If you’ve ever delved into the worlds of Instagram or Pinterest, you’re probably familiar with the rustic, worn-wood, and country-style accents that characterize farmhouse interior design. And whether you’re looking to transform a particular room or to give your entire home a makeover, you don’t necessarily need a professional to achieve the farmhouse look. The ideas and tips below are designed to make this trend an easily accessible style for you to achieve in your own home!

Farmhouse: Fashionably Functional

To some, farmhouse might feel too dated or too country—but the modern resurgence of this trend has proved it’s anything but. This style can work well in virtually any home or environment—you just have to know how to make the most of it.

What is farmhouse?

Although there is a lot of room for creativity when it comes to mastering this style, there are a few markers to keep in mind. According to online retailer Wayfair, farmhouse is quintessentially American in style, and it often has a traditional or vintage feel—with wide-open spaces to signify togetherness and emphasize family life.

Common elements:

• Utilize muted shades of white, gray, blue, cream, and green. If you opt for white or cream walls, bring in touches of color with your furniture, such as a soft gray sofa or powder blue end tables.
• Consider antiquing or making use of old pieces you already have. Reclaimed wood, for example, can be used for shelving, and milk jugs and woven baskets will give your kitchen a quaint look.
• Large pieces of furniture, like a large island or dining room table, add to the comfortable and inviting look that is common in farmhouse design. A deep farmhouse sink is another marker of this style that will look wonderful in your kitchen.
• When it comes to textures and materials, comfort is key. Light wood finishes, like birch or oak, are best. You can also make use of items that appear worn, such as wrought iron bed frames or handmade benches, as hallway seating or storage.
• Leave shelving areas and cabinets exposed, and line them with decorative knickknacks such as antique bottles, mugs, and tins. This will enhance the traditional feel of the space and provides a lived-in look.

Do-It-Yourself Decor

One of the best parts of farmhouse design is the ability to use your creativity to create a mix-and-match look with your decor. Utilizing antique pieces and transforming them into something new and functional is one of the best ways to do it!