Farmhouse style kitchens are having a major moment right now. With their rugged materials, vintage accents, and focus on practicality, it’s no wonder these cozy kitchens are so popular. This week we’re highlighting three fabulous new farmhouse kitchens that are full of design inspiration. From creative tile backsplashes to unique lighting features, these kitchens show off the very best of farmhouse chic. Keep reading for an in-depth look at each space!
Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen with Brick Backsplash
This light and airy farmhouse kitchen utilizes exposed brick, wood beams, and antique-inspired lighting to create a rustic yet refined look. The spacious kitchen features a large center island with a farmhouse sink and high arching faucet in brushed nickel. Crisp white cabinetry with visible hardware paired with the brick backsplash and wood countertops strike the perfect balance between modern and vintage.
Benefits of a Brick Backsplash
A brick backsplash offers numerous advantages in a farmhouse kitchen:
- Provides visual interest and texture
- Contributes to the rustic, vintage look
- Durable, long-lasting material
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Naturally stain and heat resistant
- Affordable option compared to tile
- Can be painted or whitewashed for varied looks
- Adds architectural and design flair
Incorporating reclaimed brick into the backsplash and exposed brick on the walls imparts age and character. The soft white cabinetry allows the rich red brick to take center stage. Accenting with black hardware and light wood elements keeps the look feeling bright and inviting. Open shelving, woven baskets, and ceramic crocks enhance the farmhouse vibe. This is an elegantly executed rustic kitchen with carefully curated details.
Cozy Farmhouse Kitchen with Butcher Block Island
This charming farmhouse kitchen exudes comfort and simplicity. The buttery yellow cabinetry coupled with wooden countertops results in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The expansive butcher block island takes center stage, providing ample prep space and casual dining for multiple guests.
Advantages of a Butcher Block Island
Utilizing a butcher block island offers many benefits for a farmhouse kitchen:
- Provides additional countertop space and work area
- Doubles as extra seating and casual dining spot
- Classic farmhouse material that adds character
- Available in variety of wood stains to match décor
- Adds visual interest with natural wood grain patterns
- More durable and heat-resistant than many materials
- Easily repaired by sanding and re-oiling over time
- Ideal surface for meal prep and chopping
- Can be used as cutting board right on counter
- Contributes to overall cozy, rustic aesthetic
In this kitchen, the butcher block island introduces natural wood elements and pleasing contrast to the bright cabinetry. The oversized island is truly the heart of the workspace. Open shelves on the backsplash continue the farmhouse vibe and allow for display of ceramics and crocks. Copper pots mounted on the wall and the rustic pendant lighting further enhance the cozy ambiance. This kitchen strikes an effortless balance between vintage and contemporary with its color scheme and materials.
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Subway Tile
This kitchen flaunts a more modern take on farmhouse style with its use of subway tile, black accents, and industrial lighting. While paying homage to vintage design, the space also feels current and fresh. The subway tile backsplash in a light neutral shade provides a clean, streamlined look behind the stylish black and brass hood vent.
The Benefits of Subway Tile
Subway tile offers many perks in a farmhouse kitchen:
- Classic material commonly used in vintage kitchens
- Cost effective, budget friendly option for backsplash
- Easy to install in do-it-yourself projects
- Sleek, minimalist aesthetic pairs well with modern or traditional styles
- Available in myriad colors from neutrals to bold hues
- Adds subtle decorative touch without overpowering
- Creates crisp, clean lines and visual interest
- Durable and easily cleaned material
- Lends a timeless, enduring quality that won’t appear dated
The subway tile backsplash in this kitchen provides subtle texture behind the white shaker cabinets and integrated appliances. Touches of black in the fixtures, hardware, and matching island stools give this space a more modern edge. Open shelving displays ceramics, while a rustic wood cutting board ties in natural elements. The industrial pendants reinforce the contemporary vibe. This kitchen artfully blends modern and farmhouse elements for a sophisticated take on the classic style.
