January is nearly over which means that spring is on the horizon. Whether it's the warmer weather or the fresh new buds sprouting everywhere, this season almost always lifts the spirits. Refreshing your home with spring decor is a way to truly feel the spirit of the season as it will act as a source of inspiration and revive you out of your winter funk.

We've seen a few homeware lines launching their spring lines which is very much aligning with the feeling for a home refresh. And one of those stores is the always much-anticipated Magnolia. Owned by interior designer Joanna Gaines, the new collections never fail to inspire and even the store itself is a source of seasonal decor ideas.

In a recent Instagram post, Joanna decorated her store in Waco giving it a beautiful spring makeover in line with the new launch and there are plenty of quick decorating tips to take from her re-design.

1. Display your spring flowers in unexpected ways

The first lesson we took from the Magnolia spring makeover was Joanna's unconventional use of decorating with spring flowers.

Joanna has taken moss-like foliage and created garlands, scattering them amongst various displays in the store. There are several examples of these garlands but our favorite is the large, vibrant display that hangs above the spring tablescape. While garlands are typically used during the holidays, she's shown us that they can be a spring accessory that brings a touch of natural freshness to a dull area.

Joanna shared more behind-the-scenes of the decorating process involving floral stems. Here, she creates pretty floral displays using antique-style glass cloches, reminiscent of traditional displays in a Victorian shop. This old charm of the cloche makes the area feel inviting and rustic and would be perfect for replicating on your console table in an entryway.

2. Choose soft earthy shades over traditional pastels

Pastel color schemes are always associated with spring, however, there are plenty of other shades that can create an uplifting, airy feel. Instead of the traditional pale and sweet pinks, blues, and greens, Joanna opts for a more earthy scheme using soft muted colors.

Much of the store is designed with wooden accents and furniture, creating a warm and inviting feel that makes shoppers feel at home. Acknowledging this, Joanna selects traditional spring hues like greens and yellows but opts for darker shades rather than the classic pastel. Choosing muddier shades makes the colors more usable and sophisticated, creating a lasting interior that feels classic for all seasons.

If you're designing with spring colors, try switching one conventional shade out for a richer tone to create a pair that will work all year round. Introduce wooden furniture and metallic decor that will elevate these shades and create a cohesive design.

3. Be inspired by vintage prints and designs

No Joanna Gaines design is complete without some vintage-inspired prints and decor. To truly encapsulate the spring farmhouse-style interior, you'll need to introduce some antique-style pieces that will make your home feel lived-in and charming.

The large wooden dresser at the back of the Magnolia store instantly reminded us of classic farmhouse kitchens. It's a classic furniture piece that can easily be implemented into the home, bringing country coziness. Place your favorite plates, mugs, and glasses along the shelves and you've got yourself a cottage-inspired feature piece. We suggest using handpainted china along with copper pans for the ultimate antique look, just like Joanna's.

Joanna incorporates a lot of gingham and embroidered fabric which feel rustic and appropriate for spring. From delicate placemats scattered along the dining table to pastel-printed napkins, it's clear that she's considered the feel of these pieces as they're characterful and match the vintage-style space. These prints can be incorporated in the homes through many different forms, from upholstered furniture to bedding, even the smallest of changes can make all the difference to your spring-inspired scheme.

Joanna's cozy design style looks so good paired with spring decor. The Magnolia spring collection is the perfect combination of vintage and contemporary, bound to inspire anyone who walks in the store's door.

With any ambitious house design project, there are usually highs and lows in almost equal measure. For this new-build modern farmhouse on a vast plot, however, the high points are what will endure for everyone involved. For the homeowners, architects, contractors, and interior designer Adam Hunter, who saw the 383-acre estate evolve from plan to completion, it was the realization of a dream home.

'This project presented an exciting challenge: reimagining rustic design by blending its raw, textured qualities with industrial elements, without losing the warmth and inviting nature of the space,' says Adam. 'The goal was to refine traditional rustic aesthetics, incorporating sleek metallic touches that added depth and modernity while maintaining a cohesive, welcoming feel. Through thoughtful material choices, layered textures, and strategic contrasts, I was able to achieve a balance that feels both innovative and true to the essence of rustic charm.

Take the tour to discover this special home's design highlights.

The farmhouse is set in a haven of natural beauty, with an orchard, picturesque pond and lake, multiple walking bridges over natural springs, a private swimming hole, and miles of hiking and biking trails. 'It was essential to create a thoughtful program that seamlessly connected the stunning landscape with purposeful design,' says designer Adam.

That connection inside and out is very much in evidence in Adam's great room ideas. It's a bright and sunny space, and features 38-foot vaulted ceilings designed to give a sense of awe. 'Anchoring the space is a Holly Hunt sofa and a stunning feature wall adorned with Jane Hallworth’s Aquila Constellation lighting fixture, adding a celestial touch of drama,' says Adam. 'A pair of custom two-tone beveled metal fireplace surrounds by Amuneal create balance and warmth in the sitting and dining areas.'

Conveniently positioned next to the kitchen and with all the drama of the vaulted barn ceilings above it, the dining space makes its presence known in the context of the open-plan great room.

Dining room ideas include a vibrant table, custom-designed by Adam Hunter and incorporating a live edge and blue resin, with Gregorius Pineo dining chairs. The dining space is anchored by a Mehraban rug, on cerused white oak flooring in a grey wash, which is used throughout the home for floors and walls

To complement contemporary barn-style architecture and high ceilings, kitchen ideas need to be strong and impactful, particularly as there are clear sightlines from the living and dining spaces right through to the kitchen.

Calacatta Viola marble (from KD Style & Co) is the showstopper, used to elevate the extractor hood ideas, with a stylish floating hood, with matching marble waterfall island, and countertops.

The custom cabinetry is by Amuneal in Hunter Bronze finish. Additional style highlights include the Mattaliano pendant lights from Holly Hunt, Amtrend stools upholstered in a geometric Rosemary Hallgarten fabric from Thomas Lavin Showroom, a fire engine red Lacanche range, Rocky Mountain Hardware sinks and Waterworks faucets.

In a home of this scale, you'd expect to see a number of dedicated seating spaces. In addition to the living space in the great room and a traditional living room (more on this room below) is this more intimate family room. In the words of designer Adam it features 'sublime leather walls from British purveyor Bill Amberg in a Batman blue requested by the client, with a bold metal grid trim by Amuneal.'

The rug is Zebois, designed by Adam Hunter for The Rug Company, with a custom lighting fixture also designed by Adam.

In the home's third living room there's a delightful meeting of traditional and contemporary inspirations, as well as the chance to merge inside and outside spaces to honor the beautiful natural landscape and setting.

'The ombré drapery reflects the gentle gradients of flowing water, complemented by a Fortuny pendant light, Blackman Cruz cocktail table, and a custom sofa,' says Adam.

'With an Asian-inspired theme the room's Fromental Prunus in Pandora cherry blossom design wallcovering brings nature indoors, subtly referencing the estate's 188-tree orchard, and adds a sense of movement and life to the room,' adds Adam, who's a big fan of floral decor for more formal settings.

There's a distinct change of pace for the stairway and hall leading to the basement's tornado shelter and wine room. Designer Adam's staircase ideas allowed for a bit of fun, with his Smoke Sunset rug runner, custom Amuneal metal handrailing, and a Lost in Space robot standing guard.

If you're looking for inspiration for decorating with pattern, check out the primary bedroom's contemporary interpretation of a largescale floral print. The custom wallpaper, hand painted by Janet Yonaty, overflows onto the headboard. The sconces are by Holly Hunt Design.

This soft and sunny guest bedroom features a modern mustard yellow bedframe custom designed by Adam Hunter, and made by Bespoke Furniture with Citron Mohair Velvet by Cowtan and Tout. The tactile selenite bedside lamp is from Thomas Lavin. Sheer white petal design drapery by Stout Textiles adds a touch of romantic floral.

The generous proportions of this en-suite allow plenty of space to showcase luxury bathroom ideas, and designer Adam has gone above and beyond. Contributing to the elevated look, the high ceiling is wrapped in reflective silk wallpaper, which works well with the Calacatta marble surfaces and extensive marble detailing around the millwork. Sconces by Alison Berger Glassworks complement an impressive chandelier by John Pomp Studios.

Inside and out, this contemporary farmhouse home is the last word in luxury.

'My clients' ideas and aspirations were the heart of this project, and it was a privilege to help bring them to fruition in a way that felt meaningful to them,' says designer Adam. 'The homeowners were thrilled to see their vision come to life, and watching their excitement as they explored each room and discovered the details was incredibly rewarding. At its core, this is what design is about – crafting spaces that reflect and resonate with the people who inhabit them.

'Throughout the estate, we introduced spaces for rest and retreat, including a barn by the lake, a cozy cabin, stables, and a pool house that opens effortlessly to the outdoors – each offering a unique moment to pause and immerse in the surrounding nature,' he adds. 'Seeing it all come together was incredibly rewarding. What I’ve learned from this project is the importance of collaboration. The process reaffirmed how crucial it is to listen, adapt, and let creativity flow in unexpected directions.'

Interior design: Adam Hunter
Photography: Trevor Tondro

Modern farmhouse kitchens were one of the biggest trends last year, but as we head into 2025, it's a style that's quickly falling out of favor. So, what should you be considering instead?

If upcoming kitchen trends are anything to go by, rich colors, lived-in spaces, and schemes that imbue timeless coziness are firm favorites for the year ahead. It's time to banish designs that lack personality and instead, bring in characterful features.

For a touch of inspiration for the interior design style you should be bringing into your kitchen this year, we've asked designers what's replacing modern farmhouse kitchens in 2025 – and their insights are full of stylish yet timeless styles.

What's replacing modern farmhouse kitchens in 2025?

While there is still space for modern farmhouse kitchens, it's time to start considering bolder, warmer, and more personalized designs. And these are the styles worth knowing about.

1. Transitional cottage style

The modern farmhouse kitchen style focuses on white hues and light wood tones – it's a contemporary take farmhouse. But in 2025, trends are leaning towards cozier schemes with depth and contrast.

'The modern farmhouse kitchen is giving way to the transitional cottage. Rich, moody hues like mushroom, burgundy, and sage green dominate cabinetry, while dark woods such as darker oak add depth. Textured, handcrafted materials, including zellige tiles and whimsical, hand-painted patterns, elevate the charm of these spaces,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, founders of House of Hive Design Co.

'The main appeal of the transitional cottage style is its timelessness. It bridges the gap between historical and contemporary design, creating spaces that feel classic yet relevant. Unlike trend-driven styles that can quickly feel outdated, transitional designs have longevity, making them a safe investment for homeowners. In a world driven by fast-paced TikTok trends, this style offers a sense of stability,' they explain.

2. Rich, moody schemes

One of the biggest reasons for the shift away from modern farmhouse kitchens is the desire for richer colors. Moody tones are continuing to prove a popular color trend, and there are few places better than the kitchen to introduce them to your home.

'If you love bold colors, your kitchen could be the perfect place to employ a dramatic navy or rich aubergine tone,' says Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company.

'Replacing the pale tones typically associated with a country or modern farmhouse kitchen, tranquil deep blue or plum shaker cabinetry superbly uplifts more rustic elements, such as a brick feature wall,' he explains.

'Then white and cream accents, such as a sleek marble-look worktop, can help to ground the scheme, creating a modern and fresh look.'

3. Wood kitchens

'Wood kitchens are enjoying a resurgence, with reclaimed or rustic finishes adding texture and warmth,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe – and it's a kitchen design style that's here to stay.

From a full wood scheme to mixing oak cabinets with more polished materials like metallic kitchen features, it can work seamlessly in almost any kitchen aesthetic.

This scheme in particular proves how chic wooden kitchens can be. The slatted design on the lower cabinets adds textural interest, while the tarnished copper of the uppers adds a contemporary touch. Paired with marble countertops and brass hardware, it's chic, timeless, and a great alternative to modern farmhouse.

4. Kitchen schemes with slab front cabinets

In some cases, modern farmhouse kitchens are being replaced by something more, well, modern. It's not about stripping away character, rather creating a kitchen that's unfussy and pared-back.

'Several styles are emerging as alternatives to the modern farmhouse kitchen in 2025. On one side, minimalist kitchens that are handleless with seamless built-in storage are gaining popularity for their understated look,' says Lauren.

'The appeal lies in its versatility and how it reflects modern living. Kitchens have become the hardworking, social hub of the home, blending dining and living areas into one cohesive space. The farmhouse kitchen is no longer a separate, utilitarian zone but an integral part of family life, where functionality and comfort take center stage.'

Even if you do opt for this more contemporary kitchen style, there's no reason you can still add softer, cozy additions to your scheme. 'Simple, thoughtful updates can make a significant difference. Adding built-in seating to unused nooks can transform both the look and functionality of a kitchen,' adds Lauren.

5. Eclectic and bespoke designs

Modern farmhouse kitchens have a clear aesthetic, where certain colors, finishes, and materials come into play. But this year, it's about looking outside of the box, choosing design elements that are bespoke and personal to you.

'There is a shift towards the more eclectic and bespoke features – designing for YOU and not for a trend or a specific style,' says Ariel Schuster, director of design at Artaic.

And as more unique, personalized kitchens take the place of modern farmhouse, there are some colors and finishes that work beautifully. 'We’re seeing layered textures, metallics, and deep colors like oxblood and earthy greens and neutrals,' adds Ariel.

There are plenty of styles worth considering instead of the modern farmhouse look – whether you like the contemporary aesthetic or prefer a bold or lived-in feel.

Modern farmhouse has been one of the most prevailing design styles of the last several years, but – contrary to its name – it doesn't always feel all that modern. With the right touches, however, this style can still look on trend for years to come. Meg Ryan's New York kitchen is the perfect example.

The actress's Tribeca modern farmhouse kitchen centers on a natural wood table. Framed by a set of built-in shelves stacked with dishes, glasses, and mugs. Above the table, a set of colander-shaped industrial pendants light up the room. A wide fruit bowl and sculptural pottery are simultaneously grounding and elevating, bringing a decorative touch to the simple space.

The combination of industrial and traditional stuns in Ryan's modern kitchen. 'The classic farmhouse kitchen is beloved for its warmth, inviting feel, and timeless style, but in today’s modern homes, this look can be elevated with a contemporary or industrial twist—most notably through the use of mixed metal materials,' explains Westchester-based interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'If you’re looking to refresh this iconic aesthetic while staying true to its roots, metals like brass, copper, stainless steel, and blackened iron can bring an edgy yet refined look to the traditional farmhouse kitchen.'

If you hope to recreate Ryan's style, attention to kitchen lighting is essential. Lichtenstein explains: 'Lighting is an area where mixed metals can shine. Industrial-style pendant lights with black or iron finishes hung over a central kitchen island offer a nod to the industrial trend without overpowering the farmhouse feel. To soften the look and maintain that warm, lived-in aesthetic, consider pairing these lights with wooden accents—perhaps a reclaimed wood kitchen island or natural wood bar stools. This combination of metal and wood is not only visually striking but also aligns with a nature-inspired design philosophy, where natural materials meet modern elegance.'

Farmhouse decor and furniture can balance the harshness of these modern fittings for a striking look. For instance, in Meg Ryan's kitchen the wooden table provides this effect. Lichtenstein states: 'While metals bring a contemporary flair, it’s essential to preserve the essence of a farmhouse kitchen. Incorporating natural elements, like exposed wooden beams, reclaimed wood shelves, and rustic decor, keeps the space grounded in its roots. The farmhouse style is all about blending beauty with function, and while metals add a sleek, modern edge, they must be balanced with organic materials that evoke a sense of warmth and comfort.'

As per usual, Meg Ryan's design is a lesson in balance. Combining industrial and modern farmhouse design makes it easy to create impact with just a few furnishings.

Actress Isabella Rossellini may be synonymous with Hollywood, but she has a second legacy in Bellport, Long Island. Together with architect Pietro Cicognani, the Blue Velvet star created a highly original rural home (named Mama Farm) that ignores conventions – and no space epitomizes this quite like the kitchen.

It may seem only fitting that a home set across 28 acres has a farmhouse kitchen that celebrates its rustic roots – but unlike conventional spaces with this favored design style, it prioritizes one feature: rich dark wood.

Dark kitchens have long had a debated reputation, but while this finish is bold, it pays off in the right spaces. Isabella Rossellini's dark wood kitchen is proof that drenching your space in such hues (including the cabinets, backsplash, and ceiling) has soothing results that feel grounded, earthy, and timeless. It's no surprise, then, that this style is set to be one of the top kitchen trends for 2025, as designers explain.

'Long gone are the days when pale woods paired with white walls and Scandinavian furniture were the norm in interiors. The design world has been slowly shifting towards the darker-toned woods such as oak, walnut, and teak woods, gaining popularity and being used as flooring, furniture, wall paneling, and especially kitchens,' comments Cathy Dean, the CEO and founder of Studio Dean.

As Dean explains, dark wooden kitchens (especially where wood is used in abundance, as seen in Rossellini's space) feel tactile and natural. It's a way of making your space feel connected to the earth, as there's no need for artificial colors that break away from an authentic, organic aesthetic.

'We love bringing nature into our interior designs and wood is a warm and tactile way to achieve this. To us, the color of the wood is as important and impactful as paint or furniture color, so think carefully about how it will work with your overall schemes and themes.'

Matt Phillips, the head of operations at Rotpunkt, agrees. As a kitchen expert, he says he has observed interior design trends continue to embrace nature-inspired aesthetics, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient fixtures – and dark wooden kitchens are the best way to tap into all three.

'Offering modern planning options for the contemporary kitchen living space, darker wood décors not only inspire a stronger connection with nature but also satisfy the market's continued love of dark colors, rich texture, and statement pieces in the home,' he notes.

'Darker colors have always been regarded as more luxurious, and when paired with quality raw materials like walnut and glass, homeowners are able to create a sophisticated look in the kitchen that adds depth and dimension.'

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We don't need to renovate our whole kitchen to enjoy some wooden benefits. These picks are perfect for introducing an earthy aesthetic into your space (for under $50).

'As we look to next year, the need for tailored storage solutions will only increase and continue to serve individual needs and lifestyles that center around the home,' Phillips adds in his predictions.

'In fact, I predict that supersized cabinetry and vertical storage solutions that maximize footprint will continue to rise as they help to utilize space more effectively by creating new options for the dark wood kitchen living space.' Inspiration begins with Isabella Rossellini.

Farmhouse design remains one of the most beloved styles in the U.S., and it’s not hard to see why. This style is all about creating a liveable, welcoming space. With an emphasis on natural textures, lived-in decor, and a simplicity that feels both beautiful and functional.

As Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore aptly puts it, 'Farmhouse style also has an innate liveability at its core, nodding towards the romantic idea of living in a remote setting.'

And it’s not an interior design style that needs to be confined to countryside homes. With the right considerations, even the most bonafide city dweller can embrace a little rustic farmhouse chic into their home. It doesn’t have to mean sticking to an obvious palette of creams, whites, and beiges either. Incorporating colors inspired by the natural world is the key to introducing a little more variance into the overall style.

If you want all the rustic charm but a touch more personality and a pop of color, it’s easier than you think to strike that balance. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up our favorite seven colors that work perfectly with the farmhouse aesthetic.

6 shades that work perfect with farmhouse style

Yes, there are a lot of white and cream farmhouse-style but they are not the only shades that can work with this iconic aesthetic. There are plenty of rich, bolder colors to try. And remember, with this look, texture is truly key too. As Laeticia Laurent of Laure Nell explains, ‘Matte or chalky finishes on walls create a softness, while natural materials like wood, linen, and stone bring depth. The goal is always balance, a home that feels refined yet approachable, lived-in yet curated.’

1. Ochre

For those looking to inject a dose of warmth into a room but aren’t satisfied with creams or beiges, ochre is the designer's choice. With just enough pop from the yellow family, it brings undeniable warmth to a space while remaining livable thanks to its muted undertones and earthy, clay-like feel.

Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein perfectly sums up its appeal. 'A rich, golden yellow, ochre adds warmth and depth to farmhouse spaces. Its earthy undertones complement wood finishes and provide a cheerful pop without dominating the space. Ochre also pairs beautifully with light brown.'

Ochre’s connection to fall palettes makes it inherently cozy and inviting. It’s especially effective in smaller spaces. Instead of trying to make a small room feel larger, ochre lets you embrace its intimacy, and paired with other rich, earthy tones like burgundy and dark woods, this color truly shines.

It’s a natural fit for rooms such as a farmhouse kitchen, where textures such as terracotta and deep woods and stone are already in abundance. To achieve this perennially inviting look, try Little Greene’s Bombolne for a dash of warmth!

2. Light brown

Decorating with brown has been having a moment in the spotlight, evolving from a once-overlooked ‘mud’ color to a design favorite.

As Nina Lichtenstein explains, ‘Light brown is the cornerstone of a farmhouse palette, echoing the natural beauty of wood, leather, and stone. This shade grounds the space and connects it to its rustic roots. Light brown also pairs well with nearly every other farmhouse hue, making it an essential neutral for this design.'

While not an obvious choice for a farmhouse bathroom, light brown actually works wonderfully when painted on wood paneling. Dark browns might feel too heavy for a relaxing soak, but a lighter brown, veering into taupe, can be just right for this small, light-filled room.

Paired with other natural tones, it becomes an incredibly livable shade that complements the original features of the home, almost as if it has always belonged there!

Try Jitney by Farrow & Ball for the perfect little tint of brown.

3. Burgundy

Farmhouse decor is often synonymous with calm, relaxed, and inviting spaces, but sometimes, adding a touch of drama is just what’s needed and the dining room is an ideal place to experiment with a richer shade.

Typically a space with ample light and room, the dining area can handle bold colors like Burgundy, making it the perfect backdrop for hosting late-night dinners and creating intimate atmospheres with family and friends.

Laetitia Laurent shares her perspective on incorporating this typically quite heavy hue. ‘Burgundy is that unexpected pop of drama in a farmhouse palette. It’s not for everyone, but when used correctly, it can ground a space beautifully’

In a larger farmhouse dining room, if you’re feeling brave, go the full hog with a floor-to-ceiling application or Farrow & Balls Eating Room Red. It’ll look stunning against a dark wood dining table, aged fabrics, and brass accents.

For those hesitant to go all-in, pairing burgundy with a warm cream and using it as an accent color is a worthwhile compromise.

4. Sky blue

Shifting away from the rich and earthy colors, on the other end of the spectrum are the fresh, sunny shades that instantly uplift any space.

Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors captures the appeal of pale blue perfectly. ‘There’s a lightness and airiness to pale blue that feels calming yet fresh, like a gentle reminder of the outdoors, giving the space that feeling of expansiveness without being overwhelming.’

Pale blue is a great match for farmhouse design, as it draws inspiration from the outdoors, the number one rule. Choose a shade with subtle grey undertones. While bright hues can be striking, they often clash with the relaxed charm of a farmhouse aesthetic.

Paired with wood elements, natural flagstone flooring, and aged materials, a soft milky, or muted sky blue is an excellent alternative to white.

Great for spaces like hallways, where abundant light reflects off the walls, or as an accent, a light blue such as Windy Blue by Sherwin Williams pairs effortlessly with other fresh tones like sage green, cream, and soft greys.

For a more playful touch, consider using it in a subtle patterned wallpaper or as a complementary color to add a pop of fresh spring without overwhelming the room.

5. Sage green

Often a classic staple in the kitchen, sage green is one of the most beloved and versatile shades in the green family. With its soothing, restorative qualities, it also makes an excellent (and obvious) choice for a bedroom, where its calming tones create the perfect environment for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Much like a light blue, sage green features grey undertones, giving it a more muted quality that is essential in farmhouse design. This subtlety avoids the boldness of brighter colors, that whilst have their place, just don’t work with this look.

Paired with natural elements like rattan, sisal carpets, linen, and wood accents (a cornerstone of farmhouse decor) a sage green such as Green 01 by Lick as a base wall color complements beautifully without even really needing to try!

Nina explains its appeal; ‘A perennial favorite in farmhouse design, sage green is calm, sophisticated, and versatile. This muted green shade can be used on cabinetry, walls, or furniture, blending beautifully with natural elements like wicker, rattan, and stone.'

6. Gray

While some might argue that gray isn’t much of a ‘color’, it’s actually far more versatile than you’d think. For those hesitant to fully commit to bold hues but looking to move away from plain whites, embracing the grayscale is a perfect way to explore tonal layering in the home.

Found abundantly in nature (think stone as the obvious comparison!), it effortlessly works with natural elements like wood flooring and rustic hardware.

Lean toward slightly warmer grays with beige undertones, they harmonize better with warm woods and softer tones. Steer clear of cooler, steel-like grays that feel more at home in an industrial or utilitarian modern scheme.

As Nina explains, ‘Gray is the bridge between the rustic and the modern in farmhouse design. Its neutral, versatile nature makes it ideal for creating contrast or layering with other colors. Opt for warmer grays with beige undertones to soften the look. Gray is particularly striking when used on cabinetry, shiplap walls, or painted furniture.’

