Rustic bathroom ideas aren't just limited to exposed brickwork and upcycled furniture. Here's how to tackle this popular look without it feeling unfinished
Combine rustic materials with modern finishes for a wow factor(Image credit: Wilsonart)
If you assume rustic bathroom ideas are reserved for country cottages or farmhouse renovations then think again. Combining natural materials with contemporary or classic bathroom fittings can achieve a look that's welcoming but still oozes with style.
And according to the experts, it's also trend we're set to see more of. "Rustic bathrooms are having a bit of a revival," says Richard Ticehurst, Burlington Bathrooms brand expert. "From exposed beams to natural materials and vintage accessories, the rustic look is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere with a touch of charm."
So if you're mid bathroom design and keen to create a look that's definitely more than minimal, join us as we dive into 15 rustic bathroom ideas.
1. Add stonework for a sense of rustic charm
Stone walls add a sense of rustic charm (Image credit: Burlington)
Exposing stonework to add a sense of rustic charm is nothing new when it comes to interiors, but doing it well in a bathroom is important to avoid it feeling cold or unfinished.
This scheme is a good example of how successful it can be when the right mix of finishes and colours are used to good effect.
In keeping with the traditionally styled sanitaryware, the designers here have added warmth through wooden beams and flooring, wooden accessories and an off-white paint shade and cream textiles.
And stonework doesn't always have to be exposed. Stone effect tiles can be a great alternative if you prefer to keep everything new. If a full wall is more than you'd want to consider, a pebble mosaic border could be a less impactful alternative.
2. Peeling paint effects give a chateau style vibe
Peeling paintwork will give a sense of French je ne sais quoi (Image credit: Carpetright)
Yearn to escape to life in a French chateau? There's something about this rustic bathroom idea that transports us straight to life in the Provence region of France.
With the smooth painted plastered walls, curved cut out alcove shelves, exposed beams, Moorish patterned flooring and peeling paintwork on the bath and plant urn, it's a scheme that oozes rustic vibes.
The piece de resistance? The three tier hanging chandelier style pendant light that instantly turns this scheme from shabby into chic.
3. Add bold colour to a rustic detail
Modern panelling nods to a sense of rustic design (Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
Although bathroom wall panelling ideas can be used to achieve a variety of looks, using them in a rustic bathroom idea doesn't always have to mean using bare or stained wood. Adding a dramatic colour, such as this Starry Night blue from Benjamin Moore, elevates the scheme into one where modern and rustic combine to achieve a striking result.
Softened with the addition of wooden seating, softly toned rag rugs and a pale wooden floor, the addition of quirky accessories such as the extending brass candle holder add layers of character and charm which means it sits comfortably within the definition of rustic rather than contemporary.
4. Showcase your artistic talents
Paint a charming landscape in your bathroom for a rustic touch (Image credit: Annie Sloan)
If you love the idea of adding a mural to your home, but aren't quite brave enough to tackle a whole wall, why not treat your bath panel like a canvas and paint your favourite landscape for a sense of rustic design.
Prefer to keep your talents under wraps? This idea would be perfect if you're looking for ensuite bathroom ideas as it's a room less likely to receive visitors. Complete the look with a fabric shower curtain, a collection of treasured accessories and you've got all the elements of a charming rustic bathroom idea.
5. Choose tiles with an earthy appeal
Although these tiles are named 'Mud', they're far from dirty (Image credit: Real Stone, Tile & Bathroom)
if your definition of rustic is something that simply looks more natural, you're not alone according to Leigh Price, co-director of Real Stone, Tile & Bathrooms.
"We tend to see many customers who come in looking for a rustic feel, opting for stone-effect tiles, to re-create the highly coveted ‘stripped-back’ appeal of timeless country homes.
"A popular example of this, and one of my personal favourites, is Flaviker’s Re_Tour range, which features a trendy worn effect."
"Inspired by French rustic stone, the collection greatly appeals to customers who are looking to build character in their homes, as the intentional imperfections and natural shade variation of the range offers both uniqueness and authenticity."
6. Use nature's colour palette for added rustic appeal
Choosing colours associated with nature can add to a rustic bathroom idea (Image credit: Carpetright)
If you love the idea of exposed painted brickwork, natural wooden tones and materials such as wicker, but still crave colour, choose shades associated with nature say the experts.
"Opt for earthy tones such as muted greens and warm whites," says Richard, "and pair with natural materials such as wood or stone through vanity units, countertops, tiles, or exposed shelving."
Add a pop of yellow for some extra sunshine warmth.
7. Combine city chic with wooden walls
Even if your view is of a skyline you can still add a rustic feel (Image credit: Wilsonart)
Although a city skyline view isn't one you'd associate with rustic charm, as this bathroom demonstrates, combine contemporary features with rustic wooden style finishes and you can create an an instant wow-factor.
Who wouldn't feel grounded to the earth with their back against these wall panels while being drenched by a deluge of water from this ceiling mounted shower head? It's everything we love about modern bathroom ideas combined with a natural wood effect for a unique rustic city style.
