Rich Ranch is the latest take on Western style
It’s official: Western-inspired interiors are dominating design trends at the moment. With TV shows like Yellowstone and Landman capturing our collective attention, it’s easy to see why the desert landscapes and rich, natural materials we are seeing on screen are trickling their way into our homes.
However, while the Western style is rustic in nature, there is a new rendition of the interior design trend in town – it’s called Rich Ranch, and we can’t get enough of it.
Combining elements of cowboyish design with elevated, luxury principles, Rich Ranch is a happy marriage of modern and rugged features. Intrigued? We have spoken with interior designers who love the look to get their thoughts on what’s key to this trend, so you can create the look in your own home.
1. Use the rich ranch trend to inspire a classic kitchen scheme
(Image credit: Christopher Dibble)
Portland, Oregon-based designer Max Humphrey says that the kitchen can be the perfect room to experiment with natural materials and Western-inspired color schemes. While rich ranch might be a trend right now, it’s also a timeless look that works especially well if you want to create a welcoming, cozy kitchen that has that popular rustic farmhouse vibe, but mixed with something slightly cooler.
‘The kitchen is an obvious place to dial up the rich ranch style and cabinetry style is one way to play around with this,’ he tells us. ‘Rather than traditional shaker cabinets, doing tongue & groove front cabinet doors can bring a western panache, especially when painted in earthy colors. And you can’t go wrong with dark oak, especially when paired with warm metal and subway tile.’
2. Layer up textures and warm shades
(Image credit: HAM Interiors / Studio HAM / Photography Alexander James)
Texture in interior design is the key to maintaining visual interest, and this stands true for a Rich Ranch space, which favors natural materials like wood and linen. From rugs to bedding, layering up different textures and finishes is one of the easiest ways to embrace the trend.
‘The Rich Ranch aesthetic relies on layering textures – rough-hewn woods against buttery soft upholstery, woven textiles, and raw stone surfaces,’ desginer Nina Lichtenstein says. ‘Use natural fiber rugs or layered cowhides to add dimension and define spaces.’
Max elaborates, encouraging us to invest in these rich, textured pieces: ‘Use really warm leather in more mid-tone caramel and cognac rather than really dark, to keep pieces looking more upscale rather than big box country. Hide rugs are always a good way to bring in rich ranch style, and they look great piled up. You do get what you pay for with these, so sourcing higher-end options, which are also typically more sustainably sourced, is the way to go.’
3. Bring in smokey wood accents
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
It’s clear this trend is all about the natural materials, and while paler woods are often favored for their chic, Scandi vibe, the rich ranch trend is all about darker, warmer, smokey woods.
‘In line with the Rich Ranch trend, 2025 will see the return of rustic, dark woods in rich chocolatey tones,’ says Neel Bradham, CEO at flooring brand, Parador. ‘A smoked walnut flooring, for example, adds the perfect amount of drama and contrast to what is otherwise a bright, airy space. This is especially great for creating an inviting, warm ambiance.’
Of course, wooden flooring is a surefire way to give a room that sophisticated yet rustic look, but there are small ways to incorporate these wooden tones. Vintage furniture like chests and stools and accessories like wooden bowls and chopping boards will nod to the aesthetic.
4. Be inspired by classic western landscapes
(Image credit: Kaitlin Green)
With the aforementioned natural materials front and center, decorating with neutrals is the often main palette for a Rich Ranch space (though we are particularly partial to creams and greiges, in line with a modern, luxurious color scheme). Alternatively, picture a classic western set up, cowboy and all, and pull color inspiration from that imagery is Max’s advice.
‘A good way to think about this is by using nature-inspired colors, like olive greens and tans and brick red, and all of the blues,’ Max says. ‘Another way to think about it is, what would a great western outfit be? Denim jeans and a roughout suede jacket and a chambray shirt. And incorporate that same palette with your interiors.’
Take it one step further with some greenery, which evokes the ambiance of the great outdoors. ‘Bring in potted plants or succulents for a fresh, natural touch that complements the earthy vibe,’ suggests Nina. Naturally, cacti are great fits in the rich ranch space.
5. Incorporate a few western motifs
(Image credit: Christopher Dibble)
A cowboy chic room is not complete without some sort of homage to the Wild West, subtle as it may be in a Rich Ranch room. The key is to not go overboard with decor, as you don’t want a space to feel too gimmicky.
‘Decorative nods to ranch life, such as horseshoes, abstracted cowboy art, or tasteful Navajo-inspired patterns, add personality without overpowering the space,’ Nina suggests. A fuzzy, cow-print chair or a classic hide rug is a great way to add some Western flavor in a tasteful and timeless way.
Set of 6 Roping Ranch Terra Cotta Cowboy Napkins
The perfect accessory for a tablescape, these printed napkins are playful yet chic with their beautiful illustrations and bright red color.
We love the subtle western motifs on this colorful, yet sophisticated, piece of wall art.
Western Leather Club Chair
Make a statement with this cow-print chair, featuring robust, wood legs and leather attachments.
If you’re looking for a design that blends rustic comfort with elevated style, Rich Ranch might just be the look for you. Cozy but refined, its timeless properties give it longevity.
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