Basic elements in farmhouse design – how to recognize the style?
In This Article
What do you imagine when you hear the words farmhouse design? Something rustic? Something vintage? Something Mediterranean or something old? Farmhouse plans does not have an official definition. To the fans of modernism it may seem somewhat messy, but this style has its own character. It has a great visual appeal and brings back images from the past, recreating the unique atmosphere and harmony of the time. The warmth of natural wood, soft colors, fireplace, beamed ceiling, the spectacular use of interior textiles – all this creates a lovely place that invites you to stay and makes you feel at home.
Well, farmhouse style of design has all of these but in general it is all about simple organic things, light colors, simple lines and simple details.
Although the farmhouse style is considered as very American, it combines elements of the English and French country styles.
Farmhouse style varies from one region to another but feature practical, functional and comfortable homes.
Farmhouse exterior and architecture feature gabled roofs, large porches and patios, wraparound veranda and spacious cozy kitchens.
Wood is one of the most popular materials in farmhouse plans. It gives warmth to the interior and adds tons of charm.
Light colors are characteristic for the farmhouse style. Historically, this is due to the fact that people did not have access to colored finishes. White walls have become the perfect backdrop for the interior decor.
The fabrics in the farmhouse style are important as they add texture and color. Most often they are handmade or natural ones, like leather.
Lighting fixtures have simple shapes, lanterns are very often seen in the interior as well as chandeliers from wood and wrought iron.
Farmhouse design in the living room
Farmhouse style into the living room can be instantly recognized for the comfort, natural materials, the fireplace and the vintage decorative items.
Different textures are united into a cozy interior. Cotton, burlap, leather, stripes and checkered patterns are giving an eclectic feel.
Pale neutral shades, and color accents added by decorative pillows, for example, are iconic for the farmhouse appearance of living rooms.
Usually the accessories are all vintage or reclaimed, many are a heritage, which makes them even more precious.
The heart of the home – kitchens in farmhouse design
If some kitchens are designed to create a stunning impression farmhouse kitchens are created to be used! These kitchens are iconic with the friendliness and welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen is the heart of a farmhouse home. It is the place to eat, cook, talk and farmhouse kitchens are in general spacious, comfortable and unpretentious.
The flooring in a farmhouse kitchen is most often wood, but you could also see black and white tiles in a checkered pattern or terracotta tiles as well.
A classic farmhouse style in the kitchen features open shelves, wood cabinetry, sometimes without doors, so that the access to dishware and various utensils is easy and quick.
Stoves are big to meet the necessity to prepare food for many people.
A big table accommodating a large number of diners is essential for the farmhouse kitchen. It has the dual function of a workspace for food preparation and eating space.
An apron sink is the element that you should not miss if you wanted to have a farmhouse kitchen.
It is essential for the farmhouse style and again the design is connected to practicality. A deep bowl and sturdy construction – a farmhouse apron sink is meant to handle heavy use.
Wooden countertops and freestanding cupboards are other characteristic elements that are often seen in farmhouse kitchens.
Solid wood or a butcher’s block countertop would be the right choice when you decorate your kitchen in farmhouse style.
Vintage cabinets or buffets are the perfect furniture for a dining room in a farmhouse style.
A comfortable dining table and chairs, candle lanterns, beadboard, wood flooring, open shelves to display colorful bowls – all of these can be seen in a farmhouse dining room.
Again, the colors are light and close to natural shades.
Farmhouse plans– bedroom decor ideas
When we talk about farmhouse style in the bedroom, the goal of the interior design is to create an inviting, cozy space.
Light pastel colors with bright accents, vintage or shabby chic furniture with a lovely rustic flair, natural materials and textiles would give you the warm and relaxed atmosphere of a farmhouse bedroom.
Claw foot tubs have become iconic for the farmhouse plans.
Whether original cast iron tubs or porcelain ones, claw foot tubs are often the focal point in the bathroom.
Handmade vanities with an unique style, vintage sinks, storage baskets and open shelves, lighting fixtures with rustic flair – these are the elements you have to think about.