Admittedly, I’m very careful when it comes to color schemes. I’ve kept it pretty neutral so far when it comes to paint, preferring to use embellishments to add color and personality to create a rustic style that I love. I’ve learned for years that a soft color scheme of white, cream, and beige works best for my aesthetic, while darker shades are meant to make a statement and are better suited for bolder, maximalist spaces. , we’ve followed a proven formula.
But Joanna Gaines’ recent peek into the butler’s pantry convinced me that I was actually playing it too safe. Joanna’s back kitchen, bathed in soft blue and black hues, shows us that darker paint can actually be the perfect soft setting for a rustic look.
Joanna has been sharing a lot of her seasonal baking lately. All of them are beautiful and done in an equally beautiful back kitchen. There’s a lot of inspiration to draw from this small but hard-working room, but my main takeaway is how livable the deep, soft black walls and cabinets are.
On paper, dark colors sound dramatic, giving the room a full bath of color, but in reality, it’s soft and cozy in Joanna’s home, making it the perfect backdrop for an unexpectedly rustic country style. Masu.
So what’s the secret? How can you decorate in dark colors while still maintaining the atmosphere of a cozy country kitchen?Of course, the shade of paint you choose is important. Choose soft and dirty colors. Choose colors with warmer undertones rather than “true” colors that look harsh.
Look for black paint with a slight blue or brown tinge. Joanna hasn’t revealed the exact colors she’s using in this space, but things that come to mind include Farrow & Ball’s iconic railing and Magnolia blackboard.
There’s also plenty of texture in the space, including marble countertops and stone tiles. Additionally, there are plenty of wood accents to dramatically balance the drenched walls and cabinets, including islands, shelving, and even details like storage jars and cutting boards with wooden lids.
Add warmth from brass accents found in wall sconces, hardware, and picture frames. And the vintage decor is all done, which again really helps tone down the drama, giving it a cozy, laid-back feel without feeling overwhelming at all as you might expect.
buy the look
Anna Antique Brass Wall Sconce
The seating area in Joanna’s kitchen has a beautiful symmetry that makes it feel more purposeful within a utilitarian space. Wall sconces are above the chairs and on either side of the windows. These options from Joanna’s own brand, Magnolia, have a similar vintage feel at an affordable price.
At Magnolia, we have lots of Joanna-approved vintage style art. The petite size of this design is perfect for leaning against a counter to add character to your kitchen. The frame adds that all-important warmth that we talked about earlier.
herringbone serving board
Stacking wooden cutting boards of different sizes, shapes, and textures is an easy way to instantly add country flair to your kitchen. A practical kitchen item that can also be used as interior decoration. These come in circular or rectangular designs.
wood and antique brass canister
These jars are displayed on a shelf in Joanna’s kitchen and are a practical item that also serves as decoration. Create displays in several different sizes and shapes, and also stock cookware like Dutch ovens, mixing bowls, and measuring jugs on the shelves.
Walfos Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Handle and Wooden Cradle
Not only does this rolling pin look very attractive, but marble is actually the perfect material for a rolling pin. It’s cool, smooth, hygienic, and durable. Also makes a great gift for the hostess.
French Stripe Organic Cotton Grain Sack Tea Towel
These tea towels are a great deal in the Pottery Barn sale. These have a vintage, French look and are sure to add a rustic look to your kitchen.
If you love Joanna’s iconic rustic style and want to embrace the dark color trend that’s everywhere right now, this is a winning formula. It’s important to get the right paint as a base (so order lots of swatches), then balance out the drama with soft textures and warm colors and materials.
