How To Decorate Farmhouse Style
So let's talk about Farmhouse style. It's all the rage right now…with Chip and JoJo Gaines and their HGTV series Fixer Upper. I for one, love to watch their show and marvel at how they transform houses into homes. So what is it about the Farmhouse style that appeals to people? Farmhouse style appeals to me because it is a soft welcoming look that can be incorporated into any style that you might already have…primitive, country, modern, industrial…farmhouse style is very versatile and uses a lot of different textures, metals, woods, and textiles! Here are some words that come to mind when I think of farmhouse…old, new, re-purposed, upcycled, cozy, simple, clean, light & airy, renovate, and chippy wood. Almost anything goes. In some cases it might even look a little modern with it's industrial light fixtures but at the same time it might look a little primitive with it's chippy wood details and rough barn wood sliding doors. I have picked out some elements that I think are relevant to the farmhouse style…now, let me be clear. I am not an interior designer and I really don't have any credentials other than I know what I like and I believe I have a little bit of vision. So let's get started.
PAINT
I think if you are looking to get the farmhouse look then paint is going to be pretty important. As I have perused the internet doing a little research I have found that almost always the farmhouse paint is very fresh, light and airy. Everything from straight up white to greige (grey/beige) and light blue tones but grey is a biggy. So basically stay neutral and light and you will be good to go.
LIGHTING
Lets face it. Lighting is important in a room. I mean who doesn't want to see what they're doing whether it's cooking, cleaning, homework, or crafting. While primitive and farmhouse lighting can a lot of times be interchanged, I believe farmhouse lighting is very different in how it is presented. Farmhouse lighting is polished, simple, and casts a bright glow where as primitive lighting is more of a dull soft light.
FLOORING
When looking at farmhouse interiors they almost always display hardwood floors or laminate wood floors, which have come a long way over the years. Wide planked wood, distressed, dark "tobacco" stained, and even unfinished barn siding is very popular.
Farmhouse textiles, curtains blankets and bedding are a mash up all the things you loved at Grandma's house. Stenciled burlap and white or light linens with very little color. Vintage finds at your local flea market or thrift store. Grain sacks re-purposed, and homespun farmhouse fabrics in muted designs.
BARN DOORS
Sliding barn doors are almost a must have. This DIY project can be found all over the internet and can be used just about anywhere in your home. The stained or chippy wood with exposed hardware is where it's at. Hang them to your walk in closet, to separate rooms, or to your pantry in your kitchen. Either way it's a win-win!
Farmhouse Sinks
Ahhhhh, yes farmhouse sinks are the way to go these days. Very simple and it reminds you of days gone by. These come in a variety of materials from copper, stainless steel, porcelain, and much more. Make sure you do your homework first though. These sinks are pricey and there are probably some cons as they are only a single sink.
FARMHOUSE DECOR
And finally one of the biggest ways to make your home into a farmhouse home is the decor but one thing I have noticed is you want to keep it simple and clean…not cluttered. You can display rusty old items in your home…a lot of times these items are re-purposed for something else…such as an old rusty bucket filled with your favorite plant or maybe a pallet upcycled to a bench or table. You can find all kinds of things at flea markets, garage sales, and auctions. Jute rugs look amazing on hardwood floors, greenery…you must incorporate some plants into your home…maybe succulents. Old shutters, window frames, steel fencing, and windmills make great artwork. Also chalkboards are still a thing and they can be used countless ways. When making a house a home you will want to display your cherished family photographs around your home…whether it be on end tables, your mantle, or incorporated into a gallery wall.
So if farmhouse style is your thing…start forming a plan! Make a list of items that you would like to look for and start collecting. Make small changes…baby steps if you're on a budget. Go…make your house a home. In my next blog post I'll discuss what primitive style is and the elements used when decorating your home.
