Each year, we see new kitchen remodeling trends that may or may not last. Will you still want bright pink cabinets or all-black walls in a few years? It’s hard to say.
If you’re looking for a timeless upgrade that is equal parts classic and sophisticated, consider creating your very own farmhouse kitchen. The farmhouse kitchen isn’t just for, well, farmhouses. It looks great in any home, from a suburban four-bedroom to a city loft.
The question is, what design elements do you need to create the farmhouse look? How can you ensure that your kitchen renovation leaves you satisfied and creates the aesthetic you were going for?
Read on for kitchen ideas and design tips that will help you to create that gorgeous farmhouse kitchen.
The Difference Between a Farmhouse Kitchen and Country Kitchen
First, let’s talk about the difference between a classic farmhouse kitchen and a “country” kitchen. It’s possible that what you have in your head is more akin to the latter, and that’s not quite the look we’re going for.
A farmhouse kitchen is warm and sophisticated. It isn’t overcrowded with knick-knacks or busy patterns. Every element of a farmhouse kitchen is both beautiful and practical–so if you can’t use it, don’t include it.
A country kitchen, on the other hand, is a type of rustic kitchen with an extra splash of kitsch. If you’re thinking about chicken-patterned dishes and checkerboard window treatments, you’re thinking of a country kitchen. (And hey, if that’s what you’d prefer, you do you!)
Go With Warm and Neutral Tones
Now, let’s get started on the crucial design elements of a farmhouse kitchen. Your first step is very likely going to be painting, so let’s talk about the color pallet that goes with this type of interior design.
Farmhouse kitchens are light and airy, maximizing any sunshine they can get. That means that when it comes to your walls, you’re going to want to go with a light neutral. You can’t go wrong with white, but if you’re looking for something a little less stark, a very light grey will do.
What about accent colors? The most important thing is that you don’t go overboard on the colors you add to the room. If you want your accents to be cool blues or greens, that’s fine, but a more traditional farmhouse kitchen would make use of warm colors like yellow, tan, or orange.
Incorporate Natural Materials
Picture a true farmhouse kitchen on the side of a rolling hill. Out there in the elements, you’d expect to find organic (as in natural) materials, right? You’re on the right track.
When you’re selecting your materials, try to stick with things that aren’t synthetic or factory-made. Consider woodblock or soapstone counters rather than laminate. Replace linoleum tiles with real wood flooring–and if it fits into your budget, consider adding exposed wood beams to your ceiling, as well.
Other materials to consider incorporating into your farmhouse kitchen include wrought iron, wire, and glass. Keep this in mind when shopping for decor as well as lighting.
Invest in a Farmhouse Sink
No farmhouse kitchen is complete without a beautiful farmhouse sink. These sinks, also referred to as apron sinks, are practical and easy to use. They’re also a focal point in any farmhouse kitchen.
What makes an apron sink special? Apron sinks are made of stone, often granite or quartz, and are usually white in color. Rather than being tucked into the countertop, apron sinks have exposed fronts, which is part of what catches the eye.
Now, you can find apron sinks in cheaper materials (like engineered stone–we won’t tell if you don’t) that still look like the real deal. This makes it easier to fit that apron sink into any budget.
Pick Appropriate Treatments
What kinds of cabinetry should you use in a farmhouse kitchen? How should you treat the windows or cover the pantries?
When it comes to cabinetry, we recommend a combination of open shelving and enclosed cabinets. Use your open shelving to highlight beautiful dishes, mason jars, attractive cooking equipment, and other pieces that make the space look good. Use enclosed cabinets (painted in a neutral tone) for all of that stuff you don’t want to look at.
Keep window treatments simple–if you use them at all. Farmhouse kitchens should be bright and inviting, and many modern farmhouse kitchens skip window treatments, altogether, to let in as much light as possible.
When it comes to covering the pantry, remember that you want your farmhouse kitchen to be easy to navigate. Swinging cafe doors allow for fluid movement from the open kitchen into the pantry (or adjoining rooms) while providing that rustic yet chic look.
Finish It Off With Practical Decor
Finally, let’s talk about decor. As we’ve mentioned already, a farmhouse kitchen doesn’t contain a plethora of just-for-show items. Everything serves a purpose and everything has its place.
Use wire baskets to hold things like linen dish towels or cotton napkins. Opt for wooden utensils and, when wood won’t do, pick utensils that are white or black in color. If you have the room, add extra pieces like a butcher block, a china hutch, and a pot rack (but again, only if you’ll actually use them).
Whenever you can, keep your kitchen stocked with plenty of fresh cut flowers in mason jars, vintage tins, or colorful vases.
Get Started on Your Farmhouse Kitchen Remodel
If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, skip the trends that aren’t built to last. The farmhouse kitchen design style has been around for decades and will stay around for decades. With our guide, you can undertake a kitchen renovation that you’ll love forever!
Looking for more ways to improve your home no matter your budget? Take a look around as we share our best tips and tricks to turn your house into the home you’ve always dreamed of.
