Rustic Country Interiors: 19 Whimsical Ideas brings together pleasing design elements: white and rustic. My own interiors reflect neutrals and white decor, and plenty of peeks are HERE. Country style, vintage chic, white painted everything, and airy neutral interiors follow. So if you love a serene, airy, unfussy look…get ready!
![White on white Scandi living room with modern sofa, jute rug and neutrals - Villa Jenal.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/white-cozy-scandi-swedish-living-room-with-modern-sofa-villa-jenal.png)
19 Ideas From White & Rustic Country Interiors + Whimsical Decor
1. Hang Vintage Plates Together
It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of that!” moments, yes?
![Rustic white country dropleaf table and a collection of vintage plates hung on the wall for a whimsical display by Le Cultivateur. Come see White & Rustic Country Interiors: 19 Ideas to Add Whimsy. #countrydecor #countrystyledecorating #vintageplates #rusticcountrydecor #whitemodernfarmhouse](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/le-cultivateur-rustic-country-drop-leaf-table-with-vintage-plates-on-wall.jpg)
2. Play With Scale & Silhouettes
Great big chunky vintage pendant with delicate lines on a modern style stool? It’s visually engaging and a little unexpected.
![Leanne Ford designed serene and vintage cool study in HGTV's Rock the Block. Come see White & Rustic Country Interiors: 19 Ideas to Add Whimsy. #leanneford #vintagestyle #rocktheblock #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/leanne-ford-hgtv-rock-the-block-study.jpg)
I love how Leanne Ford breaks all the rules by ignoring formulas for rug sizes, how art must be hung, and just about everything in the design world!
![Annie Dillad inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inspirational-quote-for-new-year-hello-lovely-studio-no-one-escapes-wilderness-annie-dillard.jpg)
3. Shiplap One Wall For A Rustic Statement
More can be more, but a little can also go a long way. Cladding every wall with shiplap makes sense in some instances, but if you’re after a lighter look or just want to ease into the idea, an accent wall is lovely.
![Urban farmhouse rustic design elements with black and white in a Wisconsin farmhouse. #hellolovelystudio #modernfarmhousedecor #shiplap #barndoor #farmhousedecorating #blackwindows](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/1900-renovated-urban-farmhouse-beloit-wisconsin-020.jpg)
And shiplap may be growing tiresome for many, but it can still be chic!
4. Add Luxurious Pristine Marble For a Rustic Refined French Inspired Look
A marble backsplash is so elegant yet pairs beautifully with more rustic accessories and accents.
![Luxurious French range with copper pots on rack above and open shelving in the bespoke kitchen by L'Atelier Paris. #frenchkitchen #frenchrange #luxurykitchens #bespoke](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/0001-french-country-kitchen-bespoke-latelier-paris-illinois.jpg)
I mean there’s nothing fancy frou frou (except the French range is very ooh la la) in this rustic French farmhouse kitchen, yet the marble subway elevates the mix.
![White French farmhouse interior design with rustic vintage charm from Dreamy Whites Atelier. #frenchfarmhouse #decorating #interiordesign #whitedecor #dreamywhites #whitefarmhouse](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/rustic-white-kitchen-dreamy-whites-atelier.jpg)
(And marble accents upon marble counters? Yes, please!)
![Annie Dillard inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inspirational-quote-for-new-year-hello-lovely-studio-spend-the-afternoon-annie-dillard.jpg)
5. Add Beaded Board for Texture
You can ask my husband. I just can’t get enough beadboard in my life, and I won’t apologize. It’s one of those humble, affordable, timeless, easy to live with design elements that makes every thing look more welcoming if you ask me.
![Rustic white beadboard backed shelves in a country cabinet filled with white vintage treasures - Le Cultivateur. #whitecountrydecor #countrycabinet #beadboard #toneontone #vintagestyle](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/le-cultivateur-rustic-country-shelves-with-white-beadboard-and-vintage-dishware.jpg)
I never did add beadboard to our bedroom’s bath (as I intended) so maybe in the new house…
6. Create a Serene Vignette in the Kitchen
Pretty garden roses are so perfect in a white rustic kitchen!
![A farmhouse stoneware urn with Francis Meilland garden roses in my kitchen - Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/garden-roses-blooming-in-kitchen-white-vases-2.jpg)
And Tracie of My Petite Maison can style the heck out of a white rustic assemblage!