Soft grays such as Graystone by Benjamin Moore combined with warm whites and wood accents can act as the perfect starting point for layering color in a farmhouse scheme. Want to create even more contrast? Introduce a darker slate grey such as Scree by Little Greene as an accent for added dimension.

Gray is incredibly livable and timeless and it’s the quintessential neutral that will never go out of style.

Farmhouse style is all about the soft and rustic, which is perhaps why we so often associate it with neutrals. But you can introduce plenty of color to farmhouse interiors, just be sure to keep your choices earthy and tonal rather than anything too primary, you still want that softness despite the bolder color.

There's no question that subway tiles are classic. My own feelings on subway tiles, however, are slightly more complicated. When your job is looking at beautiful contemporary kitchens, you start to see a lot of subway tiles. and I mean A LOT. I'll admit, I became a bit bored of the style.

That is until I saw Julianne Hough's kitchen backsplash idea. Her innovative pairing of classic subway tiles with teal cabinets and brass hardware transforms the classic tiles from milquetoast to marvelous. The dancer and actress's kitchen features marble countertops that contrast beautifully with her black oven hood and rounded wall sconce. Her white subway tile backsplash with black grout reaches from the countertops to the ceilings. Overall the look is a fresh, fashionable take on the modern farmhouse style.

What makes Hough's use of the kitchen tile trend different? In my opinion, it's that her space takes a point of view. My biggest qualm with subway tiles in a modern farmhouse kitchen, is that they're often chosen as a 'safe' design. Rather than listening to their own personal style, trends, or innovations, people often choose these tiles are often because they won't date, are versatile, and easy to clean. While there's nothing wrong with this reasoning, it's not necessarily conducive to boundary-pushing design. Sometimes, 'safe' means refusing to take a point of view.

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Hough's modern farmhouse kitchen, on the other hand, has a distinctive point of view: it is bold, contemporary, and original. Although her subway tile backsplash has the same benefits of timelessness and ease of cleaning, it doesn't feel like another splash of white in a sea of beige and white. The design feels like something dreamt up by Hough, but still has the same mass market appeal as a simpler space. It's proof that following your bliss doesn't mean risking saleability. Rather, it's about nesting in your space and making it your own.

To recreate her style, I recommend pairing your white subway tile backsplash with a bold kitchen cabinet color. I absolutely love Hough's choice of teal, but I think the look could be just as effective with black cabinets, dark green cabinets, or even burgandy. The personality of these colors helps to offset the potentially generic quality of subway tiles. Instead, it highlights their classic beauty and versatility.

Hough's kitchen demonstrates that it's never a bad idea to take a point of view in your design. When combined with classic design principles and theory, it's possible to completely remake an already established style.

The setting is a newly built modern farmhouse in Cold Spring Harbor, NY. It's the full-time home of a couple who love to host big gatherings of friends and their large extended families.

With all that in mind, it was important that the home's interior design had a bright and welcoming feel. Before that could be achieved, however, there was a slight workaround to be done, as interior designer Kylie Bass of KKB Interiors explains. 'The homeowner loves black and white, so we needed to incorporate this in a way that was livable and comfortable since they have a family and a dog, and they entertain a ton, too.' she says.

The results are a lesson in balancing the smart, clean look of monochrome interiors with comforting layers of softer elements. Take the tour as Kylie explains how she got the look.

1. Use warm woods to soften a monochrome scheme

This modern farmhouse home has a very open floorplan, and from the front door you can see right through the space, which in itself gives an inviting vibe.

This stylish entryway and living room, open to the central staircase, uses warm wood tones as a highlight against the pure white walls where paneling has been added for texture. The wood-backed sofa introduces an even darker shade of wood, so makes a stronger color statement.

2. Add interest with layers of neutral fabrics and textures

The neutral furnishing fabrics and area rug layer up the textures, adding interest while still keeping to the warm white theme. And if you're wondering how to update a fireplace, take inspiration from Kylie, who chose to lime wash this one in the living room to avoid having too many stone fireplaces.

'Ultimately, the clients wanted a space that felt light and bright, but also comfortable and approachable given the huge floorplan,' says Kylie. 'That was the biggest challenge – creating comfort in such a large space, but through all of the layers, personalized details, and warmer tones and textures, we were able to achieve this.'

3. Make a strong black and white kitchen a welcoming place to be

Think monochrome kitchens are lacking in warmth? Think again, and take a look at this convivial set-up with room for a crowd around the spacious kitchen island. It's the perfect place to relax, prepare food together or eat a snack on the go.

Kylie's designs for the kitchen offer the best of both worlds, with the clean, no-nonsense look of the black and white fitted areas balanced and softened to perfection with the sociable elements.

'To suit the client's preference for a black and white kitchen we painted the island black and used Waterworks Grove tiles for the backsplash to add texture and dimension,' says Kylie. 'The limewashed hood introduced a warm element to the kitchen, complemented by the floating oak shelves.'

4. Use the eat-in kitchen space to add an extra dimension

Although the eat-in kitchen area is part of the main monochrome kitchen, it presents a welcome opportunity to add another element to the scheme. Mid-century-style dining chairs soften the edges of the sharp kitchen look with their curves, while the wooden dining table adds further warmth.

5. Up your double-height game to add a wonderful open quality to the interiors

The double-height family living room ideas were part of this new build's architecture from the start. While it's rare to be able to retro-fit a double height space in an existing build, the results here show what can be achieved by planning ahead and going up in the world with the extra headroom.

'The owners built this home with hosting in mind,' says designer Kylie. 'They have large families and wanted to be able to get everyone together comfortably. The homeowners envisioned a space where every gathering could become a cherished memory.' The dramatic double-height family room, more than any other room in the house, is that space. 'I really believe that we achieved what they were looking for,' adds Kylie.

6. Invest in a show-stopping feature window

A room with all-white walls and furniture calls for a show-stopping moment to give the pale scheme a boost. Here, the massive custom steel-framed window does that in style, bringing luxury and drama to the double-height family room, its black frames in keeping with the monochrome palette. It also adds another perspective since it frames the garden views.

The window can be seen from most of the open plan first floor and from the upper floor too, lending a sense of light and spaciousness to the whole home. With its white paneled walls and feature window this room has a bright, airy feel that's the perfect setting for welcoming friends and family. 'It really is the heart of the home,' says Kylie. 'My clients wanted to use this space as an oasis where everyone could gather and spend time together. Come holiday time, they also needed room for their yearly 12’+ Christmas tree and I think we created the ultimate space for that!'

7. Don't be afraid to introduce a change of pace

There's no harm in introducing a change of pace every now and again, even with interiors that have a fairly streamlined palette. The dining room ideas for this more formal entertaining space leave the pure white walls behind and include some warmer shades, including a softer white for the walls, and rich-toned woods and rattan. The choice of a round table, large domed light fitting, and upholstered chairs soften the look and ensure this is a welcoming space to host dinner guests. And can we just take a moment to applaud that deep paneled ceiling?

8. Use black to add impact in unexpected places

Kylie's home bar ideas showcase the versatility of a monochrome scheme, with the tiled black accent wall behind oak floating shelves adding a sophisticated highlight and adding extra sparkle to the glassware. This is a quick and easy way to elevate a space.

9. Enjoy the warmth and texture of a wood paneled ceiling

In this, the dreamiest of calm bedrooms, pale wood-paneling emphasizes the room's impressive height, and adds warmth as we've seen throughout the house. 'This space is full of airy neutrals and layers,' says Kylie, 'with linen and added texture through accent accessories, bouclé chairs and wall-to-wall carpeting.' Again, the designer chooses curved furniture to soften the minimalist scheme.

10. Appreciate that some rooms just need a little pink

While the rest of the house basks in the glory of black and white, there was one member of the household who couldn't be persuaded to join the monochrome party. For the young daughter there was only one color in the mix – pink! It's a classic choice for kids' rooms, which Kylie believes has longevity too.

'We kept this neutral yet playful and whimsical for the clients’ daughter,' says Kylie. 'Pale pinks and creamy neutrals are youthful yet elevated and can grow with her.'

11. Choose a black bath for a bold statement look

Back to black for the master bathroom ideas where the large windows produce a striking silhouette of the bathtub.

'We created the ultimate oasis,' says Kylie. 'We wanted this space to feel like an at-home spa with a gorgeous freestanding matte black tub, beautiful tile and bright windows.'

Black tubs are readily available, but you can also buy a refinishing kit to get a similar effect.

12. Keep the exterior on brand with the monochrome

'Throughout this project, I learned the importance of balancing client aesthetics with comfort,' says Kylie. 'It was essential to design a space that not only reflected the client’s desired look but also felt warm and welcoming.'

The black and white magic of monochrome touches almost every space in this home, even the house exterior paint color. It's pleasing to see the harmony, inside and out, and who doesn't love a white-painted modern farmhouse?

Interior Design: KKB Interiors
Photography: Kirsten Francis
Stylist: Brittany Albert
Architect: DeLuca Designs
Construction: Robert Linekin and Robert Mehl

When designing a bold space, the popular train of thought is often that the furniture needs to be as bold as possible. Anne Hathaway's California home shirks this convention. Rather than inviting boldness and color through furnishings, she uses paint and accessories to brighten the furniture grounds.

I'll admit that I've long held the misconception about bold furniture, but now that I've seen Anne Hathaway's bedroom, I will never look at the role of furniture in the same light. Especially for a bedroom, I think this might be one of the smartest, most beautiful, and most cost-effective ways to design a space. In the Les Misérables actress's home a washed gray farmhouse-style side table sits by a natural wood, open-concept bed. Above, a simple mid-century modern lamp grants some design contrast. These simple pieces create the perfect backdrop to allow the pink bedding, pink paneled walls and blue accent bowls on the side table.

The first reason I love Hathaway's furniture choice is how beautiful it makes the room. While the pink walls or pink throw pillows might be lost among a sea of maximalist furniture, this scheme allows them to shine. In my opinion, the farmhouse style of bedroom furniture is a great choice for replicating this style. The natural wood instantly brings texture into the space. Furthermore, the farmhouse is a style that is almost always created with red, yellow, or blue accents, so it fits into an existing design narrative.

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I plan to replicate this style in my future home not only because it is beautiful but because it is clever. With a seemingly endless cast of bedroom trends and new style inspiration, it's hard to settle on just one design scheme. Luckily, Hathway's choice to use simple furniture makes it easy to switch up the room. If she grows tired of pink, all she needs to do is change the bedding to a different color and repaint the wall behind the bed. No matter the colors introduced, the furniture would look just as cohesive and stylish.

In this vein, opting for furniture that creates a neutral background is also a wonderful budget bedroom makeover idea. Though furniture pieces like a bed or side table can be thousands of dollars a piece, bedding generally caps out in the hundreds. It's much easier to replace these accents then bring in a new slew of furniture when you are ready for a change.

If you are hoping to recreate this style, it's important to use a variety of shapes and textures to keep it interesting. For instance, in Hathway's bedroom, she has paired the rectangular side table with a round-edged bed for a satisfying contrast. Another contrast is created through the side table having a brushed texture, while the bed is made of natural wood. These simple differences draw the eye and keep the space from looking boring, even if she were to opt for more neutral accessories.

Decorating memorable spaces doesn't need to be about choosing the most brightly colored or 'out there' furniture, it can be about choosing neutral pieces that can fit easily into any design scheme over the years.

Is there anything better than walking around your neighborhood at this time of year and getting a sneak peek at everyone's holiday decorations? All the houses lit up, glittering and glowing, and looking so inviting. Inspired by my nosiness at how other people decorate for the holidays, I wanted to find out how designers decorate their own homes or beautiful projects for the holidays.

Of course, Holiday decor is personal, everyone has their own style and own traditions, but it's always helpful to have some new inspiration too, especially from the pros. So I asked top interior designers, to talk us through how they approach holiday decor, and what their tips are for recreating these beautiful looks.

From Emily Henderson's Scandi-style Portland home, to Shea McGee's classic and cozy Utah project, to a cozy English country manor, there's plenty of inspiration to be taken from all these beautiful homes decked out for the festive season.

1. Emily Henderson's Scandi Farmhouse Portland home

Designer Emily Henderson's home is inspiring all year round. It's got that covetable cozy yet chic, slightly Scandi-feeling, farmhouse vibe and the color palette of fresh blues and greens is such a welcome break from the many, many gray and neutral palettes that dominate trends.

And how Emily decorates for the holidays is very in keeping with her home's overall style. She explains, 'Typically, I create a theme or color palette that really works with the style of my home. It’s no secret I’m obsessed with blues and greens and my house is full of them. Because of that, I decided to lean into those colors for my holiday decor too.'

'I, of course, still want my pops of red and maroons because they add such an important jolt of Christmas energy. But I usually just keep to our already existing color palette and expand it even more with complementary and varying tones.'

Emily told me she loves to decorate for her family, 'It’s my favorite time of the year because I get to decorate with my kids. Nothing better,' she explains.

So that's what always influences her holiday decor. The brief was 'Scandi, playful, glowy and super festive' and to not go too overly chic and sophisticated and neutral, still have fun with color so her children get enjoyment out of the decor too.

Her mantel decor is a lovely example of how you can bring some color into your Christmas decor while keeping a classic feel. Emily uses rich blues, greens with hints of that classic deep red.

Decorating a kitchen for Christmas is all about balance. You want it to have that festive feel, but it's a hardworking space at this time of year so it still needs to be practical. Emily gets the balance spot on and cleverly does most of her decor at the windows, leaving the majority of the workspaces clear.

'In the kitchen, I'll usually add a little countertop corner vignette with a tree figurine or two but we also have a ton of windows that all get their own wreath. It’s so festive and doesn’t get in the way at all,' she says.

2. A magical traditional home in Utah styled by Shea McGee

Shea Mcgee is known for her modern rustic style, blending charm with sophistication to create homes that are both cozy and classic. And when she decorates for the holidays it's no different.

This year, she decked out a beautifully traditional Utah home with her McGee & Co. holiday collection. The house is filled with luscious greenery, classic colors, and timeless motifs. Garlands feature heavily throughout the house, showcasing how greenery can be the star of the show, elevated by ornaments and lights.

Shea explains, 'A Christmas garland is the perfect way to add a lot of texture and color to your holiday palette, and they can be shaped in a lot of different forms to bring instant life to every vignette. We love draping them off to one side on a mantel, styling them on shelving, tying them with ribbon on banisters, and placing them unexpectedly throughout the home for added interest.'

'While there are times when a single garland will do the trick, I love mixing multiple pieces to add even more drama and dimension. Even mixing different types of greenery like pine and eucalyptus can go a long way in creating that freshly foraged look,' she adds.

Greenery continues at the theme into the dining room, where Shea uses that same trick as Emily by hanging a wreath at the window to add a festive feel to a practical space. Tying ribbons from the chandelier is a super simple but effective decor idea that again won't affect how much space there is in the room or at the table but creates a lovely festive focal point.

The living room is always the main player when it comes to Christmas decor, with so many opportunities to add some festive flourishes. It's often home to the Christmas tree too. Shea's tips for styling a tree focus on layers, classic colors, and textures. She recommends repeating solid-hued ornates throughout the tree to create cohesion and then adding in more unique ones that will give the tree personality on top.

The tree you choose is also key to success. 'Much like when designing a room, it’s important to start with a good base when decorating a Christmas tree,' says Shea. 'Whether you prefer to search for and cut down a real one each year or opt for a faux option, finding one with full and textural branches makes all the difference. A good faux tree can make or break the decor and if you invest in a good one it will last for years to come.'

When styling this living room Shea kept the mantle classic with plenty of greenery and tasteful ornaments. She explains the key to decorating a Christmas mantle is asymmetry.

'When layering decor on a fireplace mantel, I like to create groupings to bring asymmetry to the look,' she explains. 'Whether it’s a group of decorative trees or a layered art piece, try playing with different levels to get a balanced look. If you’re draping your garland to one side, try styling your taller items on the other. If you’re going garland-less, try using potted greenery on one side with shorter, contrasting decor on the other.'

3. A cozy and classic manor in the English countryside transformed by K&H Design

This manor house, situated in the English countryside would be an idyllic place to spend the holidays. It's decorated in keeping with the classic features of the home – simple, chic, and timeless. The grade II listed home was recently renovated by interior design studio K&H Design, who worked to restore the property and make it work for modern life, but without affecting its bones and the beautiful original features.

The studio's founder Katie Glaister explains, 'The client was incredibly open to embracing eclecticism, mixing old and contemporary, pattern and texture. The house needed to feel welcoming and lived-in. Instinctively, our clients gravitated towards multicolored fabrics, resulting in the choice of a simpler, more neutral palette for the walls, which we used throughout to aid the flow from room to room.’

The holiday decor works with the layers of color and pattern but doesn't compete with it. The Christmas tree is kept to a classic, rich color scheme of golds and greens and the mantle in the living room is all about the greenery and its wonderful textures rather than going bold with color. Greenery is the perfect way to add a festive flourish in a more subtle, but still impactful way – it's the ideal holiday decor if you are working with a colorful, layered space like this home.

4. Designer Maggie Griffin's characterful Springdale home

Designer Maggie Griffins' home is filled with character and personality. It's bold with colors and pattern and unique antique furniture, but it all works harmoniously. Maggie explains that for the holidays she takes a more pared-back approach.

'I keep literal holiday decor at a minimum but added in plenty of sparkle to add excitement for the holiday season. I love decorating the tree, adding garland around the door, and setting the table, but otherwise, I leave my home as-is, only adding in a few festive touches here and there.'

'Our living room tree is the focal point of the room during the holiday season. It's filled with gathered ornaments from travels and antique ones from our family. They have meaning and we love pulling them out year after year. This tree is arguably dressier than the others, so I wanted to portray elegance and joy. It's the epitome of the holiday season!'

The dining room deserves some decor at this time of year since it sees so much use. But with Maggie's space already being such a distinct space she chose more muted ambers and apricot shades as her palette, with just touches of the more traditional gold and red.

'The dining room is a fun blend of old and new with nods to my love of chinoiserie,' she explains. 'I have a set of antique majolica on the walls, but also a piece of my son's art. I wanted it to feel dressy enough for a candlelit dinner, but approachable enough for pizza night, too.'

'With the bold wallpaper and handsome antique pieces, I wanted to add a touch of whimsy to our dining room with the bubble glass candlesticks and layers of pattern on the china choices.'

5. Becky Shea's holiday dining room styled to perfection

Designer Becky Shea went all out for her Thanksgiving table this year. Inspired by the rich colors of Dutch Master paintings, it's a celebration of the season and is so in fitting with Becky's organic modern style that can be found in the rest of her Westchester home.

'For me, it’s essential to work with the existing foundational elements of my home when decorating for the holidays,' she explains. 'The goal is to enhance the space rather than disrupt it – adding warmth and seasonal touches without rearranging layouts or bringing in new furniture. My home is filled with walnut and ebonized oak woods, along with vintage leather Maison Regain dining chairs, so it felt natural to bring in autumnal hues that complement these textures.'

'I always lean into the seasonal colors when we entertain. It’s a way to reflect what’s happening in nature and create an experience that feels connected and intentional. Autumn, with its rich, earthy palette and the abundance of the harvest, calls for deep, saturated tones that add warmth and vibrance to a space. This season, I focused on infusing those elements into every detail, from flowers to linens, flatware, the menu, and glassware.'

'By working with the natural colors and essence of your home, you can achieve a holiday decor that feels both effortless and elevated, seamlessly blending the spirit of the season with your home’s unique personality.'

'The inspiration for my holiday decor came from the evocative depth of the Dutch masters, particularly Elias van den Broeck,' Becky continues. 'His still-life paintings capture a beauty that feels otherworldly and timeless, elevating even the simplest elements to something extraordinary. For me, it was essential to harmonize every detail with the essence of autumn. By layering tones and textures reminiscent of the season, I wanted each piece to feel as if it had grown into the setting naturally, enhancing the experience for our guests and allowing the beauty of the season to truly come alive in our interiors.'

'Candlelight is a must for me when it comes to decorating a dining room for the holidays. It adds a warm, romantic ambiance to the meal. I mix and match different candle holders, vintage and new, and tapered candles to add dimension. But the most important element, as I called it, the piece de resistance, is a stunning bouquet as a centerpiece which helps engage the senses. I like to keep arrangements low-profile to ensure guests can see each other across the table. For this dinner, I used a bowl from the Netherlands, adding a few flower frogs to create a natural, layered arrangement that gave the table the extra splash of color to compliment the menu.'

This holiday tablescape was a collaborative effort with the chef who designed the menu too. As Becky mentioned her color schemes and table decor was influenced by the food that was being served too and the master chef behind the food, Dave Barrette, was influenced by Becky's design too.

He explains, 'Becky’s design set such a thoughtful, refined tone for the meal. The environment influenced me to think not just about the flavors, but also the visual impact of the dishes. I aimed for plating that felt elegant and intentional – each plate needed to be something that complemented the table setting and the overall atmosphere. There’s a real synergy between the food and the design, and I think that makes the experience feel complete.'

6. Amanda Back's Victorian vicarage decked out for Christmas

'This house has been decorated from our hearts,’ says Amanda Back, who is Head of Communication at renowned British home decor brand Designers Guild. ‘We didn’t sit down and create a plan. We only knew that we wanted it to feel warm and comfortable and neither grand nor stuffy.’

Having worked with colors and patterns her entire career, it's no surprise that Amanda's home is a lesson in how to expertly blend different shades and prints.

‘Working with color and pattern runs through my DNA and has influenced my more adventurous design choices,’ says Amanda. ‘However, a palette of greens, coupled with chocolate woodwork, anchors our home – perhaps a surprising departure from blue, given our coastal location. But we both wanted our interiors to work across all seasons, so greens, ochres, and yellows felt right.’

And when decorating for the holidays, the same rules apply.

Just like the year-round decor, the festive flourishes throughout the home are colorful, layered, and eclectic. Every surface is adorned with a thick layer of beautiful foliage and nothing looks overly styled or purposeful.

The colors, much like the rest of the home, are rich and bold giving the Christmas tree a really classic, comforting look. It's such a huge Christmas trend this year for creating holiday decor that's really nostalgic and not overly curated and this home gets that look spot on.

I need to come clean: I've been experiencing major modern farmhouse fatigue. As an editor in the design industry, I look at multiple farmhouse living rooms, farmhouse kitchens, and farmhouse dining rooms several times a day, every day. Though I love that the look brings modern sensibility to classic design, it's become boring to me over time. That is until I saw Anne Hathaway's kitchen.

Though I've written at length about all the incredible design details in Hathaway's kitchen, her modern farmhouse lighting was especially striking to me today. The actress's interior designer, the acclaimed Pamela Shamshiri, has chosen to line her ceiling with four clear glass flush mounts and two longer copper pendants. Their arrangement against the paneled wood ceiling creates an elegant contrast. The copper in each of the lamps complements the copper pots hung on her wall, and the mason jar-esque shape of the flush mounts fits in perfectly with the farmhouse feel of the space.

What about this look, in particular, has renewed my interest in modern farmhouses? First, I love how unique it is. Instead of the common practice of choosing one lighting option, Shamshiri has included two different styles of kitchen lighting in a single space. This unorthodox practice draws the eye up, highlighting the beauty of Hathaway's vertical kitchen storage. Further, the different heights and styles of lighting provide an interesting contrast that makes the upper half of the kitchen look much more dynamic.

Each lighting decision makes the kitchen ceiling more interesting. To get more specific, I adore Shamshiri's choice to use flush mounts, rather than recessed lighting. Inset, personality-free, florescent lighting is my biggest pet peeve in modern farmhouse kitchens, and maybe one of the biggest reasons I've developed a distaste for the style. These flush mounts provide the same easy, close-to-the-ceiling, unobtrusive type of lighting but also add a touch of copper, a flash of glass, and a big of height.

Furthermore, the mix of lighting masters one of my favorite elements of design: a seamless blend of antique and modern styles. Though the flush mounts look contemporary, the pendants were most likely sourced from an antique store, vintage market, or resale site. I love the marriage of these different materials and how they create a very unique and interesting look. I can definitely see this becoming a popular kitchen lighting trend going forward.

Shop The Modern Farmhouse Lighting Edit

To recreate this look, I recommend starting by choosing two different types of lighting. For a similar design, you will need four of your shortest light, and two of your longest. The coolest part about taking inspiration from this look is that it would work beyond a modern farmhouse space and could work well in any style room.

Leave it to Anne Hathaway and Pamela Shamshiri to completely revamp my outlook on a design style that has been around for years. All it took was the perfect lighting scheme.

Tucked away in Snedens Landing, New York, there is an unmissable property. Known as 'The Yellow House,' this sunshine-y estate was, up until quite recently, home to one of the most beloved actors of all time.

