Rustic style is all about bringing the outdoors indoors. It works with natural materials to create a homely, comfortable room that’s full of character. If you’ve had enough of ultra-modern, showroom-like bathrooms that you’re scared to step foot in, a rustic style bathroom might be for you.  So, on that note, let’s talk through our top tips for creating a rustic bathroom.

Wood Flooring

If there’s one design element that encompasses rustic décor, it’s wood. The simplest, and most traditional, way of incorporating wood into your bathroom design is to opt for a wooden floor. While wooden flooring might be no problem in other rooms of the home, the bathroom is where you can run into problems. Solid wood flooring tends to absorb moisture which, in the long-term, can cause the wood to warp and expand.

Luckily, there are substitutes to hardwood flooring that are suitable for bathrooms. Wood effect tiles are an ideal alternative. These will give the rustic appearance of a wooden floor, while also being waterproof and suitable for bathrooms. Wood effect tiles are available in many different finishes and colours, so you’ll have no trouble finding one to fit your colour scheme. 

Our RAK Circle Wood Beige Matt 19.5cm x 120cm Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile, for example, features natural beige shading that varies from plank to plank, along with exposed grains and rustic knots that will add plenty of individual charm and character to your new floor. 

Wood Walls

If you want to go one step further than wood flooring and are looking for a more country-inspired vibe, wood walls could be a great option.

The wood effect tiles we were talking about for the floor? They’ll work perfectly for the walls as well: many varieties are multi-functional so can be used for floor and wall.

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the maintenance of tiles, a waterproof wall panel in a wood effect pattern is another great option.

Exposed Brick

If you’re not a fan of wood, you could also opt for brick walls to achieve a rustic look in your bathroom. If you already have usable brickwork in your house that’s in good enough condition to leave exposed, definitely take advantage of it! The only downside is that brick can absorb moisture over time, so tile over any wall that’s likely to get wet (like inside your shower enclosure) to be on the safe side, and leave the rest of your bathroom with exposed brick for a stunning, rustic look.

If you don’t have any brickwork to expose (or you’re currently gasping in horror at the idea of exposed brickwork indoors), there are plenty of faux-brick options to help you achieve a similar look. Waterproof wall panels in a faux brick pattern are a great option that won’t be affected by moisture like real brick can be; they can even be used in your shower enclosure. 

Traditional Fixtures

While modern fixtures can work perfectly well here, there’s something about traditional-style bathroom fixtures that adds to the rustic feel that we’re going for. A traditional slipper bath such as the Kensington 1550mm x 720mm Single Ended Freestanding Slipper Roll Top Bath is perfect for a more rural, country-inspired appearance. Made with double skinned acrylic with a superb surface finish, this freestanding bath is mounted upon traditional claw feet to complete a breath-taking appearance.

You could also opt for a traditional basin vanity unit to add to the look, while also adding some extra storage.

One of the best things about rustic décor is that it gives you the freedom to be eclectic in your design choices and mix different kinds of styles. You could combine a traditional freestanding bath with a modern basin and toilet unit, or mix a vintage basin and toilet set with a modern bath. Whichever way you choose to combine pieces together, mixing styles will add to the lived-in, comfortable vibe that you’re looking for in a rustic-style bathroom.

Go Second-Hand

Rustic design is all about creating a comfortable, lived-in feel; worn-in, vintage items are ideal for adding to the look. Don’t be afraid to add some second-hand pieces into your bathroom décor.

Something like a vintage storage unit can look stunning in a rustic-inspired bathroom. Alternatively, you could upcycle an old, pre-loved piece of furniture and use it to add a personal touch to the room.

Accessories

The final touch: never underestimate the power of accessories. Add in eclectic accessories for a personalised, homely look. Houseplants are a great way to bring life to your bathroom and create a rustic, cosy feel. You can also finish things off with wood accessories, like a wooden bath tray, to add to the rustic design.

A rustic-style bathroom may not be for everyone but, for those who prefer a homelier and more rural look to their home, it’s definitely something that’s worth taking inspiration from.

Are you interested in getting the latest bathroom design trends? Then don't miss out on our newsletter - subscribe below!