Tips To Create Your Perfect Farmhouse Kitchen

Updated on: September 5, 2022

“Farmhouse Style” is most certainly having a moment. Thanks to the likes of Rachel Ashwell and Joanna Gaines, the simple country style has recently gone mainstream, and morphed into its own separate category. But when it actually comes down to it…what IS “farmhouse style”? It’s one of the most commonly asked questions, and rightfully so…because the answer differs, depending on who you ask.

The short answer? It’s whatever you want it to be. Because the beauty of farmhouse style, as opposed to more specific styles like mid-century modern or art deco, is that it encompasses a large amount of aesthetics. It’s a mix and match.

In general, farmhouse style is about making a space your own. But if you are looking for a few specific tips to achieve the look…we’ve got you covered.

Embrace Simplicity

Coming from someone who lives on a farm, what I’ve noticed about true farmhouse style is that it’s based on simplicity, which goes back to the economical status of farmhouses throughout the years. Less was definitely more. Farmhouses and homesteads used what they had, and every single item had a purpose. So in farmhouse style, you’ll see plenty of galvanized and enamelware touches, because those were essential materials on a working farm. A good rule of thumb is: Think SIMPLE. Less clutter. More pieces that serve double duty, functionality.

Clean Lines

Along those same lines, farmhouse style tends to always use clean simple lines, in both its architecture and decor. And cabinets are the perfect example. The classic farmhouse cabinet front is Shaker, because of the clean lines and easy construction. Working on the farm was enough work for a farming family, so when it came to building door frames, furniture, or cabinets, they kept things basic. Not much trim work, no fancy finishes. Just simple functionality. Which has carried through into the farmhouse decor of today.

Neutral Tones

Another tell-tale of farmhouse style is the muted, neutral colors. Because most homesteads used what they had, paint finishes were worn, pieces were well used, and if it was broke…you fixed it. Things were well loved. Which means colorful pieces faded, and everything took on a more neutral, conservative tone. Think whites, grays, warm wood tones. And texture! Matte finishes, chippy paint, and metal tones.

Bottom line. Go simple. Think comfortable and functional, and you can bring farmhouse style into any space.