Introduction to Farmhouse Style Lighting
Farmhouse style lighting has its origins in practical lighting used in agricultural homes and buildings in the 18th and 19th centuries. Farmhouses required durable lighting that could withstand dusty environs and rough use.
Early farmhouse lighting relied on simple candle holders, oil lamps, and lanterns made of tin, iron, or wood. These provided focused task lighting over work areas rather than ambient light. As rural electrification spread in the early 1900s, farmyards got wired for electric lights. Vintage-style porcelain socket light fixtures came into use along with bare bulb lighting.
The clean, vintage farmhouse aesthetic became popular in home decor in the 1990s and 2000s. Modern farmhouse lighting seeks to evoke the rustic charm of antique lighting using updated materials and Edison bulbs. Key features include exposed Edison bulbs, visible sockets, black and antique metal finishes, pulley systems, and gooseneck designs.So that Farmhouse lighting brings a cozy, nostalgic feel to modern homes.
Defining the Farmhouse Lighting Aesthetic
Farmhouse style lighting is characterized by a rustic, vintage aesthetic that evokes the charm of traditional rural living. This look features natural materials, simple silhouettes, and unfinished or distressed details.
Some key elements that define farmhouse lighting include:
**Wood and Metal Materials** Fixtures made from wood, iron, galvanized metal, and antique brass metalwork. These materials give a raw, organic look.
**Edison Bulbs** Vintage-style Edison bulbs with visible filaments are extremely popular for farmhouse fixtures. They provide a nostalgic glow.
**Seeded Glass** Glass lamp shades or globes with a bubbled “seeded” texture filter and soften light beautifully.
**Simple Shapes** Clean, basic shapes like domes, cylinders, and cones. Avoid anything too sleek, ornate or modern.
**Distressed Finishes** Painted, antiqued or naturally weathered finishes in white, black or wood tones convey timeworn charm.
**Exposed Hardware** Visible hanging chains, cords or pipes maintain the unfinished farmhouse vibe.
**Barn Inspiration** Silhouettes and materials borrowed from agricultural buildings like barns, stables and sheds capture rural style.
The overall farmhouse lighting look is warm, relaxed, vintage and craftsman-like because it brings a cozy feel to any space.
Popular Farmhouse Lighting Fixtures
Farmhouse style lighting often makes use of classic fixture types with a vintage look. Here are some of the most popular farmhouse lighting fixtures:
Pendant Lights
Look for pendants with metal cages, clear glass, or Mason jar inspired designs. Wrought iron, galvanized metal, brass, and copper finishes work well. Multi-light pendants are great over kitchen islands. Go for singular pendants over a kitchen sink or dining table. Adjustable height pendants allow flexibility. So that pendant lights are a go-to fixture for farmhouse style kitchens and dining areas.
Chandeliers
Farmhouse chandeliers make a statement in entryways, living rooms, and master bedrooms. Look for chandeliers with exposed bulbs, metal frames, or wood elements. Wrought iron, galvanized metal, and rustic wood bring farmhouse charm. Candle-style chandeliers with clear glass shades or Edison bulbs add ambiance. Go for a statement chandelier in a grand entryway. So that choose smaller, simpler chandeliers for bedrooms.
Sconces
Wall sconces bring both form and function to farmhouse style decor. Look for sconces with metal frames, clear glass, and simple shapes. Iron, brass, galvanized metal, and rustic wood sconces provide ambiance while also illuminating hallways, bedrooms, and living spaces. Go for swing arm sconces to provide task lighting. Use singular sconces flanking beds, above nightstands, or in bathrooms.
Farmhouse lighting combines vintage inspiration with rustic and industrial touches. Focus on these classic fixtures styles for an authentic farmhouse look.
Best Materials for Farmhouse Light Fixtures
The farmhouse style is known for its emphasis on natural materials and rugged simplicity. When selecting light fixtures, opting for those made from metal, wood, or glass helps maintain the cozy yet durable farmhouse vibe.
**Metal**
Wrought iron and galvanized steel are popular metal choices for farmhouse lighting. Black wrought iron has an antique, weathered look that feels right at home in a farmhouse setting. Galvanized steel offers a more modern, industrial twist on traditional farmhouse. Opt for metal fixtures with visible hardware, exposed bulbs, and minimal ornamentation for a classic farmhouse look.
