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Embracing the Rustic Charm
June 18, 2024
Mrinmoy Dey
While there is a growing aspiration for having a modern and high-tech kitchen, on the other end of the spectrum, many cherish the allure of rustic theme. Can the fusion of the two ends offer a perfect middle ground catering to diverse tastes and preferences? Mrinmoy Dey finds out.
In Indian homes, the rustic kitchen evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia that transcends time and trends. It's all about keeping things simple and traditional, which makes it feel warm and comforting. India's rich culture adds even more charm to this style of kitchen. It blends old-fashioned ways with realness and usefulness, making it feel like a perfect fit in any Indian home.
Suitability of Rustic Style
Annkur Khosla, Principal Architect, Annkur Khosla Design Studio says, “Rustic is associated with villas and also with an attempt to be sustainable being associated with texture of material or availability of raw materials close by.”
Bandna Singh, Founding Partner, Positive Axis adds, “Rustic Kitchens are timeless and create a warm and welcoming aura in a home. Well-travelled people and clients who are exposed to kitchens which are used by the family extensively, are open to this style. It also relates to homes designed with a classical vocabulary, or a very earthy home.”
Talking about the clients for whom a rustic style kitchen may appeal, Rudraksh Charan, Founder & Principal Architect, 42mm Architecture states, “Rustic design trends in kitchens often appeal to clients seeking a departure from overly polished and impersonal aesthetics, favouring a more lived-in and authentic vibe.”
Hitisha Mehta, Design Director, The BNK Group adds, “Some popular rustic design trends that I've observed recently in kitchens include using natural materials like wood and stone, incorporating vintage or antique elements, and opting for a cosy, lived-in feel. This theme tends to work well for clients who appreciate a warm and inviting atmosphere, enjoy a touch of nostalgia, and prefer a more traditional or country-inspired aesthetic.”
Supraja Rao, Founder and Principal Designer, Design House shares, “The use of stone veneer or tiles in the kitchen has been one of the most popular rustic kitchen design trends in the last few years. While the finishes create a particular vibe that is preferred in a country farmhouse, even in city homes, people love to do stone tiles with less texture. I think, using a real stone, for a kitchen shutter would give the rustic vibe as well as be easy to maintain.”
“Rustic theme works for the modern contemporary kitchens also. One can get modern appliances in finishes and materials that can blend with the rustic theme. However, they may be more exorbitant on pricing.”
Annkur Khosla
Principal Architect
Annkur Khosla Design Studio
The Preferred Materials
Talking about the materials that work well for a rustic-themed kitchen, Khosla suggests, “Use brick flooring as a rustic material and revert to the age-old granite flamed finish countertops. One can also use tiles which have honed or rustic finishes for flooring.”
She further asserts that the choice of materials also depends on whether the look is bohemian rustic or rustic luxe. “Materials like brick, concrete, stone, etc comply with the first look. For the rustic luxe look, rustic metal finishes along with stones are used.”
Talking about the material palette for creating a rustic vibe, Charan shares, “Reclaimed wood in cabinets, gives a weathered appearance and adds a sense of history and character to the space. Exposed wooden beams or even leaving ceilings unfinished can enhance the rustic charm of a kitchen, giving it a cosy, cabin-like feel. Incorporating patterned tiles for backsplashes or flooring adds visual interest and texture to the space while maintaining a rustic aesthetic. Patterns inspired by traditional motifs or natural elements are particularly popular.”
He further adds that clients aiming for an authentic rustic feel often opt for vintage or vintage-inspired appliances like wood-fired ovens, retro refrigerators, or classic stoves. “These appliances contribute to the overall nostalgic ambience of the kitchen. Clients seeking a more personalised touch often incorporate handcrafted elements such as artisanal pottery, handmade tiles, or custom woodworking into their rustic kitchens. These elements contribute to the unique and authentic feel of the space.”
“We have often incorporated lights at four locations. Task lighting under overhead storage units, recessed lights in the ceiling for general brightness and ambient light, ceiling hung accent light fixtures for emphasising the rustic tone and of course, natural daylight from windows and skylights is an added bonus.”
Bandna Singh
Founding Partner
Positive Axis
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Sharing her favoured material palette for a rustic kitchen, Rao recommends, “For countertops, any natural granite works. However, I would recommend stone tops finished in a high gloss and not leather because they're prone to absorbing or leaving stains. And, the same goes for the backsplash. One can continue the granite for a particular vibe like rustic or one could also opt for smaller subway tiles. For flooring, patterned tiles, irregular tiles and interlocking tiles can enhance the rustic look.”
Incorporating natural elements such as wood, stone, and metal into a rustic kitchen design can work beautifully with the theme. “Wood can be used for cabinetry, flooring, and countertops to bring warmth and texture to the space. Stone can be used for countertops, backsplashes, or flooring to add a natural and rugged element. Metal accents like wrought iron light fixtures, copper pots, or stainless steel appliances can provide a touch of industrial charm,” suggests Mehta.
