5 Tips for a Fabulous Farmhouse

For me, the word “farmhouse,” triggers memories from deep inside my soul. More than framed pictures of wooden words or old mashers on a shelf, a farmhouse takes me back to a time when the world was bigger and we were smaller.

As a child walking into my Grandma’s house, it was like being wrapped in warmth from the moment you walked into the door—the hardwood floors stretched throughout the entire house, area rugs covered portions of the floor, their texture and colors unique in a way no modern rug could be.

Quilts and throws were draped on chairs, and an antique desk nestled in a corner was handed down through generations, worn and chippy from the years of love.

Is there a ‘farmhouse style’ today?

Farmhouse style has become increasingly popular over the last few years. It’s modified into so many different versions and styles, but the basics—the “bones”you could say—are the same.

Many subscribers to our farmhouse subscription box (FMFarmhouse.com) have asked “Where do I start?”

My answer is always “Start simple, and start with the decor staples.”

A “staple” by definition is something that is essential or important. So, what ARE the farmhouse decor staples that every home needs?

Here are a handful that offer an infinite number of variations.

Essential farmhouse decor, by the numbers

Throw Blankets and Quilts: A throw blanket is a great way to bring in different textures, since it can easily and inexpensively be changed out for each season. Tip: buy a neutral-toned throw in your color scheme and then you can keep the same throw throughout the seasons. A quilt adds the traditional farmhouse feeling and with the right colors it also can be used year round, for decor and comfort.

Throw pillows: Throw pillows are another example of an inexpensive, easy way to bring in lively textures and colors. Tip: buy throw pillows with zippered or button covers, this way you can also change covers inexpensively for each season.

Trays: Trays can be used in any room in your home. Use them in the kitchen to stash essential items, in your entryway to stash keys, in your living room to contain essential items— really, the possibilities are endless. Besides their logical uses, they can be an amazing decor statement when you style them with candles, vases, and anything your heart desires.

Vases/Jars: Flowers brighten any home. Real or silk flowers bring a cheer to a home and a pop of color. I use jars as vases most of the time, as it also brings in that rustic feel. You don’t have to scour the vintage markets for jars either. Tip: Most grocery stores have the blue Ball-brand jars, or you can find them on Amazon.

Wall Art: This can be a tricky one to talk about it as truly about personal preference. I love big signs with sayings, but I also love pieces that help me add color into a room and or tie in an already existing color. For the true farmhouse feel. old signage is something you can truly never go wrong with. Tip: buy what YOU love. If something speaks to you, that is what should be in your home. Don’t purchase anything for your space that you don’t love.

What feels good

“Farmhouse decor” truly is a broad term. For me, it’s going back to the simple days—the days when that old desk was your grandmother’s; the wood floors and accents were well-loved, and the home was a reflection of the people who lived in it.