Integrating modern elements into a historic farmhouse kitchen can create a warm, inviting space that pays homage to the home’s original charm while also meeting the needs of today’s homeowners. When thoughtfully executed, this blend of old and new can result in a timeless and functional kitchen with broad appeal.
Assessing the Existing Kitchen and Developing a Plan
When beginning such a renovation, first evaluate what historic details are present in the existing space. Many old farmhouses have special touches like wood floors, high ceilings, mouldings, built-ins and windows that lend character and should be preserved. Identify any key features to highlight, and develop a layout that works around them.
Consider how the current kitchen functions and how you’d like it to operate in the future. Analyze the workflow and usage patterns to optimize the plan based on your family’s needs. For instance, do multiple people cook together? Does the space double as an eat-in dining area? Answering these questions will inform important design decisions like the kitchen shape, work zone arrangement and island size.
Set a budget and determine what upgrades would provide the most bang for your buck. Cost-effective cosmetic changes like new countertops, hardware, sink, faucet and light fixtures can make a big visual impact. Assess any structural renovations needed, like moving plumbing or electrical, flooring replacement or wall demolition. Prioritize what’s essential and decide where you’re willing to splurge for high-end finishes.
Blending Old and New Elements
When ready to start the renovation, approach updates in a way that honors the original spirit of the farmhouse. Here are some tips for seamlessly incorporating modern elements:
respect existing architecture
Work with the home’s current footprint and features rather than drastically altering the fundamental structure and layout. For example, maintain the kitchen’s placement in relation to other rooms and preserve interior doors, windows and hardwood floors if possible. This provides a sense of continuity.
Adaptive Reuse
Get creative about adapting existing assets. Maybe convert an antique hutch into a new sink cabinet, or refinish the original wood floors. Respectfully work around any historic touches you want to keep intact.
Complementary Color Scheme
Use a color palette that feels fresh yet complements the age of your home. Earthy, muted paint colors like sage green, warm white, navy and brick red work well. Unify old and new finishes with consistent hues.
Rustic or Vintage Accessories
Incorporate homey country elements like open shelving, distressed wood furniture, galvanized metal containers, chalkboard labels and ceramic chicken decor. Mixing in pieces with chips, scratches and other imperfections adds charm.
Modern Conveniences
While preserving the overall aesthetic, include today’s conveniences for optimal function. For example, install an energy efficient induction range, undercabinet lighting, wifi-enabled appliances, touch faucets and a kitchen island with charging stations and seating.
durable materials
Choose finishes that reference traditional styles but offer modern perks like longevity, low maintenance and eco-friendliness. Quartz or concrete countertops, porcelain or wood-look tile, engineered hardwood planks, brushed stainless steel and recycled glass backsplashes bridge old and new.
kitchen Layout Considerations
Carefully mapping out the kitchen layout is key to unifying vintage charm with current usability. Keep these tips in mind:
access and doorways
Avoid obstructing home entryways or main passageways. If doorways must be moved, replicate original trimwork and architectural details in the new location. Also consider widening door openings to aid traffic flow.
windows and natural light
Make the most of natural light by leaving existing window openings untouched if feasible. Supplement with energy efficient fixtures like LED undercabinet lighting. Add mirrors and reflective surfaces to brighten dim corners.
universal design
Incorporate universal design principles suited for all abilities and ages. Examples include roll-under sinks, pull-out shelving, side-by-side fridge, ADA compliant appliances andfloor outlets to eliminate tripping hazards.
blend work zones
Design an efficient work triangle where key zones naturally flow together. For instance, place the refrigerator near food prep areas, situate the stove close to pantries, and include a cleanup zone near the sink.
multi-use island
Include a large island for extra prep space, casual dining and storage. Add seating, pendant lighting andcharging points. Position it near cooking surfaces for easy interaction and supervision.
Storage Solutions
Maximize every inch with custom cabinets, pull-out shelves, built-in appliances, mudroom lockers and clever drawer organizers. Hide clutter in style with closed cabinets and drapery panels.