Intrigued? Bill Murray has listed his 5-bed, 4-bath home for $3,695,000, and it is just as spectacular as you would imagine. Spanning 5,177 sf., the sprawling property was built in the 1980s by the award-winning firm Shope Reno Wharton.

Color drenching is a common theme in this home, as is the preservation of its historic farmhouse design. While the property may be out of budget for some of us, it's chock-full of vibrant paint ideas and styling inspiration. Let's take a closer look.

The modern farmhouse kitchen is a high point of the home. Yellow wall tiles echo the home's exterior, while sage green borders provide contrast and maturity to the space. The large, wood dining table further drives home the rustic feel, thought the sleek, black chairs balance it out with more of a contemporary feel.

The dose of dopamine decor continues into the living room with bright, red wall paint. The sage green accents are still present in the space, with wood fixtures appearing in the form of a coffee table and a simple desk. The patterned, red and gold sofa cushions add visual interest to its beige base.

Meanwhile, the sitting room has a classic parlor ambiance. The red, Persian rug sits under a grand piano, as well as a brown, floral print sofa. The high ceilings (15 inches, to be exact) give way to some additional windows, ensuring that the room is filled with light.

The showstopper in this room is definitely the traditional fireplace. Its black exterior and gold accents beautifully contrast the white wall paint, instantly elevating the space.

The sitting nook is magnificent, featuring white panes and a rainbow, striped cushion, perfect for getting cozy and reading.

The master bedroom also has no shortage of natural light. The powder blue walls create a calm atmosphere, paired beautifully with a navy headboard and a soft, pink rug.

Pink and green make up the main bathroom's color palette. With white floor tiles serving as a base, the pink, trailing floral wallpaper and splash of green tiles on the walls make this space feel feminine yet modern. We particularly love the chic, gold wall sconces and patterned rug.

Every creative professional needs a workspace, and Murray's library is especially pleasing. A modest, wood bookcase houses a considerable number of texts, while the wood and black chair combination that we saw in the kitchen carries into this space. There is also plenty of wall space to hang framed photos or art.

Sage green really makes its mark on the staircase. The wood steps are delightfully disrupted by lush, green carpeting, while the banisters and exterior are painted the sage that subtly dominates so much of the space.

Below, we have rounded up some modern farmhouse-esque products to recreate the look of Murray's gorgeous estate.

Bill Murray's home is currently listed by Marjorie Galen of Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty.

In Diane Keaton's former Spanish Colonial Revival house in Beverly Hills, two design aesthetics work in harmony. The first (and arguably) most fittingly is the Spanish revival style (seen through the dark wood, terracotta, and mosaics) that complements the home's architectural features. The second is the modern farmhouse aesthetic – one that I often see as a celebrity style editor – but Keaton's is the most inventive.

I've already written about Diane Keaton's modern farmhouse living room, specifically how her use of antiques makes this space feel less like a conventional cookie-cutter version of the trend. With that said, I believe the furniture and accessories that make the space so unique deserve a closer look.

Curated by celebrity-favorite designer Stephen Shadley, accessories, such as terracotta vases, artworks, and bear sculptures, bring a sense of Keaton's character to her living room. They bring the modern farmhouse style to life in ways that feel individual to her – and following her example just got simpler.

Diane Keaton's Living Room – Shop The Look

While decorating with antiques is entirely personal (and often features one-of-a-kind pieces), we can still buy into Keaton's space with some more contemporary alternatives. I suggest pairing these alongside antique finds of your own (and the other personal pieces that make you the happiest).

Modern farmhouse style became ever-present around 2010 when you couldn't move from one block to another without seeing one of these distinct house styles. However, circa 2024, I am noticing more and more designers and decorators moving away from this cookie-cutter style to something a little more individual, and HGTV star Joanna Gaines is championing this liberation.

Known for her early modern farmhouse style, Gaines has transitioned into a much more grown-up, elevated look over recent years, and this mid-century modern marvel – with a touch of Spanish Revival – is perhaps her best design yet. It tells a story...

'It always starts with the story of the home. How do I unearth that and bring that back to life?' Joanna explained in a conversation with Architectural Digest.

In the case of Joanna Gaines Lake House, the original owners wanted to blend their two favored styles: mid-century modern and Spanish Revival. For Gaines, it was important to honor the house's original architectural styles from 1965 rather than turn it into a farmhouse. The designer leaned into this and the final result is certainly impressive.

With its classic looks and pared-back style, mid-century modern decor is enduringly popular – and it is easy to see why this look is revered so highly, even now. However, it is one of the hardest looks to get right.

The simple shapes of this era, which spanned the decade between the Thirties and the Seventies, were inspired by earlier design movements, including the Bauhaus school in Germany. Materials such as molded plastics allowed some of the world's best interior designers to explore new textures, colors, and forms.

Paired with the modern Spanish Revival style – think terracotta tiles, plastered walls, curved lines, and arches – a marriage of these two styles, albeit unexpected, works wonders in Joanna Gaines's Lake House living room.

The beauty of the surrounding landscape with its panoramic view of Lake Waco served as further inspiration for the merging of two seemingly incompatible styles. It turns out it was a match made in heaven.

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My favorite elements in the room are the ones that correlate to the overall story. The rustic wall decor, the touches of brown accents, and the patterned rug underfoot are all standout details. They warm up the mid-century aesthetic.

Classic farmhouse kitchens have long attracted designers and their celebrity clients alike – but with their traditonal look comes the challenge of making it work in a modern home. This is where we can take notes from Kourtney Kardashian.

Designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Kourtney Kardashian's industrial farmhouse kitchen is a modern classic – from its neutral tones of cream and abundance of wood to its old-money-style glass-fronted cabinets. The space is an almost perfect celebration of this decorating aesthetic, with one exception: mixed metals.

The combination of metals, seen on the cooker hood, backsplash, and through Kardashian's refrigerator, brings an industrial feel to the otherwise warm space – instantly making the farmhouse style more accessible to a modern home. Unsurprisingly, therefore, designers say we can learn a lot from this technique.

For the ultimate mixed-metal statement, this high-tech fridge, complete with a pefect silver finish, is currently reduced on Wayfair.

'Farmhouse Kitchens are morphing and modernizing into more contemporary spaces, thanks to the popularity of “Old English” & “California Coastal” aesthetics,' begins Sarah Storms, a designer from Styled by Storms.

'Though some steadfast characteristics still remain – such as large farmhouse sinks, living brass hardware or light fixtures, beadboard, butcher block, and textural stone or brick – the biggest change in the farmhouse aesthetic is letting the stainless steel speak for itself.' The first lesson we can take from Kardashian's space is how she integrates the refrigerator to complement the similar metal kitchen backsplash.

'A great example of how to achieve this look is through the appliances in your kitchen. I love Sub-Zero’s Classic Series Refrigeration and the Cove Dishwasher, which offer an industrial, professional look with sleek stainless-steel doors,' Storms says. 'The best part is that while they do have a commercial edge, the blend of stainless steel with cabinetry creates a contemporary vibe that feels fresh and modern.' This

Combining different finishes (for example, brushed or oil-rubbed metals with matte metals) is another way to bring this look into your kitchen, as Cathleen Ryan, the design manager at Country Kitchens, explains.

'Mix metals in your backsplash by using copper or stainless-steel tile options, or combine metallic and stone materials to add to the industrial feel,' she says. 'Plus, bringing in metal lighting and ceiling fans, updating hardware and hinging to more rustic metals, including metal framed furniture, light fixtures, open shelving with exposed brackets, and even updating window trim can all update a farmhouse design.'

Similarly, we can buy into the mixed-metal aesthetic with these buys below.

'Some other ways to make your farmhouse kitchen feel more contemporary are by adding feet to give the cabinets or other items in the kitchen a more furniture-like appearance, replacing standard white paint or backsplash for a more rustic look, incorporating more wood tones and neutral colors (stay away from anything too bright),' Ryan adds.

'Focus on user-friendliness and functionality- don't be afraid to leave some 'raw edges.'

The word transitional is getting thrown around a lot in the world of interior design at the moment. It refers to a style we all covet, and despite being a timeless look is very much on trend for this year.

Transitional homes are ones that perfectly, and effortlessly, balance old and new – mixing styles and eras to create rooms that you can't really define but work regardless. And it's the perfect word for this 18th-century farmhouse which was masterfully remodeled by PS & Daughters.

Situated in the leafy green suburbs of Philadelphia’s Main Line, the beautiful property hadn't been touched for over a decade. Founder of PS & Daughters, Phoebe Schuh, explains, 'Prior to the renovation the home was really tired. It had functioned adequately for a single person (there was a potato chip tin for a drinks table and an old conference table serving as the dining table), but it had not been well maintained and it had largely been ignored from a design perspective.'

'Nothing much had been touched for 15-20 years,' she continues. 'Windows and siding were failing, the cedar roof had been left untreated. The upper patio overlooking the pool and the view into the woods was caving in. The walls were all still screaming late 90s. It certainly was not ready for a modern family to call it home!'

Of course, the overhaul of the property would come with challenges, but it was the history and character of the house that drew Phoebe to the project. As she explains, 'We are obsessed with creating singular spaces that honor the architecture of a home, reflect our clients’ visions, and support a modern way of living that is specific to our clients’ needs.'

'This project offered all of those opportunities, because we had the chance to design for a new, blended family, with a wide age range of children, coming from different parts of the world to settle in this property that was built on the grounds of an old Pennsylvania farm. Additionally, our clients brought with them a world-class art collection, which we were able to reconsider and incorporate into the design, which is always really fun.'

The brief for Phoebe was therefore to take the old house, keep all that original charm but bring it into the present. Create a transitional home that blends the best of old and new.

The homeowner wanted 'Relaxed, elegance, comfort, for a fun blended family with children,' says Phoebe. 'They didn’t want any of the spaces to be too precious however she loves sumptuous velvets, mixing pattern and layers.'

The house has not only been reimagined but reinvented. It's now a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family home that is filled with modern amenities (a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and a games room just to name a few). But there are nods to the original space throughout, and modern, custom-made pieces blend with vintage finds in almost every room.

One of Phoebe's favorite spaces to renovate was the master bathroom, a luxurious space clad in Calcutta marble bricks. 'The client told us that in his summer home, he had a window in his shower. He didn’t have much influence about anything else, but he just let us know. He had a window and a shower and he really liked it hence the wet room concept was born,' she explains.

'We created a massive shower in an area that used to house a freestanding tub and enclosed a much larger portion of the bathroom with a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab as a shower bench, and in cased the entire room inwhite marble and beautiful mosaics on the ceiling with brush brass fixtures.'

Being that this was to become such a kid and family-oriented home a playroom was on the must-have list. The space has something for all ages.

'I loved designing the playroom,' says Phoebe. 'Creating a jungle gym in the playroom and an oversized jewel-toned mural of dreamy mountain tops with an arched custom built-in reading nook took the kid's playroom to another level.'

'As soon as you get down there it’s a place for teen boys to climb, preteen or tween girls to craft, and toddlers to climb on the modular blocks. It really is a place where the kids of all different ages love to hang out and play.'

'In addition to the design challenges that come with nearly every project, we faced a number of construction-related challenges that revealed themselves as we moved through demolition,' explains Phoebe.

'As with any of these kinds of challenges, we were keen to use them as opportunities to let good design lead the solution. The stucco had failed on the entire backside so we took the opportunity to remove the stucco seal the home properly and continue the new exterior elevation with a bright white siding and a stone veneer foundation with a beautiful limestone patio, new glass railing, and mahogany handrail.'

And there was a more niche challenge that came towards the end of the project, something that PS & Daughters just couldn't ignore.

'When our client told us cheekily: “How is it that we can put a rover on Mars, but I have to run the shower for 5 full minutes before the water gets hot?” we knew we could do something to improve the experience,' explains Phoebe. 'So we ran a dedicated line from the hot water heater directly to the master suite in the 11th hour of the project. Everything was closed up and we were ready to really start working on a punch list when the client revealed this annoying detail and we just felt like we couldn’t leave the property and not give him this obvious fix.'

'He was not wrong the hot water heater was on the other side of the house and it was just way too long of a distance so the entire team worked together to reroute a direct line right to his shower. We really felt like it brought us all together, and we were really excited that we were able to achieve it so late in the project.'

This home has been transformed from an unloved historic farmhouse, that was clearly full of potential, to a family home that feels both decidedly contemporary, filled with bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, but also suitably nods to the building's original style. It's the epitome of transitional design.

As a celebrity style editor, exploring homes owned by the world's most notable figures comes as part of the job – as does finding a common theme between their spaces. The modern farmhouse look is perhaps the one I see more than any other – and, with its rustic roots but its ability to impress in a contemporary home, it's easy to understand why. With that said, however, this versatile look can sometimes feel a little bit vanilla, so incorporating individuality is key. This is where Diane Keaton's living room takes center stage.

Designed by Hollywood-favorite designer Stephen Shadley, the room offers the most personal take on the modern farmhouse style to date. Keaton is known for her quirkiness, so this is only fitting, after all.

Unlike the conventional, cookie-cutter ways of following this style, Keaton has created a warmer, cozier space via a plethora of antiques and vintage furniture that exhibit more personality than the modern pieces I tend to see in other farmhouse-style living rooms. Her curated pieces ensure it feels anything but bland, and I can't believe how simple it is to follow suit.

While there is certainly nothing wrong with bringing in contemporary neutral furnishings (as I won't dispute that they can look both chic and sleek), decorating with antiques truly brings the modern farmhouse aesthetic to life. From her statement artwork to the marble bear statues and books on her coffee table, the decor feels as personal as it is lighthearted and fun.

As mentioned, it comes as part of the role to see themes in celebrity houses, but this includes common threads in individual properties – and in Keaton's, the Spanish Revival trend is undeniable throughout. This look is arguably best seen in her kitchen, where quintessential arches meet limewashed walls, but in the living room, this Mediterranean style takes on a new meaning, thanks to the modern farmhouse aesthetic.

Staying true to the classic Southern European theme seen around her property, Keaton experiments with mosaic planters, colorful tiles, and glass chandeliers that differ from the 'industrial' style fixtures I tend to see in modern farmhouse rooms. These pieces not only interrupt the black-and-white color scheme (a staple of the farmhouse look), but they continue to bring Keaton's personality to life in a way that can feel rarer in modern homes.

Another close example I can find is this shot below. It, too, draws from the fundamental modern farmhouse principals (exposed beams, brick, and a black and white base), but it's kept interesting with earthy-toned soft furnishings and a quirky coffee table.

Following Keaton's lead is simple, even if we can't all own a Sullivan Canyon revival. Though my house doesn't follow the modern farmhouse style, she's still reminded me of the power of antiques, even if it's something as seemingly small as a planter or coffee table book (not that I need any more encouragment to pick up any more hardbacks for my over-filled shelves). Modern farmhouse or not, this is our cue to fill our living rooms with unique pieces that call our name. I'd say i's what Keaton would want.

Shop Diane Keaton's new Hudson Grace collection

Rustic and inviting, nothing quite compares to the allure of the European cottage-style trend. Though this aesthetic has been flooding our Instagram feeds for the past few months, this interior design style is a classic and one of the most enduring looks too.

Naturally, individual European destinations take their unique approach to this provincial-esque aesthetic, and this is all part of the charm. Whether a French coastal home or quaint cottage on the outskirts of Brussels, or beyond, the quirks of each wonderful destination shine through.

The European cottage-style appeal

European cottage-style interiors are synonymous with nostalgia for travel and discovery, it's clear why we are so enthusiastic to recreate these rustic spaces in our own homes. 'I believe that people are drawn to European cottage styles for their timeless appeal and the sense of history they embody,' says the Brussels-based interior designer, Victoria Maria.

'Each region offers a unique take on the cottage aesthetic, from the cozy, weathered charm of a European countryside cottage to the bright, airy feel of a Mediterranean retreat.' Designed for comfort and 'often reminding us of simpler times,' a European cottage is thoughtful but not overly preened.

To create this coveted look in your own home, here are some of the key features that define heritage European cottage-style interiors, from designers who are dotted around Europe and beyond...

1. There is juxstaposition

We begin in what is actually a chateau, in a project named Valentine by Victoria Maria. The space is a masterclass in balancing heritage character and modernity.

'I relate the European cottage aesthetic to a harmonious blend of rustic charm and refined elegance,' continues Victoria. 'Some key elements include exposed wooden beams, as seen in my Valentine project (above), natural stone floors, and antique furniture pieces that tell a story.'

There is an art even to styling antiques, and keeping a fresh neutral canvas leaves room to add more tactile interest elsewhere, without making the space feel dated or over the top. 'When using muted color palettes, such as soft creams and earthy tones, a serene and welcoming environment is created,' continues the designer. Having a consistent color palette that runs throughout the home means that lighting fixtures and other accents can shine a little brighter.

'Textures also play a significant role, with woven rugs, linen fabrics, and hand-crafted ceramics adding depth and warmth to the space.'

The goal is that unique pieces come together as if by chance rather than look and feel forced. 'Balancing rustic and modern styles requires a thoughtful approach to ensure cohesion rather than clash. I like to start with a neutral base, which provides a clean canvas to layer different elements. Integrating sleek, contemporary furniture with rustic architectural features like exposed beams or stone walls creates an interesting juxtaposition.'

2. Objects tell an interesting story

Much like when creating a provincial-style home, a typical European cottage will proudly display artisanal items that have a unique connection with the region.

You will never be too far from a thrilling flea market in Europe, especially when visiting France or Italy, and this is the perfect place to pick up interesting items that bring the cottage aesthetic to life. 'Scour your local flea market or junk shops for goodies to personalize your rustic retreat with locally made wares – ceramics, textiles and artworks that depict scenes of local interest,' says interior designer Benji Lewis whose buffet is adorned with such exciting pieces. Benji notes how a variety of finishes and shapes can add to a balanced but still wonderfully eclectic display.

'Get inspired by nature with your textures; Moroccan Berber wool rugs, linen drapery, bashed-up leather.'

3. Let it look 'undone'

A gorgeous approach to wholeheartedly achieve French country style interiors is indeed to give in to a slightly unpolished feel.

'The charm of French cottage style is in its undone-ness,' continues Benji. 'I really worry when people renovate because it’s very easy to make things overly posh and in so doing you run the risk of destroying or removing the charm.'

Mismatched crockery in the pantry – all very much on display – and more to imbue pretty, modern rustic decor is a surefire way to achieve the European Cottage-style look at home.

4. Embrace the outdoors and enhance natural light

Drawing inspiration from the region will help create a balanced finish that does not look overworked or out of place. 'The charm derived from its countryside location is central,' shares Studio MHNA. 'Additionally, it's the harmonious blend of authenticity—through the use of natural materials—and a very free-spirited creativity.'

Especially in Scandi-style homes, cottages are rustic but still modern with clean lines, an airy finish, and playful character. Christina Richardson is a Swedish interior designer and shares some tips from a former project that involved transforming a run-down little shack into a cozy Scandi cottage. 'To get the look you need to work with the natural light and warm the space up with texture and natural woods,' shares the designer. 'We took an old table and chairs from her grandparents and used alkali to remove the paint and after that we just used linseed oil to get that soft warm wood feel.'

For a welcoming and cheery finish, Christina counteracted woods and neutrals with something more wild. 'In the tiny kitchen, we chose a green slab cabinet from IKEA, stark lines, and a light and very Scandi birch wood countertop. We balanced the strictness in the kitchen out with a whimsical wallpaper from Cole&Son to create some visual interest and it is always a conversation starter every time new guests arrive.'

Remember still that the aesthetic, be it of a modern farmhouse or cottage, will be made all the more beautiful if it is practical...

'Having furniture, wallpaper and everything else doing double duty, like this wallpaper acting as a piece of art, is very Scandi cottage because they are usually small and everything has to have at least one function or two or three,' continues Christina.

5. Materials are enduring and exude 'Old World Charm'

Preserving beautifully rustic materials is a key element of the European cottage look, and if you are renovating, nod to natural stones for longevity.

'In our designs you'll find the use of classic, timeless materials to give an old world feel to our spaces,' says designer Holly Heffinger. 'The use of natural stones, wood tones and antiques help instantly bring warmth and character to a space. Many people are going with synthetic surfaces for durability and performance. There’s nothing wrong with these products, but we believe natural materials are more beautiful than any synthetic product on the market. Plus, they only get better with age.'

From Carrara marble to Italian Cotto floors, there's a reason why these still punctuate hidden gems and cottages you might stumble upon when on your travels... 'All across Europe, you’ll find marbles that have withstood thousands of years of wear and they are arguably more beautiful today than they were when they were first installed. By using these materials in our designs, we believe that our spaces only get better with age.'

Though the European cottage-style look might be layered and it more about collecting pieces over time than a quick refresh, a little perseverance and an outside-the-box approach to your interiors will see you enjoying this gorgeous, enduring style.

'The interesting thing about European design is that it’s more difficult to achieve in the US because it takes the extra step of sourcing items that are not as readily available in our marketplace,' continues Holly. 'This extra step and appreciation of archival significance sends a message of maturity and elevation of a space. By adding in one-of-a-kind European elements, you can make a space really stand out from the next as each space becomes uniquely its own.'

Joanna Gaines is a force to be reckoned with in the interior design world. She spearheaded the wildly successful Fixer Upper franchise with her husband Chip, founded Magnolia Network, launched two furniture and decor collections, wrote several books, and much more. Though her success can be measured in many ways, it just takes one look at her design portfolio, compiled over the years, to recognize her interior design prowess.

We've written about loads of Joanna's finished spaces, and each one impresses more than the last. To celebrate the modern-farmhouse-inspired fixer-uppers from the Gaines archive, we had a look through the designer's most iconic properties. This is what you need to know about each space, and a bit of inspiration to take away – no matter your own interior design style.

A look inside 7 of Joanna Gaines' most celebrated spaces

From a 1920s hotel, to a '70s-inspired lake house, Joanna and crew have truly done it all. Here's a glimpse into seven of the designer's most iconic spaces, including her own home and the Fixer Upper greats.

Joanna's House

It's no surprise that Joanna's own home is a stunning show of her signature modern farmhouse style. From the very beginning, a classic black-and-white front porch welcomes guests inside, while greenery and a wood-paneled base soften the entrance look.

Each room of the Texas home is a work of art in its own right, but the 'California casual' living room exudes elegant, laid-back charm. With room built in for the entire family, each living room corner has been transformed into a fresh, functional space.

Even the most utilitarian spaces of the Texas estate are beautiful and considered. The laundry room, for example, is a plant-filled oasis, with loads of natural light and a much-used table. Joanna regularly escapes to this relatively pared-back space, pictured above, to think and write. And over to the bathroom, a whimsical pattern featured on the powder room's wallpaper (scenic, sketched clouds) shows the eclectic side of Joanna's style, and

The kitchen, too, isn't just a space for cooking. It's a gathering hub in the home, where Joanna whips up countless family meals and creative recipes. With bold kitchen cabinets and an antique focal point – a repurposed communion table that now grounds the space – the space itself is a masterclass in modern farmhouse style.

Joanna's Garden

Joanna's design talents aren't limited to the inside of the house, as is proven by her sprawling Texas garden. Checking in on the garden is a favorite post-travel ritual of the designer's, and many of the harvest's fresh-cut flowers end up within her elegant Waco home. Plus, she's known to indulge in flower pressing from time to time, all with the help of her lush garden right outside.

The layout and landscape design of the impressive garden can't be overlooked. It contains large, symmetrical planting beds galore, light gray pebble-covered walking paths, and hanging plants that bring the scenery to life. The summer bloom is something to marvel at, and when maintenance is necessary, a beautifully organized garden shed lies in wait nearby.

The indoor-outdoor spaces don't stop there, though. A sophisticated greenhouse offers a warm, welcoming escape, and the space is full of rich, abundant greenery to enjoy. And an expansive garden cottage – complete with a large wooden table, characterful shelving, and natural light pouring in – is one of Joanna's favorite spots of the whole home.

The Lake House

The Gaines' most recent Fixer Upper project was an idyllic lake house with stunning views of Lake Waco. Ahead of the space's final reveal, Joanna told H&G that the project and an accompanying paint collection with KILZ were inspired by nature's beauty.

In many ways the finished home departed from Joanna's signature modern farmhouse style, instead leaning into a beautiful, timeless '70s-meets-Spanish-revival aesthetic. The retro Lake House is packed with character and charm, and each room delivers on this season's hottest design trends (while still feeling classic and enduring). A whole-home color palette of '70s-inspired shades takes all the best parts of the era's design style, while leaving behind the over-the-top, now-dated vestiges.

The lake house's mid-century modern living room is packed with retro inspiration, featuring classic furniture, natural wood finishes, and quirky light fixtures. A statement fireplace brings in Spanish revival style, and lake and forest views elevate the entire space.

In the kitchen, old-money style dominates, with bold veined marble and intricate fluted detailing taking center stage. A glass door leading to an outdoor pool makes the room even more appealing. And just off the entryway, a stylish home library provides the perfect space for reading, relaxing, or gathering with the whole family. The whole home, now sold to a lucky Texas family, is a serene retreat chock full of design inspiration.

