think about using rustic wood for an even more natural and woodsy feel that’s comforting because it reminds us of the past.

Rustic wood comes in many varieties, including pine, fir, mahogany, oak, walnut and really almost any type of wood. And it comes in many looks, from boards recycled from American barns to wood reclaimed from Asian temples or Latin American homes. Even logs, driftwood and tree stumps can be used in your home’s interior look!

Since rustic wood is all about the rough feel, keep texture in mind when you select your other home furnishings. A nubby, rough texture like linen complements rustic wood or use a smooth texture like silk as a contrast. Other home fashions that go well with rustic wood include cowhide rugs, Southwestern carpets, leather upholstery and textured stone.

Rustic wood looks fabulous with white or light beige as a neutral because the light, clean color brings out the beauty and grain of the wood. Effective accent colors include sage green and rusty red. Or pair rustic wood with a black and white color scheme to add drama.