Modern Rustic Living Rooms: 25 Stunning Ideas Right Now!

It’s a style with many different iterations and names, and it certainly seems to be gaining momentum. Maybe that’s because of the casually unfussy approach to decorating so many folks are choosing for their homes and lifestyles in the 2020s. With so much technology and digitalized everything in modern life, we crave natural, nurturing nests for retreat. Modern Rustic Living Rooms: 25 Stunning Ideas spotlights inspiring design as well as resources for furniture and decorating. Ready to consider laid back luxe, California cool, and pared down natural warmth?

A gorgeous Amber Lewis designed living room open to the kitchen - cool California modern rustic chic style! #modernrustic #livingroom #amberlewis #californiacool #organicdecor #interiordesign
Amber Lewis…hello California cool indeed.

Modern Rustic Living Rooms: 25 Stunning Ideas

1. Sofas With Single Cushion

It’s a very laid-back look that I still love for my own home. My sofa is similar to the one above, and its luxe Belgian linen just speaks comfort to me.

Xavier Moroccan rug - Lulu & Georgia
Lulu & Georgia…in case you admire laid back luxe living rooms.

Rustic certainly need not mean an abundance of rough textures. Let’s face it. In 2022, we want to be surrounded by soft things that bring a certain certainty in the midst of so much uncertainty.

2. Minimal & Airy Shelves

We’re in the middle of a renovation project at the moment (it involves a fireplace), and my husband asked if we should add built-in shelves to the wall he just opened. The thing is, my first instinct says NOOOOOO, because I think of heavy wood, clutter, and boxy von boxy gloom.

But looky looky what Leanne can do with shelves…

Leanne Ford designed home office area of a MCM home on Restored by the Fords (HGTV) - photo by Alexandra Ribar. #homeofficgoals #modernrustic #minimalluxe #rusticluxe #roughluxe #homeoffices
Leanne Ford (photo by Alexandra Ribar for HGTV)…in case minimal luxe tingles your jingles.

Ya know? A creatively modern approach to wood shelves, storage, and even built-ins (is there an alternative to hiring a carpenter?) is to think outside of the box and ditch the traditions that just don’t work for your lifestyle or discerning eye.

3. Tone on Tone Palette

Lots of folks are heading to the paint counter this very moment. I know this because it’s my posts on paint colors like this one that are getting heavy traffic.

But white is not the only way to get a tonal look.

(Psst. While this space below may not reflect a living room, it can be argued that kitchens are the new “living room!”)

Green painted shiplap wall with whimsical hat collection (paint color: Acacia Haze) in a beautiful Southern home with design by April Tomlin.
What a room design by April Tomlin…SW Acacia Haze is the paint color in case you’re curious.

An earthy green could be used in a tone on tone scheme as well for a warm modern look.

Retreat paint color (HGSW 3823) is an earthy tranquil soothing green-gray. #retreat #paintcolors
HGSW Retreat…in case you need a paint color idea for a casually modern living space.

But all of the shades of white, putty, ecru, and linen work nicely too when you’re keeping contrast low.

Jenni Kayne modern rustic living room with harbor sofa in ivory linen. #jennikayne #modernrustic #californiastyle #livingroom #warmmodern #warmminimal
Jenni Kayne…and see THIS for more inspiration from Jenni’s book.

If you have yet to discover the beauty from Jenni Kayne, be forewarned: it’s luxurious and well-made casual goodness.

Funny quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #eggs #cake #humor #funnyquotes

4. Natural Materials That Improve With Age

If you like changing up the furniture and decor in your space often, then you may not be as concerned about how the elements are constructed. However, if you’re after a timeless look you’ll live with for many years, then do consider carefully how the pieces will weather with use.

Jenni Kayne leather safari chair
Leather Safari Chair…hello natural organic chic indeed.

Sustainability has become an important concept for all who are thinking about how things are made and the ecological impact.

5. Rugged Reclaimed Wood Ceiling

While most of us are not ready to invest in reclaimed wood for our ceilings, it certainly pays to think about that fifth wall in the space.

Luxurious modern rustic French chalet with gorgeous wood ceiling and wall - @whiteblancmange. #modernrustic #chalet #modernfrench #livingrooms #woodceiling
@WhiteBlancMange via…in case a French chalet inspires.

How might you bring architectural interest and texture to the ceiling? Hiring an interior designer would seem essential for such an undertaking.

6. Plaster Walls & Shelves

It is nothing short of amazing to see how plaster is showing up in countless iterations including modern rustic design!

