The term “rustic” doesn’t  just refer to one particular style, but rather to a group of styles based on rural location and a family centered lifestyle. This architecture can include Farmhouses, Cottages, & Cabins, in several styles.   Many farmhouses were modeled after popular architectural styles at the time they were built, such as Victorian, or English Country.  Some rustic homes were designed for their location or local materials. Farmhouses are family friendly and well-functioning.  Mud rooms for boots, kitchens with the dining room connected, fireplaces. Modern farmhouse plans present streamlined versions of the style with clean lines and open floor plans.

Many of these styles can also be seen reflected in Storybook Style Homes.

Farmhouse

Modern Farmhouse

Cottage

Simply charming is how the cottage can be described. It’s not over-done, yet is lovable in a complex sort of way. They are cozy, comfortable, charming and sometimes whimsical.  Inspired by English and French country homes of the middle ages, today a cottage-style house typically refers to a small home, made of stone or wood siding. They can feature a curved brick walkway, Dutch doors, arched dormers and gabled roofs. Climbing vines and overgrown flower gardens complete the look.

Cottage interiors can be decorated with English Country, French County, Farmhouse, or Eclectic Vintage.

English Country

French Country

French Provincial, Normandy

Here’s a modern French Country style house that I designed: French Country Style House  Design by AW

Cabin