What is Farmhouse Style?

You’ve heard the term farmhouse style or farmhouse decor style or farmhouse style kitchen many, many times before, which might make you wonder, “what exactly is farmhouse style?”. Does it evoke the aesthetics of an old, rustic farmhouse or is it more specific than that? Don’t worry! We’re here to help you answer those questions.

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1. History of Farmhouse Style
1. Began in the U.S. in the 1700s 
1. Farm life relied heavily on practical elements. It was not a luxurious aesthetic, but more utilitarian
2. The farmhouse aesthetic began with a need for practicality
1. Whatever was used to decorate also had a practical purpose using readily available elements like wood and steel
3. The industrial revolution changed it from a need into a desired decor style
1. Farm life became easier with the improvement of technology
4. Farmhouse style has remained popular throughout the 20th and 21st centuries
1. Remains propped up due to HGTV
2. Farmhouse Style Embraces the Old and New
1. Equal parts rustic / eclectic with modern touches to create a comfy, cozy feel
2. Embraces the weathered and worn materials like distressed woods and metals
3. Practical, using old items like milk cans, barrels, glassware, and old plates / bowls to decorate
4. Both new and antique furniture can be used to create the modern farmhouse style
3. Elements of Farmhouse Style
1. Prioritizes practicality and function over decor
1. Open shelving
2. Uses mixed textures including distressed wood, stone, metal, and canvas upholstery
1. Distressed wood chairs or tables with upholstery
3. Implements natural colors with earthy tones and neutral cools / warms
1. Painted hand-me-down furniture
4. Uses imperfections, such as scratches, knots, dings, and dents, to bring charm to the aesthetic
1. Dented metal bins and cans 
4. Benefits of Farmhouse Style
1. Any new scratches or dents can be added to the aesthetic
2. Larger spaces in the kitchen and living room for guests
3. Hand-me-down antique furniture saves initial costs
4. The elements don’t have to match exactly like other styles, allowing for more creativity in design choice 

Resources:

• https://www.starfurniture.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-farmhouse-style-furniture-decor.html#:~:text=Farmhouse%20style%20is%20an%20interior,feels%20both%20cozy%20and%20stylish
• https://homemadelovely.com/what-is-farmhouse-style/
• https://vevano.com/resource-center/home-interior-style-farmhouse-design/