Kitchen of the Week: Airy Farmhouse Feel for Empty Nesters

Introduction

For empty nesters looking to downsize while still maintaining a cozy and inviting home, a kitchen with an airy farmhouse feel can be the perfect solution. This style blends the charming elements of traditional farmhouse decor with a more modern, open concept layout. The result is a space that feels connected, breezy, and full of natural light without sacrificing the cozy vibe that empty nesters may crave after years of a bustling family home.

In this kitchen of the week, we will explore the details that give this kitchen its airy farmhouse charm, from the layout and architectural details to the finishes, fixtures, and decorative accents. Discover how empty nesters can create a kitchen with a similar effortless style and relaxed beauty. This light-filled, welcoming heart of the home offers inspiration for empty nesters looking to embark on their next chapter with a peaceful and stylish space to gather and create memories.

Elements That Create an Airy Farmhouse Feel

Layout and Architecture

• Open floor plan: Removing walls and barriers creates a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining area, and living room. This open concept suits empty nester life.
• Vaulted ceilings: High, sloped ceilings give the illusion of a much larger space. Beams add character.
• Abundant windows: Multiple large windows flood the space with natural light. Opt for paned windows for added charm.
• Lighter color scheme: Soft, airy colors like whites and pale blues keep the space feeling bright and open.
• Wood plank ceilings and exposed beams: These architectural details add natural texture and a touch of traditional farmhouse style.
• Island with seating: The large center island provides additional counter space and casual dining for two.

Finishes and Materials

• Wood floors: Weathered natural wood flooring adds warmth and texture. The light color keeps it airy.
• Subway tile backsplash: Classic white subway tiles give the space a clean, crisp feel. Their grid pattern enhances the airy vibe.
• Quartz countertops: Durable quartz in a lighter tone gives the look of marble without the maintenance.
• Farmhouse sink: A deep apron-front stainless steel sink suits the farmhouse style. Its elevated placement enables views outside.
• Brass fixtures and details: Pops of brass on light fixtures, faucet, and hardware add a traditional touch and visual warmth.

Stylish and Practical Fixtures

• Decorative open shelving: Display cherished dishware or everyday essentials on shelves with an airy, built-in look.
• Shiplap backsplash: Shiplap boards behind the range add charming texture and protect the wall from splatter.
• Paneled refrigerator: The built-in look disguises the refrigerator while paneled doors echo the windows and beadboard accents.
• Seeded glass cabinet doors: The distressed glass panes soften the upper cabinets while allowing light to filter through.
• Curtained cabinet tops: Soft white curtains along the top of upper cabinets enhance the breezy feel.

Decorative Farmhouse Accents

• Textiles and linens: Tea towels, table runners, and curtains in natural fibers and prints bring the outdoors inside.
• Baskets: Woven baskets for storage lend rustic charm and texture. Group them on open shelves.
• Fresh florals: A vase of freshly cut flowers from the garden instantly brings life and freshness.
• Fruit bowl: A whitewashed ceramic bowl filled with fruit fits the farmhouse aesthetic.
• Wood cutting boards: Thick wood cutting boards on the countertops feel both rustic and practical.

Layout Considerations for an Airy Flow

The layout directly impacts how open, connected, and breezy a kitchen feels. When designing a kitchen with an airy farmhouse vibe, consider the following layout tips:

Create an Open, Unified Space

• Knock down walls between the kitchen and adjacent living areas to promote flow.
• Use a cohesive flooring material like wood planks to seamlessly connect the spaces.
• Keep the color scheme and materials consistent from one space to the next.
• Avoid closing off the kitchen. An open concept invites movement and breezes through.

Incorporate Abundant Natural Light

• Position windows on multiple walls to draw in ample sunlight from all angles.
• Opt for large windows whenever possible, including over the sink and along the backsplash.
• Choose paned windows with divisions to further enhance the airy feel.
• Add skylights or sun tunnels if more overhead light is needed.

Allow Views In and Out

• Locate windows above countertops and sinks to connect indoors with the outdoors.
• Glass cabinet doors also allow light to filter through and provide views.
• Consider a pass-through window or counter opening to an outdoor dining space.
• Frame desirable views like gardens with a window over the sink.

Add Architectural Interest

• Incorporate architectural details like vaulted ceilings, breezeways, exposed beams and textured walls.
• Opt for an island with a second sink and seating to divide the large space.
• Install shelving along walls or ceilings to define zones while maintaining an open feel.

Design Elements That Enhance Airy Appeal

Beyond the layout, various design elements can further enhance the breezy, farmhouse style of the kitchen:

Lighting

• Install abundant natural light through windows and skylights. Supplement with wall sconces, pendant lights and recessed lighting as needed.
• Opt for fixtures with transparent shades that allow light to filter through.
• Use dimmers to control the ambiance and mimic natural daylight.
• Add discreet undercabinet lighting for task lighting without cluttering the airy look.

Color Palette

• Stick to light, airy colors like white, off-white, pale blue and light gray for the bulk of the space.
• Incorporate natural wood stains and textures for warmth. Distressed, weathered finishes have farmhouse appeal.
• The backsplash and accents offer opportunities to integrate organic patterns or brighter pops of color for contrast.

