For fans of interior design, Niki Brantmark’s blog, My Scandinavian Home is a must-read. Over the years, many of the amazing spaces she’s shared (like this mid-century dream) have led us down rabbit holes of pinning, pining, and extensive Etsy shopping. So, when we heard she was coming out with a new book on modern rustic homes, we had to learn more.
In honor of the book’s release, today we’re sharing a Q&A with Niki and four modern rustic styles from Modern Pastoral — illustrated with Etsy finds, of course.

What makes a modern rustic home?
Modern rustic is about combining contemporary style with the pared-back lifestyle of the countryside. Nature is an important part of the interior, whether in the form of architecture, decor or furnishings.
What is the common thread throughout all the styles outlined in Modern Pastoral?
The homeowners of the ten homes in Modern Pastoral are brought together by the desire to lead a simple life and tap into the therapeutic vibe of the countryside. As a result, the interiors all work to bring the tranquility of nature indoors, to create a space in which they can truly relax.
Why does this design style resonate with you?
Although I grew up in London and live in Malmö (Sweden’s third largest city), my family and I love to head to the nearby forest – or our cottage on Sweden’s west coast – on the weekends to “switch off.” This desire for a back-to-basics lifestyle, even just for a few days at a time, is becoming more and more common. By drawing nature indoors, we are creating a relaxed “haven,” which helps us to focus on what’s important: personal space, family and friends.
The homes featured in Modern Pastoral fall into four distinct styles, all deeply inspired by nature.
Style #1: Forest

Inspired by the forest, these interiors are dark with pops of color. They’re often filled with natural exposed wood that catches the light — bringing life to the rich colors and textures. The wood is combined with traditional patterns, woven rugs and a wood burning stove for a warm, cozy vibe.
Shop the Look:
Reclaimed wood bench by Hardman Design Build | Shop Reclaimed Wood Furniture
Wooden Tray by Gray Works Design | Shop Wooden Trays
Style #2: Graphical

The graphical interior is recognized for its clean lines and the striking monochromatic contrasts you find in a winter’s day, like sharp black and grey features silhouetted by white walls. The look is softened with warm, soft textures, like as a cowhide rug, sheepskin throws, and stacked firewood.
Shop the Look:
Vintage Antlers by Shaving Kit Vintage | Shop Vintage Antlers
Sheepskin Throw from Ecostep | Shop Sheepskin Throws
Style #3: Homestead

The homestead look is made up of rich autumnal colors: warm brown tones, beige, and milky white. Whitewashed walls provide the backdrop for wicker chairs, rustic wood furniture and baskets. Natural elements such as freshly laid eggs and honeycomb bring nature indoors.
Shop the Look:
Vintage egg cup from Red Rooster 1980 | Shop Egg Cups
Table runner by Loken Loom Weaving | Shop Woven Table Runners
Style #4: Waterside

Think soothing interiors decorated in cool white, soft greys and blue to conjure up the play of light on the surface of water. These homes feature rough textures such as raw slate, concrete and reclaimed wood that contrasts with warmer rattan, cotton and wool for an oasis of comfort and calm.
Shop the Look:
Concrete Bowls by Concrete Project | Shop Concrete Bowls
Throw blanket by Texturable Decor | Shop Throw Blankets
All interiors photographs taken from Modern Pastoral by Niki Brantmark. Photography by James Gardiner, published by CICO Books.
What’s your modern rustic style? Tell us in the comments.
Shop Home Decor
1 Featured Comment
Niki Brantmark said 5 years ago Featured
Thank you so much for inviting me to talk to you about Modern Rustic! I love the images you have chosen from my book (and the Etsy products to match)!. Thanks to everyone for all your lovely comments too, I've really enjoyed reading them all! I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did writing it. /Niki
132 comments
Sue from SuesAkornShop said 5 years ago
I do like the modern rustic look. Love the runner and throw blanket!
Elena Krasnenkova from FrostbergDecor said 5 years ago
Great article! My modern rustic - style #4: Waterside! Cleanliness and warmth of nature!
Aga from AgasJourney said 5 years ago
Beautiful, calming and inspiring!
fragilecircuitV from VintageBlend said 5 years ago
Every choice is a winner. Great taste.
Michelle White from SPARKLESandSASS said 5 years ago
I am in love with this look... Awesome!
Vera Hall from hoosiermamma1 said 5 years ago
I'm not much for modern, but in this context, it's almost warm. Love the sheepskin throws.