Selecting Fixtures and Finishes
Design an authentic look by mixing high quality new finishes and antiques. Visit salvage yards and estate sales to discover budget-friendly vintage lighting, hardware, tiles and decor. Supplement with the below modern options:
Countertops
- Butcher block – Warm and organic option good for food prep
- Concrete – Heat and stain resistant with industrial vibe
- Recycled glass aggregate – Colorful and eco-friendly
- Quartz – Low maintenance with classic or modern styles
cabinets
- Shaker – Clean lines suit farmhouse simplicity
- Distressed – Shows wear for an antiqued look
- Two-toned – Contrasts pop against neutral walls
- Open shelving – Airy and casual for display
flooring
- Wide plank engineered wood – Affordable yet durable
- Black & white checkerboard tile – Retro diner feel
- Hexagon terra cotta tile – Interesting shape and texture
- Cozy braided rugs – Layer over wood for softness
- Flagstone – Rustic appeal perfect for a cottage kitchen
backsplash
- Tin ceiling tiles – Victorian inspired whimsy
- Beaded board – Rustic country charm
- Subway tile – Classically simple with clean lines
- Salvaged barn wood – Adds worn personality
sinks and faucets
- Enameled cast iron sink – Traditional farm style
- Stainless steel apron front – Clean and timeless
- Industrial pipe faucet – Blends old and modern
- Pull-down sprayer – Improves function
lighting
- Schoolhouse pendant lights – Nostalgic barnyard character
- Wire basket lights – Woven texture with craftsman style
- Track lighting – Aimed beams illuminate task areas
- Recessed cans – Unobtrusive but highly functional
- Rustic chandelier – Farmhouse dining focal point
hardware
- Bin pulls – Farmers market fruit crate aesthetic
- Distressed metal knobs – Imperfect antique charm
- Colored glass knobs – Pops of brightness
- Matte black pulls – Sleek and contemporary
- Hammered copper – Artisan craftsman style
Preserving Charm in an Open Concept Kitchen
Many homeowners opt to open up the kitchen to adjacent living areas for a more spacious, modern feel. But without proper delineation, the classic farmhouse character can get lost. Here are tips to maintain the vintage mood:
leave one wall intact
Rather than completely demolishing walls, leave one intact to anchor the kitchen. The remaining walls provide space to showcase charming backsplashes and cabinetry.
Add architectural accents
Install architectural details like textured ceilings, exposed beams, inside window frames, pilasters or salvaged barn doors. This visually separates spaces without totally closing them off.
change flooring
Distinguish the kitchen by switching surface materials at its perimeter. For example, box it in with checkerboard tile floors while the living room has hardwood planks.
Vary cabinetry
Kitchen cabinetry styles often differ from built-ins used in other rooms. Vintage painted cabinetry in the cooking space helps define it.
zone with lighting
Use lighting to designate different zones. Try schoolhouse pendants over the kitchen island and track lighting illuminating work areas. In living zones, use table and floor lamps for softer ambiance.
direct traffic flow
Deflect traffic attempting to cut through by angling the kitchen island or placing furniture to reroute people around perimeters rather than straight through.
creating an inviting Farmhouse Kitchen
A well-executed farmhouse kitchen remodel should not just look charming – it should feel welcoming and foster connection. Here are tips for enhancing the warmth and personality of the space:
Cozy banquette seating
Build in casual dining nooks with plush bench seating, throw pillows and curtains. Make it feel enveloping by using deep hues like forest green, navy or eggplant on cushions.
Rustic wood tables
Weathered farmhouse tables invite people to sit awhile and linger. Keep them uncluttered except for a rustic centerpiece like a bowl of lemons.
Hearth and home
Include a big stone fireplace or mini wood stove to entice people to gather there. Add country touches like woven blankets, quilted pillows and cozy knit throws.
