Decorating Guides
Decorating Styles
10 Ways to Get the Modern Rustic Lodge Look
Soaring ceilings, log walls and woodsy views are just the start of creating a lodge that has the right balance of rustic and modern
Think of the lodge as the Jurassic Park version of a cabin. Large timber trusses with full log walls and beams take center stage, while industrial metals play a structural and aesthetic role. The scale is massive and the views spectacular. Once the bones of these beautiful homes are in place, the furnishings will define smaller areas and bring the "cozy" to the lodge. Read on for 10 elements that create this style.
Soaring ceilings. The main room of a lodge is where you’ll usually find a soaring ceiling — the fireplace and pillars will follow. This photo depicts another example of how rugs and furniture placement create smaller living areas within a large room. Light fixtures and artwork can get lost in the grandness, so go big.
Drama. The backdrop for this room is the red barnwood. Using a completely different look on the cabinetry and island gives this room dimension. Don’t be shy about pulling in something a little more refined, such as adding legs to your island. Just make sure you follow the scale of the room, or your piece might drift toward looking too dainty.
Anchored spaces. Because of the open layout of a lodge, rugged materials should be carried through all the spaces, with features and appliances kept to scale. The extra-large island and stone-surrounded eight-burner range anchor this space within a larger great room.
An organic look. The twisty ladder makes this room feel magical, Alice in Wonderland–ish. Keep log accents and furniture in their original form whenever possible. See the bark on the post?
Contemporary touches. Take advantage of the large room sizes in a lodge. In the bathroom, float an oversize tub in the center of the room. Work contemporary fixtures in to keep the look modern and less themed. Modern and rustic styles complement each other beautifully.
Intentional decor. The wood features and view should get the attention. Make the accent pieces count — splurge on antique rugs, large copper containers and woven baskets.
Soft spaces. With all the stone and wood in a lodge, there are a lot of jagged edges, so make sure there are places to settle in and absorb the view. Layered rugs, oversize leather furniture and window seats will do the trick.
Furniture with soul. The lodge has soul, so make sure your furniture does as well. Weathered pieces work well in creating the vibe. Adding a tailored, upholstered piece will bring another level of sophistication to the room.
Furniture made with building materials. Many builders have talented woodworkers on staff. If you are using interesting materials in your room, see if the builder can incorporate those into a piece of furniture. It will make the spacious rooms relate to the items residing in them.
You can emphasize these spaces with color, like with this kitchen's bright green cabinetry and red dining chairs.