Megan from MegansMenagerie said 5 years ago
Beautiful! Love the forest look!
Tempy from UrbanGreyWhale said 5 years ago
Love it. Love that first photo especially. It looks very clean and modern yet cozy and warm.
monikad from monikad said 5 years ago
Having calm, relaxing surroundings is what helps me to be most creative. Really like these looks.
DivineOrders from DivineOrders said 5 years ago
GLORIOUS read! Thank you for sharing the serene & calm of rustic heaven. Peace.
Adrienne from DabAndDabble said 5 years ago
Waterside Graphical...that's a choice right? ♥
Alba Castellano from QuePinQuePanMagnets said 5 years ago
Excelent!
Julia K Walton from FireHorseVintageHQ said 5 years ago
This is the look I aspire to for my home - I love it! :o)
Maria Novaes from SiverLining said 5 years ago
Love the graphical style although I think it needs to be a little warmer.
Relly from RelsFindsNapaValley said 5 years ago
I love the modern rustic style. The earth tones make you relax and feel the natural elements... I love all the design ideas feature here. The book "Modern Pastoral by Niki Brantmark is definitely to look into.
Debra Gilstrap from gilstrapdesigns said 5 years ago
Beautiful modern rustic looks!
nlbgrammy from Qt2t said 5 years ago
I love the Modern Rustic look and am inspired to get outside more by looking at her designs. I think a "time out" (outside in nature) is needed by many.
SIMONA AL NSEIR from Hyndussidstudio said 5 years ago
Wonderfull
Donna Laken from LokenLoomWeaving said 5 years ago
These rustic homes are just breathtakingly beautiful - I need this book!!
Blackberry Bungalow from BlackberryBungalow said 5 years ago
Fabulous mix!
FanniesGirlsVintage from FanniesGirlsVintage said 5 years ago
Love the Graphical. I wonder how my husband would feel about painting the fireplace black. Thanks for sharing.
Nancy from GoldenDaysDesigns said 5 years ago
Beautiful rooms. I love them all!
rosebudsvintage from WillowsWear said 5 years ago
Love all the looks. Will be doing over my Custom 1920's Cape this Spring and this sure makes my head all a buzz with possibilities. I already have original wrought iron latch door handles. Hmm! going to grab a tea and start planning. Thanks!
Niki Brantmark said 5 years ago Featured
Thank you so much for inviting me to talk to you about Modern Rustic! I love the images you have chosen from my book (and the Etsy products to match)!. Thanks to everyone for all your lovely comments too, I've really enjoyed reading them all! I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did writing it. /Niki
Kashuen Collectibles from Kashuen said 5 years ago
I like the forest look. Hopefully my 70's home can be like that look soon.
Mary Moorkens from MaryMoorkens said 5 years ago
How does a look that is so clean feel so warm? It just blends beautifully. The wonderful comfort of wood and the open feel looks amazing. Details soften and flow - I'm loving the style - chosen and written with feeling.
DecadesOfVintage from DecadesOfVintage said 5 years ago
I love the soothing colors in waterside...cool white, soft greys and blue...always the best!
River and Andrew from BentandBound said 5 years ago
I think this look appeals to so many people because it brings us back to an essential part of our ancestory as human beings. Designing our spaces around nature feels good because we used to, and still do, depend on nature for our survival. These elements also bring us back to a simpler time, and create a welcome break from modern life.
Kathya from aLittleBirdTweetme said 5 years ago
I absolutely love all these ideas but specially the WATERSIDE one. I love those floors!! Definitely will try to incorporate one of those ideas into my not-so-close-to-the-sea apartment!
Paul Miller from 7MWoodworking said 5 years ago
Great write up! Very cool contrasts in those pictures
Cristy Ramos from ArtisanBathandBody said 5 years ago
I love the the Modern Rustic Look! The Graphical and Waterside looks are my favorite. I love how the white walls go along with the wood flooring. I think they would look great on any kind of home. The Forest one is also nice but I feel like the look would go better with a house or a cabin in the mountains. It just looks so cozy and warm that it will make me want to stay and sleep all day. The Homestead look is my least favorite but I still like how everything falls upon the Modern Rustic Look. It is like making the old feel new again and that just excites me! If I could, I would like to incorporate my whole house with the Waterside look which best fits my home in my opinion. Thank you for sharing this post!
Quality Handmade Items from WhisperingOak said 5 years ago
Beautiful non cluttered look. The floors are amazing
Deb and Priscilla from AveryandAllen said 5 years ago
Love the modern rustic looks! Love them all but Forest is my favorite. Thanks!
