Once a small building used mostly as a shelter on a farm, now it's a popular style in interior design. We're referring to the timeless charm of a farmhouse style.
If you need to decide whether farmhouse design fits your space and needs, read further. Get inspired by our favorite farmhouse décoration ideas to make every room in your house feel modern, rustic or a little bit of both.
What makes a design a farmhouse?
Farmhouse décor is a unique interior design that originates from the rustic charm of rural living in the 1800s. This country-inspired style provides a sense of simplicity and comfort with natural materials. Hence, the farmhouse-style furnishing is often made with locally sourced wood.
Image credits: Photography by Lisa Marie Ann Claborn
Farmhouse Design Color Palette
The color palette of classy farmhouse design varies mostly in earthy and neutral tones. In modern days, its palette ranges from muted white and soft creams to warm browns and gentle grays. This aligns with the design's aim of creating a peaceful and contemporary living space.
Farmhouse Design Decorations
One of the defining elements of farmhouse design is its “messy” elegance. Decorations within a farmhouse-themed space tend to be both messy and minimalistic, focusing on practicality and functionality rather than excessive décor. For example, displaying ceramic adornments, hanging antique art, and old frames are just a few farmhouse decorating ideas to keep in mind.
Image credits: Photography by Christine Melin
As we mentioned above, the chosen décor elements are purposeful. They often reflect a blend of vintage and contemporary pieces. What sets this design apart is its ability to stop time in a few square meters. When you enter a room with a farmhouse design, you will feel its history through carefully selected furniture, accessories, and accents.
Why is farmhouse design so popular?
There are several factors why farmhouse design always stays in style and why so many people love it. Here are a few of them:
Inviting & Pleasing home
In a farmhouse vibe, you can feel the warmth and coziness that instantly make the room feel like home. A rustic wall décor, natural materials, and earthy colors foster a sense of comfort for homeowners and guests.
Image credits: Photography by Sandra Herzog
Compatibility with other décor ideas
One of the strengths of this interior style is its remarkable compatibility. Farmhouse style can seamlessly blend with other interior spaces, whether paired with the sleek lines of modern design or the rugged aesthetics of industrial décor.
Image credits: Photography by Amber Lewis
Family-Friendly
Being practical is what makes a farmhouse décor appealing for families. It is a well-suited interior design for everyday living. Durable furniture and a comfortable space create an environment where kids and pets can easily play around without damaging delicate or expensive pieces.
Image credits: Photography by Jana Heinemann
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
Farmhouse design often encourages repurposed and reclaimed materials. This is perfect for individuals who opt for a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. It resonates with homeowners who focus on environmentally conscious choices and appreciate the authenticity of using antique items.
Image credits: Photography by Pia Olsbo
Nostalgia & Character
Farmhouse design taps into nostalgia, evoking memories of simpler times with country-like design elements. Classic aged furniture and vintage accessories add to a space's character and induce a sense of history. This makes the room feel more lived-in and charming.
Image credits: Photography by Emily Baker
Cost-Effective
The style of the farmhouse opts toward repurposing old furniture. This is a cost-effective solution for those who want to remodel their house interiors at minimal costs.
Image credits: Photography by Sandra M Cavallo
Is farmhouse style going out?
Not anytime soon! Not as far as homeowners want to transform their houses into heartfelt homes with a country touch. With a farmhouse style, we can blend past and present and still look stylish in the future. Its sense of comfort and authenticity resonates with every generation.
Image credits: Photography by Kimberly Jacobs Farmstead
Discover Key Elements for Farmhouse Design
What seems like one specific style has evolved in many sub-designs due to homeowners' different preferences and lifestyles. To make it easier for our audience, we have categorized farmhouses into two distinctive yet charming groups — traditional and modern. We will give you a general overview of traditional and modern farmhouse vibes, décor elements, and current style trends that will likely continue into the following year.
Image credits: Photography by Jolene Hardy
The Key Elements of Traditional Farmhouse Design
A classic farmhouse look captures the essence of rustic simplicity and practicality. It gives the vibes of countryside living even in city life. This style is characterized by weathered wood and vintage accents, which evoke nostalgia and warmth.