The Castle

The grand finale of Fixer Upper: The Castle aired in 2022, and we're still not over the grand, elegant Tudor-style chateau unveiled by the Gaines. On the show, Chip referred to The Castle as the 'fixer-upper of all fixer-uppers,' and with nearly 4,500 square feet to renovate, he wasn't exaggerating. Each room of the stately property is gorgeous and worthy of its historic home, which was auctioned off to a lucky buyer last year.

From the first steps into the castle's entryway, characterful wall paneling and a nature-inspired color palette greet visitors with style. Architectural details ensure that the home retains its historic charm while leaning into modern-day design trends. Even the bathroom feels historic and important, featuring intricate windows, a standing tub, vintage-inspired cabinetry, and Art Deco-style accessories.

Joanna has called the kitchen one of the 'dreamiest rooms' of the whole home, and its organic color scheme exudes calm and serenity. The next-door pantry's moody, dark cabinetry makes the room feel like a world of its own, and wood-paned windows and a clean marble countertop reflect nature's unmatched beauty. While feeling contemporary and fresh, it's also a lesson in classic modern farmhouse style.

The Hotel

Last year, Chip and Joanna took on their biggest project yet, a 50,000-square-foot hotel remodel with Fixer Upper: The Hotel. The property, built in 1928, was a local Waco landmark in need of a worthy refresh, and the Gaines were up to the task. But with 33 rooms, a restaurant, a ballroom, and a rooftop terrace, Hotel 1928 was no easy feat.

The final reveal, a considered blend of Joanna's signature look and Art Deco-inspired flair, is moody and characterful, fit for a beloved historic property. With loads of bookshelf-wealth inspiration to go around and a notable mid-century modern influence, the result is timeless and elegant. Every detail is well-considered, from intricate ceiling paneling in the restaurant to carved gold mirrors providing a backdrop to the bar.

The Gristmill

Because much of Joanna's life takes place in front of a camera, she also has an on-set home inside a gristmill built in the 1800s. The Gristmill, as she calls it, features an all-neutral living room with rustic beams and black-framed windows that divide the open-plan space. A classic white sofa and armchair provide the perfect place to relax in between takes, and a lush area rug in the same hue grounds the space.

The kitchen, where Joanna films her cooking show, Magnolia Table, is a stunning modern rustic space. Complete with unpainted kitchen cabinetry, natural stone storage alcoves, a white plaster range hood, and a vintage island, the space is a chef's dream brought to life.

'I was told early on that most cooking shows are filmed in studios where variables like lighting and sound can be controlled, which all makes sense,' Joanna wrote in a blog post unveiling the space. 'But I struggled with the idea of it. I’d imagined something different – space that felt authentic, that radiated with the same warmth and familiarity of my own kitchen at home.'

The 'Mini Reni'

The Gaines don't just take on sprawling spaces – the pair's series of small, no-demo renovations as chronicled in Magnolia Network's TV special Mini Reni. The show follows Chip and Joanna as they renovate three rooms in one week, all with a limited budget. The final reveal is just as gorgeous as the rest of the Gaines' portfolio.

The living room is 1930s-inspired, complete with a light green hue on the molded walls, green tile trim on the fireplace, and classic, timeless furniture. It's a luscious retreat, with natural light and plenty of greenery.

The Mini Reni dining room takes on a similar color palette, featuring characterful green wallpaper, a light blue built-in china cabinet, and a nature-inspired dining setup that's sure to endure past the trends. The last renovation was a controversial bedroom remodel, which transformed a big white box into a sophisticated, wallpaper-clad den that feels cozy and cocooning.

We're sure there are more stunning remodels to come from Joanna Gaines. Her signature modern farmhouse look might have accumulated some twists along the way, but the design style is only growing better with time.

Though modern farmhouse has been dominating the design feed and our Pinterest feeds for the past several years, it does not show any signs of fading. However, in 2024, the look is taking new forms. The modern farmhouse interiors of today are warmer, cozier, and more lived-in than than predecessors. Sarah Paulson's space is the perfect example.

The living room in the actress's Malibu hideaway, designed by Amy Kehoe is a refreshing twist on the modern farmhouse look. It incorporates modern farmhouse staples like light natural wood floors against white shiplap walls, but the decor takes the space in a different, more interesting direction. Paulson's designer has added a textural chocolate brown rug beneath the stained wood coffee table covered in books and decorative objects. A bright green painting above the marble breakfast table draws the eye up, while the cushion-covered gray sofa brings adds a cozy, lived-in feel.

The success of the look is in large part due to Paulson's choice of living room color scheme. Classic farmhouse style is all neutrals, but Paulson's approach is much more colorful. Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens states: 'Paulson has incorporated bright colors through the painting on her wall, a green curtain between rooms, a patterned throw pillow on the sofa, and a cobalt blue vase on the coffee table. Against the warm tones of the wood, the scheme makes the room feel all the more welcoming.'

In addition to the colors, the decorative items and soft furnishings, such as the living room sofa, in Paulson's space add much-needed texture. Ebert says, 'Modern farmhouse promotes the classic "clean" look through the use of smooth surfaces and white, but this look can be a bit clinical. The marble on the breakfast table, the natural wood, the cushions, the vases, and the plants around the room disrupt the smoothness of this style for a more dynamic textural look.'

Furthermore, this look is slated to be a huge interior design trend in 2024. Ebert says, 'Over the past few years, we've moved away from extreme minimalism and overly curated spaces. Sarah Paulson's living room is a great example of taking what you love and leaving the rest from the modern farmhouse trend. As people move away from trying to copy a trend exactly into decorating more with personal style, I think that looks like this will continue to become more popular.'

Shop the Edit

If you love Paulson's space, you can recreate the look with warm textural details like a patterned rug and natural wood furniture while keeping it grounded with a gray sofa.

Though people think of trends as what is 'in' versus what is 'out' it's more common that beloved looks evolve over time, becoming new iterations of the same styles. Sarah Paulson's trendy, modern farmhouse living room, is the perfect inspiration for how to accomplish this evolution with taste.

Lizabeth Scott's former Los Angeles-based house has the old Hollywood history without the dated old Hollywood look. Despite the distinctly mid-century bones, a fresh coat of paint brings a modern feel to the film noir actress's former home. This stunning, transitional style is best exemplified in the living room.

A white paint coat brings a refreshing light to Scott's former living room idea. The entire space is color-drenched in white: from the ceilings to the walls, to the build in shelves, and even the fireplace. When paired with the rectangular, paneled design of the space, the dissonance of styles gives the room an undeniable timeless elegance.

Though the contemporaneity of the home makes it hard to believe it has been around since the 1940s, the historical photos tell a different story. Images of Elvis Presley, Dolores Hart, and Lizabeth Scott reading together in the living room show the home pre-2016 renovation: with the natural wood of the walls and stones of the fireplace on full display. Almost as striking as The King is the difference the updated living room color has made, taking the home from dated to dreamhouse

The Hollywood farmhouse is stunning beyond just the white living room idea. Built by the acclaimed architect Robert Byrd, especially for Lizabeth Scott, the distinctive home is uniquely positioned to offer panoramic views from downtown Los Angeles to Catalina Island. It's a celebration of Byrd's classic California farmhouse style. The home is currently for sale for just shy of $3.5 million, listed with Elisa Ritt of Compass.

The 2 bed, 2 bath home is the quintessential Hollywood Hills oasis. From the light-filled dining room to the soft office, to the sloping bedrooms, the architechture and design exemplify California style. Its overall energy is incredibly warm, inviting, and cozy.

The kitchen in the Elvis-frequented property is especially gorgeous. Black stone and white cabinets form a punchy combination that once again brings a sense of modernity to the more classic bones of the house. The recently installed stainless steel hardware add yet another bit of contemporary flair. Yet again, the room is welcoming and warm.

Shop the Look

Through a mixture of white and more rustic touches, you can master the same cozy transitional design style embodied in Scott's former home. These straight-lined furniture pieces mimic the structured angles of the house.

For a cool $3.5 million, you could own a piece of Hollywood History and a very beautiful well-designed home in one.

The lake house style is all about embracing the beauty of the outdoors. Taking inspiration from traditional lake houses, the style nods to the beautiful body of water that lake cabins, lodges, and cottages are lucky enough to overlook.

Luckily, this interior design trend isn't one that's limited to those who live by a lake. In fact, recreating the signature lake house look is about adopting a sense of serenity, resulting in a cozy interior that welcomes you as soon as you enter.

Inspired by nature, the lake house style prioritizes natural light and views, a nod to the traditional lakeside vacation home that allows its occupants to gaze at the landscape. Organic materials are at the forefront of the design, adding to the harmonious feel of the look. It's also a style that's characterized by comfort, so expect to see plenty of luxe seating and cozy materials.

How to get the lake house look at home

Whether you're designing your second residence – a charming getaway on the lake, or are simply looking for some beautiful new design inspiration, the lake house look puts cozy comfort and rustic natural character first.

Drawing from the beauty of the great outdoors and providing plenty of room for relaxation, this timeless decor idea exudes charm, character, and memories of serene, sun-soaked days by the water.

We spoke with designers who love the look – and they shared ten straightforward tips for getting the style down in any home. From prioritizing light to dialing down the kitsch, this is how to channel the tranquil lake, no matter your design style.

1. Use natural materials and textures

'Lake house-inspired decor embodies a serene and natural aesthetic, incorporating elements that reflect the tranquility and beauty of lakeside living. For this look, styling with natural materials takes center stage, with an emphasis on decorating with wood, textured linens, and the welcoming presence of natural plants. The design embraces a connection to the outdoors and seeks to bring the peaceful ambiance of the lake environment into the interior space,' says Olga Alexeeva, creative director at Black & Milk.

Because lake houses are often located on the coast, their design schemes draw heavily from natural materials and motifs. Wooden, vaulted ceilings and classic hardwood flooring often provide a base for the look, with rustic decor made of jute, rattan, and wicker making tasteful appearances. Cody Brown, co-founder and principal of Dallas-based Bridges Brown Interiors, says that 'neutral colors, cozy textures, and a few nautical touches without being kitschy' complete the design style.

'I enjoy implementing elements such as wood and stone, vintage textiles, cashmere throws, hand-woven rugs, rope-style textures, and nature-inspired artwork to achieve the comfortable yet luxe feel every lake house should exude,' he says.

With a spotlight on natural texture and rustic character, the lake house look is reminiscent of cottage style, says Eugenia Triandos, principal designer of Montreal-based Hibou Design & Co. With an added 'touch of nautical charm,' the natural elements make up a cozy, homey retreat that's fit for the whole family.

'We incorporate patterns and materials that evoke a cozy, cottage aesthetic, often incorporating elements like shiplap and farmhouse sinks. Wicker furnishings add to the indoor-outdoor living vibe we aim for, and we prefer to keep windows bare to maximize the beautiful views that these lake houses tend to have, by which we avoid any heavy window coverings,' says Eugenia.

2. Incorporate comfortable furniture

When designing a lake house-style home, it's vital to include spaces designated solely for relaxation and family gatherings. These living room seating areas don't need to be elaborate or over the top – they merely need to put your mind at ease. With your 'foundational elements like jute rugs and shiplap walls' already set in stone, you'll be able to layer cozy, welcoming elements to your heart's content, says Eugenia.

'Focus on comfortable, livable furnishings to maintain a casual and inviting atmosphere. Deep, comfortable upholstery is key to creating a space that feels cozy without being stuffy,' says Elizabeth Drake, principal designer of her eponymous design firm based in Chicago.

'A game table is my favorite element included in the design – well-situated with upholstered chairs, it can invite gatherings over a puzzle or coffee,' she continues. 'Focus on comfortable, livable furnishings to maintain a casual and inviting atmosphere. Deep, comfortable upholstery is key to creating a space that feels cozy without being stuffy.'

'Overall, lake house-inspired decor aims to create a retreat that embraces the calming influence of nature, bringing together elements of comfort, warmth, and timeless elegance to reflect the tranquil allure of lakeside living,' says Olga.

In this garden house project, pictured above, Black & Milk integrated a sauna building, wooden plunge pool and expansive outdoor deck to further exemplify the indoor-outdoor connection paramount to successful lake house design. And though not every lake house needs these luxurious design elements to thrive, plenty of natural lighting and gorgeous outdoor views never hurt.

'The abundant use of oversized windows and a large skylight allows for an uninterrupted view into the woods, integrating the natural beauty of the surroundings into the living space. The wood burner becomes a focal point, imparting warmth and coziness to the interior during darker hours, enriching the atmosphere and inviting a sense of comfort,' Olga adds.

3. Stick to an earthy color scheme

Choosing a color scheme for your whole home is an easy way to ensure you've got the lake house look down, and the key to finding the perfect shades starts with a quick glance out the window. Rebecca suggests starting with 'blue and green colorways' layered 'on top of a neutral palette' so the overall look 'blends into the natural outdoors instead of competing.'

'Think large plank wooden floors, white or cream walls, and potentially some shiplap accents along the stairway and bedrooms. You bring in color through curtain ideas, pillows and throws, and you can layer in woven rugs or even lamps with rope bases for added texture,' she says.

Though traditional lake houses often take on red, white, and blue hues, a neutral base with natural accents will never lead you wrong. Mix your interior design style with calming color combinations for a soothing, retreat-like look you'll never want to leave.

'It's important to capture a sense of muted tranquility and embrace a slightly melancholic vibe that resonates with the peaceful and contemplative nature of the lake setting. Starting with a color scheme that includes muted earthy tones, deep greens, and autumnal hues can evoke the serene mood of a lakeside retreat,' says Olga.

4. Keep it simple, and stay away from kitsch

When exploring any variation of coastal decor, including the lake house look, it's easy to stray quickly into kitsch. Visions of anchors, seashells and wooden oars hanging from the walls might scream lake house, but it's often best to leave these accessories behind.

'Lake house living is all about simplicity and having fun. There are plenty of ways to decorate without resorting to obvious color palettes and kitschy decor (you can have just ONE sign that says “Lake Thattaway”, and save it for the mudroom!)' says Gaia Guidi Filippi, principal and creative director of Dallas-based Gaia G Interiors.

Instead of the over-the-top accents, Gaia suggests sticking with 'comfortable and durable fabrics' and 'keeping the focus on the view at that indoor-outdoor feeling.' Integrate white shades and 'casual motifs' to keep the design scheme pared-back and pretty.

Kristen agrees that overly obvious ocean motifs don't always land: 'My firm has designed a few lake houses and our first rule is to try to avoid anything "kitschy" that screams "lake" (no oars on the walls or "gone fishing" signs),' she says.

'Instead, start slowly and layer in more found local pieces, like pottery, picture frames, and natural wood elements, and see how you can build on that cozy, inviting feeling versus trying to make it too obvious through wording,' Rebecca adds.

5. Plan for guests

One of the best parts of lakeside living is the company that comes with it, so you'll want to plan for family and friends to visit from the very beginning of the design process. Gaia says this involves considered spatial planning, carving out space for guest bedrooms, and extra seating in the living and dining room.

'Make it as entertainment-friendly as possible, with spots both indoors and out that offer each family member or guest a moment of relaxation and quiet luxury. If there is an opportunity to do so, I love a lake property with connected areas, like a breezeway to a guest room, a screened-in front porch or a dining area. It just adds so much character and charm,' she says.

Cody adds that the details matter, even down to the bedding: 'We recommend investing in quality bedding for each bedroom, as often, a lake house will have many family and friends visiting. Making the beds feel like a luxury hotel will add to the overall enjoyment of a lake house stay.'

An easy (and often overlooked) way to make the lake house cozy and comforting for each and every guest is by lighting the space with intention. Cody adds that a well-thought-out lampscaping scheme provides a welcoming environment for all.

'Adding layered lighting with a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting will create an ambiance that works well in the evenings when you cannot see the lake from inside the house and will allow you to create intimate areas to read a book or cozy up with a glass of wine,' he says.

6. Embrace family memories (and make new ones)

Instead of leaning into kitschy or predictable design motifs, Kristen suggests placing focus on 'family history, as well as the town or area where the house is located.' This will give your lake house-style home a unique, personalized spin that won't be replicated in the houses all along the coast.

'These places usually have a "lake history" where families have come for generations and embrace the culture of the place that weaves into the client's family history. The memories that are built there become timeless bookmarks. Our first request is getting family pictures and heirloom pieces that they want included. We'll then weave in wonderful new or vintage pieces that could be layered in to finish the look,' says Kristen.

Decorating with family heirlooms is often the best approach, but decorating with vintage is another fast track to a storied, characterful space you'll love. 'Incorporating antique or vintage pieces adds character and history to the space, enhancing the sense of charm and timelessness,' says Olga.

Aside from the history and meaning attached to vintage and antique pieces, Gaia adds that their slightly rustic look melds well with the hallmarks of lake house design and the surrounding natural environment. These furniture pieces and accessories contribute to the nostalgic feel brought on by the lakeside environment, and welcome guests in with ease.

'To find these unique pieces, we suggest planning a fun buying trip to local antique shops to find things that speak to your specific taste and correctly fit the scale of your home – our favorite place to do this is Round Top, Texas. As designers, we always start with a good space plan, then furnishings, rugs, and window coverings, making styling the last step of the process to pull the room together,' says Cody.

7. Don't be afraid to bend the rules

Though these expert-provided tips will send you on your lake house way, designing a lakeside home is no exact science. Creating an oasis for your family and friends should be, above all, personalized and heartfelt. That's why taking a few 'wrong turns' won't shatter your lake house look – they'll only contribute to the characterful, eclectic home you'll be happy to live in over the summer or all year round.

'Adding a few elegantly mismatched vintage furnishings or accessories can add that relaxed lake home vibe. Color palettes can be all lake colors or add a contrasting color to accentuate the view,' says Elizabeth.

8. Consider practical finishes

A lake house is typically a place for family and friends to relax during vacation. People will inevitably be in and out, so opting for stylish yet practical finishes will ensure your flooring and walls will stand the test of time and withstand any wear and tear.

Whether it's living room paneling or wood flooring, consider the overall design when selecting your materials and finishes while bearing in mind their durability. Jennifer Hamilton, Director of The Vawdrey House says, 'In terms of practicality, floor finishes that you (and pets) can come in from the lakeside and garden without being too precious. We love reclaimed, weathered timber, herringbone brick, or large flagstones for this kind of property.'

Whilst, of course, a lake house design is stylish, comfort and homeliness are at the core of the style. Kate Walker says, 'The lake house look is never overly polished. It's curated but comfortable where every detail matters. From the finish on the polished plaster walls to sight lines throughout the home, each decision is considered in context.'

9. Honor the lake views

Typically, lake houses are situated near a lake, meaning many of them boast stunning views and surrounding scenery. To encompass the meaning of the lake house style, enhance your architecture by prioritizing views, allowing the spirit of the lake to transport into your home.

Kate says, 'Lake house interiors should always honor the view. That means strategic window placement, sheer furnishings that filter the light, and a considered layout that allows the landscape to shine. Less is more - let nature take center stage.' Window seat ideas help create a serene nook in your lake house, making gazing outside even more enjoyable. Window treatment ideas enhance your architecture and nod to the outside if space doesn't allow for a designated seating area.

Lake house-style homes are often weekenders, but they need to function like permanent homes. The magic lies in space planning, zones for togetherness and retreat, spaces that breathe.

10. Prioritize peace and serenity

As with any holiday home, a lake house is the perfect place to retreat when you need some downtime. When designing your space, consider soothing decorating ideas that will guide you and help you prioritize a sense of calm.

There are many ways to make a home more relaxing but zoning your space by purpose will help the areas designated for lounging feel even more special and tranquil. Kate adds, 'Lake house-style homes are often weekenders, but they need to function like permanent homes. The magic lies in space planning – zones for togetherness and retreat, spaces that breathe. As you move through a lake house aesthetic there is a quiet rhythm – no echo, no visual clutter, just gentle transitions from one beautifully resolved space to another.'

Shop our edit to complete the lakeside look

Remember, 'a lake house is often where a family goes to get away from their everyday life, relax, and have fun. So, styling one is a little different than a primary residence,' says Kristen Rivoli, founder and principal designer of Massachusetts-based Kristen Rivoli Interior Design.

Regardless of design style or hometown, we all deserve a bit of lakeside relaxation. If the laid-back, serene feel of lake house style has resonated with you, then the coastal scandifornia trend might be just for you.

Kitchen organization is a fine art. Naturally, Martha Stewart is an expert in the field, having spent much of her career exploring domestic crafts and hobbies, from cooking to keeping a home.

It's no surprise, then, that when Stewart recently shared a video in her farmhouse kitchen, our eyes were immediately drawn to her wide shelf of glass jars. The storage containers not only hold ingredients like spices and flour conveniently above the stove, but they also act as decor in their own right – a timeless kitchen storage trend.

The first step to decorating with storage-smart pieces is determining what kinds of objects will fit into an existing aesthetic.

'In terms of kitchen decor, storage isn't just about functionality—it's an opportunity to elevate your space with style,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Glass jars, such as mason jars and sleek canisters, offer a dual purpose: they keep your ingredients fresh and organized while adding a charming aesthetic to your cooking space.'

Lichtenstein says clear glass jars are the most versatile; mason jars with rustic lids evoke a farmhouse style, while sleek canisters suit modern homes.

To keep these displays looking balanced, Lichtenstein recommends mixing and matching different containers.

'Vary the sizes and shapes of your glass jars to create visual interest,' the designer states. 'Arrange them in clusters or line them up neatly on open shelves, countertops, or inside cabinets. Mixing different heights and textures adds dimension to your kitchen decor.'

The beauty of working with clear storage jars in the kitchen is that their containments can act as decor, too.

'Take advantage of transparent glass by displaying colorful ingredients like beans, lentils, colorful pasta, or spices,' Lichtenstein says. 'This not only adds a pop of color to your kitchen but also celebrates the beauty of your culinary essentials.'

Finally, placement is crucial to achieving a look that is curated rather than cluttered. Open shelving like Stewart's allows the storage jars to take centre stage, and as such is a great option for display. However, there are some alternative spaces that can serve as great spots for jars (and also happen to be convenient).

Arrange a few jars near your cooking area for easy access to frequently used ingredients,' Lichtenstein suggests. 'Or, use glass jars to decorate your kitchen island or bar cart, creating a stylish focal point.'

Below, find a selection of storage jars that are bound to suit any kitchen style.

As a country musician, Miranda Lambert's songs evoke visions of dirt roads and rural pastures; a staple within the genre. However, when it comes to the "Mama's Broken Heart" singer's home, she likes to infuse these country sensibilities with a touch of modernity: AKA, the modern farmhouse look.

The singer-songwriter recently posted a photo of her kitchen on Instagram, and we love the blend of rustic and contemporary elements, from her white-tiled walls to the wood shelves and mint green, painted cabinets.

The modern farmhouse trend is beloved for its ability to combine what may be seen by some as opposing styles. Sleek materials like marble can exist alongside reclaimed wood, with the latter serving as a solid foundation for this ever-trending design.

'Stylistically, the wood look brings an elegant, organic feel to a space, adding texture and interest to an interior whilst remaining neutral,' says Neel Bradham, a design expert from Parador. 'From beautiful oaks and deep walnuts to light ash, these natural hues incorporate the outside world into our homes, offering a grounded and calm foundation.'

Another key element of the modern farmhouse trend, as seen in Lambert's own kitchen, is open shelving. Allowing chic and frequently-used items like ceramic bowls or vintage pitchers to be displayed just adds to the rustic appeal.

'Whether it's a renovation of an older home or the construction of a new one, these modern farmhouse-style homes all tend to have design features like exposed beams, walls paneled in shiplap or beadboard, and kitchens that feature exposed shelving instead of upper cabinets, apron front sinks and a classic gooseneck faucet,' says Angelica Ferguson VonDrak, Associate Real Estate Broker at Sotheby's International Realty.

The burst of green via Lambert's mint cabinets is also intentional in achieving the modern farmhouse look; though the style favors warm neutrals, a pop of green is recommended by experts to create some vibrancy in the space.

'The sage color will compliment the lighter tones in the space and connect beautifully with the black accents to bring all of the elements together in a cohesive and organic way,' says Jane Barnes, designer at her eponymous company. 'Plants are another excellent way to achieve this, real or faux.'

Shop the Lambert-inspired edit

Below, we have curated some modern farmhouse kitchen essentials to create a blissful and cozy ambiance. They bring the Lambert-look to all spaces without the need for a huge renovation, so what are we waiting for?

Some of the best home cooking shows are happening on Instagram. Case in point: Jennifer Garner's Pretend Cooking Show, a social media series that has seen the likes of Ina Garten appear in the 13 Going on 30 star's home kitchen. 

Because of this series, we have become well acquainted with Garner's well-equipped space, but in her latest video, we couldn't help but admire a new area of her modern farmhouse-style room. 

