Exterior Rustic Decorating

Siding

• If you want your home to have a rustic, log cabin appearance, forgo vinyl or aluminum siding and opt for solid wood. In particular, cedar siding offers an attractive, natural look for your exterior because it does not need to be treated with any type of finish. As a result, the wood's natural texture and graining are visible, and the siding can weather naturally for a rugged, worn look. You may opt to have your cedar siding installed horizontally, vertically, diagonally or a combination of the three. If you want to mimic the look of a log cabin, horizontal installation is the best option. However, you can add visual interest to your home's façade by incorporating some diagonal elements as well. If you prefer to finish the siding, a semi-transparent, oil-based stain can impart light color to cedar.

Doors

• To give your home's entrance a rustic feel, swap out your existing fiberglass, steel or aluminum door for one made of wood. As with the siding, wood provides a natural, country feel that makes your home appear warm and inviting. Opt for a hardwood door for added security and stability. You can choose a door that features glass panels as well, but for the most rustic look, solid wood is usually more authentic. Look for one with a warm, medium stain that allows the wood's natural graining and burls to show through.

Chairs

• If your home has a porch, Adirondack chairs are ideal accessories for creating a rustic look. Named for the Adirondack Mountains in New York, these chairs are made of wooden planks that form a curved back and contoured seat that is low to the ground. They also feature armrests for added comfort. While chairs are the most traditional type of Adirondack furniture, you can also find gliders, porch swings or tables in the style. For the most rustic look, leave your Adirondack chairs with a natural wood finish. However, a coat of white, blue, red or yellow paint can brighten up your home's exterior if you prefer.

Benches

• A stone bench is an ideal alternative to Adirondack chairs if your home does not have a porch. Mixing natural materials like stone and wood is common in rustic décor, and pairing stone furniture with cedar siding creates an interesting contrast in color and texture that contributes to a country feel. Stone benches come in a variety of sizes and designs, and look especially attractive when set beneath a tree or beside other greenery.