Farmhouse Style

Life on the Farm

The current fondness for farmhouse style comes partly from our nostalgia for simplicity, and a past, real or imagined, when life moved more slowly, neighbors called out greetings to each other, and families gathered together for celebration and comfort.

Many of the working farms surrounding our New England village have been in families for generations. They have the solid feel of tradition and history.

Local farmers raise unique animals like belted cattle on small family farms.

And chickens are making their way onto suburban plots.

Parts of historic Smolak Farm are about 300 years old. The farm and its surrounding fields of fruit trees occupy a small valley in an idyllic setting.

Simple Touches of Farmhouse Style

Most of us don’t live on a working farm, but we can add nostalgic touches of farmhouse style to our interiors. Using farm life as inspiration, it’s easy to achieve this look.

For some, farmhouse style means simple decor with rustic accents valued for their reference to the past. Think old wooden rakes, handmade boxes once used to store tools, and galvanized containers.

Search vintage sales, old barns, or if you’re lucky, a grandparent’s basement or shed for treasures. The ancient wooden bucket above used to hold my grandmother’s sugar, and its aged character makes it an excellent decorative piece.

Heart of the Home: Farmhouse Kitchens

Farmhouse style works well in kitchens, a natural gathering place for the family where nostalgic touches seem perfect. Add farmhouse style to your kitchen with rustic wood, exposed beams, and vintage treasures.

The kitchens above give contrasting examples of what a farmhouse style kitchen can be. Farmhouse style is versatile enough to fit your aesthetic, whether it’s rustic or contemporary.

Barn Doors & Rustic Wood

Sliding barn doors aren’t just for barns. They’re popular in part because they take so little space, making them valuable in high traffic areas. The hardware on the door above establishes a modern feel.

Salvage yards are good places to search for old doors. Fitting a salvaged door into your decor will lend instant charm and nostalgia.

Vintage galvanized metal jugs that have been cut in half make unique pendant lights over a kitchen island. The slight difference in each jug adds to the charm of the fixture.

A Few Touches are all You Need

You can achieve farmhouse style by adding a few touches, or editing your existing decor to create a nostalgic look that fits your home and your dreams. Happy hunting at the vintage sales!

 

Feature photo Paisley Farm.

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