Both nostalgic and rugged, farmhouse decor is popular largely due to being approachable and comfy. Farmhouse style has several branches including French country farmhouse, industrial farmhouse and modern farmhouse decor. However, all these interior design styles share some of the same basic elements.
Here is a simple guide to the basic elements of farmhouse decor:
Neutral color palette
Neutral color palettes are essential to farmhouse style decor. Gray, white, beige, sandy brown and other light tones dominate most spaces along with light and dark wood. Other colors included muted yellow, sage green and pale blue. Bolder colors like red, turquoise and violet are more common in modern farmhouse style spaces. Accenting with black also adds a contemporary twist.
Textures
Textures are key in farmhouse decor, especially because of the prevalence of neutral colors. A variety of interesting textures keeps a neutral color palette from being bland or boring, and it also helps create a sense of casual comfort.
Textured fabrics like linen and chunky knit are popular, as are other rustic textures like canvas, burlap and wrought iron.
Unfinished & painted wood decor
Both unfinished and painted wood are common in farmhouse interiors. Designers often choose a single, larger natural wood piece to serve as a focal point, such as a dining table or kitchen island. Wood furniture that’s been painted to fit in to the rest of the decor is also common in neutral colors like beige, taupe and gray.
Exposed architectural features
Farmhouse design uses exposed architectural features like wooden beams, pillars and exposed brick to create a sense of rugged comfort. If these elements are not already present in your home, you can simulate them in a variety of ways. One great way to add to the farmhouse aesthetic is by using a sliding barn door to break up an open space.
Farmhouse decor doesn’t have to be all about exposed beams or the classic farmhouse kitchen, unless that’s what you’re searching for. In fact, farmhouse decor can fit in with any modern amenities or other components of your living space. These tips can help you achieve the farmhouse feel without giving up the pieces of your home that you enjoy.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.