I think a lot of us can probably trace our obsession with farmhouse kitchen decor to Fixer Upper. I remember the first time I watched Joanna Gaines adding her magic touch to some lucky new homeowner’s kitchen, and I said out loud, “What even is that sink?” One day I WILL have a farmhouse sink (which are also known adorably as apron sinks). Sigh. In the meantime, here are some fun farmhouse decor ideas to satisfy our love for this rustic and charming style.
What is Farmhouse Style?
Decorating in what we know as “farmhouse” style is really more of a feeling that anything. It seems to me to be the opposite of styles like modern or traditional, yet it can definitely borrow some of the same inspiration depending on tastes. It can be minimal or a bit busier, it might err on the side of shabby chic, but usually the colors are subdued and the overarching theme is “lived-in.”
A lot of the pieces that fall under the farmhouse or country style umbrellas have vintage or heirloom looks. Farmhouse is all about worn and well-loved adornments. Grays, whites, creams, browns, and reds and blacks are traditionally rustic colors you’ll find. Wood, baskets, slipcovers, metal, and pottery are some of the items that are common, and most things have a handmade feel and are unique in construction. In farmhouse style, it’s as much about the little quirks and flaws of furniture and decor as it is about the pieces themselves.
How to Get a Farmhouse Look
Even if you’re not starting from scratch, it’s easy to start incorporating this style into your kitchen. One easy way to begin: pare down what you have. One of the big appeals of farmhouse style is how uncomplicated it can is, so taking a discerning look at your kitchen and simplifying the decor can help you pave the way to the consistent style you want.
If you’re painting or remodeling, it’s a great time to get some inspiration by perusing kitchens online (or binging Fixer Upper). Oftentimes farmhouse kitchens are white or muted gray, but definitely break that rule if another color appeals to you.
Look for ways to distress colors, open up cupboards, add or refinish wood, and bring an inviting and cozy feel to your kitchen. Mix and match prints and even chairs to achieve the laid-back and homey ambiance of farmhouse style. The decorative pieces are the funniest part, so we’ve compiled some (mostly) inexpensive and cute ideas you can buy right now.
Rustic Signs
Rustic signs are kind of the hallmark of a farmhouse kitchen. Whether you choose wood or metal, a sweet saying or an advertisement for eggs, one or two of these signs will add a bit of charm to your home. Here are a few to inspire you.
Containers
Utensil holders, baskets, bread holders, and other storage components added to your countertops brings the theme together nicely. There are a ton of options, and you can even visit your local antique shop or craft store for further ideas. Look for simple whites, rustic enameled metal, and wood crates to start with. And, mason jars are always a good idea. Here are just a couple of options to buy online.
Textiles
Rugs, tablecloths, and cloth napkins are just a few of the different textiles that can reflect a farmhouse style. Think checkers, creams, and farm animal prints. Add different layers and mix and match prints and colors to avoid being too matchy-matchy.
Other Ideas to Consider
There are so many different ways to incorporate the modern farmhouse style, or any kind of rustic country decor, into your kitchen. Here are some other design elements to think about or emphasize:
- Butcher blocks
- Industrial lighting
- Copper cookware
- Shiplap (because obviously)
- Dinnerware
- Painted furniture
- Patterned tile floors or backsplash
- Glass jars
- Open cabinetry
And, of course, the farmhouse/apron sink (here’s one you can buy on Amazon!)
Before I leave you, let’s ooh and ahh over a few gorgeous farmhouse kitchens that will inspire you to redecorate.
Which one is your favorite?
Featured image via Leanne Ford Interiors