Once upon a time, when the human lifestyle was much simpler and, by far, more fulfilling in the heart of the countryside, homes used to be adorned with plain stuff that would instill a sense of peace and quietude. There, was born a design style that was later named “the Farmhouse decor.”
Born from the rustic charm of rural life, this style whispers tales of rolling fields and sun-drenched mornings. In this dreamy Farmhouse decorating method, natural materials and soothing colors unite and create spaces that are as welcoming as a warm embrace on a cool, autumn night.
The Farmhouse style isn’t just about decor; it’s a narrative of simpler times, blending the nostalgia of the past with the comfort of modern living. Let’s take a closer look at this marvelous design style.
Farmhouse Decorating: Key Features
While design methods may share a few features with other styles, they each have certain distinctive qualities. Here are some of those unique qualities that lend the Farmhouse style its identity.
High ceilings and spacious rooms
A defining characteristic of the Farmhouse style is high ceilings. They create a sense of airiness in the place and allow ample natural light to rush in and brighten up the place. Apart from these advantages, high ceilings allow one to be creative by incorporating charming architectural details like rustic chandeliers, wooden beams, or ornate crown moldings.
Neutral colors
Country life is simple, and simplicity calls for earthly, neutral colors. That’s why certain colors like white, beige, taupe, black, and gray combos are very common in the Farmhouse style. But these colors add certain advantages to the overall beauty of this style. They have various shades that complement each other and create a harmonious and serene atmosphere in a Farmhouse setting.
White, for example, symbolizes purity and cleanness and adds a fresh and airy feel to the space. It also reflects natural light, making rooms look bright, spacious, and inviting. Beige and taupe, on the other hand, create a sense of warmth and coziness, evoking comfort and relaxation. These earthy tones make a soothing backdrop that allows other elements, such as rustic furniture or natural textures, to stand out.
Rustic features
That simplicity element we discussed earlier is reflected in all aspects of the Farmhouse style. It’s not just about the design or colors used. It’s everywhere. That’s why, in Farmhouse decorating, reclaimed wood and rustic furniture are preferred to more elaborate or ornate alternatives. Handcrafted objects are highly wanted, and natural textures are warmly embraced.
Nature-inspired decor
With mother nature being the primary source of inspiration for the Farmhouse style, it’s no surprise that there are so many natural elements there.
Indoor plants, whether natural or artificial, are somehow a must. Wallpapers and other fabrics in the decor often depict flora or botanical prints. Stone accents are used as decoratives or for other purposes, and even fibers are made of natural elements such as linen, cotton, wool, etc.
Open shelving
In the Farmhouse style, an open space is a must. The interior cannot feel too cozy or cluttered. That’s why an open shelving nicely fits into this style. Apart from the extra space it provides, open shelving allows for showcasing collections or displaying decoratives, as well as adding to the aesthetic of the place.
Modern Farmhouse : Blending the Old and the New
The Farmhouse style originated from rural areas of Germany and Scandinavia in the 1700s, and it still continues to seize hearts throughout the world. However, there is now another version of this style called the modern Farmhouse style.
This more recent Farmhouse style simply mixes elements of present-day styles with those of the past. The blend does make eye-catching scenes by putting modern and classic objects together but you shouldn’t conclude that it’s an improved version of the Farmhouse style. It’s simply a variation that works best with some individuals and not so much with others.
Our Verdict
If there is only one right argument in the field of interior design, it must be the one that says “There is no bad, better, or best design!” Each design style appeals to a certain group of people or just works out for them. The Farmhouse decorating style, and its modern counterpart, have certain merits but they are, by no means, extraordinary or superior to other design styles. They’re just another design style you can try whenever you decide the house expects a do-over!
If you wonder how different your place looks with a Farmhouse design, you can use AI HomeDesign’s interior design service. Upload photos from your place, choose the room type, in the “style” section, select “ Farmhouse,” and that’s it.
By the way, it’s on us! You don’t need to pay a penny.
