Annie Leibovitz uses classic white paint and wooden furniture for a modern rustic dining room that is elevated yet simple to recreate

Annie Leibovitz has an eye for beauty as an award-winning photographer, so it's no surprise that her own New York City home is just as stunning as her images. Recently, we were drawn to a photo of her dining room, which taps into a trend that we can't see ever dying down.

In a post shared to photographer Evan Joseph's Instagram page, we can see Leibovitz's bright and airy dining area featuring a reclaimed wood table, sleek white chairs, an ornate chandelier, and, of course, some framed prints. The natural materials combined with the contemporary shapes are the modern rustic style formula to a tee.

While reclaimed furnishings are a key component of this trend, experts say that really all you need to recreate this atmosphere is a combination of white paint and wood materials.

While modern rustic primarily comprises of white and wood, designers explain that this combination is highly versatile, making it a mainstay in desin.

'The combination of white paint and wood accents is one of the most enduring design choices, effortlessly blending sophistication with natural warmth,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'This versatile pairing transcends trends, adapting to a range of styles, from minimalist to rustic, modern to traditional, and consistently creating a harmonious and inviting space.'

She continues, 'Wood accents bring nature indoors, adding texture and depth to white-painted walls or furniture. This connection to the natural world promotes a sense of tranquility and well-being in the home. White paint, on the other hand, emphasizes simplicity and purity, allowing the beauty of the wood to take center stage.'

Consider what kinds of woods you want to incorporate, as the shade and finish can dictate the atmosphere and style of the space.

'Light woods such as oak, pine, birch, willow, and maple create a soft, harmonious look when paired with white paint,' Lichtenstein explains. 'These woods have a subtle grain that complements the clean lines of white walls, making them ideal for Scandinavian, coastal-inspired, or modern rustic interiors. The combination is particularly effective in smaller spaces, as it keeps the room feeling open and bright.'

Meanwhile, dark woods lend to a chic and glamorous appearance (much like Leibovitz's credenza does against her wall).

'Dark woods such as mahogany, ebony, and dark-stained oak create a striking contrast with white paint,' Lichtenstein says. 'This pairing is bold and dramatic, ideal for spaces where you want to make a statement. Dark wood accents against white walls can add a feeling of luxury and sophistication to traditional or contemporary interiors.'

Shop the modern rustic dining room edit

Don't be afraid to mix and match wood tones. A light wood dining table and dark wood credenza or piano create contrast and visual interest in a modern rustic space.