Introduction to Farmhouse Kitchen Style
Farmhouse style kitchens are inspired by the practical yet cozy kitchens found in traditional farmhouses. This classic style has roots dating back to the late 18th century in America, when families lived in functional homesteads on farms and ranches.
Over time, the simple charm and rustic aesthetic of the farmhouse kitchen has become a popular choice even for suburban and urban homes today. The defining characteristics of the farmhouse style include rugged textures, vintage or distressed finishes, and an emphasis on practicality and durability over pristine perfection.
At its core, the farmhouse kitchen evokes a comforting, lived-in feel that balances vintage and modern elements. Exposed beams, wood countertops, and repurposed furniture pieces create rustic appeal. Pendant lighting, subway tile, and stainless steel appliances mix in contemporary touches. The overall look is both nostalgic of the past yet suited for family life today.
Warm, earthy color palettes keep the space feeling cozy and intimate. Natural materials like wood, metal, and stone add organic texture. Open shelving, woven baskets, and gingham curtains speak to the casual and inviting vibe of the quintessential farmhouse kitchen style .
Choosing a Color Palette
The color palette is key to achieving the charming farmhouse aesthetic. White and black are classic choices that pair beautifully with natural wood tones and pops of color. Here are some common color schemes for a farmhouse kitchen:
- **White kitchen:** A bright, all-white kitchen evokes a fresh, airy feel. White cabinetry, walls, countertops, and backsplashes create a light and elegant look. Add warmth with natural wood accents and greenery.
- **Black and white:** For contrast, pair crisp white cabinetry and walls with black countertops, island bases, and accents. Black fixtures, hardware, and lighting also pop against the white.
- **Wood tones:** Rich wood cabinetry and butcher block countertops bring organic texture. Pair with white or black paint colors to allow the wood to stand out. Distressed wood finishes add rustic charm.
- **Painted cabinets:** Sage green, navy, light blue, and other muted paint colors on cabinets make the kitchen cozy and charming. Contrast with white countertops and backsplash.
- **Black, white, and wood:** Combine black island bases or fixtures with white cabinetry, then bring in wood countertops and open shelving for an eclectic mix.
The key is choosing a color scheme with contrast and personality. Neutrals like white and wood allow bolder black accents and painted cabinets to shine. Add whimsical touches like floral window valances to complete the farmhouse vibe.
Flooring Options
When designing a farmhouse style kitchen, the flooring is an important element that can help establish the aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular flooring options to consider:
Hardwood
Hardwood floors are a classic choice that pairs beautifully with farmhouse decor. Wide-plank oak or hickory floors with a natural finish complement the rustic charm of farmhouse kitchens. Distressed hardwoods with an antique appearance also work well. Hardwood offers durability and a warm, natural look.
Tile
Tile is another timeless flooring option for farmhouse kitchens. Stone tiles like slate, travertine, and marble create an Old World feel. Terracotta tiles in earthy reds and burnt oranges complement the farmhouse palette. For a modern twist, concrete-look porcelain tiles can provide the appearance of concrete with the functionality of tile. Tile is durable, easy to clean, and comes in many styles to match the farmhouse aesthetic.
Concrete
Polished or stained concrete floors lend an industrial vibe to the farmhouse kitchen. The gray tones and smooth finish pair nicely with vintage-inspired spaces. Concrete is durable, though the hard surface can be tough on falling dishes or cooks that spend a lot of time standing. For a softer alternative, concrete-look flooring replicates the appearance while offering more shock absorption.
Vinyl
Vinyl plank flooring provides a budget-friendly option for achieving a wood plank or tile look. Many vinyl planks mimic the color variations and texture of natural materials like oak hardwood or stone tile. Quality vinyl holds up well to moisture and everyday wear-and-tear. Just be sure to avoid options with an artificial shine. The matte finish of natural wood and stone better complements the farmhouse style.
Cabinetry
Cabinetry is a key element that defines the farmhouse style kitchen. There are a few popular cabinetry options to help achieve the rustic farmhouse look:
**Distressed Wood Cabinets**
Distressed wood cabinets crafted from reclaimed wood are a hallmark of farmhouse style. The distressed finish gives the look of an antique, with dents, nail holes, cracks, and a worn patina. Oak is a popular choice for distressed cabinets since it naturally develops an appealing weathered gray tone over time. White painted distressed cabinets are also common, where the white paint is intentionally chipped and scraped to mimic age.
**White Painted Cabinets**
Crisp white painted cabinets paired with distressed wood countertops is a go-to farmhouse look. The bright white provides a light airy feel and contrasts beautifully with natural wood counters. For extra character, add glass front cabinets to showcase dishware. Soft closing drawers and doors are recommended for white cabinets to prevent chips and dings over time.
