SNUG SANCTUARY
‘less is more’ principle, as having fewer items means each can be given more space, and they can become individual home ‘stars’ in their own right.
■ Rustic tip: Give rooms a timeless feel with a mix of well-crafted furniture, from a variety of different eras and made from beautiful materials. You don’t have to buy new; instead source from charity shops, flea markets and auctions as these items will have the patina of age and can be restored or up-cycled.
CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY
THIS look proves you don’t have to own a classic country cottage with roses around the door to live in rustic style – any modern space can be adapted to conjure a country dynamic and feature rustic-chic details.
“Think clean lines, striking monochrome and rugged stone surfaces reminiscent of snowy, weather beaten landscapes,” says Niki. “Graphical homes play with contrast: sharp black and charcoal-coloured features are silhouetted by white walls and ceilings.
“The look is softened with warm textures such as cosy sheepskins, cowhide rugs, stacked firewood and foliage gathered from the surrounding countryside.”
■ Rustic tip: Ramp up the light.
Long dark winters are a fact of life in Scandinavia, so making the most of natural light is a priority there.
Cotton or linen blinds instead of heavy curtains – especially in summer – allow more light to flood through windows and won’t block any view of the great outdoors.
Painting walls and floors white is another way to maximise light and make spaces seem larger.
IF YOU’VE fallen in love with rustic but a full revamp is out of the question, why not conjure a cosy nook which reflects elements of the natural world?
“It’s about creating an oasis of comfort and calm,” says Niki.
“Plants, flowers, feathers and collections of pebbles all play a part in connecting the home with its environment, and creating a sense of continuity between the outside and inside.”
Featuring rough textures, such as raw slate and concrete, will bring a space to life, she adds, and can be complemented by the addition of natural wood and rattan.
■ Rustic Tip: Colour is gradually seeping into Scandinavian homes but be sparing with bright shades.
Earthy, calm soothing tones – such as gentle greys, soft blues, pale greens or subtle shades of brown – are the way forward.
If you’re nervous about plunging into the palette, paint the ceiling and leave walls white.
■ Relaxed Rustic: Bring Scandinavian Tranquility and Nature Into Your Home by Niki
Brantmark, photography by James Gardiner, is published by Cico Books, priced £19.99.