Textures and Materials

• Wood elements like beams, floors, shelves and tables bring natural texture.
• Tile or brick backsplashes and weathered finishes add visual interest.
• Soft textiles like curtains and linen introduce billowy shapes.
• Rustic touches like baskets, wood cutting boards and ceramic dishes also enhance texture.

Ceiling Treatment

• Install wood plank ceilings or tongue and groove boards for rustic character.
• Exposed beams, whether structural or decorative, complement the farmhouse style.
• Paint ceilings light hues like cloud white to maintain the airy atmosphere.
• Add architectural interest with vaulted or cathedral ceilings.

Airy Farmhouse Kitchen Inspiration

For additional examples and inspiration for designing your own airy farmhouse kitchen, explore the images and highlights below:

• Notice how the abundant windows, vaulted ceiling, and harmonious color scheme make this kitchen feel incredibly airy and bright. Brick and wood add warmth.

• The rows of paned glass cabinets maintain the connection to outdoors and filter natural light beautifully in this predominantly white kitchen.

• The wood plank ceiling adds striking visual texture and height to enhance the airy quality of this breezy farmhouse kitchen.

• Light blue backsplash tile and lots of large windows give this coastal kitchen a true airy, beachy feel. Open shelves maintain the spacious look.

Practical Tips for Empty Nesters

For empty nesters, an airy farmhouse kitchen should also have features that make the space livable and practical on a daily basis. Keep these tips in mind:

• Include an island with bar seating for casual dining, socializing and food prep.
• Ensure there is adequate cabinet and drawer storage within reach.
• Install pull-out shelves and Lazy Susans in corner cabinets.
• Choose easy-close drawers and anti-slam mechanisms on cabinets.
• Use racks or hooks for heavy cookware like pots and pans.
• Incorporate a beverage station with coffeemaker and refrigerated wine storage.
• Install a wall-mounted or undercabinet microwave for quick access.
• Position everyday dishes within easy reach, not up high.
• Include a conveniently located recycling and garbage center.
• Select low maintenance and easy-to-clean countertops and backsplashes.

FAQ About Creating an Airy Farmhouse Kitchen

What colors work best for an airy farmhouse kitchen?

Stick with light, airy colors like white, light gray, pale blue and aqua. Accent with natural wood tones. Soft sage green also complements the farmhouse style.

What type of island works for an open floor plan?

For an airy layout, consider a rectangular island positioned parallel to the cabinets rather than a square island in the middle of the floor space. This connects the kitchen while allowing breezes to flow through.

How do you maximize natural light?

Include abundant windows, skylights or sun tunnels throughout the kitchen, not just above the sink. Opt for large paned windows to draw light in from all directions. Translucent glass cabinet doors also encourage natural light.

Should cabinets go to the ceiling?

To maintain an airy feel, avoid heavy, towering cabinets that close in the space. Floating cabinets with either exposed ceiling, glass doors, or open shelving above create a lighter look.

What is a good backsplash for a farmhouse kitchen?

Classic white subway tile instantly gives a clean farmhouse look. You can also consider pale natural stone, blue and white ceramic tile, shiplap wood, or painted brick for backsplash options with rustic flair.

How do you decorate an open concept kitchen?

Keep decor simple so the space doesn’t feel overcrowded. Let architectural details shine. Accent with indoor plants, fruits and vegetables, wood cutting boards, natural baskets, and ceramic/glass containers for an organic feel.

Achieving an Airy Farmhouse Kitchen on a Budget

Creating an airy farmhouse kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. If your budget is limited, consider these money-saving tips:

• Add a fresh coat of white paint on cabinets to brighten them up instead of replacing.
• Search for discounted or secondhand lighting fixtures and hardware at thrift stores, antique shops or Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations. Vintage often fits the farmhouse aesthetic.
• Use glass canisters from the dollar store to display cooking staples in lieu of pricier ceramic accessories.
• Select affordable subway tile or stick-on backsplash and install it yourself. Use shiplap boards behind the range instead of tile above to save money.
• Opt for cheaper counters like laminate or butcher block with an attractive stone or quartz island.
• Sand and refinish existing wood floors rather than replacing them to retain the vintage character while still appearing light and airy.
• Purchase secondhand kitchen island and carts that can be painted or repurposed. Add your own breakfast bar.
• Make your own roman shades using inexpensive muslin fabric and wooden dowels. White keeps it light.
• Grow your own herbs in the kitchen windows and use inexpensive mason jars for flower vases.

With strategic choices, empty nesters can create the essence of an airy farmhouse kitchen without overspending. Focus budget on statement pieces like an apron sink, paneled refrigerator or standout light fixtures.

Conclusion

An airy farmhouse style kitchen perfectly suits empty nester life, blending charming design with an open, practical layout. Light colors, ample windows, high ceilings, and a seamless connection to living areas foster an airy environment filled with natural light. Timeless elements like subway tile, brick, wood floors, stainless appliances and aged metal finishes add cozy farmhouse flair. Empty nesters can apply these tips and inspiration photos to strike the ideal balance in their next kitchen – a brighter, more unified space for simpler living and making new memories. With thoughtful touches like an island for gathering, views to the outdoors, and plenty of storage within reach, the kitchen can become a favorite spot to relax and unwind after years of cooking for a crowd.