Singh suggests using white countertops in Corian or marble or rustic finished tiles with backsplash in Moroccan tiles, printed tiles, subway tiles or handmade tiles acting as a contrast. “One can use wooden floors, chequered black and white floors, printed tiles with carpet patterns or brick patterns in herringbone or basket weave tiles with thick grout. Incorporating natural elements like wood for floors, cabinets, battens or rafters in ceilings and use of matt stone brings in a rustic feel to the space. Additionally, one can opt for accessories in anodised metal like spice racks, trolleys, light fixtures, cabinet hardware and antique kitchenware for display to further accentuate the theme.”
A central kitchen island crafted from natural wood provides an additional workspace while also serving as a focal point for gatherings. Photo Courtesy: Freepik
Colour Palette
Shades of brown, beige, tan, and terracotta are foundational colours in rustic kitchens, evoking the warmth and richness of natural elements. “Deep, muted tones like forest green, navy blue, and charcoal grey can add depth and sophistication to the colour palette without overpowering the rustic vibe. Accents of warm colours such as mustard yellow, burnt orange, or deep red can inject vibrancy and visual interest into the space while complementing the overall rustic aesthetic,” states Charan.
He further recommends embracing natural finishes that enhance the inherent beauty and texture of materials. “For example, opt for matte or honed finishes for stone countertops and tiles, allowing the natural variations in colour and texture to shine through. Incorporating distressed or aged finishes on cabinetry, furniture, and metal accents can create a timeworn look that adds authenticity and character to the space.”
Mehta agrees, “In rustic kitchens, specific colour palettes and finishes that work well include warm earth tones like browns, beiges, greens, and deep reds. These colours can help create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, finishes like distressed or weathered wood, matte or textured surfaces, and antique or aged metal accents can enhance the rustic look.”
“In rustic kitchens, specific colour palettes and finishes that work well include warm earth tones like browns, beiges, greens, and deep reds. These colours can help create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, finishes like distressed or weathered wood, matte or textured surfaces, and antique or aged metal accents can enhance the rustic look.”
Hitisha Mehta
Design Director
The BNK Group
Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the rustic atmosphere of a kitchen by creating the right ambience, highlighting key design elements, and providing functionality for various tasks. In rustic kitchen designs, lighting can help showcase natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, as well as add warmth and depth to the space.
Warm and welcoming, the rustic kitchen needs to be well-lit. “We have often incorporated lights at four locations. Task lighting under overhead storage units, recessed lights in the ceiling for general brightness and ambient light, ceiling hung accent light fixtures for emphasising the rustic tone and of course, natural daylight from windows and skylights is an added bonus,” shares Singh.
Charan suggests using a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and dimension in the kitchen. “Accent lighting can highlight architectural features or decorative elements like exposed wooden beams or stone walls. LED lights with a warm colour temperature of 2700-3000K are ideal for creating a cosy, rustic ambience. This colour temperature mimics the warm glow of traditional incandescent bulbs and complements the natural tones of wood and stone.”
He further adds that one must also install under-cabinet lighting to illuminate countertops and provide task lighting for food preparation and cooking and dimmable fixtures to adjust the lighting levels according to the time of day and desired atmosphere. “Maximise natural light by incorporating windows, skylights, or glass doors into the kitchen design. Incorporate statement lighting fixtures such as chandeliers, lanterns, or oversized pendants to serve as focal points in the kitchen. Choose fixtures with rustic finishes like aged brass, weathered iron, or distressed wood to complement the overall design theme,” advises Charan.
“Rustic design trends in kitchens often appeal to clients seeking a departure from overly polished and impersonal aesthetics, favouring a more lived-in and authentic vibe.”
Rudraksh Charan
Founder & Principal Architect
42mm Architecture
Does the Rustic Theme Work in Contemporary Kitchens?
Traditional kitchens are often associated with rustic themes due to their classic and timeless appeal. “However, modern and contemporary kitchens can also successfully incorporate rustic elements to create a unique and stylish space. The key to balancing the rustic aesthetic with modern functionality and convenience lies in the careful selection and integration of materials, finishes, and design elements,” opines Singh.
She further asserts that rustic does not mean old and outdated. “The latest gadgets like built-in refrigerators, freezers, ovens, microwaves, coffee makers, warming drawers, water filters etc. can be easily incorporated in the kitchen, not compromising with the aesthetics. Only avoid using polished stainless steel gadgets and equipment. One needs to select a rustic PVD metallic finished faucet (pull-out spout) and sink, which has to face the maximum wear and tear.”
Khosla agrees, “Rustic theme works for the modern contemporary kitchens also. One can get modern appliances in finishes and materials that can blend with the rustic theme. However, they may be more exorbitant on pricing.”
To balance the rustic aesthetic with modern functionality, one should focus on incorporating high-quality, durable materials that are easy to maintain and clean. “For example, opt for quartz or engineered stone countertops that mimic the look of natural stone but offer greater durability and stain resistance. Choose energy-efficient appliances with sleek, stainless steel finishes that complement the rustic elements in the kitchen design,” recommends Mehta.
