In a modern age of style and design that is frenzied with the farmhouse aesthetic, it can be difficult to keep your cottage-chic looks straight! Whether you consider yourself a design connoisseur, or a novice on-the-rise, we will break down some of our favorite farmhouse looks for you.
The Modern Farmhouse aesthetic combines contemporary lines and design elements with the cozy farmhouse lifestyle. This style emphasizes simplicity and neutrals to create a peaceful countryside motif, using natural textures like wood and steel to complement cream-colored walls.
Now a popular style inspiration in the HGTV show “Fixer Upper” starring Chip and Joanna Gaines, the Modern Farmhouse style evolved from humble beginnings. The Farmhouse architecture began in Germany and Scandinavia to support the families with large plots of farmland. These homes were simple and sturdy, with each part of the home serving a function. The design aesthetic traveled to the U.S. in the 1700s and experienced a boom in the 1930s with the advent of the American Farmhouse that has remained a staple years later.
While some designers feel the American Farmhouse aesthetic is overused, it by no means going out of style. The design of your home’s interior is simply a matter of preference. However, if you enjoy transforming your home every once in a while as much as we do, you might want to give your farmhouse a fresh twist with the up and coming French Country vibe!
French Country is somewhat of an all-inclusive term that can be split into more specific categories, with French Provincial reflecting a more elegant style and Country French being more rustic. French decor is famous for it’s over the top elegance, however, the trending French Farmhouse aesthetic brings a more simple and laid back look.
The French farmhouse aesthetic is influenced by the rustic yet elegant villas dappled along the French countryside of Provence, with a hint of the humbly comfortable American farmhouse look. The French cottage fusion exudes elegance while maintaining rustic practicality and comfortability within any space. It’s truly the best of both worlds of design.
This aesthetic often features soft but warm muted colors, natural materials like raw wood and stone, plaster walls, wooden beams, and elegant floral and botanical motifs. A French farmhouse plays upon the modern contrast of dramatic details, including carefully crafted dining room tables or exquisite chandeliers against a rustic farmhouse setting. The thoughtfully planned decor is what brings this look to life – consider adding touches like vintage accessories, crisp linens, elegant patterns, dainty lace, and natural pottery around your room.
When you walk into a home with French farmhouse style, you’re transported to “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” the picturesque villages that paint the rolling hills of the French countryside. Let’s take a look at what French farmhouse style is, room by room:
French farmhouse kitchens incorporate lots of natural materials and open spaces to create a welcoming gathering place. Open shelving and farmhouse sinks give it the classic farmhouse style, while vases full of fresh flowers and distressed wood give it a French twist. Additionally, French farmhouse kitchens have windows to bring in natural light.
The key to achieving a French farmhouse-inspired living room is all about updating the classics. Freshen up a fireplace with a coat of white paint, or add an ornate rug to pop against neutral furniture. Incorporate intricately carved side tables or a wooden coffee table to up the sophistication of the space while keeping the comfortable charm. White-stained shiplap can be a great accent to bring the farmhouse imagery to life. The goal for this space is to make the room as light and airy as possible without sacrificing functionality.
The first thing you’ll notice in a French farmhouse dining room is a large rustic dining table. There really is no limit to how large this table can be; think grande and go banquet-hall length if it suits the room! While the table is the overarching style focus, add texture to the walls to balance the size of the furniture. Frames, art pieces, and clocks add character and fun individuality to the space.
The bed is always the focal point of a french farmhouse bedroom. A distressed wood or tufted headboard brings the eye to the center of the room while elevating the softer farmhouse look. Antique furniture and vintage pieces are staples of a french farmhouse bedroom to bring in the old-world influence. Add antique bedside tables, vintage mirrors, or a french country chandelier to bring that french charm to your bedroom oasis.
French farmhouse bathrooms feature rustic tile and freestanding tubs in a nod to the simpler origins of the farmhouse. Open shelving can also be used in a french farmhouse bathroom to make the room appear larger and more open. To add extra light and warmth, have a vase of fresh flowers sitting on a vanity or windowsill.
Ready to give your own home a French farmhouse twist? Here are a few of our favorite products to accomplish dreamy French elegance:
Dining room decor
Bedroom
Located near the Charleston area? Have an interior designer help you handpick pieces – https://www.gdchome.com/design-services/
