The Subtle Twist Making Modern Rustic Kitchens Look More Expensive

Charming wooden cabinetry, muted earthy color palettes, and stunning exposed joists are just a few ways a rustic kitchen can evoke feelings of comfort and connection with nature. And it's easy to see why the relaxed and timeless interior maintains its popularity, especially at the heart of the home. For one, rustic details are revered for their modest and down-to-earth feel, projecting a sense of nostalgia for quality family time surrounded by the intoxicating smell of home-cooked meals. But homestead modesty doesn't lack sophistication or luxury. In fact, with a few styling tweaks, like playing with contrasting color palettes and incorporating elegant and contemporary finishes, you can give your modern rustic kitchen a luxe upgrade that makes it look more expensive. 

Rustic interiors incorporate raw, natural, and distressed elements. The aesthetic shares many design elements with different interiors, like natural materials and earthy tones, which you'd find in farmhouse and boho style homes. And like other design styles you choose for your space, rustic décor can be adapted by borrowing different design staples to curate a space that's uniquely yours. Contemporary furniture, for example, can add to a modern rustic feel, while adding certain elegant finishes can make the classic lived-in interior look expensive. 

Your kitchen is where connections and meals are shared, and rustic details effortlessly unify the idea of warmth and togetherness with a charming and lived-in look. And since rustic style is also versatile, mixing modern furniture and contemporary finishes can elevate the aesthetic appeal. For one, part of what gives a rustic-style kitchen its peaceful feel is the use of earthy, muted colors. Contrasting colors, while not traditionally a rustic element, can shake things up while still keeping you grounded. Opting for a moody color palette with greys, deep blues, and olive greens for your walls and cabinets, and embracing light, soft beige countertops, can set a striking contrast of comfort and luxury.

Add a touch of drama to your kitchen with luxe finishes, like installing sleek, contemporary pendant lights or honed granite countertops. Sophisticated stone backsplashes, as another example, can blend well with porcelain countertops and can give traditional rustic details a modern twist. Displaying precious, higher-end décor, like a serving bowl as a kitchen island centerpiece, can easily combine the approachability of rustic appeal with dark, decadent elegance. It might be a far cry from classic rustic interior tradition, which favors distressed and modest décor, but adding refined finishes like these can add a level of luxury that works seamlessly into the naturally aged décor, making your kitchen look more expensive.