Life, Styled
Many talk about how it was in the good old days when social media meant talking with your neighbors and family dinners were looked forward to as a chance to catch up. Maybe this need to reconnect with our social roots is what makes the farmhouse style so popular. This design is also trending with interior designers as they seek to help their clients have their little oasis. Even HGTV highlighted this growing trend by featuring the show Fixer Upper with the husband-and-wife dream team Chip and Joanna Gaines. Their down-to-earth humor and simplistic approach to design were a breath of fresh air and generated a following of its own. This design trend seems to always be among the most popular, and you don’t have to live on a farm to appreciate this simple, inviting style. In a world that seems never to stop moving, there is often a need to create a space where you can slow down, unwind from the cares of the day, and enjoy the simple things. In this blog, we want to explain precisely what the farmhouse style is and how you can incorporate a little of the past into your future.
What is Farmhouse Style?
This style has its roots in Europe and traditionally was used to describe the way people lived versus how they decorated. Many lived off the land, and this influenced their choice of design materials. They chose function over formal and practical instead of pretty. Wood was a popular element used, from furniture to accent pieces like vases and frames. While living off the land today is the exception and not the rule, the simplistic, warm, and inviting style remains popular today and continues to grow.
Farmhouse Features
The farmhouse style has distinct features and characteristics that make it unique. Here are a few of the things that are typically included in the design.
- Sinks: Commonly known as farm sinks, they are also called apron sinks. The front of the sink extends beyond the cabinet, and the sink base is exposed after installation, making a lovely statement piece.
- Natural wood accents: Exposed beams, wooden trim, reclaimed wood, butcher block countertops, and even good, old shiplap; there are so many ways to incorporate wood into the design. We do, however, recommend limiting the amount of wood you use, as it can overpower the rest of the design. Wood blends well with other elements, such as metal, and adding a splash of color can create a beautiful result.
- Traditional fabric: Utilizing patterns that have simple geometric shapes or designs and soft colors to reupholster an old chair or redo a pillow cover is a great way to bring that quiet farmhouse feel into the design subtly.
How to best showcase it
Some feel that the farmhouse style can be a little dated, but here are a few ways to incorporate a little hint of modernity into the farmhouse mix.
- Color: You are not confined to the dated, traditional colors that are typically associated with a farmhouse design, such as sunflower yellow and country blue. Neutral, earthy tones are a good choice as they complement the natural feel of the farmhouse and also set a relaxed tone in the room.
- Furniture: Wood is the material most commonly associated with the farmhouse style, but it is not limited to just that. Look for pieces that are different, flea markets and antique stores are a great way to find beautiful furniture that can add character to the room.
- Accent pieces: Pillows with a unique texture, home decor items made from metal and wood, and light fixtures made from different materials such as iron or wood can make a statement in the room, helping it stand out or blend.
Walker WoodworkingWhen decorating your home, the last thing you want is to look like a cheap knockoff of something elegant. That is why it’s essential to choose your furniture and accessories wisely. You don’t want stuff that will make your space look drab or outdated. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your digs without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll look at simple ways to make your home look elegant on a budget.
Walker Woodworking The kitchen is one of the most functional areas in the home, as it serves a multitude of needs. It is where we cook for our family, host special gatherings, and celebrate the wins. This is why including these kitchen design features matters, as it means creating a kitchen that works for and with you, leaving you more time for the things that truly matter. Take the time to evaluate your space and the things you do every day, so that when you attend your design meeting, you can share exactly what you need with your designer, and they can tailor your space to meet your needs. We also invite you to visit our showroom located in Shelby, NC, and browse our numerous displays.
Walker WoodworkingHome is a special word because it represents comfort, refuge, and family. Our home is meant to be the culmination of everything we cherish, which is why designers work tirelessly to create the perfect environment. Recently, however, there has been a movement to rethink how we design in order to minimize our carbon footprint. Interest in sustainability has increased in recent years as homeowners and designers seek ways to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. One way is selecting sustainable materials for use in our home products. From furnishings to accent pieces, there are certain items that are more eco-friendly and come with benefits for you and your family. Let’s talk about the sustainable design approach and the top five sustainable materials you can incorporate into your home.
Walker Woodworking Window treatments are a great accent to any area of the home, including home offices, laundry rooms, and dining areas. Each has various needs that should be considered, as well as the style that best suits the particular area. Home offices are where you will spend a large portion of your daylight hours, so be sure to consider the location of your computer in relation to the window and any potential issues with glare that may arise.
Walker Woodworking Many elements make up a beautiful kitchen, but without a doubt, the countertops and backsplash are the focal points. These materials have become more than just practical tools in the kitchen. They are now works of art and an opportunity for homeowners to add a touch of themselves to the design. Of course, there must be a balance between the two, where they work together to create a cohesive design. Multiple ways exist to create both beautiful and functional looks in the kitchen. Here we answer some common questions surrounding the topic.
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