**Wood**
For farmhouse style lighting, unfinished wood like pine or oak works well. Distressed, reclaimed wood with visible grain patterns and markings has an authentic, rustic feel. Pendant lights, sconces, and chandeliers crafted from raw, natural wood complement the farmhouse aesthetic beautifully. Wood brings warmth and texture to any space.
**Glass**
Seeded, bubble, or mason jar glass fixtures add charming, vintage character to farmhouse spaces. The transparency of glass allows light to filter through softly. Look for glass pendants or sconces with visible filaments that highlight the handmade, imperfect nature of the material. Aged, frosted, or crackled glass options enhance the timeworn farmhouse look.
Choosing light fixtures made from metal, wood, or glass creates a cohesive, welcoming farmhouse lighting design. So that rugged, natural materials align perfectly with the casual farmhouse style.
Farmhouse Lighting for Kitchens
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home in farmhouse style. When designing farmhouse kitchen lighting, focus on choosing fixtures that are both functional and decorative.
Island Pendants
Hanging pendant lights over a kitchen island is an essential farmhouse lighting choice. Opt for black metal or wood pendants with exposed Edison bulbs. Wrought iron and galvanized metal are ideal farmhouse materials. Choose 3-5 matching pendants spaced evenly over the island. Adjust the height so the bottom of the pendants hang 30-34 inches above the countertop.
Over Sink Lighting
Proper lighting over the kitchen sink is important for tasks like washing dishes. Go for a classic farmhouse wall sconce or small pendant light. Aged brass, galvanized metal, or porcelain fixtures work well. Place the light centered above the sink or slightly to the side depending on your preference.
Recessed Lighting
Stick with simple trimmed designs rather than elaborate fixtures. Place recessed lighting strategically around the kitchen to provide both ambient lighting and task lighting as needed. Use a soft white light bulb (2700K – 3000K) to prevent a harsh glare. Dimmer switches allow you to control the mood. Recessed can lighting is a versatile farmhouse lighting option.
Farmhouse Lighting for Living Rooms
The living room is often the heart of a farmhouse style home. It’s a place for gathering, relaxing and entertaining. When it comes to lighting this space, there are two key fixtures that really capture the farmhouse aesthetic – statement chandeliers and wall sconces.
Statement chandeliers are a great way to anchor the living room and provide both style and ample illumination. Look for chandeliers with exposed Edison bulbs, black metal finishes, and visible hardware. Wrought iron, galvanized metal, and wood are all popular farmhouse chandelier materials. Go for something with 5-7 lights for optimal glow. Hang the chandelier lower than you would a traditional fixture – around 5 feet above the floor creates a cozy farmhouse feel.
Wall sconces are essential for layering light throughout the living room. Black metal sconces with exposed bulbs are a farmhouse go-to. Position them flanking a sofa, above end tables, or on either side of a fireplace. Sconces with swing arms let you adjust the direction of light and go for a pair of matching sconces to create visual balance. Look for sconces with fabric lampshades as well for a soft, inviting glow.
With the right statement chandelier and wall sconces, your farmhouse living room lighting will feel warm, rustic and welcoming. Layer in table lamps and pendants as needed to complete the look.
Farmhouse Lighting for Bedrooms
Farmhouse style bedrooms benefit from lighting fixtures that provide both ambiance and functionality.
Bedside Sconces
Look for sconces with exposed Edison bulbs to complement the industrial farmhouse look. Wrought iron, brass, or antique nickel are ideal metal finishes. Consider sconces with organic shapes or clean lines depending on your exact style. Wall sconces on both sides of the bed provide balanced, directional light for reading and other bedside activities. Opt for plug-in sconces to make wiring easier.
Chandeliers Over the Bed
Hanging a chandelier over the bed adds an eye-catching focal point and plenty of ambient lighting. So choose a chandelier with exposed filament or edison bulbs to match the cozy farmhouse aesthetic. Iron, brass, or wood are great materials that fit with the style. After all look for charming details like candle sleeves. The chandelier over the bed can range from small and understated to a grand statement piece depending on your preference. Place the chandelier centered above the bed or slightly off-center for an asymmetrical look. A farmhouse bedroom chandelier helps set the mood for rest and relaxation.