Image credits: Photography by Francesca Tosolini
Here's a list of 15 typical features of a classy, simple farmhouse décor:
1. All about rustic & raw elements (hand-hewn beams, handmade tables)
Image credits: Photography by Nina
2. Natural materials like brick & wood (fireplace)
Image credits: Photography by Joan Kennedy
3. Imperfect furniture (irregular shapes of tables and chairs)
Image credits: Photography by franzi
4. Antique items (antique stoneware and dishes, porcelain embellishments)
Image credits: Photography by Roberta
Image credits: Photography by Picture Hanging Pros
6. Animal wall art
Image credits: Photography by Catherine Kolomа́n Ukraine
7. A neutral color palette (earthy tones or all creamy colors)
Image credits: Photography by Collov Home Design
8. Plants and greenery as accents
Image credits: Photography by Collov Home Design
9. As wooden as possible/reclaimed wood (butcher block for countertops, plank wooden floors, beamed ceilings, shiplap paneling, wooden stairs, barn doors)
Image credits: Photography by Farmhouse Interior
10. Repurposed items (old chairs and tables, recycled bottles)
Image credits: Photography by Antique Farm House
11. Open shelving (open cabinets in kitchen islands, wall shelves)
Image credits: Photography by Edgar Castrejon
12. Ample cabinetry (best in soft-colored wood)
Image credits: Photography by Chastity Cortijo
13. Apron sinks (porcelain preferred in classic décor)
Image credits: Photography by Sidekix Media
14. Vintage-inspired lighting (low light and old lamps)
Image credits: Photography by Elizabeth | Home & Decor
15. Traditional décorative fabrics (floral, paisley, slipcovers)
Image credits: Photography by Antique Farm House
The Key Elements of Modern Farmhouse Style
In contrast, the modern farmhouse style décor integrates new contemporary elements while maintaining its country-themed heart. It preserves its rural origins through reclaimed materials, cozy textures, clean lines, and neutral color palettes.
Here's a list of 10 typical elements for a modern farmhouse feel:
1. Neutral colors palette (black & wood tones, white & black, cream, beige, silver)
Image credits: Photography by Reconstructed 1890 farmhouse
2. Vintage pieces (ornaments, rugs, ceramic hangings, paintings)
Image credits: Photography by Reconstructed 1890 farmhouse
3. Marble & quartz furnishing (turned table legs and rounded tables)
Image credits: Photography by Liz Joseph
4. Simple patterns (one color or pastel walls)
Image credits: Photography by Ali Henrie Design
5. DIY textures
Image credits: Photography by Farmhouse Is My Style
6. Leather furniture
Image credits: Photography by Jennifer Latuperisa-Andresen
7. Traditional décorative fabrics (floral, paisley, slipcovers)
Image credits: Photography by Amber Lewis
8. Antique items (an old clock, a gramophone, porcelain dolls)
Image credits: Photography by Kandas | The Tedesco Farm
9. Mix & Match (old furniture with new elements)
Image credits: Photography by Jenn Todryk
10. Plants and greenery in house's corners
Image credits: Photography by Courtney Affrunti
Going too rustic makes your house look traditional. Opting for old antique ornaments makes your space too vintage. Maybe you'll also feel a little bit old-fashioned. However, too many contemporary elements might be pricey and ruin that special country touch.
The thing is, there's no best farmhouse for each one of us. What your house will look like is your personal call. You decide where you want to relax after your office hours. You decide what kind of room helps you work from home.
Image credits: Photography by JULIA MARCUM
The farmhouse style holds practicality at its core. But it's up to you to decide what makes your house feel cozy and functional.
What we can define in this section are the key elements that farmhouse interior design incorporates, whether it leans more on traditional or modern vibes.
Traditional farmhouse décor differs from rustic because it offers a smoother feeling of wildness. Rustic décor also enhances the rawness of surfaces. A modern farmhouse style tends to add greenery and a more minimalistic design.
Image credits: Photography by Kelly. DIY. Decor. Humor. Life.
Types & Farmhouse Design Ideas
We already mentioned the existence of various farmhouse styles as the interior trends have changed. Let's take a look at the 7 types of farmhouse design one by one.