Design Elements to Include in a Farmhouse Kitchen
When designing a farmhouse kitchen, there are several key elements that should be incorporated to fully achieve the cozy, vintage-inspired look:
Rustic Wood Surfaces – Butcher block countertops, reclaimed wood tabletops, and wood plank floors help reinforce the rustic farmhouse aesthetic. Oak, pine, walnut, and maple are popular choices that add natural warmth.
Distressed Finishes – Cabinets and furniture with distressed, well-worn finishes such as paint chips, rubs, or intentional marks impart a vintage look and feel. This can be achieved with specialized glazes and paint techniques.
Unadorned Hardware – Opt for simple cabinet pulls and handles in materials like brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or unlacquered brass that have an aged, worn-in look. Avoid ornate or highly polished hardware.
Farmhouse Sink – A deep, spacious apron front sink is a hallmark of a farmhouse kitchen. Stainless steel and porcelain are common materials. Go for a classic look with a chrome or nickel faucet.
Open Shelving – Display plates, mugs, and charming ceramics on open shelves or in glass-front cabinets. This allows your collections to be part of the décor.
Tinware Accents – Incorporate touches of tinware such as gooseneck kettles, bread boxes, or shaker-style canisters for an authentic farmhouse feel.
Rustic Textiles – Kitchen towels, drapes, and chair cushions made from burlap, ticking stripes, or faded solids help reinforce the comfort and simplicity of farmhouse style.
Vintage Signage – Use reclaimed wood plaques or metal tin signs to label areas like baked goods, coffee bar, breads, etc for nostalgic country flair.
Practical Design – Focus on functionality with spacious work zones, integrated storage, large sinks, and easy-to-clean surfaces tailored to cooking and meal prep.
Key Considerations when Designing a Farmhouse Kitchen
Creating a cozy, vintage-style farmhouse kitchen requires careful planning and design. Keep these key considerations in mind:
Define your budget – Farmhouse style can work with varying budgets. Determine what you can spend on cabinetry, countertops, flooring, appliances and accents. Look for ways to save on pricier items.
Evaluate layout and storage needs – Ample counter space and storage is crucial for preparing meals. Evaluate how you cook and entertain to determine optimal layout.
Gather inspiration – Look at photos, home tours and magazine spreads to find your perfect farmhouse look. Note elements you are drawn to.
Choose fixtures and finishes wisely – Opt for materials and hardware that are durable and easy to maintain. Natural wood, tile, stone, metal and enamel are ideal.
Incorporate rustic architectural details – If possible, expose wood beams, interior stone walls, or even salvaged building materials to reinforce the farmhouse vibe.
Splurge on key investment pieces – Spend more on classic farmhouse sink, butcher block island or similar statement piece that will endure.
Add vintage accents strategically – Seek out antique or vintage-look accessories that really speak to your style. Quality over quantity.
Incorporate worn and weathered textures – Distressing, visible wood grains and patinas help achieve a comfortable, lived-in look.
Light it effectively – Task lighting, pendants, chandeliers and natural light all help make the kitchen functional and inviting.
Allow room to evolve – Farmhouse kitchens improve with age and use. Leave room in your plans and décor to add personal touches over time.
Recommended Materials for Farmhouse Kitchens
Choosing the right materials is key to creating a cohesive farmhouse kitchen aesthetic. Here are some top options to consider:
Wood: Reclaimed barn wood, oak, pine, maple, walnut for cabinets, shelves, and furniture. Offers natural warmth and character.
Tile: Subway, brick, mosaic, and porcelain work well for backsplashes and floors. Provide texture and vintage appeal.
Stone: Granite, limestone, and marble countertops offer elegance. Travertine and slate are also rustic farmhouse options.
Metal: Wrought iron, tin, copper, nickel, and stainless steel for pots, lighting and hardware. Imparts timeworn, handcrafted quality.
