There is something special about a classic farmhouse kitchen; it’s charming, characterful and the epitome of cosiness. If you’re a fan of this style, here is how you can nail this rustic, inviting look at home…
Over the weekend, I grabbed a hot cuppa and got cosy on the sofa to watch the Duchess of Sussex’s new Netflix lifestyle series, With love, Meghan. And, it didn’t take long until my eyes were glued to the beautiful kitchen set of the Montecito estate where the show was filmed in California. Creamy white Shaker-style cabinetry, a statement stainless-steel range cooker, a timeless butler sink, and neutral glazed tiles – not to mention the chic Le Creuset crockery and all the rustic wood and brass accents.
So, if you, too, were swooning over the show’s set and plan to redo your kitchen soon, I’ve asked the experts for their top tips on recreating this charming look…
How to get the farmhouse look
“Traditional farmhouse kitchens are warm, inviting spaces with rustic, quintessential charm,” Rachel Davis, senior kitchen designer at Harvey Jones, tells me. So, where should you begin?
“We love designing these spaces for our clients using the Shaker-style cabinetry we’re known for and blending with traditional materials like wood and glass for that real country feel. Start with the golden triangle rule incorporating a traditional farmhouse sink, range cooker and integrated fridge-freezer,” says Rachel.
Shaker cabinets, butler sinks and country-style range cookers are a few must-haves for nailing the chic farmhouse look. And, if an island is on your wishlist, then a freestanding design, also known as a chef’s table, is the ideal choice for this aesthetic.
Storage
Storage is crucial in any kitchen, but especially so in a homely farmhouse design and if you are a keen cook or baker. “Use larders, breakfast cupboards and dressers for dried goods, baking ingredients, spices, bottles, packets and tins and you’ll never lose that elusive item again,” advises Josie Medved, design manager at Symphony Group Plc and Laura Ashley Fitted Kitchens.
“Plan where you install your storage so that it’s easy and ergonomic when it comes to putting things away then finding them again when you need them. Think plate rack cabinets, dressers with bi-fold doors and floor-to-ceiling cupboards alongside spice racks, door racks and cutlery drawers, all in oak. Use open shelving to display much-loved ceramics and glassware and create comfort with seat pads for dining chairs.”
A smaller storage update, an aged brass kitchen rail will add charm to your design while also allowing you to keep utensils on hand. Place yours on the splashback of your main cooking run or near the range cooker, like in Meghan’s farmhouse kitchen.
Colours and materials
Is it truly a farmhouse kitchen without warm wood accents? Whether we’re talking beams, worktops or accessories, it is one of the main materials in any rustic design. “When it comes to designing the perfect farmhouse kitchen, incorporating wood into the overall kitchen design introduces a natural element that transforms the kitchen into a relaxing, social haven,” says Sinead Trainor, kitchen category manager at LochAnna Kitchens.
Alongside wood, consider natural stone, exposed brick, and durable worksurfaces such as quartz and porcelain, and complement them with pops of brass, be it on your tap or hardware, which will add warmth and visual interest to your farmhouse kitchen.
As for the colour palette, think neutrals and earthy shades such as sage green and terracotta. “Elements like butcher block countertops, exposed beams, tongue and groove accents and brushed brass hardware really bring this style to life,” advises Rachel. “White or warm beige cabinetry keeps the room bright and inviting, making it the perfect backdrop for layered accessories like stacked chopping boards, potted herbs, wicker storage baskets and vintage dressers.
“Modernise this style by incorporating light quartz worktops and open shelving. Plus, brass hot water taps for the porcelain farmhouse sink are great for busy households.”
Styling your farmhouse kitchen
Once you’ve got your core design elements sorted, such as cabinetry, appliances, sink and tap, and wall and floor coverings, it’s time to decorate. “To style a neutral farmhouse kitchen, add plenty of vintage finds from antique stores, charity shops, boot sales, eBay and Freecycle sites online,” says Josie. “These could be anything from reclaimed timber storage crates to retro-style kitchen scales. Add pattern and colour with printed tea towels and oven gloves in your favourite designs and choose window dressings with wow factor.
“Perhaps introduce metallic pendants to be hung over an island to match an industrial-style metallic splashback and cooker hood,” she continues. “Handles and hinges will complete the cabinet’s farmhouse styling and you can choose from chrome or pewter for a classic look, stainless steel in matt or shine finishes, brushed nickel for a subtle effect, brass and bronze for a rich, rubbed tone, copper for warmth or oak or walnut for the natural grain of wood.”
Wood chopping boards, aged brass rails, various wicker baskets, organically shaped vases, a multitude of glass jars, jute place mats, and country-style egg baskets and oil decanters are just some accessories that will help you finish off your dream farmhouse kitchen look.
Happy decorating!
Featured image: Harvey Jones
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