Michael Del Piero Good Design Hamptons shop in the barn - a gorgeous global mix of modern rustic luxe for your interiors. #michaeldelpiero #interiordesign #modernrustic #livingroom #globalrustic #sophisticateddecor
Michael Del Piero…hello rustic, modern, and also soulful.

It adds a layer of age and wonder, yes?

Kindness quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #kindnessquote #quotes #inspirationalquotes

7. French Inspired Baskets for Storage

To bring texture and storage to a space in one fell swoop, baskets are hard to beat. Where can you find them?

Cozy corner of a modern rustic living room with tone on tone understated holiday decor - @moodhomeandlifestyle. #modernrustic #livingroom #holidaydecor
@moodhomeandlifestyle…lovely living rooms with laid back style and also imperfect charm.

Here is a wonderful source as well as…everywhere. Don’t think twice if you see an incredible lidded trunk at the flea market, antique mall, or FB Marketplace…you’ll find a place for it!

8. Crisp Black & White

Related to what I mentioned earlier about re-thinking heavy bookcases for a modern look, here’s a great example of the airiness that can happen when built-ins are kept simple.

Modern rustic great room with white painted brick chimney, natural wood accents, and warm laid back style. #studiomcgee #livingroom #greatroom #beckhamproject #modernrustic
Studio-McGee…hello lovely indeed.

Is there a more perfect color combo for modern rustic than black + white + natural?

9. Low Living

Laid-back rough luxe rooms often play with scale, and low may be the way to GO.

Warm minimal, modern rustic boho interior design with white sofa, cowhide, and vintage - design by Leanne Ford. #leanneford #interiordesign #roughluxe #minimaldecor #vintageboho
Leanne Ford (Photo by Josh Franer)…interior design inspiration and also resources to get the look.

This Leanne Ford designed space above is a reminder that even what seems like an undesirable room shape at first blush (this one is hallway-like) holds potential.

Funny E. B. White quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #funnyquotes #humor #quotes #ebwhite

10. Skip the Window Coverings

We can’t always skip them, but what a treat when we can.

Warm modern rustic living room with soft neutrals and steel windows - Sabina Interiors. #modernrustic #livingrooms #modernluxe
Sabina Interiors…living room decor ideas as well as furniture resources to shop the look.

11. A Solid Coffee Table

Airy windows and breezy color palettes, but no need to be delicate about cocktail or accent tables in casually modern rustic rooms.

Arteriors Jacob round coffee table in a beautiful modern rustic living room - Lulu & Georgia. #coffeetables #roundcoffeetable
Lulu & Georgia…hello minimal luxe indeed.

Also of note is how the three seating pieces are different colors and shapes, contributing a more unfussy vibe that doesn’t feel like a showroom floor with a matching collection.

12. Nubby Textures

Boucle everything began ramping up in early 2020 and seems to be surging at the moment.

Boucle chair (Kansia) at Lulu & Georgia. #bouclechairs
Kansia Accent Chair, Lulu & Georgia

Boucle textures seem to hold appeal as acceptable Teddy Bear snuggling for adults.

Brene Brown Inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio about integrity. #brenebrown #inspirationalquotes #brenebrownquote

13. Floating Shelves

Rustic wood shelves are wonderful for decorating when you like changing art and accessories often or enjoy seasonal changes to a space.

Floating shelves of art - Patina Farm (Brooke Giannetti) European country farmhouse in Ojai. #patinafarm #vintagemodern #modernrustic #laidbackluxe
Velvet and Linen

Since so many of us spend more time at home these days, it’s nice to be able to re-arrange as our moods dictate.

14. Framed Photography

If you have not printed photos from your phone in awhile, let this be your nudge!

Modern rustic living room with wood ceiling, white walls, and framed greenery print - @annabode. #modernrustic #livingrooms #interiordesign
@annabode…in case a photo of plants is more your style than actual plants.

15. Ancient Pottery & Urns

What makes a modern rustic space feel chic is the layering of old with new, and ancient things just work.

Minimal modern rustic luxe sophistication with interior design in Chicago by Michael Del Piero.
Michael Del Piero…hello primitive goodness indeed.

Fortunately, we don’t have to invest in museum-quality ancient artifacts since there is a wide selection of primitive replica pieces.

16. Painted Brick

Painting brick is truly transformative and can mean the difference between a living room feeling stuck in the 1980s or 1990s and suddenly fitting into a scheme for modern life.

Modern rustic great room with white painted brick chimney, natural wood accents, and warm laid back style. #studiomcgee #livingroom #greatroom #beckhamproject #modernrustic
Studio-McGee…hello nubby textures and crisp whites indeed.

17. Woven Pendant Lights

Wicker, rattan, and woven pendant lights and lamp shades need not live in coastal homes exclusively. They add an organic global look to a room lacking warmth.