Ceramic and Porcelain: Ideal for sinks, tiles, dinnerware, and accessory pieces. Timeless, often with artisanal appeal.
Concrete: For countertops or floors, unfinished concrete adds an industrial vibe. Can also be stained, polished, or etched.
Enamelware: Vintage-inspired enameled cast iron, steel or porcelain for pots, pans and accessories. Bright, durable, and chip-resistant.
Fabrics: Linen, burlap, cotton, wool, ticking stripes for window treatments, upholstery, and accent pillows. Provide cozy texture.
Creative Touches for Farmhouse Kitchen Décor
Beyond the major materials and finishes, accessorizing is key to giving a farmhouse kitchen personality and flair. Get creative with these décor techniques and accents:
- Display collections of vintage crocks, pitchers, and ceramic wares on open shelves
- Incorporate window boxes or potted herb gardens for authentic farmhouse charm
- Use china, glassware, and ceramics with subtle imperfections and handmade qualities
- Arrange a vignette of rustic linens, wooden crates, and tinware on a kitchen hutch
- Hang a reclaimed window pane or shutter on the wall for architectural interest
- Mount peg rails or floating shelves for handy pot rack storage
- Include framed botanical prints, floral fabrics, checked ginghams, and plaids for a cottage vibe
- Group stacked ceramic cake stands, wire baskets, and cookie jars on the countertop
- Style collections of jelly jars, bottles, and glassware on windowsills to allow light to filter through
- Use galvanized metal buckets, bins, and canisters for rustic practical storage
- Display personalized vintage signage on the walls like “eat,” “bread,” “coffee,” etc.
- Incorporate beat-up antique kitchen tools, utensils, and gadgets for character
- Use baskets, bins, and woven textures to soften the look and feel
With the right combination of warm, genuine materials, purposeful design, and handpicked decorative details, you can create a farmhouse kitchen that feels welcoming yet still uniquely you. Let this clever inspiration guide your next renovation or decorating project!
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Farmhouse Kitchens
It’s easy to go overboard when designing a farmhouse kitchen. Steer clear of these common mistakes to keep your space feeling authentic and not overdone:
- Forcing too many disparate vintage elements that lack cohesion
- Going overboard with intentionally “distressed” finishes so it feels artificial
- Choosing ornate or overly cutesy accessories that feel random or out of place
- Using stained wood tones that skew too red, orange or dark for the room
- Failing to incorporate enough task lighting for key work zones like countertops
- Selecting materials or finishes that require extensive maintenance
- Sacrificing essential storage or counter space to prioritize only aesthetics
- Purchasing lower quality pieces just because they are trendy or farmhouse styled
- Skipping small details like soft window treatments, plant accents, textiles etc that complete the look
- Making the space feel overly cluttered or busy rather than calm and inviting
The most successful farmhouse kitchens strike the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern functionality. Focus on choosing high quality materials, displaying meaningful accessories, and designing an efficient, welcoming space. Don’t force individual elements just for style’s sake. Your kitchen should feel collected over time, not decorated all at once.
Questions to Ask Yourself When Designing a Farmhouse Kitchen
Embarking on a farmhouse kitchen renovation? Ask yourself the following questions to nail down details and make the best choices:
How will the space be used? Consider your cooking habits, storage needs and how you entertain to dictate layout and features. Optimize it for real life.
What is my overall design vision? Pull inspiration from kitchens you love. Choose a style direction and color palette that excites you.
What are my must-have materials? Decide what surface materials suit your lifestyle and bring you joy. Seek ones that gain character over time.
What farmhouse elements do I want to incorporate? Carefully choose which details feel authentic to you, like an apron sink, butcher block counters, or antique-style lighting. Avoid going overboard on trends.
How can I add character through architectural details? If possible, expose beams, ceiling joists, interior stone walls or anything that imparts age and craftsmanship.
What are my “nice to have” splurges? Determine your biggest investment piece like the island, sink, or primary lighting that makes an impact.