Barbra Joan Originals Joan from BarbraJoanOriginals said 5 years ago
So fresh, calming and clean , yet it gives that welcoming warm look. I'm loving it, thank you.
accentonvintage from accentonvintage said 5 years ago
Great article!
Ginger Annette from AlvatonDesignStudio said 5 years ago
The opening image and Modern Pastoral's cover photo are especially appealing. The warm chocolate and caramel tones of the wood are a soothing counterbalance to the coolness of white. The stone on the book cover provides an organic feel, and the pop of color in each room adds humanity. Overall, the simplicity combined with age grabs me. Niki, what lovely photographs and what inspiring looks! And Aleksa, your article is educational and interesting.
Christina from TheWildPlum said 5 years ago
Modern Rustic is home to me. Wonderful article!
NeatoKeen from NeatoKeen said 5 years ago
Love that table runner!
LivingVintage from LivingVintage said 5 years ago
Awesome. Great style.
Renee from RandMhandmade said 5 years ago
I love the look of rustic..it adds warmth and coziness to all homes. Thank you for sharing!!!
Liz B. from GossamerandQuill said 5 years ago
#4 I really want that room! So gorgeous!
Debra from NestingComforts said 5 years ago
Love both forest and waterside! I find the focus on nature deeply comforting. One of the most exciting features yet!
Rachel Bingaman from BingArt said 5 years ago
Just gorgeous look! There is something deeply soothing in the modern rustic look :)
Proton ThreeD from Proton3D said 5 years ago
great post!
ACR from WoodsyWools said 5 years ago
Love this look!
Sandy Wiggins from SandyWigginsImages said 5 years ago
Love the feature! Give me an old barn and Niki's book and I'd be in heaven.
Ombretta from indielabvintage said 5 years ago
I love them all! perfect gorgeous style!
Rasa Rabaciene from PRINTDECOstudio said 5 years ago
Love the post!
Sue Aguilar from BeadedBySue said 5 years ago
I've never been fond of anything modern but am pleased with the ease of this combination. Rustic is very comforting and brings an emotional and physical sentiment when life was simple and a lot less stressed. I was amazed with the immediate level of peace and tranquility I felt when I first laid eyes on these pictures. I must see more! Thanks for sharing.
DeUno from DeUno said 5 years ago
Beautiful!
Zoui from XZOUIX said 5 years ago
Modern rustic is my favorite fusion (especially rustic pieces mixed with minimalist/industrial). it gives the flawless impression of a cozy and cool to every living space :)
Sissi Hand from SissiHand said 5 years ago
This post is very of inspiration for create an unique atmosphere in a home. Thank you
Austin Daikon from Daikonic said 5 years ago
Great inspirations and spot on images!
Catherine Dauphin from DauphinTimeCapsule said 5 years ago
I can dream of of the day I can pull this off. It's stunning. I love the clean, no clutter look.
Carol Bender from BarnshopAntiques said 5 years ago
Very beautiful, I thought Homestead was my favorite...till I saw waterside. Now, that would be a great home decorating goal.
Elizabeth Knaus from FreshRetroGallery said 5 years ago
The fun of modern rustic is finding a vintage piece that gets conversations going.
Lynda from Pintody said 5 years ago
I love rustic but this doesn't do anything for me. Grey just makes me depressed. Nice idea for a vacation place but not something I could live in.
Fiona from FifonaDesigns said 5 years ago
Beautiful photos! There is such a calm feeling about them.
Marc Gounard from marcgounard said 5 years ago
Thanks, great ideas, photos and simplicity in decoration, less is more.
Martine Taillant from GalerieTaillant said 5 years ago
Je ne suis pas fan des cranes d'animaux. L'alliance bois et pierre est très chaleureuse. Il me manque ma touche de couleur! I don't like animal skulls at all. Wood and stone are warm. I miss my colour touch!
Patty McCartan from PATTYSCANVASOFCOLOR said 5 years ago
Thanks for sharing! I've always loved the warm rustic look.Using the different animal hides adds a lot of interest and texture to a room. Another place to find cow hides and sheepskin rugs of all sizes and colors is Overland Sheepkin.com there is always a large selection to choose from. Great blog!!