**Open Shelving**
Open shelving lends a casual cottage vibe and allows you to display collections of pottery or glassware. Iron brackets or reclaimed wood boards are used to create DIY shelving. Leave shelving unfinished for a raw, rustic look. Open shelving works well when mixing with solid cabinetry to maintain some closed storage.
The key to achieving authentic farmhouse style cabinetry is to blend elements of old and new for a timeworn look layered with modern convenience. Distressed finishes, vintage hardware, glass front doors, and open shelving are design details to incorporate.
Countertops
Countertops are the workhorses of any kitchen. When designing a farmhouse style kitchen, natural materials like granite, marble, concrete, and butcher block make an excellent choice for countertops since they fit with the overall aesthetic.
Butcher Block
Butcher block countertops made from wood instantly give a farmhouse vibe. The natural patterns and warm tones complement other common farmhouse materials like subway tile, wood cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Butcher block needs to be properly sealed and maintained to prevent stains, but it can stand up to heavy daily use. Opt for a lighter wood like maple or acacia for a lighter look.
Marble
Marble countertops have been popular in kitchens for ages because it’s a high-end, durable material that comes in stunning patterns. Carrara and Calacatta marble are white with elegant gray veining that pairs beautifully with farmhouse decor. Keep in mind marble stains easily, so prompt cleaning and re-sealing is a must. It’s also on the more expensive side, but adds luxurious style.
Granite
For farmhouse kitchens, look for granites in lighter neutral hues with some speckling rather than very dark or elaborately patterned slabs. Gray, taupe, or lighter brown tones work well. The natural flecks and veins in granite fit with the rustic farmhouse aesthetic. Granite is very durable and heat-resistant but can be prone to staining and cracking over time. Annual re-sealing is recommended.
Concrete
Concrete countertops provide an edgy, industrial vibe that contrasts nicely with more traditional farmhouse elements like shiplap walls or antique accents. The color can be tinted and polished to the desired finish, whether a smooth gray, warm beige or something more unique. Concrete is hardy, scratch-resistant and heat-proof but can stain and crack if not properly sealed. It’s a custom option that makes a statement.
Backsplash
The backsplash is a key focal point in a farmhouse kitchen that brings texture, color, and visual interest. Here are some top options for achieving the farmhouse backsplash look:
Subway Tile
Subway tile is a classic farmhouse backsplash choice. The rectangular tiles come in bright white, pale blues, greens, grays, and other soft colors. Lay the tiles in the traditional brick pattern or get creative with patterns like herringbone. Subway tile delivers the clean, timeless aesthetic that’s essential to farmhouse style.
Brick
For an authentic old-world look, brick backsplashes are ideal for farmhouse kitchens. Salvaged brick brings character and rustic appeal. Faux brick veneers offer the look without the weight and hassle of real brick. Mix brick patterns or colors for added interest. Brick backsplashes pair beautifully with distressed cabinets and butcher block countertops.
Stone
Natural stone like marble, travertine, and granite make stunning backsplash materials that align with farmhouse style. Go for a tumbled finish in soft neutral hues. Add visual texture with an arch pattern, stacked ledgestone, or mosaic tile design. Stone has an inherently rustic, earthy feel that enhances the cozy farmhouse kitchen environment.
Shiplap
For a cottage-inspired farmhouse kitchen, shiplap offers warm, wooden backsplash possibility. Use budget-friendly pine boards for a casual look or opt for pricier reclaimed barnwood for extra character. Paint or stain the boards for personalized color. Distressing and sanding techniques can achieve a timeworn, antique appearance. Add charming accents like built-in shelving, floating spice racks, or tiny hooks.
Lighting
Lighting is an important design element that helps set the overall mood and style of a farmhouse kitchen. Farmhouse style calls for lighting fixtures that feel rustic, vintage and charming. Some popular lighting options include:
Pendant Lights
- Pendant lights suspended over kitchen islands or dining tables are a hallmark of farmhouse style. Look for pendants with exposed Edison bulbs, retro cage designs, or simple bell shapes. Aged brass, black, and antique nickel are popular pendant light finishes.
- Hanging multiple pendants at different heights adds visual interest. Alternatively, a single statement pendant can anchor the kitchen.
- For kitchen islands, opt for 1-3 pendant lights spaced appropriately over the island. Make sure the bottoms of the pendants hang 30-34 inches above the countertop.