While making an early morning breakfast of pancakes, the actor brewed her morning espresso (using a KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine) in a cozy corner, backed by a natural, stone wall and white-painted shelves to match the cabinets.

The modern farmhouse trend is truly the best of both worlds: rustic and contemporary in equal measure, the design has seen a rise in popularity recently due to its versatility and charm.

'Modern farmhouse appeals to anyone who likes a blend of traditional design with unique or unexpected accents,' Homes & Gardens editor, Jennifer Ebert explains. 'The style can incorporate vintage or antique elements with finishes and accessories we see more frequently in modern homes, like metallic fixtures or accent colors.'

Natural materials are a cornerstone of the modern farmhouse style; Garner's combination of stone walls with painted, wood shelves is a perfect example of blending traditional and modern.

'In a space like the kitchen, try to utilize raw wood or stone in furnishings like dining tables and floorboards, while adding in contemporary touches with stainless steel appliances, or even a marble countertop,' Ebert suggests.

Color comes into play as well. Garner has opted for a mostly neutral palette, with gray stone and white cabinetry, but she allows for some subtle bursts of color with her ceramic, blue glassware sitting on the shelves. 

'Due to the materials used in the modern farmhouse trend, like wood, burlap, or stone, you will likely be dealing with neutral colors like brown, white/cream, and gray,' Ebert states. 'However, accents colors such as greens, blues, and pinks work wonders to brighten up a space.'

Aside from color, texture can also add visual interest to a predominantly neutral, modern farmhouse kitchen.

'Try incorporating texture into the kitchen with accessories like linen tablecloths, or a reclaimed wood serving platter,' Ebert recommends.

Shop the Garner-inspired edit

Below, find some modern farmhouse kitchen accessories, including the exact KitchenAid espresso machine that Garner uses. It's one of the best coffee makers available (which is no surprise, considering it's loved by the actress herself). 

'It's not my motivation to always do something timeless,' Kristina Crestin told me in our interview this week.

In a design landscape where we're constantly discussing how to make interiors more 'timeless' or 'anti-trend,' it seems like a shocking revelation. The statement is especially surprising, coming from Crestin, a champion of the 'classic' modern farmhouse style in her HGTV series Farmhouse Fixer. Actually, her reasoning is quite freeing.

'I get a lot of feedback from homeowners that have gone safer and more timeless with some things, but they just don't love it as much as the places they took risks,' Crestin explained on the home decor idea. Rather than guiding your interior design based on arbitrary ideas of what's 'outdated,' Kristina recommends choosing an interior scheme based on personal taste.

When one is guided by personal taste, it's easy to be drawn to current interior design trends. Crestin doesn't necessarily think this is a bad thing. Instead, choosing where to integrate interior design trends you love requires reconfiguring where and how to spend budget. She used the analogy of buying a new wardrobe.

Crestin stated: 'How often are we all buying trendy colors, but we're buying it at Target because we're like, OK, I might hate this color next year.' She continued, 'So I'm spending money on my pants that are great, but I'm just going to keep changing the trendier items because of course I want to change. Of course I want to try the new thing.' In interiors, this might look like spending money on more classic millwork or tiling that you love, while going more 'fun' and trendy with the furniture.

She recommended, 'thinking about things that are trendy that could be easily replaceable' like furniture. She continued, 'Yes, furniture is an investment for some people but it's certainly less costly [to replace] than tiling a whole bathroom.'

The interior designer's entire philosophy works to take the pressure off of creating a timeless interior design and focusing on the joy of the process. Crestin told Homes & Gardens: 'I think people get trapped with the idea that they're doing this once, they're spending the money once and then they're not going to change it for 15 years. Well, you wouldn't address your wardrobe that way. Knowing that over time you might need to supplement some things takes the pressure off of feeling like it's one and done. It's more of a psychological thing.'

Shop the Modern Farmhouse Edit

The modern farmhouse style, often seen on Farmhouse Fixer, perfectly strikes the balance of incorporating trendy elements, but also remaining true to timeless materials and high-quality design.

Whether you prefer following interior design trends or opting for more classic interior design, Crestin's ideas are helpful reminder that it's always okay to decorate to the tune of your own drummer. If you hate it, you can always change it later.

Regardless of personal color and furniture tastes, when it comes to living rooms, comfort tends to be a universal necessity. As communal spaces are meant for relaxing, keeping the ambiance cozy and warm for your living room ideas is a perfect way to ensure guests feel welcomed and at home.

Argylle star Bryce Dallas Howard has nailed this atmosphere with her modern-rustic living room. A collaboration with designer Claire Thomas and Rejuvenation, the recently renovated space takes inspiration from the countryside via wood paneling and floral decor, while maintaining a sense of sophistication with contemporary metallic accents. The result? Modern farmhouse ideas at their finest. 

Having taken over our Pinterest boards and Instagram feeds, the country-inspired, modern farmhouse style meshes natural elements with sleek lines and minimal finishes; an ultimate fusion.

'It's really a blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance that appeals to a wide range of homebuyers,' says associate real estate broker, home renovator, and stager Angelica Ferguson VonDrak. 'Whether it's a renovation of an older home or the construction of a new one, these modern farmhouse-style homes all tend to have design features like exposed beams, walls paneled in shiplap or beadboard, and kitchens that feature exposed shelving instead of upper cabinets, apron front sinks and a classic gooseneck faucet. '

One non-negotiable for a modern farmhouse space is wood. Whether through a subtle accent or flooring, the material brings the aesthetic together through its natural yet contemporary appearance.

'The aesthetic is definitely enriched throughout by the use of wide-plank hardwood floors and thoughtful touches of reclaimed wood accents,' Ferguson VonDrak says. 'Think barn beam mantle over the fireplace, antique corbels, vintage pegboards...'

As seen in Bryce Dallas Howard's modern farmhouse living room, the beautiful, paneled wood ceiling and rustic wood flooring ideas work together in effortless harmony to add a dose of inviting warmth and natural texture to the white space, we love the overall calming and grounding feel.

Ferguson VonDrak also encourages these design elements throughout the home, and even outside of it.

'One of the most appealing features of these homes is the integration between indoor and outdoor living. In essence, the modern farmhouse look is really a narrative of refined comfort and harmonious coexistence with the surrounding landscape, creating a home full of warmth, character, and natural materials designed to blend with the beauty of the outside world.'

Below, find some warm and inviting, modern farmhouse living room pieces.

The charm of a country home has infiltrated zones well beyond the countryside itself. Rustic elements have made their way into even the most urban-located houses, desired for their ability to make a space feel comforting, cozy, and chic.

For some, however, the rustic roots run deep. Georgia-born, Tennessee-based country musician and American Idol judge Luke Bryan posted a video in his living room, and the countryside influence is palpable. From the wood-beamed ceilings to the antique French-style white TV stand, the textural details and neutral colors combine serendipitously to evoke the modern farmhouse aesthetic. 

Whether based in a rural area or in the heart of a major metropolis, the modern farmhouse trend is the ideal blend for those looking to incorporate homely features whilst maintaining an air of sophistication and elegance. Experts recommend beginning design plans with the classic base: color.

'To achieve the modern farmhouse aesthetic, you'll want to blend rustic charm with contemporary design elements,' says Irene Tarroza, writer and editor at Archic Furniture. 'Start with a neutral color palette as a base, often centered around white or light gray. White paint on wood is a key feature, so consider refinishing or distressing wooden furniture or walls to create a timeless farmhouse look.'

A key factor in facilitating a modern farmhouse space is creating dimension through patterns and texture, Tarroza says.

'Incorporate tartan prints and furnishings strategically; think plaid throw pillows, blankets, or curtains, as they can add warmth and a touch of tradition,' she suggests. 'Don't forget natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and metal, which add an authentic farmhouse feel.' 

Accessories are also crucial in facilitating farmhouse aesthetics: think mason jars and white crockery, all on display via open shelving units to tap into an open space. However, Tarroza recommends looking at pieces of yore to infuse personality into a modern farmhouse home.

'Incorporate vintage or repurposed pieces for character and balance the design with clean lines and minimalism for a modern twist on the classic farmhouse style,' she suggests. We also recommend incorporating organic modern elements, including (yet more) reclaimed wood, some carefully curated houseplants, and, of course, plenty of the aforementioned neutrals. 

In Bryan's case, he has opted for cream-colored paint and curtains, but any subtle hue, including beige and all shades of white, will create a similar effect.  

Shop the modern farmhouse edit

Find some modern farmhouse-worthy, staple living room furniture and accessory pieces below to curate a truly rustic room.

The opportunity to invest in a home before it becomes famous is rare, but exactly the case with this Tennessee property designed by HGTV's Christina Hall.

 Located in downtown Franklin, the charming monochromic home is due to appear on an upcoming episode of Christina in the Country (per the listing), but we have the chance to pick up the keys before it airs. In true Christina Hall style, the home exhibits a bright, airy, and neutral color palette that serves as the perfect base for modern farmhouse-style furnishings.

Design decisions aside (for the moment, at least), the home itself, built in 1960, comprises four bedrooms and three bathrooms and spans 2,137 square feet across two levels. In terms of its curb appeal, the property exhibits a subtle black exterior hue and enjoys a black-and-white porch (foreshadowing the color palette that awaits behind its front door).

During the renovation, Hall gutted the home, entirely redesigning the floor plan and installing all new plumbing, electrical, and HVAC to bring the retro property firmly into the modern day. 

As hinted, a monochromatic color scheme reigns inside the home – starting with the open-plan living space that includes the entrance area and primary living room. Here, Hall reminds us why neutrals are eternally timeless and versatile while injecting earthy hues through olive-green cushions and curated houseplants. 

The same color scheme flows into our favorite room of the home: the kitchen. Here, a quiet luxury aesthetic comes into play via veined marble countertops, uncluttered open shelves, and gold hardware finishes that subtly interrupt the neutral palette. 

The kitchen area leads directly outside to a spacious deck for enjoying meals al fresco. This overlooks the grassy yard with ample space for both sunbathing and gardening. There's also an indoor wet bar to make entertaining even more fun.

In terms of the bedrooms, we see Hall steer slightly away from the stark black-and-white palette seen around the main living spaces. She opts for slightly earthier pink hues, best seen through the luxury bedding and artwork, to create a therapeutic space that's perfect for slumber. 

The bathrooms, meanwhile, boast a freestanding tub and white-and-tan checkered shower tile that complement the soft wooden furnishings and accessories. 

Agent Nick Mancini of The FRVNT group currently holds the $999,990 listing. 

Shop H&G's modern farmhouse edit

We (sadly) can't all pick up the keys to this home, but we can still enjoy a look inspired by its modern farmhouse aesthetic. Here are three of our current favorite ways to invest in the style.  

A modern farmhouse dining room is one that blends rustic charm with nostalgia and elements of contemporary design. It should be warm, welcoming, and ready for hosting in an instant. 

Modern farmhouse ideas are the perfect mix of old and new. Think reclaimed tables with black dining chairs, or shiplap walls in a modern hue with minimalist accessories. It's all about striking that balance and doing so in a way that feels unique to you and your home.

Whether you want to spruce up your dining room or create a cozy kitchen nook, the modern farmhouse aesthetic lends itself beautifully to a variety of spaces. From sourcing antiques to nailing your dining room color scheme, these modern farmhouse dining room ideas are sure to inspire your scheme. Here's what the experts want you to know.

9 Modern Farmhouse Dining Room Ideas

Modern farmhouse style is a fusion of farmhouse warmth and contemporary flair, offering the best of both worlds in comfort and sophistication. If you're looking to exude an inviting ambiance in your dining room that beckons family and friends to gather for hearty meals and even heartier conversations, perhaps this design style might be the one for you. 

Depending on your taste, a transitional design dining room can lean more traditional or contemporary. So long as you look to blend old and new, and always keep things feeling cozy. These 9 modern farmhouse dining room ideas should offer plenty of inspiration for bringing this timeless style into your home.

1. Start with a soft color palette

A soft, muted color palette sets the stage for an inviting atmosphere. Not only this, but it will allow you to layer up your design with texture, decor pieces, and patterns without it all feeling too much.

Interior designer Jillian Kliewer, who designed the space above, says: 'The large photograph by artist Sean Pierce was the main inspiration for this dining room. The modern, rustic, and vintage farmhouse pieces were all informed by the art's color palette.'

When selecting colors for your dining space, consider tones that evoke the feeling of nature. Soft greens can infuse the room with a subtle hint of rustic charm, while pale blues will feel super serene. Warm clay pinks would also work lovely with the mix of woods in a modern farmhouse dining room. Decorating with neutrals will of course create a sense of warmth and coziness while maintaining a fresh, contemporary feel.

'I think we are removing away from the cookie-cutter, modern farmhouse look that we have seen so much of in the recent past,' says designer Mindy Laven. 'We are using color instead of simply painting it white. To me, this feels a bit more authentic, and a little less trite than we have seen in the past. Moody paint colors and fabrics add to the ambiance of this updated farmhouse look.'

2. Create texture with shiplap

Whether you add it to the wall at full or half-height, a ceiling treatment, or even incorporate it into furniture pieces like built-in cabinetry or dining benches, shiplap is a mainstay in modern farmhouse style. Renowned for its ability to add texture, character, and a touch of rustic charm to any space, paneling ideas for walls lend themself to a variety of applications.

'The key to modern farmhouse design is layered textures – the more the merrier,' says Courtnay Tartt Elias, founder of Creative Tonic Design. 'Traditionally farmhouse elements like wood dining tables with a lovely patina or shiplap walls read more modern when paired with bright fabrics seen in drapery or upholstery. Wood dining chairs with an aged finish can be updated with bold upholstery next to a modern tulip table. The fun is in the mixture of elements of various styles,' she adds.

For a more traditional farmhouse look, opt for natural wood shiplap with a weathered finish. Alternatively, you can paint the shiplap in a crisp white or soft neutral tone for a more contemporary twist.

3. Mix patterns and prints

This interior design style is all about an eclectic mix. Combining patterns and prints is a great way to infuse personality into even the smallest of spaces. It allows you to play with scale, color, and texture.

'Modern Farmhouse is an aesthetic that consciously steers away from schemes and mood boards,' explains Cathy Nordström. 'Furniture and decorative objects should be flea market finds and antiques, and, when it comes to pattern and textiles, ginghams, checks, and stripes are key. Nothing really needs to match, which conveys warmth and a sense of embrace. It’s a great look for family homes as it’s not too precious.'

It's essential to strike a balance between cohesion and contrast. The key is to blend patterns that share a common color palette or theme so start by selecting a dominant pattern or print as your anchor, such as a classic gingham or subtle floral motif. From there, layer in complementary patterns of varying scales and textures to create intrigue.

4. Gravitate towards natural materials

Natural materials are not just trendy but are a timeless way to create an authentic and inviting dining space. 

Wood, stone, metal, and textiles derived from natural fibers are hallmark materials in modern farmhouse dining rooms. These materials bring a tactile quality that creates a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings.

'So much of it comes down to materials used,' says Tori Murphy. 'Natural materials that speak for themselves and have a sense of character, while imperfections are allowed to shine through. Layers of fabrics like cotton, wool, and linens should all be well-loved and softened with age. Gentle hues in paint colors, timber, and stone act as the perfect backdrop for possessions that are gathered considerately over time.'

Opting for solid wood furniture pieces, such as dining tables crafted from reclaimed wood, adds a sense of history and character to the room. Don't be afraid to mix your wood tones and eras when sourcing pieces.

5. Include a large table for gathering

At the heart of every dining room lies a table for gathering, sharing meals, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. So of course in a modern farmhouse setting, the table is incredibly important.

'The anchor of any modern farmhouse dining room should always be a really beautiful dining table that exudes a cozy farmhouse aesthetic, but also features a distinctly modern look with clean lines and of-the-moment design elements,' suggests Kathy Kuo. 

'A great table will serve as the perfect canvas for seasonal decor elements that also complement a modern farmhouse look. Think chic table runners for different seasons, modern vases in organic shapes and colors, and artisanal dishware that feels equal parts relaxed and luxurious.'

Solid wood tables with a distressed or weathered finish are particularly well-suited to the rustic charm of farmhouse style, adding a sense of history to the space. Just be sure to balance the look with more contemporary dining chairs.

6. And perfectly mis-matched chairs

Use mismatched seating to create a more casual dining space that still feels designed. Most dining room furniture ideas are focused on being symmetrical and matching but with modern farmhouse style, you want things to feel more effortless and thrown together.

Designer Paloma Contreras chose to anchor the head of her table with a linen slip-covered dining chair with arms that look oh-so-comfortable. The mix of a pale oak table and more contemporary black chairs nails the balance of old and new this design style calls for.

While a few chairs around the table may have their own style, material, or finish, it is crucial that there should be a unifying factor to create visual harmony. This could be a shared color palette, similar silhouette, or common design motif. Experiment with different combinations until you find a mix that feels curated yet casual.

7. Go big on lighting and accessories

The right lighting, decor, and accessories can transform a space, adding depth, drama, and personality. In a modern farmhouse dining room, embracing oversized lighting fixtures and statement accessories is essential for creating cohesion between the old and the new.

A large, statement chandelier or pendant lights will serve as the focal point of the space, meaning you don't have to do much styling below. However, a textured rug or a vignette of decorative objects on the table won't go amiss. Incorporate oversized mirrors, artwork, and decorative objects like vintage vases, ceramics, or woven baskets to add layers of charm and personality.

'Modern farmhouse dining rooms blend the warmth and charm of traditional farmhouse style with sleek, contemporary elements,' says Denise Morrison of Morrison Interiors. 'Incorporate industrial-inspired lighting fixtures and comfortable, upholstered seating for a touch of sophistication. Whether it's a formal dinner party or a casual family gathering, modern farmhouse dining rooms offer a perfect balance of comfort and style,' she adds.

8. Bring in antiques

If cozy, old-world charm is what you're after, then seek out vintage pieces and antique finds. When selecting pieces for your dining room, consider vintage or decorating with antique pieces that resonate with the farmhouse aesthetic, tell a story, and complement your design vision.

'We created a modern farmhouse feel in this dining room by using an antique scalloped wood table,' says interior designer Jennifer Barron, who designed the dining room above. 'Bringing in this large wood piece instantly created a farmhouse feel with its rich patina.'

'The distressed white chandelier paired with the brass gilded mirror elevates the room to a space that feels more modern and a touch less casual. The wallpaper is the finishing touch – bringing in butterflies and greenery, one is reminded of the elements of nature, all while staying clean and fresh in design.'

Look for vintage furniture, such as a farmhouse table, sideboard, or hutch, that showcases craftsmanship and patina. While vintage sellers tend to prioritize wood finishes, be sure to mix in other materials such as iron, metal, brick, and stone for a more modern vibe.

9. Try rustic wood or terracotta floors

Rustic wood and terracotta floors are quintessential elements of farmhouse design, offering durability, charm, and a connection to the natural world. 

Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra, says: 'Terracotta tiles make for a floor that’s rich and warming to the eye and is both earthy and textured underfoot, making it the perfect addition to modern farmhouse dining rooms.'

'Choosing terracotta flooring means you’ll have a floor that is ready to embrace life’s rough and tumble while never looking anything less than 100% stylish, especially given that warming, nurturing colors and textures and dominating interiors right now.'

The flooring of a dining room plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the space, and opting for wood or stone floors can add warmth, texture, and character that epitomize the farmhouse aesthetic.

In the modern farmhouse dining room, every detail tells a story and every choice reflects a commitment to comfort, authenticity, and the joy of shared experiences. Whether you're drawn to the cozy, lived-in feel or the eclectic mix of textures and patterns, there's a scheme to suit every taste and preference. The most successful ones have the perfect balance between old and new, embrace natural materials, and pieces that tell a story. 

It's usually not the bathroom we associate with decorating with wallpaper. While this traditional wall decor has firmly secured its place in rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms, it's somewhat of an unexpected choice in a bathroom.

But in the case of interior design maestro Emily Henderson, her recently renovated guest bathroom ignores the rulebook, and its wallpaper-adorned result is dreamy and intriguing in equal measure.

Designed in collaboration with ARCIFORM, Emily describes the room on her blog as a 'jewel box', and we couldn't have put it better ourselves.

Standout design features are Pratt + Larson tiles in a deep shade of rose, a whole host of antique-inspired fixtures, and of course, the dark green wallpaper that has truly won us over. 

A Kelly Ventura design, the floral wallpaper has an old-world look and certainly doesn't shy away from making a statement. 

Having originally started the guest bathroom renovation with white walls, Emily shares that it didn't feel finished, before turning to wallpaper ideas to complete the space. 'The room just felt unfinished with the walls only painted,' the designer tells H&G.

She adds that the choice of patterned wallpaper nods to vintage farmhouse decor, an interior design style that she wanted to capture in the room: 'I also wanted to lean into the sweetness of a vintage farmhouse style.'

'Since this is a guest bathroom and not the primary bathroom that we use daily, I felt confident in taking more of a risk with some pattern,' continues Emily.

While it's true that guest rooms generally allow for a more playful approach to decor, the color of this wallpaper still makes it slightly surprising. In small rooms, light colors are often used in an attempt to make the space appear larger. However, the designer tells us that the opposite is true. 

'It’s actually a fun fact that smaller spaces decorated in darker colors will make a space feel bigger and cozier at the same time,' says Emily. 'You would think light colors would do that but it’s almost always the opposite.'

As tempting as it may be to upgrade your bathroom with wallpaper instantly, it's important to consider the practicality, too. Bathrooms are humid spaces so if you don't have enough air flow, wallpaper may not be the best choice. 

'Make sure you have good ventilation and that it’s properly installed,' advises Emily. 'For a room like a bathroom that gets a ton of moisture, I’d recommend hiring someone with experience to ease any nerves and avoid any issues.'

If you're feeling as inspired as we are by Emily's vintage-inspired wallpaper, shop some of our favorite similar designs below to recreate the look. 

A modern farmhouse living room requires a blend of old and new – it's a contemporary sofa paired with an antique wooden coffee table, or a white wall adorned with vintage artworks. This old-meets-new aesthetic is proving popular in both period properties and new builds, and it's all thanks to its versatility.

There are lots of modern farmhouse ideas to create a cozy and welcoming space. In a living room, it's all about introducing comfort and character in a stylized way. Whether you're living room is a blank canvas in need of some character or an old space that could do with an update, this aesthetic can be achieved in any space.

From neutral hues and original features to wall decor and cozy textiles, these modern farmhouse living room ideas from interior designers are sure to inspire your living room design.

Modern farmhouse living room ideas 

Modern farmhouse style is proving popular, and for good reason. Aesthetics that embrace an old-meets-new style feel truly timeless and offer the opportunity to inject personality and original style into the decor. If you're not sure where to start, these spaces might just spark an idea.

1. Mix old and new

Blending old and new is at the core of modern farmhouse style. Introducing contemporary additions alongside more vintage-style pieces will help you to achieve the right transitional design aesthetic. In a living room, consider a modern sofa paired with a rustic wooden coffee table to strike a balance.

'When working on a modern farmhouse project, we like to mix refined furniture with vintage woods and contemporary lighting. We will even add some ceramics to bring in a little color and texture,' explains Kristin Fine and Analisse Taft-Gersten, the duo behind The 1818 Collective.

In this living room, a contemporary sofa and coffee table have been introduced alongside a vintage side table and accent chairs. This balance of old and new, light and dark really embraces the modern farmhouse style.

2. Opt for light wood flooring

In a modern farmhouse kitchen, you might lean towards darker flooring for its durability and ability to hide stains, but there is a greater variety of options in a living room in the style. Consider whether your living room feels more modern or more farmhouse to guide your decision.

'I recommend stripping dark floors and refinishing them in a light oak color. This instantly makes a farmhouse feel more contemporary,' says Heather Hilliard, of Heather Hilliard Design. A lighter floor not only modernizes a space, but it can make the overall scheme feel lighter and brighter, especially if you're decorating a small living room.

A lighter floor also means you can play with different styles and colors of rugs. Opt for something that feels more natural, such as jute, wool or sisal, to infuse an err of rustic appeal.

3. Create harmony between indoors and outside

There is a lot of focus on the outdoors when it comes to modern farmhouse style. Farmhouses are, unsurprisingly, usually located in the middle of the countryside, so try introducing nature in some way to your living room scheme.

The easiest way to do this is by making a window a focal point of the room. In this living room, designer Tori Murphy has made sure that the furniture has been arranged in a way that means no matter where you sit, you can look out of the window and enjoy the surrounding countryside. 

If this isn't possible in your living room, or your view feels more urban than rural, decorate with a few indoors plants in terracotta pots to infuse farmhouse style into a more contemporary space.

4. Add texture through decor

As modern farmhouse living rooms tend to lean more neutral, adding texture through decor and soft furnishings can reintroduce a sense of depth and interest to the scheme. Go bold with a textured wallpaper, display a collection of artworks, or add throw pillows made from a variety of fabrics.