“One can continue the granite for a particular vibe like rustic or one could also opt for smaller subway tiles. For flooring, patterned tiles, irregular tiles and interlocking tiles can enhance the rustic look.”
Supraja Rao
Founder and Principal Designer
Design House
Explaining how to infuse a rustic charm while incorporating modern functionality and convenience, Charan advocates, “Blend rustic materials like reclaimed wood or stone with modern finishes such as sleek countertops or stainless steel appliances. For example, pair a rustic wooden island with glossy quartz countertops for a balanced look. Choose minimalist cabinetry with clean lines and modern hardware, then add rustic elements like distressed finishes or natural wood accents to infuse warmth and character into the space.”
Incorporating modern storage solutions such as pull-out pantry shelves, hidden drawers, or vertical storage systems can maximise functionality without sacrificing the rustic aesthetic. “Conceal these features behind traditional cabinetry for a seamless look. Incorporate state-of-the-art appliances with sleek designs and advanced features, such as smart refrigerators or induction cooktops, into the rustic kitchen. Stainless steel or black finishes can complement the rustic aesthetic while offering modern functionality,” adds Charan.
According to Mehta, in a modern kitchen with a rustic theme, combining sleek, minimalist cabinetry and countertops with natural wood accents, stone features, or vintage-inspired hardware adds a touch of warmth and character. “Consider incorporating rustic elements like exposed beams, reclaimed wood shelving, or farmhouse sinks into a contemporary kitchen design to infuse it with a cosy and inviting atmosphere.”
However, there has to be subtlety about going rustic in a modern contemporary kitchen. Rao feels that an out-and-out rustic theme is not well-suited for a contemporary kitchen. “For a very contemporary or modern home, one can add a dash of rustic but not make an out-and-out rustic kitchen. It may not fit into the design. Just a style element on the shutters and using it with a nice back-painted glass for dado can still maintain the contemporary vibe.”
Incorporating modern storage solutions such as pull-out pantry shelves, hidden drawers, or vertical storage systems can maximise functionality without sacrificing the rustic aesthetic. Photo Courtesy: Positive Axis
Project: Combining Traditional Elements with Modern Amenities
Lead Architect/Designer: Bandna Singh, Founding Partner, Positive Axis
This kitchen cum pantry, designed by Chandigarh-based architectural firm Positive Axis, measuring 13’-6”x21’-9”, was meticulously crafted with a blend of rustic and earthy colour tones, exuding a timeless charm. Accentuating the old-world ambience, wood, cream, and blue accent tiles adorned the space, infusing a sense of warmth and character. Cream matt tiles with an inlaid carpet pattern in printed tiles graced the flooring, offering both elegance and practicality.
For the backsplash, handmade 8”x8” cream tiles featuring glossy azure motif tiles were artfully arranged above the counter, creating a visually captivating focal point. The counter boasted white matt Kitchen Dek by Simpolo tiles, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the traditional setting.
Cabinets, meticulously crafted from oak wood and polished to perfection, featured Matt PU Aquader shutters, ensuring both durability and style. A large larder cabinet in the pantry space provided ample storage, enhancing functionality without compromising on aesthetics.
The addition of clerestory windows above 7 ft. height, along with a generously sized window facing the rear lawn/service courtyard, flooded the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. A central island unit not only offered additional storage but also served as a functional asset, facilitating ease of movement and culinary tasks.
To elevate the rustic charm further, the ceiling boasted wooden rafters, adding a touch of authenticity and warmth to the overall ambience. In essence, this kitchen cum pantry harmoniously combined traditional elements with modern amenities, resulting in a space that is as practical as it is enchanting.
The key to balancing the rustic aesthetic with modern functionality and convenience lies in the careful selection and integration of materials, finishes, and design elements. Photo Courtesy: 42mm Architecture
Project: Contemporary Rustic
Lead Architect/Designer: Rudraksh Charan, Founder & Principal Architect, 42mm Architecture
This rustic-themed kitchen, designed by Delhi-based architectural firm 42mm Architecture, is a part of the Palm Springs project in Gurugram, Haryana. The house features an open kitchen design connected with the living room, promoting interaction and engagement within the family. The lady of the house enjoys cooking for her kids and the open kitchen format seamlessly integrated the living space to the kitchen.
“While prioritising the rustic aesthetic, we ensured that the kitchen remained highly functional. This was achieved through thoughtful space planning and the integration of modern appliances and amenities seamlessly into the rustic design. For example, concealed storage solutions were incorporated to maintain a clean and clutter-free look, while maximising storage capacity,” recalls Rudraksh Charan, Founder & Principal Architect, 42mm Architecture.
Custom reclaimed wood cabinetry with handcrafted detailing adds a rustic charm and unique character to the space. A central kitchen island crafted from natural wood provides an additional workspace while also serving as a focal point for gatherings.
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