Introduction
When I first started experimenting with farmhouse style, I wasn’t looking to completely overhaul my home. I just wanted to add a bit of that rustic charm I’d fallen in love with during visits to old countryside houses and antique shops. Over the years, I’ve discovered that even the smallest tweaks—like a set of mismatched dining chairs or a vintage mirror—can completely transform a space. Farmhouse style is all about simplicity, warmth, and blending the old with the new, and it’s surprisingly easy to achieve in any room.
This design trend isn’t just a fleeting fad—it’s a way of creating a home that feels lived-in and welcoming. With a mix of natural materials, neutral colors, and personal touches, farmhouse style works for spaces big and small, modern or traditional. The best part? You don’t need a barn or acres of land to bring this look into your home. With the right hacks, you can infuse farmhouse charm into every room, no matter your budget or square footage.
In this guide, I’ll share 10 farmhouse style hacks that I’ve used in my own projects (and even in my own home) to create that cozy, timeless look. Let’s get started!
1. Start With a Neutral Color Palette
Why It Works:
Neutral tones like white, beige, gray, and soft pastels create the perfect canvas for farmhouse interiors. These colors make rooms feel light and airy while providing the flexibility to layer in textures and patterns.
How to Apply It:
- Living Room: Paint walls a crisp white and pair with a soft gray sofa. Add warmth with natural wood accents.
- Bedroom: Opt for creamy whites or soft taupes on the walls and choose bedding in complementary shades for a cohesive look.
2. Incorporate Reclaimed Wood
Why It Works:
Reclaimed wood adds a sense of history and character to any room. It’s the quintessential material for achieving a farmhouse look.
How to Apply It:
- Dining Room: Use a reclaimed wood dining table as a focal point. Pair it with upholstered or vintage-inspired chairs.
- Bathroom: Add a reclaimed wood shelf above the sink for extra storage and a rustic touch.
3. Mix Old and New Furniture
Why It Works:
Farmhouse design is all about balance. Pairing modern furniture with vintage or antique pieces creates depth and interest in your home.
How to Apply It:
- Living Room: Combine a sleek sectional with an antique coffee table or a vintage sideboard.
- Entryway: Pair a modern bench with a distressed mirror or a vintage coat rack.
4. Add Textural Layers With Fabrics
Why It Works:
Farmhouse style thrives on texture. Layering different fabrics adds warmth and makes a space feel inviting.
How to Apply It:
- Bedroom: Layer linen sheets with a chunky knit blanket and a set of plaid or striped throw pillows.
- Living Room: Drape a soft throw over a leather or fabric sofa, and add jute or wool rugs for contrast.
5. Embrace Open Shelving
Why It Works:
Open shelving showcases your favorite items while keeping the space functional and visually interesting.
How to Apply It:
- Kitchen: Replace upper cabinets with open shelves to display dishes, mason jars, and vintage pitchers.
- Bathroom: Use wooden or metal shelves to store towels and decorative items like candles or greenery.
6. Use Farmhouse-Inspired Lighting
Why It Works:
The right lighting can make or break your design. Farmhouse lighting often features rustic materials like wood, metal, and glass.
How to Apply It:
- Dining Room: Install a large, distressed-wood chandelier or a cluster of industrial pendant lights.
- Bedroom: Use wall sconces with matte black or bronze finishes for a cozy, intimate feel.
7. Opt for Functional Decor
Why It Works:
In farmhouse design, every item should have a purpose. Functional decor adds to the aesthetic while serving a practical role.
How to Apply It:
- Kitchen: Display cutting boards, rolling pins, and fruit bowls on countertops for a lived-in look.
- Entryway: Use woven baskets for shoe storage and hooks for coats and bags.
8. Bring in Greenery
Why It Works:
Adding plants or flowers brings life and color into your home, softening the harder edges of wood and metal.
How to Apply It:
- Living Room: Place a fiddle-leaf fig tree in a corner or a few potted succulents on the coffee table.
- Bathroom: Use small planters for herbs or hanging greenery to brighten the space.
9. Focus on Statement Walls
Why It Works:
A statement wall adds personality without overwhelming the simplicity of farmhouse design.
How to Apply It:
- Bedroom: Install shiplap or reclaimed wood planks behind the bed for a focal point.
- Living Room: Create a gallery wall with vintage artwork, family photos, and mirrors in rustic frames.
10. Use Vintage or Rustic Accessories
Why It Works:
Decorative accessories are the finishing touch that ties the room together and makes it feel uniquely yours.
How to Apply It:
- Kitchen: Display vintage scales, enamel pitchers, or antique signs on countertops and shelves.
- Bathroom: Use mason jars for storage or as vases for wildflowers.
Picture Gallery
Conclusion
Farmhouse style is more than a design trend—it’s a way of creating a home that feels warm, inviting, and personal. The beauty of these hacks is that they can be adapted to any room, whether you’re working with a sprawling farmhouse or a small city apartment. By focusing on natural materials, thoughtful textures, and a mix of old and new, you can bring this timeless aesthetic to life.
As I reflect on my own journey with farmhouse design, I’ve realized it’s not just about the look but about how a space makes you feel. It’s that sense of comfort when you step into a room filled with natural light, cozy fabrics, and meaningful touches. So don’t be afraid to experiment, make it your own, and enjoy the process of turning your house into a home.
Happy decorating—and remember, farmhouse style is all about embracing imperfection and celebrating the beauty of the everyday!
FAQ
How can I achieve farmhouse style on a budget?
Start with small changes, like swapping out accessories or adding a vintage piece. DIY projects, such as creating open shelving or refinishing furniture, can also help you save money.
Can farmhouse style work in a modern home?
Absolutely! Farmhouse style blends beautifully with modern elements. Focus on clean lines, neutral colors, and rustic accents to create a balanced look.
What’s the easiest way to incorporate farmhouse charm?
Adding natural materials like wood, linen, and greenery is a quick way to bring farmhouse vibes into any space. Functional decor, like baskets or vintage dishes, is another easy option.
Do I need shiplap for a farmhouse look?
Not necessarily! While shiplap is a popular feature, you can achieve farmhouse style with other elements, like reclaimed wood, neutral tones, and textured fabrics.
How can I make my farmhouse style feel unique?
Personalize your space with family heirlooms, handmade items, or decor that reflects your interests. Farmhouse style is about creating a home that tells your story.
About the Author
M.Arch. Julio Arco is an architect, interior designer, and urban planner with degrees from ITESM, McGill University, and a certificate in Architecture in Urban Context from LDM. Julio has designed interiors for over 1,200 clients and also teaches architecture at ITESM.
He is also the founder of Habitari Interior Design, a blog dedicated to thoughtful, evidence-based spaces that elevate everyday living.
His go-to sites for inspiration include Houzz, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, Architectural Digest, and The Spruce.