Looking for comfy, cozy charm that still feels refined and put together? Cue the Modern Farmhouse aesthetic! Typically defined by unfinished or natural wood pieces and light, neutral colours, this style is known for being warm, simple, inviting, and full of character – and of course, the feeling that you could be at Joanna Gaines’ house.
This trend has taken Pinterest and Instagram by storm, and is showing no signs of slowing down. Check out our tips below on how to incorporate this rustic look into your home.
FIND A GREAT TABLE One of the first things that comes to mind when talking about Modern Farmhouse style is a beautiful wooden farm table. A rustic table is the perfect starting point for the rest of the space – it’s a big statement piece that sets the tone for the rest of the room.
Take the time to find a table that’s the right size, shape, and colour for your dining room and work the accessories around it. Typically, you want to ensure about 36 inches of space surrounding each side of your dining room table to allow your guests to move around freely without feeling like they’re crawling on top of each other. From there, select a vintage-inspired area rug that the entire dining set fits on, and you’re well on your way.
MIX AND MATCH SEATING Adding charm around the table is easy – instead of opting for a matching set of chairs, select a few different styles with the same finish. Or, sub in a bench! The important thing is to ensure that mismatched pieces still feel like they belong together. The same colour of paint, stain, or fabric will ensure that the look feels intentional, rather than giving the impression that one of your chairs broke and this is a temporary fix.
USE NATURAL MATERIALS It’s all about natural wood! The raw, unfinished feel of wood adds a necessary roughness to balance out other polished finishes in the space; Modern Farmhouse is all about walking the line between city chic and country comfort. Pairing raw wood with clean white (or another neutral) on your walls creates a beautiful juxtaposition. If your budget allows, adding exposed wooden beams will really transform a space.
Add in other natural textures like rattan and fabrics in cozy neutrals for more interest and warmth. At the end of the day, you want your space to be inviting and feel lived-in – and lots of blankets and pillows do just that.
INCORPORATE MODERN METALS To keep your space from becoming too shabby chic, mix in different types of metal. Brass or matte gold hardware will add depth and character, while still feeling distinctly modern and stylish. An easy way to do this is to select industrial-inspired lighting, or opt for more modern pulls on your kitchen cabinets.
PRACTICE RESTRAINT It’s easy to go overboard, adding endless amounts of unique vintage finds and accessories into your space. But resist the urge to cover every surface! Modern Farmhouse style is all about being cozy without being cluttered – learn to do more with less and focus on placing accessories in locations where you can get the most bang for your buck.