**Chandeliers**
- For dining areas, a chandelier is a elegant farmhouse lighting choice. Seek out wrought iron, wood beam, or antique chandeliers with candles or exposed bulbs.
- Size the chandelier appropriately for the room – a general rule of thumb is the chandelier width should be 2/3 the width of the table. Hang the chandelier approximately 30 inches above the table.
Exposed Edison Bulbs
- Vintage-style Edison bulbs with visible filaments are a trendy addition to farmhouse kitchens. They add a nostalgic, industrial vibe.
- Consider using Edison bulbs in pendant lights, small chandeliers, sconces, or even standalone bulbs in wire cages. Opt for bulbs with a warmer glow instead of cool white light.
- Take proper safety precautions when using exposed bulb fixtures near water or flammable surfaces in the kitchen.
Hardware
When it comes to hardware, black and brass or gold are classic choices for a farmhouse style kitchen. Black hardware tends to look more modern and sleek, while brass or gold hardware lends a more traditional, antique look.
**Black Hardware**
Black hardware is a popular option for farmhouse style kitchens today. Matte black cabinet pulls and knobs have a clean, modern feel that pairs nicely with many of the painted cabinets and colors used in contemporary farmhouse decor. Wrought iron-inspired black hardware can provide a more vintage farmhouse look. Opting for all black hardware creates a cohesive, sophisticated aesthetic.
**Brass or Gold Hardware**
For a more traditional farmhouse vibe, brass or gold hardware is a great choice. Brushed brass knobs and handles have an antique, weathered appearance that feels fitting for a classic farmhouse kitchen. Aged bronze pulls also complement the farmhouse look. Solid brass hardware brings a true vintage feel. Gold hardware, like porcelain knobs or crystal glass handles, can create a luxurious old world farmhouse style. Mixing black and brass hardware is another option to bridge modern and traditional.
**Knobs vs Handles**
When selecting hardware, choose between knobs or handles for drawers and cabinets. Knobs tend to suit the traditional farmhouse aesthetic, with a classic circular shape. Handles offer a more modern, streamlined look. For a transitional style, combining knobs and handles is an option. Consider Knobs for smaller drawers and handles for larger cabinet doors. The size and style of hardware should fit the scale of the cabinets and drawers.
Appliances
When it comes to appliances, farmhouse style calls for pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm. Vintage-style appliances are a great option to consider. Companies like Big Chill and Smeg make retro-looking appliances like refrigerators and ranges that come in fun, retro colors like cherry red and pastel blue. Not only do these appliances nail the farmhouse aesthetic, they also add a funky, lighthearted element.
Another appliance finish that works very well in farmhouse kitchens is black stainless steel. The deep, dark finish gives appliances a more aged, timeworn look than shiny stainless steel. Brands like Samsung, GE, and KitchenAid offer black stainless as an alternative finish. And it’s available on most standard appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and ranges. The black stainless finish can create a striking look against light cabinets and countertops.
While stainless steel appliances generally lend a more modern look, white appliances can help enhance the traditional farmhouse vibe. White has an inherent cottage feel to it that pairs nicely with many farmhouse style kitchen elements. From refrigerators to microwaves, choosing white appliances where possible can really reinforce the cozy, rural aesthetic. Brands like Whirlpool, Frigidaire, and Bosch offer many appliances in crisp white.
When finalizing your appliance selection, think about mixing and matching some choices for extra character. A vintage-style refrigerator paired with a white stove and black stainless dishwasher creates an eclectic look with standout style. Appliances in varying finishes and styles will accentuate the farmhouse kitchen style.
Accessories
A farmhouse style kitchen would not be complete without the right accessories. Choosing decor and accents that align with the farmhouse aesthetic is key.
Farmhouse Sinks
A classic farmhouse sink is a must for an authentic farmhouse kitchen. Look for a large, deep single basin made of stainless steel or enamel. Farmhouse sinks come in a range of colors like white, black, gray, and even blue to complement your color scheme. An apron front is distinctive of the farmhouse look. Opt for a sink that is durable and easy to clean.
Open Shelving
Open shelving lends a casual, rustic vibe to a farmhouse kitchen. It provides easy access to dishes, cookbooks, plants and other decorative items. Wood shelves in a natural finish work well. You can also mix in some metal and wire shelving for contrast. Keep the look cohesive by limiting the amount of open shelving.
Pendant Lighting
Hanging pendant lights over the kitchen island or sink provide both form and function. opt for black metal or woven baskets for a farmhouse aesthetic. Use pendants in groups of 2 or 3 for visual interest. Adjustable height and direction allow you to focus the light where needed. Go for a vintage look with filament or Edison bulbs.