Meaningful accessories
Display timeworn items that tell a story, like old family photos, tattered cookbooks, floral tea tins, or chipped cake stands from grandma. Keep decor personal.
Entry way appeal
Set a welcoming tone right from the home entryway. Use reclaimed wood closets and cubby shelves for warm substance. Add charm with baskets, botanicals and bench seating for removing shoes.
Unfussy flowers
Keep the mood casual and inviting with wildflowers in mason jars or herbs in pots on counters and windowsills. Avoid overly formal arrangements.
garden bounty
Bring the outdoors in by showcasing fruits, vegetables or seasonal blooms from the home garden. It connects the kitchen to the surrounding landscape.
Renovation ideas for a small farmhouse kitchen
While a spacious farmhouse kitchen is ideal, it’s still possible to infuse vintage charm into even the tiniest of cooking spaces. Some smart upgrades for small kitchens include:
maximize lighting
Take advantage of any existing windows and enhance with undercabinet lighting. Mirrors and light reflecting paint colors also make it feel more expansive.
multi-purpose island
Even a narrow island can provide ample workspace, storage and casual dining. Add stool seating, shelving below, and casters for flexibility.
Built-in banquette
Bench seating built snugly into a corner nook serves as space-savvy dining. Top with cushions and scattering of throw pillows for coziness.
Barn door storage
Maximize every inch of space with sliding barn doors covering pantries, closets and built-in shelving/bookcases around entryways.
Retractable features
Include fold-down prep tables, pull-out spice racks, hideaway mixers, retractable pot racks and pocket doors to conserve square footage.
freestanding cabinetry
Standalone, movable cabinets provide flexibility. Try a vintage cabinet fitted with a butcher block top for a mobile island. Mix metal utility carts, bakers racks and hutches.
concealed appliances
Preserve a clean look by concealing appliances not in use. Tuck the microwave, stand mixer, Instant Pot and other gadgets inside cabinets, in slide out trays or behind curtains.
multi-purpose furniture
Opt for versatile counter height tables that can double as extra work surface and casual dining when needed. Stack stools to clear space.
Creating a seamless transition to the dining room
Blending the kitchen gracefully into the adjoining dining space establishes an easy flow for entertaining. Some ideal ways to bridge old and new between the rooms include:
open shelving
Eliminate the visual barrier of upper cabinets by swapping in open shelving. This allows sightlines through to the dining area, making the division seamless.
Indoor “back porch”
Create a mudroom area near the kitchen entryway to define the transition. Add quintessential porch elements like beadboard paneling, built-in shelving and checkered floors flowing into the dining room.
Rustic wood beams
Install beautiful hand-hewn exposed beams spanning the ceiling over both rooms. Wood tones also unite rooms, as do common wide plank floors.
gather around the hearth
Position a grand stone fireplace as a showpiece between the kitchen and dining room. Flanking it with cabinetry or built-ins turns it into the centerpiece.
Large entryway
Knock down walls framing the dining room entrance to dramatically widen the opening from kitchen. Tall doorways maintain open visual flow.
zonino with rugs
Place a braided circular rug underneath the dining table, bleeding into the edges of the kitchen. Defining zones subtly connects rooms.
Period-Appropriate Farmhouse Kitchen Decor
Decorating appropriately for the era enhances the home’s historic feel. Study old photos of local homestead kitchens and typical furniture from that time. Authentically decorate your farmhouse kitchen with:
Vintage dishware
Display blue and white porcelain plates or charming retro Pyrex mixing bowls. Open cabinets highlight pretty teacup and dinnerware collections.
Checkered tablecloths
Amp up country charm with red and white gingham, bandana print or buffalo check cloths over farm tables and kitchen islands.
Antique signs
Decorate walls and ceilings with antique tin “Coffee” signs, metal Coca-cola ads, or enameled porcelains from old apothecary shops.
Old bottles
Collect and showcase vintage glass milk bottles, Coke bottles, antique Ball mason jars, antique olive oil dispensers and classic glass candy jars brimming with treats.
