History of Farmhouse Style

The updated farmhouse style is deeply rooted in centuries of history, dating back to the early settlers of America. It focuses on practicality, depending on the materials available, such as wood, iron, and steel. 

Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse interiors are characterized by practicality and comfort, relying on off-the-shelf materials and colors. The wooden elements and white tones are a symbol of farmhouse style. Another core aspect is that nothing has to be a perfect match. The beauty of the farmhouse style lies in function, character, and history. Knickknacks, antiques, or pairing a vintage chair with a new sofa enhance the interior of the farmhouse. Farmhouse-style furniture is functional in form and function, with simple décor, weathered treatments, natural materials and textures, smooth lines, warm neutrals, and vintage accessories. 

Elements of Farmhouse Style

Practically in Form and Function

One of the primary elements of the farmhouse style is practicality. When the farmhouse style came along, people decorated with whatever was convenient. Getting furniture wasn't easy, so everything was built for clear, practical reasons. This practicality does not only exist in function but extends to form as well. Farmhouse furniture tends to be simple in form and more focused on functionality than decoration. 

Natural materials

You don't need to specialize in materials that you can find directly outside the home. The modern farmhouse style still favors natural materials, including reclaimed wood, stone, wicker, and cotton interiors. If you're decorating your home in a modern farmhouse style, the more natural the materials, the better. To replicate the rustic-chic feel of a modern farmhouse, choose matte finishes and low-gloss materials for warmth and style. 

Variety of Texture

Since modern farmhouse styles tend to be simpler, you'll want to try incorporating textures to add visual interest, contrast, and depth to your home. From stone walls and distressed wooden furniture to canvas upholstery and metal trim, layering different textures throughout a room is a great way to make a room look uneven, especially when working with neutral color schemes. 

Mix & Match Furniture

When the farmhouse style originated, people would furnish their houses intermittently as more items were built or acquired. That's why modern farmhouse styles tend to be less planned and coordinated. Instead of shopping for matching furniture collections, mix and match your favorite pieces in unique and fun ways. You should not only mix and match new furniture with vintage-inspired furniture but also more natural elements like wood with updated elements like stainless steel. It may take some patience, but if you persevere, you can choose the right furniture to match your style and show off your personality. 

Natural Color Palettes

When you're decorating in a modern farmhouse style, there are several natural shades to choose from. In general, farmhouse shades tend to be simple and natural, including warm neutrals, cool neutrals, earth tones, or natural tones. From there, add wood and metal elements for a rustic yet functional look that combines nature with industry. 

Warm Minimalism

The farmhouse style is based on minimalism. The modern farmhouse style has clean forms without clutter, but it also evokes a warmth that isn't always present in other contemporary styles. There shouldn’t be too much furniture or decoration, farmhouse style furniture tends to be cozy, comfortable, and functional. 

Embrace Imperfection

The modern farmhouse style embraces the glamour of imperfection. When choosing wood furniture, scratches, knots, and nicks can add authenticity to a look, as can a distressed finish. When choosing metal accessories, more weather-resistant metal looks may be considered, hinting at a long and illustrious history. 

Large Scale, Comfortable Furniture

While minimalism remains at the heart of farmhouse decor, farmhouse furniture tends to be on a larger scale with an emphasis on comfort and functionality. When decorating a modern farmhouse living room, you may want to choose large, comfortable furniture over sleeker, more aesthetically pleasing items. 

Mixed Metal Accents

The mixed metal trend is gaining popularity. Farmhouse style not only combines old and new but also combines rustic wood with weathered metal for an industrial, functional look. Try choosing some different metal accents for your farmhouse decor. Matte metal stands out, especially when compared to natural wood furniture and stainless steel appliances.