8. Install a bath that feels carved from stone
This egg shaped bath feels hewn from stone (Image credit: Real Stone, Tile & Bathroom)
An alternative contemporary take on a rustic bathroom idea can be seen with this stunning egg-shaped freestanding bath that almost feels hewn from stone.
The dark earthy tones of the bath help draw out the darker tones of the wall and floor tiles but there are also other elements in this scheme that prevent it from feeling too modern.
Firstly, the addition of the textured wall tiles which have a mosaic like feel and add a textural effect to the otherwise smooth tiles and bath. Secondly, the use of a wooden block like stool which provides a handy resting spot for toiletries. And last but, but most certainly not least, the bathroom lighting ideas.
Although in modern bathroom ideas it can be tempting to rely on using recessed spotlights and LED strip lights, the use of these vintage style pendant lights over the bath provides a charming finishing touch that adds character.
9. Scaffold style planks will guarantee a rustic bathroom feel
The use of scaffolding plans leaves no doubt as to the theme of this bathroom (Image credit: Piglet in Bed)
If you're renovating a property and are keen on upcycling as many materials as you can, why not search for some salvaged scaffolding boards to use as your bathroom decor?
It's a back to basics approach that will add warmth, character and a unique sense of style to your bathroom. Use the planks on walls, to create vanity units and even for shelving. Complete the look with artwork, plants and brightly coloured towels. All essentials to ensure it's a rustic bathroom idea rather than a Scandinavian style sauna.
10. Consider furniture finishes
Choosing the right materials is essential for a rustic bathroom idea (Image credit: Daals)
Rattan is great option for rustic bathroom ideas. Both the colour and texture add a sense of detail that's in keeping with a more natural approach to design. For a nod, rather than complete bow to the theme, consider buying bathroom furniture with rattan panels - or even tackle it yourself as a DIY crafting project.
11. Brass or golden tones are best for a rustic feel
Pick taps, radiators and handles that are brass or golden in finish (Image credit: Ca'Pietra)
"Another great way in which homeowners can easily incorporate a rustic feel into their bathrooms is through their choice of brassware," says Leigh.
"Brushed brass and copper shades are both ideal options for those who are aiming to achieve an 'unpolished' interior, and we have also seen several leading brassware brands now offering intentionally worn styles to fit this aesthetic."
Pair brass and gold with brick slip tiles and a wooden vanity unit, but instead of choosing wood for your bathroom flooring idea, opt for a botanical inspired floor tile to add a meadow like feel to your rustic bathroom.
12. A traditional basin will add charm
This rustic bathroom idea has a characterful basin to add charm (Image credit: Thomas Crapper)
Although there are a number of rustic ideas in this bathroom, one to note is the vintage style basin and stand that adds character and charm.
"A classic pedestal basin further enhances the vintage vibe," says Richard and we'd agree. And although this scheme uses chrome rather than brass, choosing a vintage style chrome WC cistern, along with rustic wood effect tiles on the floor plus more traditional style lighting all combines to create a bathroom full of quirky rustic charm.
13. Bare it with brick
A bare brick wall can't fail to look rustic (Image credit: Thomas Crapper)
Even though rustic doesn't have to include bare brick or exposed stone, there's no denying the instant rustic feel it adds to a bathroom. But, if you don't have a bare wall to expose, you can still achieve this look with brick slip tiles. They're so good it's often hard to tell the difference.
Finish the look with a column radiator, brass vintage lighting, switches and this amazing high level cistern from Thomas Crapper. Adding a sense of glamour to the humble downstairs loo, you can't fail to admire the charm and detail in this rustic bathroom idea.
14. Adopt an overseas rustic theme
A wooden bathing tub is rustic in style but sleek in appearance (Image credit: Indigenous)
Prefer your rustic ideas to still have a level of polish and pizazz? Consider other continents for their own take on a more natural theme and install a Japanese style soaking bathtub in a simple bathroom setting.
If your bathroom renovation or self-build plans allow, place the tub near a large window and compliment it with pebble style hooks and a simple wooden stool for a feeling that's as close to outdoor bathing as the UK climate allows.
15. Coastal charm can be rustic too
Use faded coastal charm to add a rustic feel to your bathroom (Image credit: Annie Sloan)
If your prefer a coastal rather than country vibe, take inspiration from this bathroom by Annie Sloan.
Featuring faded blue chalk paint effects, a deep blue floor, weathered stool and wooden storage barrel, along with faux painted wall panels, it's a rustic bathroom idea but with ocean hues.
And without any tacky bathroom decor in sight, it's full of character and charm and without doubt, rustic in it's finest form.
Richard is a brand expert passionate about design, quality and performance. An inspirational, creative sales and product trainer, his background in European manufacturing, projects and retail has led to him coming a product expert in bathrooms.
Leigh Price
Leigh Price is the Co-Director of luxury bathroom and tile specialist Real Stone, Tile & Bathroom which was founded over 14 years ago. Leigh is well versed in all elements of bathroom design, offering creative and practical advice for everything from tiles to fixtures and fittings to help you achieve the look you desire.
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Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs. Although she said she would never buy a listed property again, she has recently purchased a Grade II listed apartment. As it had already been professionally renovated, she has instead set her sights on tackling some changes to improve the building’s energy efficiency, as well as adding some personal touches to the interior.
