Decorating & Design
18 Ways To Achieve Farmhouse Style In Your Kitchen
Published on September 29, 2020
There are plenty of examples of farmhouse style that have popped up in the pages of H&H over the years, in addition to examples by influencers like Joanna Gaines, who have done much to popularize this look. The latest evolution sidesteps cutesy farm motifs for a cleaner aesthetic that can’t be dated by sunflowers, mason jars or cows. These kitchens are located in actual farmhouses, but it’s easy to borrow elements for city dwellers who want the down-home appeal of farmhouse character. Take a trip to the country as we break down how to bring the look home!
Apron Sinks
Farmhouse or apron sinks are generously sized (read: big enough to soak a bunch of pans after hosting a crowd), but they also break up cabinetry. This Quebec farmhouse kitchen sink is accented by a punchy black fixture.
Enamel Range
Heritage stove brands like Aga or La Cornue are the centerpiece of many European country retreats. In this circa-1600s Dorset farmhouse kitchen, an Aga range is a timeless addition that packs plenty of wow factor.
Rustic Lighting
A mix of battered metal pendants are suspended on long chains from the 25-foot-high cathedral ceiling in this English kitchen.
Old-Fashioned Pantry
Pantries have the presence of freestanding storage, but this one has the benefit of concealing the fridge and freezer, so there isn’t a large expanse of stainless steel to break up the beautiful navy millwork. (We also love the way the aprons are hung on the side, and battered produce boxes are displayed on top.)
Harvest Tables
The trend for skipping huge islands in favor of tables has been brewing for a while, but this design choice began in country kitchens. This version is more polished than most harvest tables, but the effect is the same: inviting and casual.
Bridge Faucets
To compliment the farmhouse feel, choose a bridge faucet for a heritage look. In this East Coast kitchen, a warm metal fixture contrasts the cool blue-green hue of the cabinetry.
Warm Metals
Farmhouse kitchens are known for their humble roots, but one way to keep the look fresh is incorporating metallic accents. Luxe touches — like hammered and solid brass panels on the island and above the stove — elevate the country quality of designer Sarah Richardson’s Starlight Farm.
Communal Seating
Whether it’s a bench or custom-made banquette, as seen in this Hudson River Valley country house, both options offer lots of togetherness — especially for kids — or a crowd of grown-ups.
Apothecary Jars
Crocks, cookie jars and old-time apothecary jars are a pretty way to display foodstuffs, so ditch the boxes — and add a tin scoop for good measure.
Subway Tile
When upper cabinets are given a pass, a full wall of glossy white subway tiles add texture, are easy to clean and make black sconces and mullions pop.
Heritage Hardware
Cup pulls and old-school latches (especially in unlacquered brass) have an authenticity and historic heft, and the finish will patina over time with use.
Spindle-Back Chairs
Windsor chairs are a staple in country interiors; streamlined modern versions conjure up the same effect. These mid-tone chairs accent the solid walnut dining table.
Marble
In this picture-perfect farmhouse, classic marble counters on the island create an airy look with white cabinetry.
Wide Plank Floors
These knotty pine floors were topped with a pale wash to play up their raw beauty, and the wide planks dramatize the natural wood grain even more.
Vintage Accessories
An antique display table (found on 1stdibs) turned into an island top and worn butter bowl gives this farmhouse kitchen in Upstate New York rustic soul.
Shiplap Panelling
Whether it’s shiplap or beadboard, panelling has a heritage vibe that speaks to craftsmanship. Establish an authentic farmhouse character by applying panelling to walls; a bonus in small kitchens where it makes the space look more expansive.
Shaker Cabinets
This historic style of cabinet is popular for a reason: the simple, classic lines suit a range of aesthetics, and the framed face accents beautiful hardware.
Natural Wood Accents
Wooden beams were added to this Quebec farmhouse kitchen to lend warmth and character, and echo the mid-tone wood floors and stools.