How will I display cherished items? Incorporate glass-front cabinets, open shelving, floating ledges to highlight beloved dishware and personal treasures.
What finish details should I customize? Carefully select hardware, faucets, drawer pulls, vents and switches since these finishes have a big effect.
How much storage and workspace is truly needed? Evaluate how you currently use your kitchen. Don’t sacrifice utility just for pretty design.
What little touches make it mine? Those handpicked accessories, linens, plants, artisan pottery etc. Share your unique story.
Inspiring Farmhouse Kitchens from Instagram
For more farmhouse kitchen inspiration, here are some of our favorite looks sourced right from Instagram. These spaces showcase creative details worth emulating:
@mountainmodernlife
- White cabinetry with visible hardware provides crisp contrast to wood walls and beams
- Stainless farmhouse sink, woven lampshade and ceramic accessories reinforce the look
- Open shelving displays a carefully curated collection of crocks and ceramics
- Herringbone brick backsplash and flooring add pleasing texture
@thefarmhouseproject
- Buttery yellow lower cabinets allow charming white uppers to pop
- Custom range hood with brass accents makes a stylish focal point
- Floating wooden utensil rack and open shelves provide handy storage
- Multicolor tile floor reinforces the collected over time aesthetic
@cottagefarmhousestyle
- Exposed ceiling beams, stone backsplash and distressed cabinet finish look authentically vintage
- Wrought iron hardware, sconces and chandelier emphasize the handcrafted charm
- Built-in hutch fitted with glass doors provides charming display space
- Cozy textiles like the window treatments enhance the welcoming vibe
@heartwood_home
- Bold black island, brass accents and pendant lighting give this kitchen modern edge
- White shaker cabinets keep the look light and bright
- Subway tile backsplash provides clean contrast in a soft hue
- Open shelves with black brackets continue the smart black and white palette
@oldbrandnew
- Vertical wood paneling on the range wall adds rustic architectural interest
- Coordinating wood countertops, tabletop and cutting boards tie the look together
- Primarily white palette allows charming vintage details to stand out
- Glass-front cabinets showcase beautiful dishware
FAQ About Designing Farmhouse Kitchens
What size should a farmhouse kitchen island be?
The ideal farmhouse kitchen island size is 36-42 inches tall and 48-60 inches long. This provides ample seating and prep space without dominating the room. Allow a minimum clearance of 42 inches around all sides.
What backsplash tiles work best in a farmhouse kitchen?
Subway tile, brick, mosaic, penny tile, and handmade ceramic tile all complement the farmhouse aesthetic. Neutrals and earth tones help achieve a vintage look.
What color cabinets work with farmhouse kitchens?
White, light gray, navy, sage green, butter yellow and black are ideal farmhouse cabinet colors. Soft neutrals allow the textures and materials to stand out.
What type of flooring suits a farmhouse kitchen?
Wood plank flooring, wide-plank pine boards, painted concrete floors, and ceramic or stone tile work well. Look for materials with visible texture and signs of wear.
What kind of lighting should you use in a farmhouse kitchen?
Pendant lights, wrought iron fixtures, industrial barn lights, reclaimed wood chandeliers, and Edison bulbs all complement the vintage farmhouse aesthetic. Layer with task lighting.
Should a farmhouse kitchen have an accent wall?
Accent walls using materials like reclaimed wood, brick, or stone can reinforce the rustic farmhouse style. Limit accent walls to one focal area so the look remains cohesive.
What window treatments work best for farmhouse kitchens?
Cafe curtains, roman shades, wood blinds and linen curtains with natural textures are ideal window dressing. Tie backs allow light to filter through.
How do you decorate a large empty wall in a farmhouse kitchen?
Some great options include:
- Open shelving or glass-front cabinets to display dishware
- A long wooden bench or table under a large window
- Frame a collection of botanical prints, signage or art
- Add architectural interest like shiplap planks or antiqued tin
- Create a vertical gallery of framed vintage photographs
