What could be more charming than a rustic kitchen in an 18th-century farmhouse—or perhaps one that just appears that way? For those of us who live in contemporary settings, it may seem like a difficult look to achieve—but a few small touches can transform any kitchen into one that’s warm and inviting.

1. Furnish Your Rustic Kitchen

The rustic kitchen is a place for gatherings. Large tables, comfortable seating, and open shelving provide lots of space for people and easy access to cookware. When you think about furnishing your rustic-style kitchen, install cabinetry and shelving made from salvaged wood topped with wooden countertops. Keep the floor natural with wide-plank wood floors or paver bricks. The kitchen work space should be functional, as well as a reflection of natural materials. Deep soapstone sinks, large oven ranges, and kitchen islands creates lots of space for people to gather while food is being prepared.

In a rustic kitchen tools are lovingly displayed. Copper and cast iron pans hang from the ceiling easily in reach. Country cupboardsand open shelves display simple white dinnerware and crocks of wooden spoons. The nice thing about a functional kitchen, is there is not a lot of room for excess. Your decorations are your tools; so again, think of natural fibers, materials, and ingredients. Fill bowls with seasonal fruits and vegetables, top cake plates with onions and garlic, or even hang drying herbs over the sink for their smell, aesthetics, and functionality.

3. Cook in Your Rustic Kitchen

Having a rustic kitchen, is all about the food. The food is slow, thought out, yet simple. Each ingredient speaking for itself and is a reflection of what grows around you. For rustic inspired food that will keep your family and friends lingering in the kitchen, think seasonally. In the spring, roast bunches of asparagus topped with freshly poached eggs. In the summer, create vibrant heirloom tomato saladsserved alongside whole-baked fish. In the fall, let the room be filled with the smells of a dutch oven apple crisp. In the winter, assemble individual cottage piesfilled with carrots, onions, local meat, and topped with roughly mashed cauliflower.

Noella Schink is a writer and fervent home cook from Portland, Maine with an affection for rustic New England decor and culture. She is inspired by local designer Sturbridge Yankee Workshops for home decor elements like rustic kitchen tables, chic country curtains, wool-hooked rugs, and kitchen gadgets.