The Difference Between Rustic, Country, and Primitive Design

There are many design themes to pick from today. Fashion and interior design have many influences which have opened a world of different categories. Through time, design themes have created subcategories and even combined with other styles to develop new ones. With so many design themes around today, it can be confusing to recognize some key features intended for these designs. Entirely different categories can be generalized as one. Rustic, Country and Primitive Design all have characteristics which are similar to one another, yet they also have key elements that individualize them. Knowing the difference can help you perfect your own design. Here is everything you need to know about the difference between rustic, country, and primitive design:

Rustic Design

Rustic design has several defining characteristics. Authentic and natural woods are commonly associated with this theme. Typically, all décor has a connection to a natural element with a man-made finish. These finishes can be distressed or weathered; however, they come with a little more styling in the design. Most colors in the design are earthy tones that can be found in nature. While rustic does have natural elements, it is not handmade pieces nor old décor. These are refined, pieces that are purposely constructed to complement nature, not feel like they are found in nature. This gives Rustic design a unique, sophisticated look between the three styles.

Primitive Design

Primitive design is more than a very basic design. It revolves around the earliest kind of design theme. It is not construed through purchasing country décor but is establish by unrefined, handmade furnishing. All furniture is only there to serve extremely basic needs. Sleeping, eating, and sitting. They are very crude and simple in design with exposed nails and are solely for practical use. They lack a sense of trendy styling and are generally antique pieces. These aged pieces are not usually purchased to style the room but are obtained or have been with the house during the time of purchase.

Country Design

This rural design is typically unfinished and not as complete of a look as rustic. Country design has many sub-categories like French, American, and cottage which can make it a little more challenging to identify. These styles will incorporate unfinished, weathered woods. It gives homage to rustic design while allowing primitive design to work and help create a statement. It uses the balance between the two to create something unique. It has the most extensive color palette of the tree designs, allowing unique, bold colors to be added for a contrast in the look. Country design will allow the colors to create a warmer and inviting atmosphere than the other two designs, yet all three designs can feel welcoming.

If you are considering adding one of these designs to your own home, study each one carefully to see which best matches the look you are trying to achieve. Knowing exactly what influences each design can help better guide you to recreate them in your own home.