6 Suggestions for Achieving a Warm, Inviting Farmhouse Look

Home Decor

Over the years, there have been a variety of home decorating styles, ranging from midcentury modern to shabby chic. However, the farmhouse style has currently captured the attention of the interior design community and is likely to remain popular for some time to come. This is due to its versatility, livability, and ease of incorporation.

Popularized by the famous “Fixer Upper” duo, Joanna and Chip Gaines, the farmhouse look is a welcomed change from previous design trends. According to Decorilla’s lead designer, Devin Shaffer, clients are gradually moving away from the minimalist/modern decor trend and into the farmhouse style. “They want their houses to feel like home. Things got too contemporary,” he says, adding, “They would go home and wouldn’t feel the warmth, they wouldn’t feel cozy.”

Since a home is meant to be comfortable and inviting, it’s a significant issue if it doesn’t feel that way. As a result, Decorilla has seen an increase in farmhouse-style requests over the past few years. “We’re now seeing that mix in traditional and modern decor,” he says, noting that clients want “comfort aspects and yet modern sensibilities in their space.”

However, it can be intimidating and costly to completely redesign a space. Fortunately, farmhouse style lends itself to thrift shopping and DIY projects. Shaffer advises not to expect immediate results. “It’s kind of like a collection, it really builds over time,” he explains. “You won’t get immediate results. Could take several months to get the right layers in.”

Whether you’re looking to fully embrace farmhouse style or just test it out, it’s essential to be familiar with its main components. Here are six suggestions:

1. Stick to Neutral and Natural

The farmhouse style is meant to be calming and neutral. Walls should be white, beige, cream, or gray, and accents should reflect nature’s soothing color options, such as blues, greens, and burgundies. Shaffer cautions against using highly saturated colors like bright yellow or lipstick red. Instead, stick to muted tones in eggshell finishes.

2. Add Texture and Dimension

Replace boring, flat walls with shiplap, wainscotting, or even a planked wall. The added dimension is undeniably farmhouse and will enhance the space without requiring too much extra effort. These projects can often be DIY at a low cost. Faux-wood beams are another great addition. You can also incorporate extra texture with layers of different neutrals in soft goods like throw pillows and blankets, which can be done in a bedroom or living space.

3. Integrate Galvanized Metal

Galvanized metal is often associated with farmhouse style as it can be incorporated in various ways such as knick-knacks, wall art or buckets and planters that hold greenery. However, if this seems too rustic for your taste, Shaffer suggests opting for gunmetal gray or brushed bronze to still achieve the farmhouse effect. Lighting fixtures can also be used to add metallic components.

4. Keep Sofas and Seating Simple and Neutral

Instead of choosing seating pieces that scream farmhouse style, Shaffer recommends selecting neutral pieces and adding smaller accents like heirloom items and greenery. This allows for a flexible style that can adapt over time without having to replace the larger pieces.

5. Refurbish to Create a Fabulous Look

Instead of discarding old cabinets and tables, Shaffer suggests repainting them to give them new life. Two-toned cabinets, where one shade is paired with a rustic, neutral color on the island, is an easy way to incorporate a farmhouse touch into an outdated space.

The farmhouse kitchen is characterized by traditional elements such as antique cabinetry and fixtures paired with modern accents and dark wood floors, creating a bright and airy space.

Decorilla Interior Design

6. Shop for Treasures

Farmhouse-style pieces can often be found in thrift shops, flea markets and antiques stores, allowing for budget-friendly decor options. However, Shaffer advises against overdoing it with distressed materials and instead focusing on refined finishes.

The farmhouse look can be achieved in various environments, including urban spaces with white walls. Reclaimed shelves can add a gorgeous touch to any room, according to Shaffer.

Now That’s Cool

“Modern farmhouse” is a newer interior design trend that combines cozy farmhouse elements with sleek modern style. Soft throw blankets, textured pillows and neutral colors are key pieces that carry over from classic farmhouse to modern farmhouse, according to interior designer and blogger Sarah Symonds.