'By using texture and neutral tones, a living room can take on a modern farmhouse vibe. Try introducing art that has special meaning, including landscape scenes, as well as layers of pillows and throws for texture and pops of color,' says interior designer Tracy Morris.

'Mixing metals with rich wood finishes adds another dimension to a living room, while neutral wallpaper complements the space and provides a perfect backdrop for accessories,' she adds.

5. Decorate with warm neutral colors

While the traditional farmhouse style embraces hues such as yellow, green, and blue, modern farmhouse is more paired back, and instead leans into a more neutral color palette. This not only feels fresh and more modern but offers a backdrop to be more versatile with decor.

'The modern farmhouse living style is a practical and comfortable style that begins with a blank canvas to build upon. This trend prioritizes comfort, minimalism, and neutrals and BEHR’s Blank Canvas is the perfect backdrop that is easy to build upon and highlight other features in the room. It is a perfect warm, welcoming white with the transformative power to offer limitless design opportunities,' says Erika Woelfel, VP of Color and Creative Services at Behr.

Once you've created a neutral base with your living room color scheme, you can begin to introduce points of interest with your decor. This could be earthy hues, interesting patterns, or striking art pieces that feel appropriate in a modern farmhouse living room.

6. Make a feature of exposed beams

A modern farmhouse living room should embrace any quirky features and original details, and if you're decorating an older property, it's not unlikely to find some exposed beams, whether they're on the ceiling or walls. Leaving them in their natural finish and framing them with neutral walls will allow them to truly shine, and introduces authentic character and a farmhouse feel to the scheme.

In this modern farmhouse living room, one of the beams offers support to the ceiling, so it has been thoughtfully used to zone a cozy living space within a larger room. The use of neutral furniture and natural flooring allows the wood tones to become the focal point of the room.

7. Add shiplap paneling for the perfect modern farmhouse feel

There are so many different styles of wall paneling ideas, but for a modern farmhouse living room, opt for a more traditional option – shiplap paneling is very typical of farmhouse interiors, and will add a more classic appeal to your scheme.

To strike a balance between farmhouse style and a more modern aesthetic, opt for a feature wall or add a small section of paneling amongst neutral walls. Or you could create the contrast with your furniture – see how in this living room the more contemporary, simple silhouette of the couch grounds the room and prevents the paneling from looking too fussy and rustic.  

A successful modern farmhouse living room strikes a careful balance between old and new. Keep to a neutral base and add muted hues and a variety of textures for visual interest. Whether you're adding a contemporary touch to an older property or reintroducing character to a plain scheme, there's something to suit every project.

When considering the color palette for areas around our home, the staircase may be one of the last we think about, but Diane Keaton has made a case for choosing our hues even more carefully. Though this space is seen as transitional, the actress has chosen to not only sit on her staircase – but show it off to the world – and with that decision comes a glimpse of her monochromatic color palette. 

Keaton is seen alongside records from her favorite artists occupying the black-and-white space, creating a simple yet classic juxtaposition that maintains the farmhouse aesthetic seen around her entire property. 

In the past, we've looked around Keaton's living room and kitchen, both of which exhibit the same color scheme. However, though often a forgotten space, her staircase is one of the most powerful examples we've seen of this monochromatic decorating technique. Why? Because it's one of the first spaces guests will see –making it all the more important to make an impact. 

'Using black and white is a bold way to make an immediate impact on those who enter the home,' comments  Karen Miller, the owner of Chicago-based Miller Design Group. 'They are the epitome of classic style, yet these colors can also depict modernism when paired appropriately.' According to Miller, a monochromic color scheme takes its power from the timeless style of contrasting hues that are versatile enough to work in every kind of home. 

'The black color conveys power and sophistication, whereas the white maintains a sense of freshness and cleanliness. This concept applies to any style of home, whether it be minimalistic, traditional, or eclectic, and continues to be a popular choice due to its versatility.'

The timelessness and versatility of this color combination make it an ever-popular choice, but as Miller explains, we can also owe its sucsess to its ease of application. Painting our walls, stairs, or stair rail can be completed in a day, but the finish is transformative. 

'One product I often recommend is the 'Fusion Mineral Paint' in shades of black and white. I have found their paint to be of high quality, with excellent coverage and durability,' Miller says.

'Going beyond just painting walls, you can also use it [in the wider entryway] for painting doors, trims, and furniture. For example, a black console table against a white wall or a white frame mirror hung on a black wall is visually appealing.'

For more paint recommendations, we love Backdrop's black and white hues. We can pick up samples below. 

It's been less than 24 hours, but Meghan Markle's new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, is already one of the most talked-about launches of the year. The Duchess of Sussex returned to Instagram after a four-year hiatus to tease its launch with nine Instagram posts that, combined, show the brand's gilded logo and crest and a video via her Instagram story. It was via the latter that we caught a glimpse inside her muted Montecito kitchen.

The farmhouse kitchen (seen in the trailer, originally posted to Instagram below) is a celebration of raw, rustic materials, including exposed brickwork and a wooden table/ island where the Duchess is filmed cooking. The look pays tribute to the wider residence that's known to exhibit a similar rustic aesthetic throughout, but we can recreate its style far beyond the Golden State. 

'Farmhouse-style kitchens are designed with a focus on comfort, traditionalism, and tactility, making this design an appealing choice for those wanting to create an inviting sanctuary,' comments Tom Howley, the creative design director at his eponymous kitchen company. 

The Sussexes introduced wood through their kitchen island table, but Tom encourages us to continue using this material in abundance. 

'Natural wood is an integral part of farmhouse kitchens, as it adds a sense of warmth and tactility. You can incorporate wood in the form of flooring, stand-alone furniture such as a farmhouse table, shelving, chopping boards, or integrated wooden trays to break up painted cabinetry,' he says. 

Similarly, while their cabinets are out of shot, Howley recommends installing traditional shaker kitchen cabinetry to complete the look. 

'Traditional shaker-style cabinetry is perfect for creating a welcoming, lived-in look. The shaker style has universal appeal, with beautifully balanced proportions that focus on scale, symmetry, and simplicity.'

These cabinets, like all the farmhouse-style features, are designed to last through the centuries, so while they may come as an investment now, they'll continue to impress for life.

The organic nature of the wood and stone provides a kitchen color palette that feels muted but timeless, but we can tap into this look with the right paint and countertop finishes, too. 

'In a farmhouse-style kitchen, shades of brown, blue, and cream create an inviting feel and pair beautifully with highly tactile, rugged countertops,' explains Mor Krisher, the Head of Design at Caesarstone. For a more contemporary alternative, he also suggests using a 'veined, white marble-inspired countertop' that 'provides a beautiful contrast to the otherwise coarse, raw materials throughout the kitchen.'

Shop the farmhouse kitchen accessory edit

We can also tap into the farmhouse look with accessible accessories that allow s to experiment with the look without a big investment. We've handpicked some of our current favorites below.

Soft pink and peach color schemes were the talk of trends in 2023 and that popularity shows no signs of waning in 2024. Shades of pink are extremely versatile and have been a popular choice in interiors for centuries. Of all the variations, salmon pink and peach have the edge over others as they share orange undertones and warm characteristics.

Decorating with pink is not a new phenomenon. Despite its current renaissance, this subtle color trend has been around for centuries. ‘The salmon is called the king of fish for good reason. In all its forms, salmon is a color we have enjoyed on the walls of our homes, just as much as we have on our plates for centuries. The distinctive blush orange color often appears on the walls of the finest houses throughout the past century,’ says Marianne Shillingford, Dulux creative director. 

Pink has long been used to great effect by architects, decorators, and interior designers. The key to a timeless interior is to ensure they are neither too sugary, babyish, or garish. American actress Kirsten Dunst's 1930s ranch kitchen, designed by Jane Hallworth of Hallworth, is the perfect example of how to craft a pink kitchen that doesn't look sickly sweet, or passé. 

Pink is the new decorating neutral – it has a natural ability to deliver warmth and interest without overwhelming a space. But choosing the right shade can be a thorny task when you’re faced with everything from soft rose pinks to peachy tones. The key is to pick a serene hue.

With its clear ties to the natural world, salmon pink is used for painting accent walls and brightening high-traffic spaces with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality, making them ideal for farmhouse kitchens.

‘Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many red shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, salmon pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity,’ enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar.

To finish off this look, pair salmon pink with colors found in nature, such as taupe, sand, and green for the ultimate rustic kitchen with panache.

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The modern farmhouse style has become one of the most popular interior design aesthetics, and it's easy to see why. This look is a clean and minimalist celebration of texture that effortlessly combines rustic, modern, and contemporary styles for a homey feel. Olivia Culpo's home perfectly captures the modern farmhouse look.

The actress and model took to Instagram to share images of her living room, and fans were stunned by its sleek and timeless appeal. From the white paneled walls to the wagon when chandelier and exposed ceiling beams, it's peak modern farmhouse, and interior design experts agree.

'Olivia Culpo's space embodies the modern farmhouse living room through a combination of rustic elements like the ceiling beams and white wood walls with contemporary touches like the Kelly Wearstler stone side table,' says San-Francisco-based interior designer Soledad Alzaga. She continues, 'Modern farmhouse decor blends the rustic, cozy charm of traditional farmhouse style with contemporary elements to create a fresh, updated look. '

'The balance of natural raw wooden materials, coupled with sculptural furniture pieces, creates a "Modern Farmhouse" feel, which is inviting yet sophisticated,' adds Melissa Read, London-based interior designer and founder of Studio Burntwood.

The farmhouse drama of this space is created mainly by space-enhancing features that call the eyes to the living room ceiling. Melissa tells H&G: 'The exposed interior beams are a charming feature that emphasizes the generous ceiling height. Simultaneously, the oversized plant and strategic window treatment placement draw the eye upward, enhancing the perception of height within the space.' Making the living room ceilings look higher contributes to a more contemporary, airy feel.

Olivia Culpo's living room color palette further creates a stylish, modern farmhouse look. 'The use of white in the space complements this look by adding brightness to the room and being the perfect backdrop for the furniture and decor accents,' says Soledad. She continues, 'This contrast adds visual interest and depth to the space while maintaining a sense of harmony and balance.'

'The simple color palette of whites and neutrals are enhanced through contrasting dark wood and metal furniture and lighting pieces, adding a monochromatic touch,' Melissa adds.

Shop the modern farmhouse edit

Though it's become more popular in recent years, beautiful homes like Olivia Culpo's suggest that the modern farmhouse look is more than a trend.

Wood is having quite the moment. We're seeing the natural material across interiors: from rustic kitchens to cozy farmhouse living rooms, wood is a major interior design trend for 2024. In Russell Wilson and Ciara's kitchen, it's used in an innovatively stylish and functional way: as the worktop of the kitchen island.

Ciara shared a video of her and her husband's kitchen on Instagram, and we were immediately captivated by the natural island surface. The kitchen design trend lends a charming, warm feeling to the power couple's space.

Design experts love the wood-topped kitchen islands because they are timeless and cozy. NYC-based interior designer Kathy Kuo says: ' A wood-topped kitchen island is always in style because it's a classic look and it's also super-practical as well!' Melissa Read, a London-based interior designer at Studio Burntwood, continues, 'Wooden kitchen worktops are undeniably charming and instantly add warmth to a kitchen.'

Melissa continues, 'Wooden kitchen countertops develop a unique patina with use, this adds character, and any damage can be  repaired, sanded, and sealed.'

Furthermore, designers admire how versatile using wood in a kitchen can be. Melissa states: 'There are countless wood finishes to source from which can suit a huge range of design preferences. It is typically used in period properties and country homes, which often feature wood finishes throughout the home and within the architecture of the building.'

Kathy continues, 'I love how an island like Russell and Ciara's can feel rustic, modern, or transitional depending on how the rest of the kitchen is styled. The white cabinetry with the navy blue hood over the stove—when paired next to the wooden island—gives off a very fresh modern farmhouse look'

Before rushing off to recreate Russell and Ciara's wooden countertop look right away, Mellisa recommends that readers, 'consider the placement of the wooden worktop. She cautions that they can be 'susceptible to moisture' and that they 'require regular sealing.' Though wood is a beautiful material, installing it is not a kitchen decision to be taken lightly.

Shop the Wood Kitchen Edit

As looks like wood kitchen cabinets become more popular, it's worth considering how the beautiful material can be installed in more innovative ways. Russell Wilson and Ciara's wooden island worktop is just one great example.

This spring, the queen of modern farmhouse decor, interior designer Leanne Ford, has launched a new interiors collection with Crate & Barrel, which combines a series of sleek furniture pieces with simple, smaller decor items such as mirrors, tableware, and living room trinkets. 

Named 'The Origins Collection', the goal of this drop is to upgrade staple pieces in Ford’s existing collection with new colors, materials, and textures; giving them a fresh new look and a more modern farmhouse feel. I love how the new range adds a contemporary edge to a collection of classics; elegantly elevating the designs for spring – after all, lots of us gravitate towards lighter colors once the sun comes out, and the new cozy materials used still allow for a rustic  farmhouse feel to peek through.

I’ve scoured through the entire Leanne Ford for Crate & Barrel collection to find my favorite furniture and decor pieces that will help you master the modern farmhouse style with ease. 

My favorites pieces from Leanne Ford's Crate & Barrel Collection

From the signature Range collection of tableware that’s now available in melamine, to the new whitewashed, travertine-like material on the original concrete Willy Pedestal Coffee Table, explore my favorite finds from the new collection below.

FAQs

How many pieces are in the new collection?

Leanne Ford’s new spring collection for Crate & Barrel has a whopping 109 furniture pieces, ranging from larger pieces like sofas and ottomans to smaller bookshelves and side tables. 

In addition, she has also created a tableware collection consisting of 21 new designs for salad bowls, plates, cups, and more, along with a series of 30 small decor items, such as vases and throw pillows.

As well as leaning into the modern farmhouse look, Leanne Ford’s spring Crate & Barrel collection is perfect if calming, neutral room ideas are more your style. The beauty of many of these pieces is that they can effortlessly integrate into a range of styled spaces, so there are stylish options for all.

Barbra Streisand may have received a Screen Actors Guild lifetime award for her prolific career and humanitarian work, but we can't help but also note her flair for design. 

In her California abode, the actress has (unintentionally) tapped into the rustic farmhouse kitchen aesthetic – a style that has already shaped how we decorate for many seasons prior. However, its appeal is not set to waver. Recent Google Trends data shows searches for this design style are currently up by 130% – meaning that, while farmhouse kitchens are timeless, they are simultaneously very much on trend. Naturally, though, Barbra Streisand is ahead of the curve. 

The actress shared a corner in (what appears to be) her kitchen, and it's a celebration of this nostalgic design movement. The corner features a large wooden dresser adorned with vintage china plates, both of which tap into to ultimate farmhouse look. 

'Farmhouse-style kitchens are designed with a focus on comfort, traditionalism, and tactility, making this design an appealing choice for those wanting to create an inviting sanctuary,' comments kitchen designer Tom Howley. He notes that the use of natural wood, like this cabinet dresser, is essential to achieving the farmhouse aesthetic, and it makes the perfect base for accessories (especially china, as in Barbra's case).

'Natural wood is an integral part of farmhouse kitchens, as it adds a sense of warmth and tactility,' he says. 'You can incorporate wood in the form of flooring, stand-alone furniture such as a farmhouse table, shelving, chopping boards, or integrated wooden trays to break up painted cabinetry.'

Barbra's cabinet dresser is a beautiful starting point, but Tom says we can emphasize the farmhouse kitchen aesthetic with traditional shaker-style cabinets. 'They're perfect for creating a welcoming, lived-in look,' he says. 'The shaker style has universal appeal with beautifully balanced proportions that focus on scale, symmetry, and simplicity.'

As hinted, Barbra accentuates the look with her accessories – most notably her china plates. Decorating with antiques, particularly delicate china, is both unique and personal. It's a nod to the patterns, colors, and designs that bring us the most joy, and they're timeless enough to stand as heirlooms for generations ahead. 

To add yet more personality, Barbara dressed her cabinet with flowers and vintage candle sticks that pay further homage to the ever-growing trend. We can tap into the look with similar buys below.

In the vibrant market town of Cirencester, England, you'll find this thoughtfully restored barn, the heart of which is an impressive open-plan kitchen diner. Located at the foot of the Cotswolds, the listed building provides the perfect country escape for its London-based owners and their family of three. 

With the expert help and guidance of Roundhouse, the award-winning kitchen designers who also provide a bespoke joinery service, the owners have converted their kitchen into a modern masterpiece – a symphony of materials, texture and minimalist design that feels calming to be in and is a highly practical family space.

Their desire to entertain was one of the big motivators behind the homeowners' vision. In their countryside retreat, they wanted a space of generous proportions to gather their friends and family in and cook for them.

The large kitchen island takes center stage, allowing family life to exist in the space around it so that whoever is cooking is still connected to the buzz of action. Food can be leisurely prepared whilst the owners talk to guests who sit back at the adjoining dining table. 

The addition of a second 'prep' kitchen adjacent to the main room enables the heavyweight food prep to be done out of sight, as well as creating the potential for intimate catered gatherings.

Taking inspiration from the barn's original architecture, together the experts at Roundhouse and the clients decided to embrace the natural materials and colors found in the bones of the Gloucestershire barn. Wood and stone become integral to the overall design scheme, ensuring the kitchen feels cohesive within the barn, as well as connected to the local architecture of the surrounding area. 

With sustainability goals at the heart of their company ethos, Roundhouse has used recycled oak wood to build the bespoke kitchen cabinetry, linking to the original timber beams that are visible in the walls. The pale honey color of the oak compliments the sandy hue of the exposed original stone walls, whilst the smooth marbled surface of the wood is a warming contrast to the rugged brick.

The ingenuity of the kitchen is in this clever layering of materials and their varying colors and textures. The soft backdrop of warm and textural wood and stone is interjected by the rich glossiness of the black granite countertops. Natural light welcomed by generous Crittal casement windows bounces beautifully off the shiny finish of the kitchen countertops. 

Cleverly, the bespoke design allows an adjoining lowered kitchen table, also in black granite, to connect to the kitchen island. The join created by their varying heights creates a further element of architectural interest.

To avoid the black granite blocks feeling heavy, they are balanced by the addition of the patinated silver front finish that wraps around the island, as well as the base of the dining table. By introducing a smokey gray color, the jet-black mass of the granite is softened.

The patinaed surface of the cabinet fronts helps to create visual interest, with the dappledness of its appearance breaking up the block color. The utterly seamless finish of the kitchen design assures the visual impact of the varied materials remains calming. Cabinets are handle-less and the hob and inbuilt sink are hardly discernible on the countertop. 

Both functional as well beautiful, the minimalist design is full of thoughtful details, such as a bespoke inbuilt oak cutlery divider. The purpose-built glass-fronted display cabinet creates a handsome focal point, as well as the opportunity for the proud display of carefully collected glassware, ceramics, and cookbooks.

The team at Roundhouse comment on the display cabinet, and how although you wouldn't guess it, it was remarkably tricky to install. The smooth surfaced unit was unwilling to sit perfectly against the uneven brickwork, yet with a bit of creative problem-solving, they were able to rise to the challenge, determined to meet the client's brief.

This remarkable redesign shows us that it's not impossible to create a beautiful country kitchen that is both connected to its history, as well as truly contemporary in feel, function, and appearance. 

A modern farmhouse kitchen is a timeless style. Blending the traditional elements of a farmhouse kitchen with the addition of more contemporary designs, this kitchen style epitomizes the old-meets-new aesthetic. 

The beauty of the modern farmhouse kitchen is the versatility – you can opt for a rustic scheme with elevated, modern finishes, or a sleek kitchen design with charming details that have an err of old school style.

One such detail that can tie the whole scheme together is kitchen lighting. There are so many options that work well in a modern farmhouse kitchen. Pendant lights above an island add brightness and character, whereas wall lights and sconces add ambiance and an additional decorative element.

Choosing the right lighting styles and fixture designs is not always easy, so we've asked interior experts to shed some light on their go-to modern farmhouse kitchen lighting ideas, so you can feel inspired to adorn your own space. From charming vintage designs to hard-wearing pendants, there's something to illuminate every kitchen space.

 Modern farmhouse kitchen lighting ideas 

It's easy to fall into the trap of opting for the most resilient light fixtures in a kitchen. After all, these spaces are hardwearing, and more delicate additions are much more likely to get damaged. 

But as our kitchens become more frequently used for socializing and spending time with loved ones, the need for lighting options that not only create a comforting ambiance but also add a stylish design feature has become more important. If you're in the process of choosing modern farmhouse kitchen lighting, one of these ideas is sure to inspire.

1. Introduce antique or vintage lighting

When it comes to adding a more traditional lighting style to your modern farmhouse kitchen, there are few options more authentic than a vintage or antique piece. Adding character and a more lived-in feel, these old-school fixtures are the perfect finishing touch.

'The wonderful thing about design is that there are countless directions you can go as you shape your space – none of them wrong, each of them pleasing in its own way,' says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs. 

'That means even if you’re looking to create a modern farmhouse kitchen, you’re free to decorate with antiques or vintage designs (and not necessarily just those that have an agrarian spirit). They can suggest “farmhouse” even in the most of-the-moment urban kitchens,' he adds.

2. Create contrast with a colorful pendant

In a modern farmhouse kitchen, the kitchen cabinetry and countertops are typically more paired back to create timeless appeal. Hence, the more eccentric, colorful elements usually appear in the decorative details that feel less permanent. 

Lighting is one such area – a smaller design detail that can make all the difference to the finish of your kitchen, adding island pendant lights with a pop of vibrant color offers an eye-catching feature.

In this kitchen design by Susan Sutter Interiors, large yellow pendant lights have been suspended above a kitchen island painted in a medium green tone. When paired together in the kitchen scheme, they add some much-needed vibrancy that effectively introduces the farmhouse style. 

3. Make a feature of ceramic light fixtures

A kitchen is one room in a home where blending function and style is key. This applies to the lighting, too – in a modern farmhouse kitchen, choosing a fixture that feels timeless is important to the overall feel of the design, but you want to choose a material that is sturdy and hardwearing.

'Objects in a farmhouse interior should reference nature tamed, rather than wild. Look for kitchen lighting made of simple materials that show the hand in conspicuous workmanship,' recommends Anthony Barzilay Freund. 'These should be easy to clean, impervious to heat and humidity, and cast a light that sets the mood for joyful time spent cooking and eating with friends and family. Ceramic fits the bill, particularly when it is not too fussy,' he adds.

In this kitchen scheme by deVOL, ceramic light fixtures are suspended from the ceiling, introducing a vintage feel to the scheme. Elsewhere, wall lights with a very similar ceramic shade have been added with gold hardware, offering a seamless fusion of modern and farmhouse style.

4. Add a decorative light above a kitchen table

Creating a conversational space is core to the modern farmhouse kitchen, and it's not uncommon to have an eat-in kitchen rather than a separate dining room. In these cases, it's important to create zones so each area of the kitchen feels intentional.

Lighting is a great way to do this. Adding a statement fixture above your kitchen table not only creates focused lighting and ambiance, but it adds a charming decorative feature. In this modern farmhouse kitchen, an oversized kitchen wall light projects over the table with a traditional skirted lampshade. 

As the rest of the kitchen lighting is restricted to ceiling spotlights, this adds softness and character to the space, introducing a more homely feel.

5. Opt for lantern lights

If your kitchen leans more modern than farmhouse, lighting is an ideal element to introduce a more rustic, aged element to your space. The seamless blend of old and new is crucial to creating a successful design, so opt for a lighting fixture that is either vintage or more rustic in style.

'Modern farmhouse kitchens always work well when a combination of new and old vintage or antique pieces are used. Whether you are trying to achieve a traditional or a contemporary look this is essential,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens. Lantern lights are a perfect option for your modern farmhouse kitchen lighting, and they can usually be found at antique shops and online portals. 

In this kitchen design, the overall scheme leans more modern in style, but the addition of a rustic barstool and oversized lantern lights above the island inject a sense of character and lived-in elegance. The combination of white painted decor and the darker wooden countertops and ceiling beams create a sense of timelessness modern farmhouse kitchens are known for.

The key to choosing the right modern farmhouse kitchen lighting is ensuring it is both functional and stylish. Ensuring you have a few different light sources is key to ensure you have brightness for cooking and food prep as well as more ambient lighting for socializing and dining. Introduce antique and vintage lighting for an authentic look – modern farmhouse style depends on blending old and new into one scheme.

This home in Richmond, BC, Canada has hit us all with a serious case of house envy. Only just completed in 2023, it's packed with up-to-the-minute features but the house design, sophisticated modern farmhouse style and oh-so-calm and serene interiors are what we're loving most of all. 

Victoria McKenney, principal designer at Enviable Designs, put together the interior schemes and gives us the tour. 