![Gentle white on white decor scheme in a Nordic French interior by My Petite Maison. #whitedecor #toneontone #swedishdecor #nordicfrench #whitecountrydecor #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/nordic-french-white-country-room-my-petite-maison.jpg)
![Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inspirational-quote-for-new-year-hello-lovely-studio-blessings-desert-anne-lamott.jpg)
7. Board & Batten for Architectural Interest
While it is becoming increasingly common to see kitchen backsplashes extend to the ceiling, look what happens when it extends higher than the standard 18″ yet leaves space for a pleasing vertical board and batten detail…
![A glorious modern rustic farmhouse kitchen by Leanne Ford for the Faraci family on Restored by the Fords. #restoredbythefords #leanneford #interiordesign #farmhousekitchen #modernfarmhouse #kitchendesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/leanne-ford-warm-minimalism-modern-farmhouse-kitchen-4-alexandra-ribar.jpg)
8. Paint Exposed Rafters White
Here’s an idea I have always wanted to try.
![A charming white rustic vintage cottage in England (Wynchelse) by the Beach Studios is available for rent. #whitecottage #interiordesign #rusticdecor #shabbychic](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/wynchelse-photo-shoot-location-south-east-08.jpg)
Ever done this? I would like to try it in our basement at the new house, but there is so much wiring happening that I’m unsure how that would look.
9. Add Cheerful Color to a Neutral Vignette
White rustic country style lends itself to ease when it comes to colorful accents since everything works.
![White board and batten farmhouse vignette with Sherwin Williams Extra White paint color - design: Ashlyn Carter. #sherwinwilliams #extrawhite #bestwhitepaint #whitepaintcolors](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/ashlyn-carter-white-board-and-batten-sherwin-williams-extra-white.jpg)
10. Create Warmth With a Wood Island
When you’re after an informal, unfussy look, there are so many opportunities to add warmth with light toned wood.
![White kitchen with natural wood design elements for a cozy neutral mood - Lulu & Georgia. #whitekitchen #modernfarmhouse #kitchendesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/001-warm-neutral-cozy-kitchen-lulu-georgia.jpg)
And don’t you love that rustic wood pantry next to the Smeg? So unfitted and perfect even though it’s completely a departure from the Shaker style white cabinets.
![Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #annelamott](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inspirational-quote-for-new-year-hello-lovely-studio-grace-bats-last-anne-lamott.jpg)
11. Display White Vintage Treasures Together
I am trying to concentrate on this post’s commentary and not immediately open FB Marketplace to search “alabaster vintage lamp!”
![White vintage alabaster marble lamps grouped together in a rustic vignette by Le Cultivateur. #whitedecor #countrystyle #countrydecor #toneontone](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/le-cultivateur-rustic-country-white-decor-alabaster-vintage-lamps-massed-together.jpg)
Mixing white things is an art, and fortunately, we can get better at it by studying the work of artists.
![Gentle white on white decor scheme in a Nordic French interior by My Petite Maison. Come see White & Rustic Country Interiors: 19 Ideas to Add Whimsy. #whitedecor #toneontone #swedishdecor #nordicfrench #whitecountrydecor #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/white-nordic-french-country-interiors-my-petite-maison.jpg)
12. Mix Varying Values of White
If you watch home design shows on television, the reveal inevitably features a homeowner uttering “it all just matches so well together.” And what they really mean is they love the harmony and mix.
![Rustic white country cottage bedroom with white painted wood floors and simple vintage accessories - Atlanta Bartlett.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/91ffba_beb32e1d82d84c0f93cc17b447ffbfd0.jpg/v1/fill/w_645,h_967,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/91ffba_beb32e1d82d84c0f93cc17b447ffbfd0.webp)
You don’t want to match all of your whites in a space, but you do want to pleasingly gather pale colors and then layer them artfully.
13. Vintage Glass Bottles & Jars Make Sweet Vases
White labels are jars don’t seem to be terribly common which is a shame since they would be more likely to be recycled!
![Gentle white on white shabby chic decor scheme in a Nordic French interior by My Petite Maison. #whitedecor #toneontone #swedishdecor #nordicfrench #whitecountrydecor #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/nordic-french-white-country-room-my-petite-maison-hydrangea.jpg)
14. Dare to Be Spare Interiors
It’s the easiest trick in the books. If you love white, adore rustic, and are after a sophisticated country modern look, SUBTRACT. Stand back and decide if you can peel back even more.
![White shabby chic vintage boho bathroom design with clawfoot tub and round wood accent pedestal - Atlanta Bartlett.](https://www.beachstudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/cheserton-photo-shoot-location-london-70.jpg)
15. Add Industrial Glass to a Sliding Door
Outlining anything in black is going to draw the eye through it, and in the case below, the black strengthens the industrial feel and modern look of the door.
![White painted wood floors in a den with vintage shabby chic decor and rustic modern minimal style by Atlanta Bartlett.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/91ffba_fd1020f5213b40e9a01dba17ca03ded8.jpg/v1/fill/w_645,h_967,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/91ffba_fd1020f5213b40e9a01dba17ca03ded8.webp)
I find that some rooms just call for black, and others are just fine without it. There’s an intuitive element to so much of home decorating, and sometimes you can just sense when the added strength of an outline, border, or frame is needed.