FAQ

1. What is a farmhouse style?

Farmhouse style is a decorating style that focuses on creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. It’s a blend of rustic and traditional designs that are timeless. The style is inspired by the farmhouses in the countryside, with their natural materials, vintage furniture, and simple yet elegant décor.

2. What are some key features of a farmhouse style?

Some key features of a farmhouse style include natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal, vintage and antique furniture, neutral color palettes, and a mix of patterns such as stripes, checks, and floral prints. Other features include open floor plans, exposed beams, and shiplap walls.

3. How can I create a cozy atmosphere in a farmhouse-style room?

To create a cozy atmosphere in a farmhouse-style room, start by choosing warm and inviting colors such as cream, beige, and gray. Add soft textures such as wool or cotton rugs, cozy throws, and plush pillows. Use natural materials such as wood and stone to create a rustic feel. Finally, add some vintage décor pieces, such as an old milk jug or a weathered sign, to add charm and character to the space.

4. What types of furniture work well in a farmhouse-style room?

Farmhouse-style rooms typically feature vintage or antique furniture that has a rustic feel. Look for pieces that have natural materials such as wood, metal, or wicker. A large farmhouse table is a great centerpiece for a dining room, while a cozy sofa or armchair with soft cushions is perfect for a living room. Vintage dressers and nightstands work well in a bedroom.

5. How can I incorporate farmhouse-style décor into a modern home?

If you have a modern home but love the farmhouse style, you can incorporate the décor into your space by adding a few key pieces. Start by adding some vintage décor pieces such as a rustic mirror or a vintage sign. Use natural materials such as wood and stone to create a rustic feel. Finally, add some farmhouse-style textiles such as a cozy throw or a patterned rug to add warmth and texture to the space.

6. What are some DIY projects I can do to add farmhouse style to my home?

There are many DIY projects you can do to add farmhouse style to your home. Try making your own shiplap wall using wooden planks, or creating a rustic wood headboard for your bed. You can also make your own farmhouse-style signs using stencils and paint, or repurpose old furniture pieces to give them a new, rustic look.

7. What types of lighting work well in a farmhouse-style room?

Farmhouse-style rooms typically feature warm and inviting lighting such as soft ambient lighting and vintage-inspired light fixtures. Look for fixtures made of materials such as brass, copper, or wrought iron. Pendant lights and chandeliers work well in dining rooms, while table lamps and floor lamps are perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.

8. How can I create a farmhouse-style kitchen?

To create a farmhouse-style kitchen, start by choosing warm and inviting colors such as white, cream, or gray. Add natural materials such as wood and stone to create a rustic feel. Use open shelving to display vintage dishes and glassware. Finally, add some vintage décor pieces such as a farmhouse sink or a rustic chandelier to complete the look.

9. What types of rugs work well in a farmhouse-style room?

Farmhouse-style rooms typically feature rugs that are soft and cozy, with a mix of patterns and textures. Look for rugs made of natural materials such as wool or cotton, with patterns such as stripes, checks, and floral prints. Neutral colors such as cream, beige, and gray work well in a farmhouse-style room.

10. How can I add a touch of farmhouse style to my bathroom?

To add a touch of farmhouse style to your bathroom, start by choosing warm and inviting colors such as white, cream, or gray. Add natural materials such as wood and stone to create a rustic feel. Use vintage-inspired light fixtures and mirrors to give the space a charming feel. Finally, add some vintage décor pieces such as a vintage soap dish or a weathered sign to complete the look.

11. What types of curtains work well in a farmhouse-style room?

Farmhouse-style rooms typically feature curtains that are light and airy, with a mix of patterns and textures. Look for curtains made of natural materials such as linen or cotton, with patterns such as stripes, checks, and floral prints. Neutral colors such as cream, beige, and gray work well in a farmhouse-style room.

12. How can I create a cozy outdoor space with farmhouse style?

To create a cozy outdoor space with farmhouse style, start by adding some comfortable seating such as a rocking chair or a porch swing. Use natural materials such as wood and stone to create a rustic feel. Add some vintage décor pieces such as a vintage metal sign or a weathered watering can to add charm and character. Finally, add some cozy textiles such as a patterned outdoor rug or a soft throw to add warmth and texture to the space.