The calm starts just inside the front door, with this high-ceilinged, high-windowed living room. The extra height and light gives a sense of spaciousness, that always helps to promote a feeling of calm. Living room ideas feature layers of neutral warm whites and grays, together with natural wood flooring to add to the tranquil scene. Using fluted tiles around the fireplace, and a hint of paneling on the walls, adds softness and texture. 

'We always love to take inspiration from our clients and their vision of how their home will feel,' says designer Victoria McKenney. 'For these young clients, we wanted to use a fresh color palette with high contrast which can be seen in the wall color juxtaposed with the dramatic black windows.' 

The armchairs and coffee tables are by Namesake, from Once a Tree. 

'While keeping the home neutral, we introduced textures to create interest, such as this bold Calacatta Viola marble in the kitchen,' says designer Victoria of her kitchen ideas. Taupe kitchen cabinets add a hint of warmth without overpowering the paler shades, or that sense of calm.  

The arched doorway to the kitchen is one of the designer's favorite elements in the house. 'The bespoke wooden arch we designed boldly defines the formal living space with the kitchen/family room,' she says. Londono counter stools from Once a Tree and a Utopia pendant from Visual Comfort give the kitchen a sophisticated edge. 

Pale wood flooring keeps the scheme grounded, and using natural woods and pale shades promotes a sense of wellbeing. Just as she did in the living room, the designer introduces accents of black - the faucet, the steel-framed windows, and of course that marble backsplash and La Cornue range cooker. 

Dining room ideas in the family space stay with the (almost) monochrome scheme. The unusual woven Minka dining chair from Once a Tree provides a sophisticated and contemporary style note. 

Family living room ideas are about creating a relaxed and relaxing space for everyone to gather for movie nights. The designer picks up the arched theme with the TV alcove, and in this room it's the ceiling paneling that adds texture, along with the elegantly proportioned buttoned ottoman from Namesake. Low cabinets along the length of the TV wall help to ground the space. 

Of all the beautiful spaces in this home, one of the most stunning is the foyer right at the heart of the property. The staircase ideas are all about simple lines and sculptural curves. We love the curves, the tranquil pale wood floor, and the way the wall finish echoes the fluted Modulum Door Chest from Bernhardt. 

These softer details were introduced by designer Victoria because she didn't want the scheme to seem too stark. They work well, and are exactly the elements that so effectively create a sense of calm. 

No surprises, then, that at the top of those stairs is a relaxing sanctuary of a bedroom. Clean lines, warm whites, and more understated paneling are the key bedroom ideas to continue the home's quietly sophisticated theme. Bespoke pillows from Enviable Designs add a hint of soft warmth and pattern.  

In a house made for relaxing, the ensuite bathroom was bound to be something a little special. The elegant-lined freestanding Antoine tub from Acritec is right at home here in a setting of soft gray tiles and marble walls, with the tub filler, chandelier, and towel rail doing the honors with the black contrast. 

Design: Victoria McKenney of Enviable Designs
Photography: Tracey Ayton

In the past, you might not have considered adding wall decor to a utilitarian space like a kitchen. But as this room becomes a more social hub in our homes, it seems only right that we should make them feel as homely as possible. After all, with so much time spent carefully picking out countertops, tiles, and light fixtures, it would be a shame to skip the final decorative touches.

One interior design style in particular that really benefits from beautiful wall decor is the modern farmhouse kitchen. A timeless blend of old and new, this lived-in style thrives off of being filled with your favorite pieces collected over time.

If you're not sure how to introduce wall decor into your kitchen in a meaningful way, one of these suggestions from leading interior designers and experts might spark an idea. From simple additions to larger installs, something here is sure to inspire.

 Modern farmhouse kitchen wall décor ideas 

Wall decor ideas don't have to involve wallpaper, paint, or wall paneling (although this does work beautifully). Whether you want to transform a wall or simply showcase beautiful decor items, there are some really fun ways to add interest to your modern farmhouse kitchen walls.

1. Hang aesthetic kitchenware on the wall

The modern farmhouse kitchen style really embraces the idea of making the functional beautiful and vice versa. As such, hanging kitchenware on the walls is a great way to add decoration that has more than one function.

'In lieu of hyper following kitchen trends, like the 'Modern Farmhouse' one, or many others, I always lean into function and personalization when finishing kitchens,' explains Mollie Ranize, founder of Dmar Interiors.

'For example, this large pizza board gets regular use in this house. Whether for pizza, baking, large charcuterie boards or general entertaining. It's also larger than what most kitchen cabinets can hold, so by putting it on display, you are able to keep it accessible while giving it a home.  It also tells a story about the active kitchen and its family.'

2. Add floating shelves to showcase your favorite items

Floating shelves are a popular design element in modern farmhouse kitchens. Often used to add open storage for kitchenware that doesn't feel clunky, they lean both decorative and functional.

If you have an empty wall in your kitchen, use floating shelves to display your favorite decor – whether you add small artworks, a luscious indoor plant or ornaments and trinkets collected over time, they add a pretty personalization to the space.

The added bonus of choosing floating shelves over individually attaching each item to the wall is that you can reorganize and switch out decorative items regularly and easily, with less damage to the walls themselves.

3. Create a display with vintage art

Leaning into the old meets new aesthetic that modern farmhouse kitchens are renowned for, introducing wall decor that errs more vintage is a great way to introduce a traditional element. Michelle Yorke, of Michelle Yorke Interior Design, recommends 'small framed vintage art pieces, either sitting on an open shelf layered behind mugs or dishware or hanging on a wall in a pair.'

If you're keen to introduce some original art pieces that feel fitting of a modern farmhouse kitchen, opt for characterful portrait of still life paintings. 'In terms of kitchen artwork, to our mind nothing tops a 17th-century Dutch still-life painting of game, fruit and vegetables,' says Anthony Freund, Editorial Director at 1stDibs. 'If budget is a consideration, it’s always possible to find "school of" examples, or later copies, which tend to be more affordable than works from the Golden Age.'

4. Opt for a decorative range hood

If the majority of your kitchen walls are covered by kitchen cabinets and windows, the space can feel stark and lacking any unique touches, with no space to display decorative items. If this is the case, consider adding detail to walls by switching out boring components for something more interesting.

In the modern farmhouse kitchen designed by Blackberry Farm Design, most of the wall space was taken up by functional kitchen storage, so interest and detail was added through a decorative range hood. It adds a much-needed focal point to the kitchen and adds a beautiful contrast to the white wall paneling it sits on.

5. Introduce a copper pot rail

In line with displaying wooden boards as wall decor, adding a rail with hooks to display your favorite pots and pans adds a real statement in a modern farmhouse kitchen.

'I love adding copper pots and this copper pot rail that can easily be installed over the range backsplash,' says Michelle Yorke. 'The copper metal adds warmth and shimmer to the walls as well function to the farmhouse kitchen for storage and easy access.'

This is certainly not a new idea, but it's a design feature that has endured and a staple in farmhouse kitchens. 'Good, old examples are hand forged with dovetailed seams and a warm patina that only comes from many years of service. Surprisingly, many can be found at relatively low price points, but be sure to buy examples with the tin lining in good condition, as this can be expensive to restore,' advises Anthony Freund.

6. Add ornate sconces to the kitchen walls

Lighting is a multi-functional component in a home – in a living room you might add table lamps for additional illumination, whereas in a bedroom you would add bedside lighting for a cozy ambience. Kitchens are often overlooked in this area. You might have ceiling lights to make sure the room is filled with light and functional for cooking, but there is an argument for adding more decorative fixtures when it comes to kitchen lighting, particularly to the walls.

In this design by Gray Walker Interiors, the kitchen was fitted with a traditional Aga, so no range hood was required. This left a large expanse of wall space empty so decoration was added. The decorative wall sconces are a stand-out feature, adding detail as well as an extra light source if required when using the range.

7. Add a feature wall with wooden paneling

For a subtle detail on a modern farmhouse kitchen wall, wooden paneling adds interest and texture. This a great choice if you want to add wall decor that is more paired back and cohesive with the other walls in your kitchen. 'You can use wood paneling in your kitchen and either leave it natural or paint it. Wood paneling adds texture and definition to yours walls that paint alone won’t do,' explains Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport.

Leaving wall paneling with its natural finish will add that traditional farmhouse feel, ideal if the rest of your kitchen feels more modern. Alternatively, painting the wood helps to ensure the wall in question still feels cohesive with the rest of the kitchen, so it really depends on how your space is laid out.

'We’re particularly fond of painting wood paneling,' he says, adding 'the result is a classic and timeless finish but with more oomph than simply painting the walls. It is also popular to pair open shelving with this overall look and is very on trend.'

There are plenty of ways to add wall decoration to a modern farmhouse kitchen, but sticking to ideas that lean more traditional and well-loved seems to be favored by interior designers.

'I think bringing in organic, rustic, or vintage pieces all add a well-lived well-loved decor element to any modern farmhouse kitchen. Most of my clients who are drawn to the modern farmhouse style love both the simplicity of design elements and the down-to-earth, everyone-is-welcome vibe that is appealing with a farmhouse kitchen. The style just seems to say, "Life happens here",' explains Michelle Yorke.

So, make use of that treasured art collection you've had stored away, add hooks for your favorite pots, pans and chopping boards, or put up a floating shelf so you can enjoy the decorative items you love most as you prepare food for the household.

If you're looking to breathe a new lease of life into your home with a fusion of coastal ease and rustic charm, the distinctive coastal farmhouse decor style could be just what you're after. Effortlessly blending the soothing ambiance of seaside living with the warmth of traditional farmhouse design, this is a style made for those who love to relax.

'The coastal farmhouse interior design style is all about creating a space that feels inviting for family and friends,' explains Lick's trends specialist, Matilda Martin. 'Whether that’s through soft furnishings encouraging moments of relaxation or natural materials creating a relaxed and homey vibe. If you’re looking for a home refresh that’ll welcome an elegant, country style, a calming environment and familiar comforts then the coastal farmhouse decor is perfect for your home.' And we couldn't agree more.

Whether you dwell in a beachfront retreat or a city apartment, a home adorned with weathered wood, serene hues reminiscent of the sea and an array of comforting textures will help to provide a sophisticated respite from the demands of daily life. 

To dive in deeper, we reached out to expert interior designers who have mastered the art of coastal farmhouse style.

What Is Coastal Farmhouse Decor?

You're likely familiar with the look and feel of a coastal style. And also pretty used to pouring over inviting farmhouse trends. But what about the union of the two? Enter: coastal farmhouse.

Coastal farmhouse creates spaces that resonate with tranquillity and sophistication. Striking a delicate balance between the laid-back feel of coastal decor ideas with the rustic nature of farmhouse aesthetics, this style captures the hearts of many interior designers. 

'For me, coastal farmhouse decor is typified by many of the same elements of traditional farmhouses: beadboard paneling, simple shaker cabinets, baskets and hooked rugs,' explains interior designer Bethany Adams.

The difference, Bethany explains, lies mainly in the color scheme. 'A coastal farmhouse will lean heavily towards white and blue hues,' says Bethany. 'A sisal or jute rug, a stone hearth, and a slipcovered sofa would round out your coastal farmhouse style.'

From the soft color palette inspired by sandy shores to the use of natural materials like distressed wood and woven textures, every aspect is carefully curated to create a harmonious blend.

What Are The Characteristics Of Coastal Farmhouse Style?

1. Open and airy space

Coastal farmhouse decor typically aims for an open and airy feel. 'Think of this style as a blend of the informality of a farmhouse with the airy feel and sense of fun of a coastal home,' suggests Merlin Wright, design director at Plain English Design. 

'Coastal homes encourage relaxation. Colors should reflect light and enhance the airy relaxed atmosphere with natural flooring for bare feet and sand, and generous windows to let light pour in.'

'In the kitchen, an open plan kitchen space is so often associated with farmhouse living. The two styles combine to provide a very inviting space to relax in thanks to coastal style high ceilings and timber beams,' says Merlin. 'Add a large communal table or kitchen island for sharing meals as well as evening games to maximize the potential for socializing and family gathering,' he adds. 

The use of light colors and open space can make even smaller rooms feel more expansive, while the incorporation of natural materials brings warmth to any environment. Maximize natural light by using large windows and sheer curtains to help enhance the bright and breezy atmosphere. 

2. A neutral, sandy color palette

Coastal farmhouse decor often features a light and airy color palette. White, sandy neutrals and wood tones are commonly used to evoke a sense of the beach and open spaces.

'The hallmark of coastal farmhouse decor lies in its use of a soft color palette inspired by the sea and countryside,' explains interior designer Jennifer Davis. 'Whitewashed or weathered wood is a common element, bringing in the rustic farmhouse feel, while blues, greens, and sandy neutrals evoke the coastal ambiance,' she adds.

'Neutral color choices like Beige 01 from Lick pair perfectly with natural materials to create the perfect coastal farmhouse atmosphere in the home, whilst allowing for pops of color to be added through fresh flowers or soft furnishings such as cushions or throws,' says Lick's Matilda Martin. 'Add linen curtains for the effect of a coastal farm breeze when having your windows open during the warmer months,' she suggests.

'For us, coastal farmhouse is a mix of a calm color palette combined with texture and natural materials,' explains Tom Rutt, founder of TR Studios. 'Think whitewashed timbers, clay or soft plastered walls and natural timber accents,' he adds.

3. Splashes of blue

In the same way florals are synonymous with cottage decor, decorating with blue is a classic color for coastal style. The best way to not slip into clichés? Adding touches in moderation and keeping the palette calming and muted. 

Southern Californian-based interior designer Mindy Laven, who designed the tranquil bedroom above, finds herself naturally gravitating towards coastal farmhouse style. 'We tend to mix traditional farmhouse elements like shiplap with coastal colors like watery blues,' says Mindy. 'I love to use white oak and unlacquered brass with a hint of black to blend a seaside style with a nod to traditional farmhouse style,' she adds.

‘Blue is a perfect choice for a coastal ambience and encompasses a wide spectrum of tones,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'When I think of holidays by the sea and days out at the coast, the myriad of blues seen in nature, from sky to sea, illustrate how  wonderfully blues work layered together. Try the calming Celestial Blue from Little Greene with warm stone and sandy tones for an uplifting interior,' Ruth suggests.

4. The use of natural materials

Incorporating woven and natural elements like a mix of wood, rattan, jute, and other linen fabrics adds depth and interest to any room, while also reflecting the casual and relaxed vibe of coastal living. It's about layering and decorating with textures to evoke a sense of comfort.

'The coastal farmhouse is all about clean lines, warm neutral colors, and plenty of organic inspired natural materials,' says renowned interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'Think reclaimed wood, rattan, jute, and linen, along with mixed metals and beachy materials like capiz shell and seagrass. 

'This is a design style that exudes laidback luxury and draws heavily from the beauty of the natural worlds – from rolling meadows to rolling coastline!' says Kathy.

Weathered and distressed wood finishes are frequently used to tell a story and give furniture and decor items a rustic farmhouse feel. Consider exposing timber ceiling beams or investing in vintage and repurposed furniture to enhance the lived-in charm of the space.

5. A subtle nod to the nautical

To emphasize the coastal theme, add subtle nautical decor such as ropes, anchors, shells, and driftwood to create a connection to the sea. In this cozy yet vast coastal living room above, designed by Logan Killen Interiors, rattan seating and woven fabrics are paired with a rope floor lamp to nod to the seaside.

'Coastal farmhouse decor is a combination of charm and a cool breeze that creates airy atmospheres throughout the house,' says designer Artem Kropovinsky. 'To give character without overpowering, accessories such as nautical accents and rustic decorations are important to give a sense of the coast.'

'The furniture in this decor style often reflects a mix of decorating with vintage and distressed pieces, contributing to the overall relaxed and lived-in look,' explains Jennifer Davis. 'In a coastal farmhouse setting, you'll find touches of woven materials in lighting fixtures and seaside-esque accessories. These elements all contribute to a relaxed and beach-inspired theme.'

Remember, the beauty of coastal farmhouse decor lies in its ability to create a comfortable and welcoming space that blends the best of both coastal and farmhouse styles. When combined well, the two aesthetics bring a simple harmony to your home. Feel free to mix and match elements to suit your personal taste and create a unique, cozy environment in your home.

Color plays a pivotal role in achieving the perfect modern farmhouse kitchen. The style, a favored choice for harmonizing vintage and the new, focuses on a sense of warmth, character, and connection to nature with a contemporary flair. 

Modern farmhouse kitchens often start with a foundation of neutrals like whites, creams, and soft grays. These shades create a versatile canvas that allows other elements in the kitchen, such as natural wood and modern finishes, to stand out. But, that doesn't mean you're restricted to off-white only.

The trick, says Luisa Carmona, interior designer and founder of Verde, is to 'find the balance between the warmer, more traditional tones of a farmhouse aesthetic and the cooler, more neutral tones of its counterpart'. 

Whether you're drawn to timeless neutrals, serene blues, earthy greens, or the richness of natural wood tones, here's a guide from designers and color experts alike to help you curate a palette that perfectly embodies the modern farmhouse style.

The best modern farmhouse kitchen color ideas

The beauty of the modern farmhouse kitchen style is that it tailors itself to many kitchen color ideas. As a design trend dedicated to creating and adding warmth, super bright shades are out. If you’re looking for inspiration, the best place to start is with nature.

'The influence of modern farmhouse style and rural living is significant in our yearning for the feeling of intimate coziness, comfort, and warmth. Colors can be curated, and the layout and design fully considered for personal taste,' explains Merlin Wright, design director at Plain English Design. 'Painted kitchen cabinets add a modern sensibility, supportive of individual choices and styling.'

'Colors for modern farmhouse kitchens tend to be quite similar to traditional kitchens, in that you still want to tap into the aesthetic of the whole farmhouse look while giving a modern twist,' says Rebecca Nokes, design director at John Lewis of Hungerford. 'White is a good canvas to introduce pops of color, and if you want to go for a bold look then earth tones can work well and add drama to the overall look so it doesn’t look too twee,' she adds.

Modern farmhouse kitchens often feature a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary design, and selecting the right color palette is crucial to achieving this balance. Find the 5 best color choices selected and approved by the experts, below.

1. Whites, off-whites and creams

Decorating with neutrals forms the foundation of a modern farmhouse kitchen and help to create a canvas that allows other design elements, such as natural wood and metal finishes, to shine. 'When it comes to color ideas for modern farmhouse kitchens, neutral tones take center stage,' says designer Jennifer Davis. 'Soft whites, warm grays, and muted earthy tones create a welcoming and timeless atmosphere,' she adds. 

If choosing neutrals, consider the amount of natural light in your space, as the undertones of the colors can be transformative, reflecting light and making the kitchen feel bright and airy or adding a cooler touch that feels more modern.

'Incorporating natural elements such as wooden accents or exposed ceiling beams can enhance the pared-back aesthetic while maintaining a modern feel,' adds Jennifer. 'Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between traditional farmhouse warmth and modern simplicity, creating a space that feels both cozy and up-to-date.'

'When I picture a modern farmhouse kitchen, I think of warm neutrals accented with wrought iron or mixed metal hardware on the cabinets and drawers,' adds designer Kathy Kuo. 'Think of the palette as cozy, but clean, and with just a bit of shine in the hardware for contrast.'

'If you are wanting to add a modern edge and some more color, consider contrasting your kitchen island with the rest of your cabinets,' suggests Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport Kitchens.  

Matilda Martin, trends specialist at Lick, agrees. 'The key to a modern farmhouse kitchen is opting for a neutral and natural color scheme, paired with darker accents,' she explains. 'This style favors lighter, neutral colours. Think warming whites like Lick White 03, earthy beiges like Lick Beige 02, with charcoal greys like Lick Grey 08.' 

Matilda also suggests introducing color by way of two-tone kitchen cabinets. 'Create contrast by painting your upper and lower level kitchen cabinets in lighter and darker shades respectively, and layering on the texture with some shiplap wall paneling – it's the best way to add visual interest to a neutral kitchen,' says Matilda.

2. Earthy gray-greens

Earthy grays add a contemporary touch to the modern farmhouse palette. These muted tones create a sophisticated backdrop while maintaining a connection to nature. It's about striking a balance between modern design and rustic warmth, so look to green undertones to bring in that lived-in feel.

'A sage green, such as Vert de Terre from Farrow & Ball, provides a rich earth tone that resembles the outdoors while still having a modern feel to it', advises Luis Carmona. Ashley McCollum, color expert at GLIDDEN® paint by PPG, recommends Farm Fresh as a go-to farmhouse green that works beautifully in a kitchen – both on walls and cabinets, while Babbling Brook offers a mix of gray and green that is both relaxing and contemporary. 

In the kitchen above, designed by Jessica Helgerson, she paired a gray-green painted in-frame kitchen with a tiled backsplash, hood and oven in a complementary color scheme. The dark wood kitchen countertop helps to add warmth alongside brass hardware.

3. Rust reds

If cool tones are not colors you're interested in, push the envelope a bit and embrace tones of taupes, shades of merlot or rust red kitchen ideas. A far cry from neutrals but with the right shade and finish, you can marry the contemporary and traditional hallmarks of modern farmhouse. 

'We love rust colors; deep red-browns against a bronze accent handle. Richer colors can add instant depth to a room and the light plays off a more surface as opposed to an off-white, for example,' explains Tom Rutt, interior designer and founder of TR Studios. 'Shadows are more apparent and that creates intrigue and a space in which we want to settle and inhabit for longer. If bold colors are a step too far, however, try pairing them with classic chalky whites or a soft taupe,' he advises.

'I love to see kitchen spaces drenched in color, across woodwork, walls and kitchen cabinetry,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'Neutral cabinetry and surfaces can be brought together with the simple addition of a unifying color. Muscovado from Little Greene, inspired by pure and unrefined muscovado sugar – is a rich, deep, warm, earth-red and will deliver a warm glow that is perfect for a country kitchen aesthetic,' she adds.

4. Soft blues

Soft pastels, such as pale blues and greens, bring a refreshing twist to the modern farmhouse kitchen, injecting a sense of tranquillity and playfulness. 'If green isn’t your thing, consider other shades you would naturally find in the great outdoors,' says Richard Davonport. This is ‘farmhouse style’ after all.

'Muted shades of blue offer the same type of appeal to a room,' agrees Luisa Carmona. 'De Nimes from Farrow & Ball has a down-to-earth, more traditional look while its more muted tone lends itself to having a more modern appearance,' he suggests. 

Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams says: 'I love going for light blues where homeowners would usually use white. So instead of going for an all-white kitchen, try a muted grayish-blue like Stardew paired with a whispery soft green like Sea Salt. This color pairing works well with cream or beige cabinetry and to really bring this aesthetic to life, homeowners can also add in hints of black for a dash of modernity,' she advises.

Introduce pastels through accessories, kitchenware, or a statement kitchen island color to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

5. Natural wood tones

Embracing natural wood tones is essential for achieving the authentic modern farmhouse feel. Whether it's in the form of wooden beams, flooring, or countertops, these elements infuse warmth and a connection to the outdoors.

Lick's Matilda Martin suggests bringing color to a modern farmhouse kitchen by incorporating natural elements in your decor. 'Countertops are a great place to do this,' she suggests. 'Choose between glossy marble, dark granite, or rustic wood –gorgeous when contrasted with lighter or dark lower cabinets and white subway tiles.' 

'Terracotta, stone, or exposed wooden floorboards are all great options for creating warmth and texture too,' Matilda adds. 'Or, opt for brushed copper or brass cupboard handles and light fittings - all of which help bring an industrial feel to your kitchen, a key component of modern farmhouse style.'

One way to embrace wood is with accents like a big farmhouse kitchen table, open shelving or free-standing pantry or larder cupboards to enhance the organic feel and add little splashes of texture and tone.

'Once you select the main color for your kitchen, balance out the palette with the use of black or grays to bring in the modern aesthetic,' advises Verde's Luis Carmona. 'Whether it be in countertops, backsplash tile or an accent color in the space, this will add cooler tones, adding a touch of modern wherever needed.'

A well-crafted color palette is the key to achieving the modern farmhouse kitchen style. By combining timeless neutrals with contemporary accents, you can create a space that is not only stylish but also exudes warmth and character. Whether you opt for classic whites, earthy grays, or soothing pastels, the key is to strike a harmonious balance that reflects your personal taste and embraces the essence of this beloved design trend.

'However, you choose to style your modern farmhouse kitchen, it should ultimately make you feel like you’re tucked up in a warm home on a cold and miserable day,' adds Richard Davonport.

The modern farmhouse aesthetic is a design trend that's set to endure. Blending traditional farmhouse style with a more modern finish, it's a theme that feels timeless with the ability to add your own flair.

It's proven particularly popular in kitchens – think oversized islands, glass-fronted upper cabinets, and plenty of space for hosting and socializing. If your kitchen is on the smaller size, it can feel like a difficult task to emulate the style in your space, but it's absolutely possible with a few key design elements.