![Ted Loder inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inspirational-quote-for-new-year-hello-lovely-studio-prayer-grace-ted-loder.jpg)
16. Unify Disparate Furniture in a Space With White Paint
A room full of vintage pieces can begin to feel busy and disjointed. Painting inexpensive pieces white can change the mood completely.
![Serene bright white English country cottage living room with white painted wood floors, Swedish settee, and pink accents - Atlanta Bartlett.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/91ffba_f5de21c7c8554e548153bd323b6f59c0.jpg/v1/fill/w_645,h_967,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/91ffba_f5de21c7c8554e548153bd323b6f59c0.webp)
17. Introduce Distressed Wood Texture in the Bath
I love it when an otherwise elegant white bath is humbled and warmed with the addition of a distressed wood finish.
![Distressed and rustic wood board used as bath tray over clawfoot tub in a shabby chic bathroom by Atlanta Bartlett.](https://www.beachstudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/cheserton-photo-shoot-location-london-14.jpg)
It could be an accent like this bath try, but it could also be a wood door or repurposed antique vanity cabinet.
18. Paint the Floor White
If you’re thinking of doing this, I have read all sorts of contradictory advice. Some folks will insist on porch floor paint or garage/concrete floor epoxy. Others will recommend oil based white primer. And still others say use your favorite paint and top it with a sealer.
![White paneled walls and rustic vintage daybed in a shabby chic cottage bedroom with white painted flooring - Atlanta Bartlett.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/91ffba_4c8c1df94b21431db6d17c5fd49fa5d4.jpg/v1/fill/w_645,h_967,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/91ffba_4c8c1df94b21431db6d17c5fd49fa5d4.webp)
All I know is, it makes sense to test a sample of the floor material…scratch it, see how it reacts to water, etc.
19. Mix Modern With Vintage
There’s always the threat of an all white room looking too sterile or too granny-in-a-bad-way. So make sure to mix up the eras.
![Serene white and minimal living room with leather pouf ottomans in a London home flooded with natural light - Atlanta Bartlett.](https://www.beachstudios.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/cheserton-photo-shoot-location-london-73.jpg)
![Inspirational quote about peace by Etty Hillesum on Hello Lovely Studio. #peacequote #inspirationalquote #quote](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/light-grey-inspirational-quote-peace-etty-hillesum-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
A Fun Before & After!
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
White Decor, Country & Whimsical Finds
Apparently I am still fixated on alabaster table lamps…
![Ritchey Alabaster 30" Standard Table Lamp](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/18705068/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/5246/52461302/Ritchey+Alabaster+30%2522+Standard+Table+Lamp.jpg)
White Kitchen Island
It can be nearly impossible to find a piece with simple, clean lines so it works with a variety of design styles. Here’s an exception:
Modern simplicity!
Rustic Baskets to Charm
If you’re lucky enough to find vintage examples at the flea market, lucky you!
![French Country Vintner's Rattan Basket](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/73810590/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/3747/37475924/French+Country+Vintner%2527s+Rattan+Basket.jpg)
In the mean time, find a placeholder to add warmth with all the white.
![2 Piece Wicker Basket Set](https://secure.img1-fg.wfcdn.com/im/76440557/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/4432/44325475/2+Piece+Wicker+Basket+Set.jpg)
While it isn’t rustic, a slope armed Belgian style accent or dining chair looks right at home with a rustic farm table.
![Linen Slipcovered Dining Chair](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Linen-Slipcovered-Dining-Chair-300x517.jpeg)
Chunky knit throws have a modern whimsical look and are so functional.
![Brezza Chunky Knit Merino Wool Throw](https://secure.img1-ag.wfcdn.com/im/54694664/resize-h800-w800%5Ecompr-r85/5878/58780597/Brezza+Chunky+Knit+Merino+Wool+Throw.jpg)
Whimsy can greet you at the door in the form of an entry table that sets a tone.
![Rustic distressed zinc farmhouse style table with wood top.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81Vt1FQiZGL._SL1500_.jpg)
Whimsical Decor & Touches
On the right country porch, these galvanized planters can add casual charm.
![Rustic iron planters on stand for French farmhouse, European country, and French inspired interior decorating.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81zffS-4JKL._SL1500_.jpg)
Anything angel wing themed seems to fly off the shelves (still!) so if you find lovely examples, scoop them up.
