Gracious Spaces: Farmhouse Style Interiors

The casual, classic styling seen in farmhouse-inspired interiors is definitely NOT your mother’s “country.” Hopefully the mauves, Williamsburg blues, and decorative ducks have long been packed away.  Instead, today’s modern farmhouse style appeals to the timeless, romantic notion in all of us. One that tells a story of authenticity, the outdoors, and family where there are threads of Americana scattered throughout.

We’ve seen this movement gaining momentum over the past couple of years but nowhere more apparent than in the smash hit, Fixer Upper, on HGTV. If you aren’t familiar with the show, it has been wildly successful for the network while catapulting real estate expert, Chip Gaines, and his uber-talented design-phenom wife, Joanna Gaines, into rock star status! The audience gets to see for themselves the undeniable chemistry, work ethic, and raw talent of that which we know as Chip and JoJo and their 4 adorable kids. Chicken coops, silos, repurposed treasures, shiplap, and barefoot kids never looked so appealing.

So, what is it about the farmhouse-inspired style that has captivated fans? The Gaines family, first of all. The corny jokes and ribbing fit naturally with a family where there is genuine love and respect for one another. Secondly, they have this ability to repurpose, create, and imagine beauty in the not-so-beautiful. The ability to connect with the audience and have them ponder what the possibilities might be for THEIR own homes has viewers hopelessly hooked.

IMG_7448What things define modern farmhouse living?

The list of possibilities is long and subjective but here is a list of MY favorite farmhouse essentials:
1) Slipcovers – They are a combination of pretty, comfort and relaxation

2) Farmhouse Table – The worn, imperfect look is simply perfect

3) Open Shelving – The mix of open shelving with traditional cabinetry is a breath of fresh air

4) Painted Signs – Nothings says home and family like a custom sign describing you and your family

5) Flea Market Finds – The flea market and yard sales are where our creative juices really flow

6) Galvanized Metal or Iron – Tubs, containers, light fixtures, or accessories add farmhouse appeal

7) Ironstone or Antique White Dishes – Everything is prettier on a white platter and the collection is timeless

8) Chalkboards – Easy throwback look for the kitchen, dining room, or family room

9) Vintage Windows or Wood Wall Hangings – They add character to new construction homes

10) Florals – Stems from a flowering tree or life-like florals in home stores are an inviting nod to nature

11) The Juxtaposition of White and Wood – They complement each other perfectly

12) Painted Wood – Whether you use chalk paint or latex, a slightly distressed piece of furniture is so farmhouse-chic

13) Textures – Burlap, linen, seagrass, ball-fringe, or soft chunky throws add layers of interest to a home

14) Vintage Suitcases – An appealing throwback that can stand alone or be part of a vignette

15) Shiplap – Joanna refers to these wood walls all the time, adds such charm

The best way to get started or continue looking for ways to incorporate farmhouse-style living into your home is to research online or pick up the latest decorating magazine. There are countless ways to add touches to your own home. Most all of the craft and home stores have caught up with the trend and make it simple to find what you love. Keep your eye out at yard sales and flea markets for what you can re-imagine. Sometimes all it takes is turning something upside down to see what it can become.

Photos courtesy: The Magnolia Mom, Country Living Magazine, and Etsy
Jennifer Ingram is the owner of Gracious Spaces, an interior styling and home staging business in Brentwood, TN. Questions? Email [email protected] or http://www.gracious-spaces.net. Follow her on Facebook.

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