We know it's never easy to plan a kitchen redesign, so we've asked interior designers to share their best small modern farmhouse kitchen ideas to offer up some useful inspiration.

Small modern farmhouse kitchen ideas

No kitchen is too small to create a beautiful design, and modern farmhouse kitchens are no exception. From smaller details and decor to colors and hardware, these ideas are sure to inspire.

1. Brighten the kitchen with warm neutrals

There are few avenues to explore when it comes to modern farmhouse kitchen colors, but if you are working with a smaller space, opt for warm neutrals to stick to the aesthetic palette while keeping a bright, airy feel. 

'In a small modern farmhouse kitchen, I recommend a warm white paint for the walls and using your counter space sparingly to avoid a sense of clutter,' recommends Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. 

As well as helping to make your kitchen feel bigger, neutrals are timeless and pair with so many different hardware finishes. 'Instead of an abundance of decorative features on your surfaces, add visual intrigue with carefully chosen hardware on your cabinets and drawer pulls.' Opt for an aged brass or brushed gold finish on handles to create a balance of old and new on the cabinets – a warm white paint will allow them to really shine.

2. Choose a kitchen island over a dining table

In a traditional farmhouse kitchen, and subsequently many modern farmhouse kitchens, you'd find an island and a large table, a staple for socialising, preparing food and sitting down for meals. If you're working with a smaller space, it's unlikely you're going to be able to fit both, so picking just one will give you more space without loosing the essence of modern farmhouse style.

'Our grain farming clients asked to forgo their dining room space which you would see in a traditional farmhouse and opt for a large island instead.' says Kelsey Grose, founder and principal designer of Farmer’s Daughter Interiors.  Opting for a kitchen island over a table offers extra storage, which is an essential in smaller kitchens, while also providing multi-purpose space that can be used for both food prep and dining.

3. Make a feature of open shelving

Open shelving has been cropping up in lots of kitchen trends recently, but this decorative storage solution is a staple in modern farmhouse kitchens. It's also really handy if you are working with a smaller kitchen – wall-to-wall upper cabinets will instantly make a room feel much smaller and over crowded, despite offering storage.

The truth is, if you are used to a smaller kitchen, you probably have the amount of dinnerware and appliances that are appropriate for the space you have. As such, removing the upper cabinets and replacing them with open kitchen shelving actually won't make too much of a difference. Instead of hiding your favourite dinner sets, glassware and wooden cutting boards behind close cabinet doors, you can have them on display to enjoy even when you aren't using them. 

4. Blend modern and traditional appliances

With less space, adding elements to the kitchen that clearly display traditional farmhouse style is crucial. Think about the larger appliances that are essential in any kitchen – the fridge, cooker, and even the taps. These are things you notice, and are often considered eyesores if they aren't considered properly in a design (no one likes a big white fridge stuck in the corner).

'A nice big range cooker is a must-have – an AGA type range is the real deal but a contemporary or industrial cooker is just as nice and gives a slightly more edgy and contemporary look,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens. 'Mixing old and new is perfect, so a nice new but retro style fridge such as a Smeg would work perfectly. Don’t be afraid to include some gadgets such as hot water taps and integrated bins, after all, you do want the kitchen to be easy and comfortable to work in, not filled with old cronky finds that look good but don’t really work.'  

5. Create a focal point with a farmhouse sink

A big farmhouse kitchen sink certainly has a place in modernized spaces, and just because your kitchen is small doesn't mean you have to forgo this feature. An open front sink adds a wonderful focal point in a small kitchen, and can actually give the illusion of a larger space. It's a win-win!

'We placed the beautiful farmhouse sink on the feature wall as your eye is immediately drawn to this area of the room' explains Kelsey Grose. 'A concrete apron front sink is a reference to the original home – it can withstand the rigor of everyday farm life and draws your eye towards the brand new pantry space.'

The more traditional farmhouse sink has been paired with contemporary gold faucets to reintroduce the modern element while also creating a cohesive finish with the lighting a drawer pulls.

6. Combine old and new

The beauty of a modern farmhouse kitchen is bringing together traditional and contemporary style, so think about how you can incorporate this into different elements of the design. This can be trickier to do in a smaller space, but think about the materials you use throughout the kitchen and how they can add to the overall look.

'Modern farmhouse kitchens always work well when a combination of new and old vintage or antique pieces are used – whether you are trying to achieve a traditional or a contemporary look, this is essential,' explains Helen Parker. If you've gone modern with the kitchen counters, introduce antique utensil holders, aged copper pans or vintage cabinet handles to reintroduce that farmhouse character.

'Farmhouse kitchens tend to be much more authentic if the actual fabric of the room is old and filled with original features, possibly reclaimed or original flooring and typically styled windows and doors.' 

7. Introduce a variety of materials and textures

When you think of a modern farmhouse kitchen, what comes to mind? What are the key components that create that timeless blend of old and new? 'Modern farmhouse style is my dream style of decorating. It's elegant but lived in, impressive but understated, eclectic but somehow cohesive,' says Tori Murphy.

When planning a small modern farmhouse kitchen, think further than appliances and cabinetry, consider the smaller details and how they will add to the overall aesthetic in a more compact space. 'When I think of the style, I think of natural materials – wood, stone, cotton, linen, wool – materials which are in keeping with their surroundings. Choose fabrics with texture and kitchen textiles with character,' she adds.

In this kitchen, these elements have been introduced through essentials such as tea towels and oven gloves, however, clever use of space sees some of those wooden pieces displayed in open storage – perfect for making use of every inch of space in a small modern farmhouse kitchen.

Having a small kitchen doesn't mean you have to compromise on style. The modern farmhouse kitchen style can be created in rooms of all shapes and sizes, it simply takes some creative thinking. Whether you lean into the warm color scheme, introduce classic farmhouse features, or add subtle details with vintage decor, no kitchen is too small!

As the proverbial heart of the home, your kitchen should feel like an inviting space dedicated to family that bridges the gap between traditional and modern living. And no trend hits the nail on the head quite like the modern farmhouse kitchen – and you don’t even need to live in the country to have one.

There is a reason this style is so enduring. Creating a welcoming ambiance, the modern farmhouse kitchen strikes the perfect balance of contemporary and classic elements, with a touch of lived-in style, rustic charm. 

But with a bamboozling array of kitchen trends out there, 'modern farmhouse' is a term we throw around lightly but do we really know the ins and outs of a modern farmhouse kitchen? The characteristics that truly make it sing? And how does it differ from a modern organic or modern rustic style? We've rallied interior design experts to do a deep dive into this ever-popular kitchen idea below.

What Is A Modern Farmhouse Kitchen?

The modern farmhouse kitchen idea is one that honors the home-spun warmth of traditional kitchens found on working farms, which had to feed not just the family but their farmhands, too. And then, to bring it into the 21st century, the trend incorporates modern functionality to include a mix of contemporary sensibilities in this eclectic design style.

'This fusion creates a warm and inviting space that combines the best of both worlds,' says interior designer Jennifer Davis. 'The modern farmhouse style has gained widespread popularity for its ability to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia while still embracing the sleekness of modern interiors.'

'Modern farmhouse kitchens take elements from the past but updates them,' explains designer Bethany Adams. 'Think shaker cabinets, but in a fun color like blue or green. Instead of unlacquered brass, a modern farmhouse kitchen may have matte black faucets and hardware. Wood countertops tend to be sleek walnut, rather than the well-used butcherblock of yore.' It's all about creating small, stylized updates to take it from rustic to relevant.

'It blends traditional design elements like shiplap, farmhouse-style sinks, and wide plank flooring with more modern elements like glossy accent tile, modern hardware, and a more neutral palette,' adds interior designer and owner of Verde Interior Design, Luis Carmona. 'Blending the two aesthetics is an art that needs to be strategically executed for the look in the space to not appear forced,' he adds. 

Simply put, if you adore a farmhouse-style kitchen but appreciate the contemporary nature of modern kitchen design, modern farmhouse is for you.

The Hallmarks Of A Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

1. A neutral or muted color palette

Modern farmhouse kitchens often involve decorating with neutrals, with whites, creams, grays, and natural wood tones dominating the palette but it has since evolved to include a muted color scheme of blues, greens, and pastels too. These colors contribute to a bright and airy feel while allowing you to experiment with richer tones to add depth to the space.

'The color palette in modern farmhouse kitchens is typically neutral and earthy, with whites, grays, and muted tones taking center stage,' agrees Jennifer Davis. 'This creates a serene and timeless atmosphere, allowing other design elements to stand out. Characteristic features contribute to the classic farmhouse look and serve as a versatile backdrop for the overall neutral palette,' she adds.

'The overall style of a modern farmhouse home should feel chic and curated but also lived-in and full of warmth and personality,' says designer Kathy Kuo. 'Often the color palette is on the clean and neutral side, but the decorative elements feel very rustic-chic and are often rendered in natural materials like woven wicker and rattan, or reclaimed wood.'

2. Shaker-style or traditional cabinetry

Shaker-style cabinets are a common choice in modern farmhouse kitchens. The clean lines and simple door designs contribute to the timeless appeal of the decor style.

'Shaker kitchens always sit well in a farmhouse setting, especially when they help speak to the era of the property,' says Elizabeth Sherwin, creative director at Naked Kitchens. 'Material and color choice is essential to get right, bringing in touches of metal, tile, paneling or open shelving can uplift a classic shaker kitchen.'

Shaker cabinetry will not only provide you with ample storage but also serve as a canvas for the interplay of traditional and modern design elements. Designer Kristen Fiore of Kristen Elizabeth Design agrees. 'Reclaimed hardware is an easy and inexpensive way to add to the farmhouse feel by adding an antique quality to more simple, modern cabinetry. This helps to balance the modern farmhouse style,' she advises.

3. Open shelving for maximal styling opportunities

Richard Davonport, managing Director at Davonport, says: 'a farmhouse kitchen errs on the side of being a relaxed concept, rather than formal kitchens that can lack personality. The relaxed nature offers homeowners many opportunities to bring in personal touches while having fun with making the space the heart of the home.'

Open kitchen shelving, whilst popular in many kitchen styles, is a hallmark of modern farmhouse kitchen design. Adding function with easy-to-see and grab storage for utensils, plates, and pantry items, kitchen shelving also allows for the display of decorative and sentimental items to create a live-in aesthetic.

'It is a popular choice in modern farmhouse kitchens, promoting an airy and uncluttered feel. It provides an opportunity to showcase decorative and functional items such as vintage dishware, mason jars, and copper cookware, further emphasizing the rustic charm,' adds Jennifer Davis.

4. Modern countertops and hardware

'To balance out the more traditional design elements of the cabinets or hardware, you often see more modern elements used in the kitchen countertops, appliances, and light fixtures,' explains Verde's Luis Carmona. This creates that juxtaposition that gives "modern farmhouse" its signature look.

'Waterfall countertops or more clean-lined light fixtures above the kitchen island help add that nod of contemporary to the space while not overpowering the traditional elements' Luis adds. 'The use of stainless steel appliances, albeit introducing cold surfaces to the spaces, provides a nice contrast to any softer, wood elements.'

Jennifer Davis agrees. 'In terms of fixtures and hardware, the modern farmhouse kitchen style incorporates a mix of traditional and modern elements,' she explains. 'Matte black or oil-rubbed bronze faucets and cabinet hardware complement the overall design, adding a touch of contemporary sophistication. Additionally, stone countertops, such as marble or granite, are frequently incorporated to add a touch of luxury and durability.'

5. A statement farmhouse sink

A large, apron-front farmhouse kitchen sink is a signature element of this style. Not only for function, a butler or Belfast sink as they're also known, creates something of beauty out of something so mundane.

'You can easily replicate the feel of a modern farmhouse kitchen by choosing certain products and styles as long as the ‘warmth’ that you associate with them comes through,' suggests Richard Davonport. 'Look to products we typically associate with the aesthetics of these style kitchens – like a butler or farmhouse sink.'

Designer Artem Kropovinsky agrees. 'Invest in a statement piece, like an oversized, farmhouse-style sink. It becomes a focal point that marries practicality with aestheticism,' he advises. Consider adding a touch of softness by swapping the under-sink cabinet door fronts for a curtain of fabric instead.

6. Reclaimed, vintage and rustic elements

'Today's interpretation of farmhouse style has taken on a more sophisticated view,' says designer Mindy Laven, who designed this charming kitchen above. 'Pairing antiques, and vintage artwork and accessories with contemporary fixtures helps to create a classic design that has all of the historical feels but is suited for a contemporary lifestyle,' she adds. Adding antique or distressed elements, such as furniture or decor pieces, can enhance the character of the space and give it a well-worn, lived-in feel.

'One of the key hallmarks of the modern farmhouse kitchen style is the use of natural materials,' adds Jennifer Davis. 'Wood, particularly reclaimed or distressed wood, is a dominant feature, often seen in exposed ceiling beams, open shelving, hood vents, and farmhouse-style tables.'

An enduring feature of modern farmhouse style in interior design is the fusion of vintage and contemporary. For example, plenty of wood on cabinetry, countertops, and ceilings will bring a warm charm that can then be complemented by modern amenities and decorative oddities. 

'Rustic beams are a surefire way to embrace the farmhouse feel,' adds Kristen Fiore. 'By keeping the wood relatively neutral you can ensure it feels more sleek and modern than too rustic and antique,' she advises.

7. A large farmhouse table for cooking and congregating

An inviting atmosphere is essential to any kitchen – only enhanced by the warm, welcoming feel of a modern farmhouse space. 'The joy of a farmhouse is that everyone gathers in the kitchen, so keeping the room open with a big farmhouse kitchen table in the middle is an essential element and a good starting point,' says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

'Mixing old and new is perfect, I would tend to go for an antique table that allows for food preparation and dining on a bigger scale,' she advises. 'A pantry cupboard and a prep table, a large sink with workspace around it, a big range cooker and a little modern styling not only for the look but also for practicality – that's what a modern farmhouse kitchen means to us at deVOL.' 

Kristen Fiore agrees. 'Large kitchen tables, or even partial tables, really tie in the rustic farmhouse feel. Clean wide plank floors help balance out the look to keep it modern,' advises Kristen. 

The modern farmhouse kitchen style is a testament to the beauty of blending old and new. It's about creating a space that feels timeless, where functionality meets old-world charm. A kitchen remodel is a big undertaking, but the key is to balance contemporary elements with rustic details, ensuring a space that not only looks beautiful but feels like home. 

As with many interior design trends, there can often be an element of crossover that can make it difficult to distinguish between two similar styles. That's certainly the case with farmhouse and rustic decor, two incredibly renowned interior styles that share very similar design principles.

Rustic and farmhouse decor are both timeless styles that are continually embraced by designers and homeowners for their classic and widespread appeal. Centered around decorating with natural materials and embracing their imperfect nature to create spaces that feel lived in and relaxed, these styles can be embraced in either subtle or prominent ways. But what exactly is the difference between farmhouse and rustic decor? 

We spoke to interior designers, who explain here how these two classic interior design trends differ. While it's no secret the two styles go hand in hand, there are also clear differences to be understood that can make it easier to understand exactly what is meant by each style.

How does rustic and farmhouse differ?

First, it's worth noting that both rustic and farmhouse interior design styles are very closely linked and are therefore often both present in the same interior schemes, hence why they're easily confused. Interior designer Jennifer Davis explains their commonly shared characteristics: 'Rustic and farmhouse design styles share common elements rooted in simplicity, warmth, and a connection to the natural environment, yet they have distinctive characteristics that set them apart.'

While both styles are centered around creating cozy schemes through natural elements, as Jennifer observes, designers say that the main difference between the two is that rustic is a more general term that relates to the types of materials used, whereas farmhouse is a more niche style that can be achieved by incorporating rustic elements.

'Rustic design embraces a broader range of influences, drawing inspiration from various rugged and weathered materials,' explains Jennifer. 'This style often incorporates reclaimed wood, distressed metals, and natural textures to create a time-worn and aged aesthetic. The emphasis is on showcasing the inherent beauty of imperfections, giving spaces a lived-in and authentic feel.'

Interior designer Laura Williams, Owner and Lead Designer at ATX Interior Design also agrees that rustic is all about the use of natural raw materials and their imperfect look: 'Rustic utilizes raw-looking materials from the earth, such as unprocessed wood and authentic stones.'

Since rustic decor is all about a distressed look by embracing the ruggedness of natural materials, it lends itself perfectly to farmhouse interiors. Farmhouse decor is a popular look that typically incorporates traditional style fixtures and furnishings, lots of solid wood, and an overall "country" feel to create homely and warming spaces. 

However, incorporating rustic details doesn't always equate to creating a farmhouse scheme. For example, rustic elements such as the ones previously above can be paired instead with contemporary finishes to create a modern rustic look. This has been a popular interior design style in recent years, focusing on the natural look of rustic decor yet contrasted with much sleeker furnishings for a more up-to-date feel. This approach would generally avoid the country look that is central to the farmhouse style.

But more often than not, rustic decor does feature in farmhouse schemes. 'In a farmhouse-style home, you are very likely to see rustic materials,' explains Laura Williams. 'Farmhouse is all about the craftsmanship and woodworking of the materials in the home.'

Jennifer Davis further explains how rustic details are commonly incorporated into farmhouse schemes, as well as explaining what she regards as the key characteristics of farmhouse decor: 'Farmhouse decor is a subset of rustic design with a more specific focus on a charming, country-inspired atmosphere. Farmhouse style often incorporates elements like shiplap walls, barn doors, and decorating with vintage accessories to evoke a sense of traditional farm life.'

Color is another element that can often differentiate between farmhouse and rustic, with rustic schemes typically reflecting darker and moodier hues while farmhouse generally promotes a lighter feel by decorating with neutrals. Jennifer adds: 'While both styles celebrate simplicity, farmhouse decor tends to integrate more white and neutral color palettes, reflecting the light and airy ambiance of rural living.'

NYC-based interior designer Tyson Ness also weighs in, agreeing that farmhouse schemes often lean towards lighter colors: 'The color palette for a farmhouse interior leans toward bright, open, and airy. Tone-on-tone and some lighter wood tones are introduced.' 

Farmhouse style also puts a strong emphasis on the practicality of its design, with these spaces designed for day-to-day functional living – whether a farmhouse kitchen or farmhouse living room.

Jennifer explains: 'Additionally, farmhouse decor places a strong emphasis on functional and practical elements, with a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces to create a comfortable and inviting space that feels both nostalgic and modern. While rustic decor is a broader concept encompassing a variety of weathered influences, farmhouse decor is a refined and specific iteration with a focus on creating a cozy, country-inspired home.'

In summary, both farmhouse and rustic styles focus on natural materials, most commonly wood, but farmhouse is a more specific reference for creating a homely, lived-in space that prioritizes country decor. Tyson concludes: 'While both styles celebrate natural materials and a connection to traditional roots, rustic design leans towards a rugged, natural look, and farmhouse design is more about creating a cozy, light, and welcoming space with a touch of nostalgia.'

While these styles certainly share lots of similar themes, it's clear that there are differences between them. You can decorate with rustic furnishings without achieving a farmhouse scheme, yet to achieve a farmhouse look, you'll almost certainly be incorporating rustic details into your space. 

When decorating a farmhouse kitchen, one of the must-have furniture pieces is a rustic farmhouse kitchen table. Often on the larger size and made from natural wood, they are perfect for hosting and socializing. As such, you'll want to ensure the decor you choose does not just the table itself justice, but the whole kitchen.

The effect of a well-dressed farmhouse kitchen table is not something to ignore. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to create beautiful table settings to add to the aesthetic of the room, the decorative items you choose are certainly a mood-setter. Decorating a farmhouse kitchen table can take different routes, but there are some tablescape designs that suit this style more than others.

From organic linens and stacked stoneware to pops of bright color and bountiful blooms, these table decor ideas will ensure your table is always dressed to impress.

5 farmhouse kitchen table decor ideas to suit any style

Curating a table that balances aesthetic and practicality isn't always easy, so we asked interior designers for their favorite farmhouse kitchen table decor ideas to set you on the right path.

1. Create an elevated rustic design

Farmhouse kitchens naturally lean into the more rustic aesthetic, so opting for light table linens and traditional tableware to contrast against the table's wood tone always results in a pretty display, and creates a more elevated finish.

'I love to start a farmhouse table top with a beautiful linen tablecloth and build from there with a rustic-chic vase full of seasonal florals as a centerpiece, and place settings that are equal parts rustic and upscale. Stoneware dishes with classic napkins and serveware are sure to look great!" says Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home.

2. Layer a selection of table linens

Traditional fabrics are ideal for creating an authentic farmhouse table setting – striped and chequer-board designs epitomize the farmhouse style that designers love. 'Pin ticking stripes are always the perfect fabric for a farmhouse table. The small pin stripe gives an airy, vintage look that we love to use on furniture and drapes,' says Connie Vernich, of Vernich Interiors.   

'Layering of fabrics and materials is so important and makes the table come together nicely. We love to find different sizes of containers to scatter around the table. Delphiniums in the summer are a favorite in our home, the periwinkle blue color set off by the blue and white stripes gets us every time!'

3. Decorate with the items you actually use

The style of a farmhouse kitchen table means you can get away with really natural decorations. 'When I think of genuine farmhouse table decor I think rugged, well used, weathered and rustic, a coffee mug that you would take outside to the farm in the morning, or sit on the porch,' says Michelle Yorke, of Michelle Yorke Interior Design.

'Table decor should be both stylish and every day functional.  A wire basket with handles to hold biscuits or grabbed off the table and taken outside to fill with fresh eggs or apples off the tree. A herb garden in the center of the table for home-cooked meals, and table linens that aren't too fussy, easily washed and put right back on the table.'

4. Bring the outside in

Farmhouse interiors naturally blend with the outside environment, so bringing the essence of the garden or surrounding countryside adds another rustic touch to the table decor. 'Always try and bring a little of the outside in,' says designer Tori Murphy. 

'It can be so simple, a fresh sprig of rosemary tied around a napkin or a cut garden flower in a jam jar. It breathes life into a table setting and always adds a beautiful sense of occasion. It seems there is a real movement towards taking pleasure not only in the food we eat but also in how we prepare the table.'

5. Make use of vintage pieces

When you think of a farmhouse table, you probably imagine it sitting in the kitchen, but in the warmer months, there's something so lovely about moving it outside to be surrounded by nature. 'In the summer we take to the outdoors and we love to set a table with anything organic and natural,' says Connie Vernich.  

'The rattan placemats, aged vintage linen napkins, and vintage glass bottles filled with unstructured plants and flowers are all go-tos. We love to pull flowers from the field or garden that don't look fussy – think Daisies, Berries, and Queen Anne's Lace.'

'If you do choose to create a garden-inspired centerpiece, make sure it doesn't disrupt the ability to socialize around the table. 'There is nothing worse than trying to talk around a flower arrangement. We love using branches and berries on tables because the effect is soft and pretty without being overpowering and crowded.'

There are plenty of beautiful and practical ways to decorate your farmhouse kitchen table to suit your style. With a few thoughtful decorative items, you can create a table that feels rustic and in-tune with nature, or with a few alternatives, a setting that pays homage to the farmhouse aesthetic with a more refined finish.

The farmhouse aesthetic will likely never date. Centered around creating rustic-inspired spaces that are layered with natural materials and classic details, farmhouse decor is endlessly welcoming and homely, hence its widespread appeal.

Much like typical farmhouse decor, European farmhouse follows the same decor themes yet puts added focus on vintage-inspired pieces. While there are many ways to achieve a European farmhouse look, adding texture through rugs is crucial. Rugs add warmth to any space whilst the right pattern helps achieve the much sought-after vintage aesthetic.

Ruggable's new collection does just that, featuring texture-rich rugs in a selection of earthy, neutral hues that instantly bring a farmhouse look to any room in the home. The Founder's Collection includes 22 designs, designed in partnership with the brand's founder Jeneva Bell. Each rug takes inspiration from 'global patterns', and puts a focus on bringing vintage-inspired sophistication to the home while prioritizing practicality for lived-in spaces. 

Shop the new Ruggable collection for a European farmhouse aesthetic

We've rounded up our favorite pieces from the new collection, which you can shop below. From rich and earthy tones of brown and olive to light neutrals, these rugs can be easily integrated into your home – from the living room to the bedroom – for a relaxed look, whatever your interior decor style.

Dark & earthy tones

Create a moody feel in your home with these dark-toned rugs that would work especially well in a dark academia dining room. 

Light neutrals

If you prefer decorating with neutrals, these lighter-colored rugs create a pared-back and soft farmhouse look. 

Cool tones

For homes that welcome cooler color schemes, these rugs combine blue and gray tones for a more contemporary take on the farmhouse look. 

Statement pattern

If you want to make more of a statement with your rug, these patterned options act as a focal point with an old-world feel, the perfect addition to a cozy living room. 

You can explore the full new collection and find out more at Ruggable.com. Or, if you're looking for more design help with your farmhouse decor, these are the
most common farmhouse kitchen mistakes to steer clear of.