The "Man Cave" (Industrial)
The industrial farmhouse style holds a more masculine vibe. Its furnishings with blackened iron structures transmit from the past and the heavy machinery used in farms. You can spot an industrial farmhouse if it has the following:
- Cool metals
- Natural wood
- Exposed beams
- Neutral to a cold color palette
- Black and off-white accents
- Thick rustic wood accents
- Industrial lighting and hardware
- Blackened steel furnishings
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
The Farmhouse by the Beach (Coastal)
A farmhouse will keep its rural core even built on a coast. So, the only thing that makes this farmhouse a coastal escape is the blue-green palette with primarily white furniture. Main elements to expect in a coastal farmhouse:
- Wooden furniture
- Blue & green coastal accent
- Brass and gold preferred as metals
- White flooring, ceiling, and furniture
- Starfish décor seashells and anchors
- Nickel or chrome hardware on furniture
Image credits: Photography by Maria | Inredning | Höga Kusten
The Bare Minimum (Scandinavian)
Putting in the bare minimum of effort is sometimes a good thing. Scandinavian farmhouses embrace minimalism, which results in an uncluttered and modest home. For a Scandinavian farmhouse, you would need to use the following:
- Natural wood and stone materials
- Clean-lined pieces of furniture
- Neutral palette leaning on black or gray accents
- Light wood flooring, doors, counter spaces, and cabinetry
Image credits: Photography by Adam Winger
Contemporary Take on a Farmhouse (Modern)
In comparison to the previous types, you can give your farmhouse a modern upgrade with the following:
- A few porcelain ornaments
- Contemporary oversized pendants
- Leather sofa, cushions or other piece of furniture
- Bright light walls and low lighting for a modern touch
- Black furniture on the corner or a good combination with wood
Image credits: Photography by Collov Home Design
Rawness in the House (Rustic)
A rustic space embraces raw materials in décor and furnishing. It's a perfect style for people who repurpose their items and shop at flea markets. It's easy to understand and recreate by using:
- Handmade ornaments and old furniture
- Open shelving with vintage décor accessories
- Galvanized metal and industrial materials
- Warm-to-gray wood doors and floors
- Neutral palette with white walls and an earthy design
Image credits: Photography by Hans Isaacson
Country People in the City (Country)
When you hear the word “farmhouse,” you might envision the traditional French country farmhouse. That’s because it’s one of the most popular versions of the farmhouse style. Here are some elements that contribute to country farmhouse interior design:
- Antique accents
- Off-white cotton fabrics
- Lots of ornaments (more than usual)
- Wood floors & ceiling with a rustic texture
- Color palettes from cool grays to cream-to-white
- Marble material for countertops, and kitchen furniture
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
Back in colonial times (Traditional)
Decorating your home with a classic farmhouse style is like bringing history into your house. It's somehow harder to differentiate from the rustic type, but here are some key elements of the colony farmhouse:
- Old books on open shelves
- Use of stone and primitive wood beams
- Brick fireplaces, and wooden ceiling
- Muted, natural color palette and wood-paneled walls
- Antique items and textiles used for lighting, and décor
Image credits: Photography by Camylla Battani
What farmhouse type is the most popular?
To see which farmhouse type is the most popular, we looked at data from Google Trends to see which type was the most searched for since August 2022. Our findings revealed that homeowners worldwide generally search the web for modern farmhouse ideas.
Here's a general overview of farmhouse types trending worldwide for the past 12 months:
Here are also results for preferred farmhouse types in the US, Canada, and Australia:
10 Inexpensive Farmhouse Design Ideas & Tips
Thanks to its rural charm, adaptable textures, materials, and versatile color palettes, farmhouse design is easy to integrate in various separated rooms or an entire house.
In this section, we've gathered creative and practical suggestions that showcase the art of achieving a farmhouse-inspired aesthetic while being mindful of your budget. Here are 10 tips to consider:
1. Add wooden tones and DIY ornaments (handmade items)
Image credits: Photography by Joanna & Andrzej
2. Add baskets for storage, décor, and cozy texture
Image credits: Photography by Toa Heftiba
3. Shop at second-hand stores for furniture and ornaments
Image credits: Photography by Edward Bulmer Natural Paint
4. Adorn the space with open bookshelves, wine bottles, pottery, or old vases
Image credits: Photography by Brosa Design
5. Check for antique cupboards or tables sold by farmhouse owners
Image credits: Photography by Simone
6. Paint walls in a neutral color palette
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
7. Keep original wood flooring and use natural materials on flooring and walls
Image credits: Photography by Eva Helena Hedkvist
8. Decorate with thrifted ceramic plates, baskets, mirrors, and anything antique
Image credits: Photography by Patti-rememberyesterdayantique
9. Repurpose old items or furniture such as tables, chairs, drawers, or mirrors
Image credits: Photography by Kandas | The Tedesco Farm
10. Use vintage embroidery to create vintage-looking pillow covers or blankets
Image credits: Photography by sweckerfarm
Farmhouse Interior Design Ideas for Separate Rooms
This section will show you how to apply a farmhouse theme into separate rooms. From the warmth of a farmhouse kitchen to the serenity of a farmhouse bedroom, we will provide you with many creative and practical tips. These ideas will help you transform each room into a haven of comfort and style.
Modern Farmhouse Living Room Ideas
Step into the heart of rustic yet modern farmhouse décor with our curated selection of living room décor ideas. Equipped with the ideas below, transform your living space into a haven of comfort and style.
1. Bring the outdoors in
Image credits: Photography by hartley_home
2. Use industrial accents
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
3. Make it all white, or use a neutral color palette
Image credits: Photography by Collov Home Design
4. Use leather sofa or covers
Image credits: Photography by Zach & Hugh
5. Display antique finds or paintings
Image credits: Photography by Danielle Lea
6. Add something blue
Image credits: Photography by Sarah West & Associates
7. Use shiplap and rustic textures
Image credits: Photography by 2nesov
8. Go Boho as much as you want
Image credits: Photography by goldenhourabode
9. Go Scandinavian if you live in the city
Image credits: Photography by Tamara Groethe
10. Leave space for frequent design changes
Image credits: Photography by Bree Mason
Whether you seek a modern farmhouse look or miss that countryside feeling, these ideas can help you create a modern living room that captures the essence of simpler times.
