Aged, weathered items are an easy way to add to a rustic patio or deck.
Rustic patio and deck designs take advantage of earthy tones and textures in combination with secondhand items to create charming outdoor spaces loaded with personality. The choice of building materials is just as important as the accessories when it comes to creating a rustic look. Natural stone and wood are frequently merged with salvaged furniture and vintage indoor décor. When planning your own rustic patio or deck, bring your personal touch to the design. After all, one of the key elements of rustic décor is the livability of the look. Does this Spark an idea?
Materials
Aged materials are the starting point when designing a rustic style patio or deck. Natural stone pavers or reclaimed bricks are solid flooring choices, making a more personal statement than mass fabricated options. Walls can be covered with weathered wood siding or rusted metal sheeting. These materials can be found at scrap yards or garage sales for very affordable prices, and will continue to blend into the space as they weather and age outdoors.
Furniture
Rustic patio furniture can be created as simply as moving a beat-up wooden dining set outdoors. You can truly let your creativity shine. Look for potential furniture options in unlikely places, such as old wine barrels, crates and steel milk jugs. These found items can be cleaned up and painted or left in a raw state to act as chairs, tables and benches. Even better, they double as conversation pieces.
Accessories
Good accessories for rustic outdoor spaces take advantage of aged and worn materials in the same way that furniture and building supplies. Metal and wood are popular options because they tend to take on more charm with age. Even mundane items can become artistic elements when allowed to rust or bleach in the sun: vintage silverware can be hung on walls and old mirrors can open up the space. Crates, boots, bathtubs and old sinks can be turned into fun and whimsical planters with a few drainage holes.
Paint
Walls are often forgotten in efforts to liven up the rest of the outdoor space. Walls, however, are a critical component to creating a rustic look. Color-washing adds a seasoned look to the patio or deck. One color is applied to the wall and allowed to dry. A second similar color is diluted with glaze and wiped on for a streaked, aged effect. You can even allow drips and spatters to run down the wall, giving the impression that the paint has been washed away by years of rain.
Key Features
Focal points are important to any patio or deck design. Because rustic decor is all about livable space, the focal points of your rustic patio become especially important. Fireplaces, barbecue areas and water features are all common aspects of a rustic design. Each can easily be blended into the final look by selecting materials that fit the theme. Metal barrels work as homemade fire pits and grills. Old wine barrels are options for a rustic water feature.
Tags: patio deck, your rustic patio, creating rustic, creating rustic look, Natural stone, outdoor spaces