Relaxed Country Style that Refuses to Take Itself Overly Serious celebrates pale palettes, pleasing rustic design elements, and whimsy. Whimsical touches can truly be what separate spaces devoid of personality and those that spring to life. But whimsy does something else too. It keeps an interior from veering into territory where it feels unapproachable, too serious, and possibly even sterile. Also see brilliant inspiration from Leanne Ford to understand neutrals, modernity, warmth, and cool factor.
![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)
Relaxed Country Style that Refuses to Take Itself Overly Serious
![Serene and spare all white Scandi style living room with Mora clock - Villa Jenal. #frenchnordicstyle #nordicfrench #livingroom #swedishdecor #moraclock #interiordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/005-villa-jenal-white-living-room-french-nordic-decor-2.jpg)
1. China Displayed as an Art Installation
Don’t you love when a traditional decorating gesture like treasured china patterns or decorative plates hung on the wall is pushed to the extreme?
![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)
It’s whimsical fun, and there’s no wrong way to do it since it’s all about art, intuition, and a relaxed mood.
2. Big Branches on a Small Table or Desk
We see this combination everywhere on IG and in styled shoots for magazines, but is it really something that works on an everyday basis in an average home? I say yes. The branches can be everlasting ones if you don’t have access to a steady supply of them.
![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)
It works because it becomes a bold moment for nature to shine, but it’s a humble kind of spotlight rather than a showoffy one.
![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. Add Texture to an Accent Wall
Maybe you’re over shiplap. It doesn’t have to be strictly shiplap. I never tire of beadboard. Or it could be a tonal wallpaper. But don’t feel obligated to cover every wall with it. Sometimes you just want a concentrated moment that draws you to it rather than a more diffused moment that wraps you in the texture.
![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)
If you’re shy about patterns and textures on walls, it’s also a great way to experiment with something new for you. If you can’t tolerate it after awhile, it’s much easier to change out one wall or part of a wall than all four.
4. Combine Rustic Wood With Luxurious White Marble
This next kitchen is a reminder that kitchens should feel warm and user-friendly rather than fancy and too pristine. Just look at what the wood shelves do in this elegant space! And the walnut butcher block against the white!
![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)
Adding stacks of cookbooks is another great way to warm a space and help it become a place you actually live in and love.
![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)
What do you hide away in a kitchen, and what do you display? It’s a subjective matter, but if your kitchen feels as though it is buttoned up too tight or taking itself too seriously, maybe it’s time to bring a rustic or whimsical element out of hiding.
![Healing quote from Jung Pueblo on Hello Lovely Studio. #personalgrowthquotes #perfectionism #healingquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/healing-quote-perfectionism-jung-pueblo-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
5. Go Doorless
Not every kitchen lends itself to this idea, but if you have a vintage space where the door fronts are not doing the space any favors, maybe they can disappear.
![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)
As far as dusting the contents of the cupboards? See how it goes. I can also imagine a linen curtain casually hiding clutter while adding softness.
Another idea for corralling things on shelves and inside open cabinets? Woven baskets.
6. Place Florals and Plants in Simple, Un-fancy Containers
Whether it is pretty garden roses or common houseplants, choosing a more rustic urn or vase is a decorating move that can keep the mood less fussy.
![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)
If you ask me, Tracie of My Petite Maison is a master of (1) using rustic containers as vases and
![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)
(2)creating elegant vignettes and interiors that feel humble and quietly rustic.
![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)
Nothing is too perfect or precious or zhushed according to a contrived IG reel or TikTok 1-2-3.
![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)
Similarly, Le Cultivateur has fun mixing and massing her treasures and beautiful things. I could stare and admire these marble lamps, each with a unique patina from the years, as if they are fine art.
![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)
![Funny pet tweet on Hello Lovely Studio. #pethumor](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/001-funny-animal-quote-cat-socks-humor-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
7. Board & Batten With Subway Tile
It is becoming more common to take a kitchen backsplash to the ceiling, and the look can be stunning. However, sometimes the look can seem a bit too institutional or commercial. Look at what happens when a simple board and batten joins a little subway tile:
![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)
To me, it says “we aint all that fancy round here and are wayyy into cozy factor.”
![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)
8. Soften an Industrial Look With Bold White
Wait. White to warm up an interior? Oui. In a cottage like this one, we can easily imagine how the mood changes when wood is left natural with various shades of brown. There’s a busy-ness that happens with lots of different brown stains and textures.
![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)
When it all becomes a snowy white, a soft ethereality emerges.
![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)
9. Mix & Layer Whites
It may not be obvious at first, but the painted floor below is a light grey and not a white matching the walls.
![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)
Ever see a reveal on HGTV where the homeowner exclaims, “it all just matches!” What they truly mean is that there is a cohesiveness to the materials and objects that feels natural and calm.
![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)
Matching whites is not the goal when you’re putting together a tonal room. You’re not massing one shade of white as much as artfully layering warm, cool, greyed, and tan hues.
10. Introduce Contrast for Drama
It’s an easy trick. If you love white, adore rustic, and are after a sophisticated country modern look, use a light hand as far as accessories, and introduce a contrasting neutral color.
![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)
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)
Some neutral rustic country rooms just call for black, and others feel natural 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.
![Funny food humor: I'm just a girl standing in front of an éclair asking it to be kale](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/funny-quote-about-eclair-and-kale-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
I certainly don’t need pops of black in this room:
![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)
And I find the addition of this salvaged wood as a bath tray is genius with the more elegant Venetian mirror below:
![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)
All I know is, it makes sense to test a sample of the floor material…scratch it, see how it reacts to water, etc.
11. Embrace a Vintage Modern Vibe
To minimize the risk of an all white room looking too sterile, too fancy, or too great-great-granny-in-a-bad-way, blur 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.
Gorgeous White Things & Whimsical Finds
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!
If you’re lucky enough to find vintage examples at the flea market, lucky you!
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.
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)
Whimsical Decor & Touches
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)
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)
![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)
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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…
![Iron and crystal chandelier](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)
![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)
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
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So much inspiration here! And a surprise to see the round accent table – I actually have one. I bought it at the gift shop at the Birmingham (AL) Botanical Gardens several years ago. I always thought it looked very Parisian. That table appears in a couple photos in one of the featured homes in the new issue of Country Home.
I’ve printed out a couple of your recent Words of Wisdom. Guideposts for where my life is at the moment.
Author
Don’t you love those finds that show up in other beautiful places!?! What a pleasure to have you here adding to the beauty. Thanks so much for visiting and the support. 🙂