![Distressed grey wooden decorative angel wings.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81fraXYHUSL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Rustic wood potting bench for French farmhouse decorating and European country style interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81mCrRlpLDL._SL1500_.jpg)
Decor Finds to Add Whimsy
![Burlap wrapped faux lavender bundle for French farmhouse decor and European country style interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81bjuXBHRWL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Distressed turned wood rustic French candle holder.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71JoLWnQKiL._SL1500_.jpg)
Click here to PIN THIS POST to save it for future reference…you know you are going to be searching for it!
Distressed Finishes & Patina Style
![Antiqued metal Paris pocket watch wall clock for French country, French farmhouse and European country style interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91ofJSFJw4L._SL1500_.jpg)
![Embossed metal rustic French bucket set - French farmhouse decor idea!](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A1hZ4RIJfOL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Distressed wood decorative ladder for French farmhouse decorated rooms.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Q3n3vJdGL._SL1500_.jpg)
When you need something inexpensive for a rustic white room…
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Aep%2BY2PNL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Pretty White Accent
![Cream White cotton woven pillow with tassels for French farmhouse and European country decorating and interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81dTA4Fi6FL._SL1500_.jpg)
![French farmhouse style white ceramic vase set of 3 vases.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81O2sz5NZPL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Mongolian lamb skin rug for serene Nordic French farmhouse decorating and Scandinavian country style rooms.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/817Plalf9%2BL._SL1500_.jpg)
![White vintage style stoneware pitcher for French farmhouse kitchens and European country decorating and interior design.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81-zYZ9WwcL._SL1500_.jpg)
To Err is Human, To Forgive, Canine
![Reserved for the Dog - a pillow to add whimsy to your sofa, bed, porch, or chair at home.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81CWgSi36mL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Charming and whimsical antiqued bronze dachshund paper towel holder - a weenie roll holder to add personality to your kitchen or bath.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71lKEtlr6KL._SL1500_.jpg)
Decor & Furniture to Bring Personality
![French farmhouse style iron arch top mirror with birdcage like style.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A1dunEiWl9L._SL1500_.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81JzF%2BMGE-L._SL1500_.jpg)
![Round bronze accent table with accordion style base and little claw feet - a chic side table for living rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms and beyond.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81Zbc%2B3kFNL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Rustic wire basket in oval shape for French farmhouse decorating and European country style spaces.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81qTXOlBuwL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Seagrass basket set for coastal style decor and farmhouse style interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91mr64yx8ML._SL1500_.jpg)
![Rustic tin planter on casters for French farmhouse and European country gardens and interiors.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81CtWbavoHL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Stoneware jar with bee image for French farmhouse style spaces and European country decorating.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71E-t4LmdvL._SL1500_.jpg)
![Vintage style metal laundry basket with wheels - perfect for a French country or European farmhouse room.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91xM56rzRML._SL1500_.jpg)
![Rustic white French farmhouse style vase set for European country style interiors and decorating.](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/31RBPDWB2UL.jpg)
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!
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thank you Michele…. thank you for today..
Author
Thank you for reading, Berenice – peace to you right where you are.
I can’t find the place to vote. The link takes me to how many votes bloggers have. I dont see anywhere that says vote
Author
Thanks so much for trying! There are columns, and the second column says vote – so you click on the number to add a like. No problem if it is too confusing – I appreciate your efforts. 🙂
Such beautiful images to start the day with! I loved all of them. A white/neutral pallet is my favorite—❤️ Have a peaceful, beautiful day!
Author
Thanks so much – now that we are back from the desert, I am aching for spring and lightened up interiors!
Hi Michelle— I’ve already left a comment, but I have a question I’ve been meaning to ask you. I don’t know if you still have your Arizona house, but I’m interested in knowing if you have done any more remodeling to it? I am curious because it looks very similar to houses we have in Southern California. I’m not aware of any decor blogs that address these types of houses specifically. I’m very curious to know how you applied your beautiful style to this type of home.
Author
We sold the Arizona home and are in the market for acreage there since we have the itch to build something. So I am hopeful that a new project will arise. With our house there, we challenged ourselves to make changes that would not involve demo and dust – cosmetic tweaks to customize the builder’s grade elements we inherited with it. There were some challenges for me as a blogger – it was tricky to ever get decent photos because of the strong sunlight, but in person, I loved how it bathed everything in light. It was also interesting to live in a ranch style home again – it seems two stories feel more like home to me! The lack of a basement for storage was another issue that gave me pause – we simply could not accumulate excess (a good thing!) and also live clutter-free. The way I kept that place feeling like us: airy, Euro inspired, soulful, serene, and restrained included a very tranquil color palette, a mix of vintage furniture, and original artwork. I spent much of February in Arizona and wish we were building this moment!
Thank you! I’m excited for your future plans! Blessings 🥰
Author
Peace to you, friend. xox
On your list of bloggers, you are number 11, not 47. I just clicked on your blog.
Author
Thanks so much for letting me know. 🙂