Galvanized metal
Incorporate utilitarian tinware into the design like tub washing basins, winding planters, bushel baskets and storage cans silkscreened with quaint sayings.
Bundled herbs
Hang dried herb bundles and braids of garlic or onions from wood beams. The kitchen smells wonderful and they add old-timey ambiance.
Farm implements
Mount wooden butter paddles, copper jelly molds, enamelware ladles, granny’s rolling pin and rusty colanders for a homespun look.
Fruit crates
Upcycle old wood grain crates and fruit hampers into wall cubbies for crop-like displays of onions and potatoes.
Common Challenges and Solutions for Blending Old and New
Despite careful planning, unexpected challenges can still crop up during a farmhouse kitchen renovation. But with some savvy problem-solving, any issues can be smoothly resolved:
Problem: Warehouse-like feel from high ceilings
Solution: Add wood beam accents crossing the ceiling to define the area. Lower their scale by varying widths and heights. Paint beams with rustic washed or pickled finishes.
Problem: Awkward angled ceilings or soffits
Solution: If angles are severe, reframe the ceiling into one consistent height, blending seams with wood. For minor slants, disguise it with decor like antler chandeliers drawing the eye upward.
Problem: Existing cabinetry lacks character
Solution: Add moulding trims as refrigerator enclosures to soften plain cabinet fronts. Swap generic hardware for unique whimsical knobs. Paint drab cabinets in chippy vintage hues.
Problem: Appliances feel obtrusive
Solution: Frame built-in appliances using same trimwork as cabinetry to help them recede visually. Surround fridge, ovens and full height pantries with moulding or beadboard.
Problem: Vinyl floors detract from vintage aesthetic
Solution: Cover durable vinyl with area rugs and runners matching other rooms’ flooring. Or over-lay vinyl with new wood-look planks using adhesive tabs for easy install.
Problem: Kitchen lacks defined work zones
Solution: Designate areas with flooring changes, like tile under appliances or a runner between cabinets defining the main work triangle’s path.
FAQs About Mixing Old and New in Farmhouse Kitchens
What are the most important original architectural details to preserve in a farmhouse kitchen renovation?
Prioritize maintaining the original layout footprint, windows, doors, hardwood flooring, wood ceiling beams, moulding trims, fireplaces and any built-ins possible. Even partially exposing old wide plank flooring around new kitchen cabinetry keeps original craftsmanship intact.
How do you add modern conveniences without taking away from farmhouse charm?
Conceal appliances inside cabinets or discreetly integrate them into cabinetry trimwork. Select low-profile appliances that blend rather than dominate. Add tech-friendly features like charging stations, instant hot taps and cabinet lighting without disrupting the aesthetic.
Should you match old floors or change materials when renovating a farmhouse kitchen?
Matching flooring creates flow, but changing materials can elegantly define zones. Use area rugs to layer textures. For most continuity, replicate any existing hardwoods in new areas. Protect old floors and integrate them alongside new with hardwood-look porcelain planks for durability.
How do you make a large farmhouse kitchen feel cozy and inviting?
Break up spacious kitchens into smaller vignettes for coziness. Add plush banquettes and isolated work desks. Zone areas with lighting and rugs. Incorporate warmth through rich textures like exposed beams, stone accents, comfy furnishings and natural greenery.
Should you paint older cabinets or restore their original finish when renovating a farmhouse kitchen?
Repurpose and update existing cabinetry by giving it new life with paint. For intricately grained wood that’s structurally sound, gently clean and recondition it to restore its natural patina. Combine painted uppers with stained base cabinets for contrast.
How do you accentuate high ceilings in an old farmhouse kitchen?
Take advantage of height and draw the eye up by displaying tall shelving, hanging herbs and lights from wood beams or rafters. Add vertically paneled refrigerator enclosures. Contrast with furniture like an oversized island grounding the space.
Conclusion
Blending old and new elements when renovating a