Patty McCartan from PATTYSCANVASOFCOLOR said 5 years ago
Correction above...overland.com check them out!
gazaboo from gazaboo said 5 years ago
LOVE this look! Great inspiration for a treasury! www.etsy.com/treasury/MTA5ODMwMDV8MjcyODI0MDIwOA/modern-rustic
Priscilla from Gardenmis said 5 years ago
My favorite decor style!! Gorgeous rooms, love this post! :)
Janne Perry from ClosetGothic said 5 years ago
Me to a T - just bought the book and can't wait to receive it!
HydrangeaJewelry from HydrangeaJewelry said 5 years ago
Beautiful.... I love everything made with wood. I want to live in there right now. Soooo lovely!
Angie ThrowItForward from ThrowItForward said 5 years ago
Great post! All of the images were soothing calming environments with lovely ETSY items.
ronda Tedder from simplethymeprims said 5 years ago
Wonderful post! ... lovely products, thanks so much for sharing!
Stacy from TinySacredThings said 5 years ago
Beautiful photos. I'd love to read the book.
Lumlux from Lumlux said 5 years ago
Beautiful photos, great home decorating style.
Anastasia from AnnaLeesAttic said 5 years ago
Great post!
kim rhodes-thomas from pinksnakejewelry said 5 years ago
Beautiful!!!
Amy Gale from AmysFlair said 5 years ago
Love the modern rustic look, totally floats my boat!
benna and hanna from bennaandhanna said 5 years ago
the Waterside looks easier to achieve if you live in an all white apartment with hardwood floors.
Sujata from TreasuredMemoryLane said 5 years ago
Awesome mix of modern and rustic look. Great ideas!
Renata Sponn Design from Sponndesign said 5 years ago
Truly inspiring! I love the modern rustic style.
Paula Mucha from ilPiccoloGiardino said 5 years ago
Interesting about 'modern rustic'. It looks more minimalist to me.
Suzie Valentine Allan from SuzieValentineAllan said 5 years ago
Gorgeous images and so inspiring. Loved all the looks - need to go and curl up in a big soft blanket by the fire now!
Amy from NaturalVintage said 5 years ago
Wow,so gorgeous ! Great styling and writing! Thanks for this feast for the soul !
renee and gerardo from GTDesigns said 5 years ago
Beautiful feel from every list - amazing designs!! TFS!
TheSewingGin from TheSewingGin said 5 years ago
Inspirational.
Kaz from kazzycaboodles said 5 years ago
Whoa all of these designs are fantastic. I am seriously having a bit of a drool at the waterside one. Defs bookmarking this for when I acquire a home!
Susan from susantique said 5 years ago
Living in Texas, I lean towards southern farmhouse rustic with elements of industrial, like lighting created from old pulleys and sculptural elements made with old farm equipment salvage. I collect bluebonnet paintings and Texas pottery too, like stoneware jugs in putty white glaze and painted souvenir examples made by Meyer Pottery. But I do love this modern twist! Great feature!
Flora from InnerWild said 5 years ago
Yay for Niki and her gorgeous new book being featured on Etsy! I've been a long-time subscriber to myscandinavianhome, thrilling to the daily beauty. Unlike other interiors and decor websites Niki links through to a wide range of individual Etsy shops she's found as sources for similar items featured on her blog. It's good to see her being supported here.
Kate from TwoOfAKindSupplies said 5 years ago
Absolutely lovely, simple, calming. When can I move in?
Linda from rust2retro said 5 years ago
Love, love, love!
Sunita from VintageGatorShop said 5 years ago
Very Inspiring!
Jafeth Moiane from handicraftafrica said 5 years ago
Beautiful items. Congrats!
DivaInTheDell from DivaInTheDell said 5 years ago
LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Natalia from KMalinkaVintage said 5 years ago
Awesome style!
Olga Guzhevnikova from MurMurik said 5 years ago
Lovely !
Sandra from PreserveStudio said 5 years ago
Nice post and perspective on rustic interiors. I do like the way it all comes together in the pictures. It's rustic minimalist which I like very much. Thanks for sharing.
Vintage De Mar from VintageDeMar said 5 years ago
My cup of tea! ;) Great job!
Patricia Lee from KingsFlowers said 5 years ago
Really original style!
Paula from OldMapsandPrints said 5 years ago
I am loving all of this!!!!
Liz Kastein from shewearstruth said 5 years ago
This makes me want to curl up and enjoy a good book next to the fire!
Rosita from pillowlink said 5 years ago
The rustic modern - analysed really great in these photos. I enjoy reading this very much as it seems this style match what I am doing very much..
