HOW To CREATE a Rustic Kitchen While Honoring the Existing Space

Written By Ariela Bakken

Creating a Rustic Kitchen While Honoring the Existing Space

When designing this kitchen, we had a few challenges to overcome—the most significant being the existing brick fireplace and supporting wall that extended from the floor to the ceiling.

While the fireplace had its charm, it made the kitchen feel enclosed and restricted natural light from flowing through the space. Removing it was a game-changer. Not only did it open up the floor plan, but it also created a seamless visual connection from one side of the home to the other. The transformation was nothing short of breathtaking.

One of the things we did that was a little out of the box was to place our range on an exterior wall with a window above it. This posed multiple opportunities for creative solutions. For one, the window had to be just the right height and width for it to work with the hood, existing beams and the range. This took a little bit of math and framing, but we were able to achieve the desired look. Now our clients enjoy cooking and looking out their beautiful back yard and enjoying the nature and wildlife around them.

We chose to place the sink and dishwashwer in the center island. This worked out great and created a moment where our clients can still be part of everything else going on with family in the living room, across from the kitchen. I wish we had images of the gorgeous vaulted ceilings above the living room. You’ll just have to imagine them.

Before & After

 

Celebrating the Beauty of Natural Beams

From the moment we stepped into this kitchen, we were captivated. The warmth and authenticity of the solid natural wood beams and vaulted wood ceilings (opposite the kitchen, not in the pictures) were a rare find—something that couldn’t be replicated with new materials. We immediately recognized the privilege of working with these architectural features and wanted them to take center stage.

At the same time, these elements presented unique design challenges. A supporting post had to be seamlessly integrated into the island, and existing beams required careful cabinetry planning, with some cabinets built around them and the backsplash expertly fitted to create a flawless transition.

Blending Contrast and Light

To balance the richness of the natural wood, we opted for light-toned cabinets that would introduce an airy feel to the space. Against the deep, earthy tones of the beams and ceiling, the white cabinetry created the perfect contrast—crisp, fresh, and timeless.

For the island, our clients wanted something darker to ground the space. A richly stained wood island provided the perfect balance between rustic warmth and refined elegance.

The Perfect Flooring Choice

With the beams, ceiling, and cabinetry choices in place, the next step was finding the right flooring—one that would complement the natural elements without overpowering them. Flooring is one of my favorite selections to make in any remodel because it has the power to transform the entire look and feel of a home.

Durability and low maintenance were key priorities for our clients, making luxury vinyl plank flooring the perfect choice. We spent hours at some of our favorite showrooms, sifting through samples, and considering undertones, texture, and width variations. In the end, we landed on a wide-plank design with alternating natural wood tones and variable lengths to mimic authentic hardwood. The result? A perfectly balanced floor that harmonizes effortlessly with the rustic wood beams and stained island.

Appliances & Fixtures: Timeless Stainless Steel

With so much character in the fixed elements of this space, we opted for stainless steel appliances and fixtures to bring in a sleek, modern touch while maintaining a classic feel.

Quartz Countertops: A Soft & Elegant Finish

To complete the look, we selected a 3cm Calacatta Karmelo quartz for the countertops. The soft white background with delicate veining added just the right amount of movement without competing with the existing natural textures in the space.

Make it stand out

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We are so proud of the finished look and find it met our client’s needs and desired style. As always, we feel so thankful for the opportunity to work with the best clients and look forward to hearing how they enjoy the kitchen for years to come. We love to say, New Home, Same Address, and that’s exactly what we were able to achieve in this remodel.

To sum everything up here is our Rustic Kitchen Design Checklist to guide you in creating a warm, inviting, and timeless kitchen with rustic charm.

1. Honor Natural Materials

✅ Use exposed wood beams to add warmth and authenticity.
✅ Incorporate brick, stone, or reclaimed wood for texture.
✅ Opt for handcrafted or distressed finishes on cabinetry and furniture.
✅ Bring in wrought iron, aged brass, or copper fixtures for a vintage touch.

2. Balance Warmth with Contrast

✅ Pair light cabinetry with rich wood tones to create depth.
✅ Use a stained island as an accent piece for visual contrast.
✅ Select soft, neutral countertops (like quartz or marble) to keep the space airy.
✅ Add open shelving with rustic wood for a layered, organic feel.

3. Choose Timeless & Durable Finishes

✅ Opt for wide-plank flooring with varied tones and textures.
✅ Select stainless steel or matte black fixtures for a modern yet timeless touch.
✅ Choose natural-looking luxury vinyl plank (LVP), hardwood flooring or stone-like tiles for durability and easy maintenance.
✅ Pick countertops with subtle veining for a clean yet rustic look.

Bonus Tips for a Rustic Kitchen Feel

✅ Use vintage or handmade tiles for a backsplash with character.
✅ Incorporate warm lighting (pendant lights, sconces, or chandeliers).
✅ Decorate with natural textures like woven baskets, wood cutting boards, and ceramic pottery.
✅ Add functional yet decorative storage with glass-front cabinets or antique hutches.

Want to remodel your home with confidence? Download our FREE eBook: 10 Tips You Need to Know Before Remodeling!

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Ariela Bakken
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