Farmhouse Outdoor Lighting
The rustic charm of farmhouse style extends beautifully to outdoor spaces. When selecting lighting for porches, patios, and gardens, opt for fixtures that feel timeworn and weathered. Wrought iron and galvanized metal lanterns, sconces, and pendants work well. For a cozy glow, hang Edison bulbs or vintage-style filament bulbs.
Porch Lights
A statement porch light sets the tone for farmhouse exterior lighting. Go for a galvanized metal fixture or distressed wood and metal combo. Black, bronze, pewter, and antique brass finishes look right at home. Install a pendant light or sconces on either side of the front door. Opt for clear glass panels or metal cages over the bulbs.
String Lights
These lights instantly create a warm, welcoming ambiance on porches, patios, pergolas, and trees. So choose classic Edison-style bulbs with visible filaments. For durability, select lights with plastic or silicone bulbs rather than glass. Hang them overhead or weave them through tree branches. Add character by using different shapes and sizes of string lights.
Lanterns
Lanterns give farmhouse exteriors a timeworn look, like the home has been there for generations. Place lanterns along pathways, by doors, or hung from porches and trees. Seek out distressed metal lanterns, galvanized tin, or rustic wood. Install lanterns at varying heights for visual interest. Use LED or flameless candles to prevent fire hazards.
Tips for Styling Farmhouse Lighting
Farmhouse style is all about creating a cozy, vintage-inspired look in your home.
Mixing Metals
Combining black, bronze, copper, and galvanized metals etc can add visual interest and depth to your space. Try hanging a black iron chandelier over a dining table with bronze sconces on the walls. Or pair copper pendants over a kitchen island with galvanized metal barn lights. The key is to choose metals that have a similar patina or worn finish to maintain a cohesive look.
Layers and Texture
Layering lighting creates ambiance and dimension in farmhouse rooms. Consider using pendant lights over an island or peninsula, paired with recessed cans for task lighting. In living spaces, layer table and floor lamps over top of installed ceiling fixtures. And don’t forget about sconces – they make excellent layered lighting next to beds or on stairwell walls.
Distressed Finishes
Search for fixtures with a distressed, vintage look. Wrought iron chandeliers and pendants with a cracked, chipped paint finish add rustic charm. Wooden beams or planks used as open shelving can showcase galvanized pipe lighting. For table lamps, opt for bases with character marks, dents, or a timeworn look. The imperfections and wear add depth and a sense of history to farmhouse lighting. Don’t be afraid to mismatch styles from different eras for an eclectic, collected look. The key to nailing farmhouse lighting is all in the details – focus on fixtures with antique appeal to complement your cozy decor.Above all tips important in farmhouse lighting.
Where to Buy Farmhouse Lighting
Here are some of the best places to shop for authentic farmhouse lights:
Online Shops
- Anthropologie Offers a beautiful collection of rustic, vintage-inspired lighting. From pendant lights to sconces, you’ll find lots of farmhouse style options.
- Pottery Barn Known for their classic farmhouse aesthetic. Check out their lighting section for chandeliers, pendants, and wall sconces with a cozy farmhouse vibe.
- Wayfair With their massive inventory, Wayfair is a go-to for farmhouse lighting at every budget. Filter by finish, style, and material to find the perfect fixtures.
Etsy For handmade and truly unique farmhouse lighting, Etsy artisans offer pendant lights, sconces, table lamps, and more with rustic charm.
Big Box Stores
- Target Browse their threshold brand for lots of farmhouse style options.
- West Elm Offers modern rustic lighting with a mid-century meets farmhouse vibe. Check out their selection of natural wood and black metal pendants and sconces.
- Crate & Barrel From vintage-inspired to industrial farmhouse, their lighting section has pendant lights, flush mounts, and table lamps etc in this cozy style.
- World Market Affordable farmhouse lighting abounds here, from metal cage pendants to woven rattan lamps with coastal charm. Lots of options under $100.
Take your time browsing to discover unique fixtures that will add cozy farmhouse flair.