Leanne Ford's rustic modern living room with Hugh Holland skateboarder framed photograph and white painted brick fireplace. #leanneford #interiordesign #livingrooms #modernrustic #warmminimal
Leanne Ford (photo: Tessa Neustadt)…modern rustic living rooms to inspire and resources to get the look too.

18. Gallery White Walls

Sometimes gallons of gallons of bright gallery white paint will make the most difference in bringing a dated room into the present.

Scout & Nimble designed living room with white brick fireplace and modern rustic style. #modernrustic #livingroom #warmmodern
Scout and Nimble – shop the look!

19. Modern Abstract Art

BONUS: art looks fabulous against those white walls.

Black framed art on rustic wood mantel in a modern rustic living room designed by Scout & Nimble. #modernrustic #livingrooms #neutraldecor
Black Framed Art: FIND HERE…natural, neutral and also casual charm in a living room.
25 Modern Rustic Living Rooms - come be inspired by these gorgeous interiors on Hello Lovely. #modernrustic #livingrooms #interiordesign #getthelook
Pin me!

20. Tribal Textiles

I mean. Just study Michael Del Piero’s work!

Minimal modern rustic luxe sophistication with interior design in Chicago by Michael Del Piero.
Michael Del Piero…in case a collection in gorgeous muddy hues floats your boat.

21. Industrial Steel Windows

Believe it or not, I snapped this next image in Paris back in 2012! So you can definitely take a modern approach that can feel relevant for years to come.

Modern rustic interior design style ideas and home decor finds for admirers of industrial, vintage, farmhouse, and imperfectly lovely design! #modernrustic #interiordesign
Hello Lovely Studio…hello lovely, Paris, indeed.

22. Graphic Pillows

When you’re after a whimsical, lighthearted look, a simple statement will do.

Modern rustic interior design style ideas and home decor finds for admirers of industrial, vintage, farmhouse, and imperfectly lovely design! #modernrustic #interiordesign
BE FREE Pillow – photo: Hello Lovely Studio…in case an industrial modern farmhouse look appeals.

A friend’s former modern industrial farmhouse living room (above) was the coziest. The industrial farmhouse coffee table from RH is actually the exact one in my own living room, and someday, I’d love to make a similar leaner mirror.

23. Tour a Rustic Dream Home

Curious about the designer behind that home? It’s Jake Arnold, and you can learn the inside scoop behind the design here:

24. Linen + Black + Warm Creamy White Walls

Need a place to start? Here are three elements for a jumpstart. (See this for ideas for warm white paint colors.)

Detail of a linen Belgian style sofa with black accents on pillows in a modern rustic living room with design by @beautifulmesshome. #modernrustic #livingroom #belgianstyle
@beautifulmesshome…hello lovely texture indeed.

25. Rustic + Modern + Farmhouse

25 Modern rustic living room decor ideas. Home decor finds for admirers of industrial, vintage, farmhouse, and imperfectly lovely design! #modernrustic #interiordesign
Pin me for future reference!

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Decor & Furniture Resources: Get the Look

MADE FOR LIVING by Amber Lewis & Cat Chen (Clarkson Potter, 2020)

It’s not just living rooms inside this incredible design resource…here’s a peek at what also awaits:

Pillowy Anchor Designed by Leanne Ford

Viewing product image Ever Slipcovered Sofa
Ever Sofa…in case a comfy sofa is in your future.
Viewing product image Ever Slipcovered Sofa
Ever Sofa…hello lovely indeed.
Viewing product image Snoozer Charcoal Glider and Ottoman
Charcoal Glider & Ottoman…in case a modern design inspires.

Belgian Linen Pillows

Belgian Linen Pillow Covers Made with Libeco™ Linen
Libeco Linen Pillow Covers…hello sumptuous linen indeed.

Industrial Shelves

Kennesaw 5 Piece Hexagon Solid Wood Floating Shelf
Hexagon Floating Shelf…decor and also furniture ideas for living rooms.

Decor

Viewing product image Stevey Black Pitcher
tap for buying info
Viewing product image Stevey Black Pitcher
Black Pitcher – tap image for buying info
Viewing product image Stevey Black Pitcher
Stevey Black Pitcher…in case you need a versatile piece to work as a vase in any room.
Viewing product image Levon Carved Wood Floor Mirror
Levon Carved Wood Floor Mirror…hello gorgeous indeed.
Viewing product image Primitive Vessel Print
Leanne Ford for Crate & Barrel…a modern rustic mix of decor and furniture too.
Viewing product image Primitive Vessel Print
Primitive Vessel Print…in case you’re seeking art designed by Leanne Ford.
Oil Painting Original Custom Landscape Art by J Shears image 0
Abstract Landscape by JShears on Etsy…hello lovely indeed.