Farmhouse Kitchen Ideas
A meal with the same ingredients can taste different when prepared by a different person. Well, it can also taste different when prepared in a different kitchen. And you really can’t go wrong with a farmhouse kitchen to prepare a delicious meal.
It will feel “fresh, organic and delicious”! Below, you’ll find farmhouse kitchen décor ideas that will help you create the cooking space of your dreams.
1. Swap for barn doors
Image credits: Photography by ALICIA | DIYER | OWNER BUILDER
2. Use wooden cabinets & marble kitchen tops
Image credits: Photography by Carl GARTMAN
3. Add plants and greenery
Image credits: Photography by NEAT Method
4. Add rustic accents
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
5. Place an open wine bottle rack
Image credits: Photography by my_cosy_pretty_home
6. Hang old ceramic plates or wooden spoons
Image credits: Photography by Thriftedhomestyle
7. Consider getting a porcelain sink
Image credits: Photography by deVOL Kitchens
8. Add a space for pets
Image credits: Photography by howdensjoinery
9. Use baskets for extra storage and aesthetics
Image credits: Photography by Lauren Magnus
10. Play with the cabinetry design and wallpaper
Image credits: Photography by Remedy Design Firm
Whether you're drawn to traditional simplicity with wooden cabinetry or seeking a blend of old-world charm and modern efficiency, these concepts are the right guide. Create a kitchen that serves as the heart of your home, both functional and beautiful.
Cozy Farmhouse Bedroom Ideas
We bet you loved those fresh mornings in a rustic farmhouse bedroom if you grew up in the countryside. Now, look at you, wanting to recreate the serenity of rural living right within your own bedroom!
A bedroom is all about creating your own world. The biggest advantage of designing your room based on a farmhouse style is the flexibility in customizing it however you like. These 10 tips can help you transform your room into a classy, contemporary farmhouse space:
1. Use books as wall art
Image credits: Photography by theloveofwordss
2. Add rugs and rustic furniture
Image credits: Photography by odegarden_1917
3. Convert the attic into a bedroom
Image credits: Photography by Bridleway Barn
4. Go heavy on warm, earthy tones
Image credits: Photography by Emma Gustavsson
5. Add a big mirror and antique ornaments
Image credits: Photography by Ashley | Our Rustic Paradise
6. Decorate with items from your childhood
Image credits: Photography by Morgan Ford
7. Play with the wallpaper or paint the ceiling
Image credits: Photography by Sarah West & Associates
8. Add low lighting
Image credits: Photography by Cristiano Grandi Simonyi
9. Spruce up your fireplace
Image credits: Photography by Amber Koogler
10. Add a wood and marble top desk
Image credits: Photography by Clay Banks
Farmhouse Bathroom Ideas
Sometimes, we neglect the bathroom design, but that's a nice place to add an eye-catching rustic element or bring different wall décor ideas to life. Here are a few ideas on how to give your bathroom some rustic charm:
1. Hang artsy mirrors
Image credits: Photography by CarsonSpeer Builders
2. Enhance existing quirks architecture
Image credits: Photography by Kara Childress - Interior Atelier
3. Use natural wood-look tiles
Image credits: Photography by Kelly. DIY. Decor. Humor. Life.
4. Add plants (weird, but yes!)
Image credits: Photography by overton_renovation_
5. Consider installing a schoolhouse sink
Image credits: Photography by Heidi Caillier
6. Consider a rustic tile wallpaper mural
Image credits: Photography by Amy Lamb Interior Design & Editorial Photographer
7. Use vintage rugs
Image credits: Photography by James Coviello
8. Consider dark walls for larger bathrooms
Image credits: Photography by James Coviello
9. Hang a fluted glass sconce for instant rustic charm
Image credits: Photography by Kathy Kuo Homer
10. Add a rustic wood wall storage cabinet
Image credits: Photography by ericaann60
Farmhouse design is a choice of timeless décor
Farmhouse design’s popularity can be attributed to its ability to create a welcoming and adaptable environment that resonates with diverse preferences and lifestyles. Whether integrated into separate rooms or the entire house, the farmhouse style fosters a sense of history and comfort throughout the living space. Its blend of comfort, versatility, and practicality, coupled with a nod to nostalgia and sustainability, makes it a timeless and appealing choice for interior décor. Hence, go ahead and welcome farmhouse style to your dwelling!