Ombretta from indielabvintage said 5 years ago
fantastic design for a fashinating atmosphere!
aressa from OriginalBridalHanger said 5 years ago
Love this! Something pretty comfortable about it....
elle and belle Forster from elleandbellejewelry said 5 years ago
All beautiful spaces and unique Etsy finds!
Katrina Dzerkale from Dominna said 5 years ago
I love the concrete bowls !
Amy from ArtofLinen said 5 years ago
My apartment was a horse stable before, huge beams and all, I've tried to keep the old character with earth tones and spots of modern, this is inspiring. Great photography, great designs!
Jyoti Baheti from SageMadeDesign said 5 years ago
love it! Awesome designs. Interiors have dramatic yet simple.
Jennifer Younge from RoosterStudios said 5 years ago
I love rustic that is also sophisticated!
wensaccessories from wensaccessories said 5 years ago
very nice designs
Clarrisa Gonzales from IsaLeeDesigns said 5 years ago
Oh my gosh- I LOVE this post! This look is exactly my ideal style- especially #1. Love, love, love it! Thanks for sharing!
Naama Keinan from namulheadband said 5 years ago
I love rustic too! Great article!
Walter Silva from WalterSilva said 5 years ago
Love this look!
Tatiana Mira from DesignbyTati said 5 years ago
wonderful post!!
Jeanne B from PruAtelier said 5 years ago
My dream home will be like a barn structure, mostly white and bright with lots of windows, skylights, white floors, lots of greenery, a rustic kitchen and pantry, farmhouse dining table and a huge white linen or canvas-covered sectional for guest seating! For heating, I would love a white tile Swedish or masonry stove that heats for a whole day without having to constantly feed it and that doubles for cooking! Add some dogs and cats and I'm set!
Dig Deep Vintage from digdeepvintage said 5 years ago
Wow-that sums it up!
Kay from LakeBreezeVintage said 5 years ago
After looking at these photos, I'm almost ready to say good-bye Shabby and Chic hello Modern Rustic.
taniyose42 from Soloideas said 5 years ago
Beautiful tank you
Lizl from TheSilverStudy said 5 years ago
Absolute perfection, love it!!!
K L from KShopping said 5 years ago
So beautiful!
UNEMPLOYED Custom Orders Wanted USA Made Superhero Cufflinks Wedding Jewelry from boloties said 5 years ago
New ideas! Thank you!
Katy Allgeyer from ArtBarn said 5 years ago
Fits right in with summer in Maine. Love your shop!
Suthida Samipakdi from SomethingInTheBox said 4 years ago
Awesome !! I'm a big fan of Rustic Look !!
Nadia B from BasicKnitwear said 4 years ago
Awesome interior!
kelly hickey from edieandglo said 4 years ago
CUTE! My husband and I call this style "collected eclectic" and have furnished our home this way. LOVE it!
J.B. Hoffman from JBHoffman said 4 years ago
Great blog!
Achara Patthong from AcharaSilver said 4 years ago
Gorgeous !
Denise Elliott Jones from DeniseElliottJones said 4 years ago
nice!
Debra from RusticModernDesigns said 4 years ago
I Love the Modern Rustic/Rustic Modern look!
Lil Miss Country from JewelryStorePlus said 4 years ago
I Love them ALL, but my favorite is "The Homestead"...I love Rustic/Primitive/Country...Not necessarily in that order...lol Thank for sharing.. :)
Joanna from SugarTheArt said 4 years ago
LOVE this look!
steven Mitchell said 4 years ago
Beautiful photographs. Reminds me of the year I lived in Sverige. Tack!
Flair Nouri from FlairPaintings said 4 years ago
You have really good taste and talent!!
Bonnie Lecat from bonnielecat said 4 years ago
Great article and beautiful shots:) LOVE the modern rustic look!!
Elizabeth and Jeffrey McGee from AdliteCreations said 3 years ago
We love wood as a decorative material. It has such great character, and there isn't a color that doesn't blend well with it. Bringing nature indoors does have a truly relaxing element about it :-) Blessings, Elizabeth
Liz .the Lizard Lady said 2 years ago
in our new home, we took vinyl tongue and groove flooring that looks like barn wood, and used it on a focal wall. I love it so much. (the paint looks like it is peeling, and 5 different shades of paint/bare wood-- but all smooth)
Nội thất ATZ LUXURY from thietkenoithatatz said 104 days ago
Impressive design, I'm also a fan of the Scandinavian style