Industrial Inspired Lighting

Mcmichael Vintage 1-Light Armed Sconce
Set of 2 Vintage Style Sconces…hello friendly priced set indeed.
Hayhurst Industrial 3 Tier 18" Arched Table Lamp
Hayhurst Industrial 3 Tier Lamp…lighting, decor and also living room furniture ideas.
Diederich 2 Point Adjustable Goose Neck 22" Arched Table Lamp
Diederich Lamp – rustic decorating ideas…certainly lovely indeed!
Hankinson 5-Light Chandelier
Sphere Chandelier…in case you admire this fixture I have in my own home.

Nailhead Trim

Warner Upholstered Bench
Warner Upholstered Bench…in case you admire nailhead trim.

Patina Perfect

Geometric Floor Mirror. 16 Ideas for Industrial Farmhouse Style on Hello Lovely!
Geometric Floor Mirrorcertainly lovely indeed!
Modern rustic interior design style ideas and home decor finds for admirers of industrial, vintage, farmhouse, and imperfectly lovely design! #modernrustic #interiordesign
Photo/Design: A Beautiful Mess Home…certainly lovely indeed.

Only Looks Salvaged

Industrial farmhouse style Letter Blocks. #zinc #industrialfarmhouse
Letter BlocksRustic modern furniture and also decorating ideas.

Vintage Style Mirror

Find more modern rustic interior design inspiration RIGHT HERE.

Modern rustic interior design style ideas and home decor finds for admirers of industrial, vintage, farmhouse, and imperfectly lovely design! #modernrustic #interiordesign
Photo/Design: A Beautiful Mess Home…certainly lovely indeed.

For living room inspiration worth PINNING, go HERE.

One More Smile!

Funny quote and humor about dieting and healthy eating on Hello Lovely Studio. #funnyquotes #diethumor #foodhumor
PIN ME!

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Shop for items you already intended to buy on Amazon RIGHT HERE, and also find home decor here to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
Follow:

10 Comments

  1. Sandra Hinds
    January 8, 2019 / 10:37 am

    LOVED the video of Jenna Sue’s before/after. Amazing transformation!

    • michele
      Author
      January 8, 2019 / 1:44 pm

      Me too! When she was making over that home, I was forcing my husband to read all those posts since she was so awesome about sharing how to execute! Thanks for reading!

  2. Carole
    January 8, 2019 / 3:13 pm

    Michele, I love your first doormat. So funny. Sounds like something I’d like to say sometimes. However… I have clients coming to my home, so No Can Do right now.

    • michele
      Author
      January 8, 2019 / 5:16 pm

      Ha! Don’t wanna scare them off! 🙂

  3. Mary
    January 8, 2019 / 5:04 pm

    Liked those industrial shelves. Can I mix those with “Williamsburg”?…..Nah….The doormat made me laugh out loud. Might exchange Ryan Gosling for Paul McCartney, circa 1964. The cute one. They were all cute, right? I miss those guys. Am I way off subject? Sorry. Great post.

    • michele
      Author
      January 8, 2019 / 5:15 pm

      Thanks for reading even when it’s not yer cup of tea, friend! 🙂 Yes – let’s create a custom mat and sub Paul McCartney for Ryan! I love him too! Would love to meet the cute one. 🙂

      • Kasey
        January 9, 2019 / 2:52 pm

        I saw the door mat and thought “Huh, now THAT is funny!” I would use it myself. 🙂 Our house is ready for visitors probably 95% of the time but I do not like unexpected company — cuz I work from home.

        As to unexpected people (i.e. solicitors, etc.) well, if I’m not expecting them, the door never opens for them! As I explained to a guy trying to sell us a security system: “Oh yes, we DO have a security system. It’s called 3 Dog Night and Smith & Wesson.” He said, ‘Huh?? I’m not familiar with that brand” accompanied by a quizzical look on his face. I told him, “Go home and think about it!” LOL! (We have 3 dogs who earn their keep very well as companions and alert dogs and…welllllll you can figure out the rest. 😉 )

        • michele
          Author
          January 9, 2019 / 4:15 pm

          But another reason our dogs are so incredible and good to us! xox

  4. Connie
    January 9, 2019 / 3:00 pm

    Really enjoyed the ‘before and after’ video!

    • michele
      Author
      January 9, 2019 / 4:14 pm

      Thanks for viewing it – Jennasue is a superstar of a designer, renovator, blogger, and adventurer! 🙂

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing