Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost. I appreciate your support! – Martina
This post is all about farmhouse kitchen decor ideas!
Are you looking for decor ideas that can truly make your kitchen feel like the heart of your home? If the answer is yes, then rustic kitchen decor is exactly what you need!
This decor style is the perfect way to introduce a more rustic, old-fashioned touch into your space while keeping it practical and cozy. Whether you’re interested in a full makeover or simply want to refresh your kitchen, farmhouse kitchen decor has the potential to create a charming space where you can express your passion for interior design.
In this post, I have collected 26 farmhouse kitchen decor ideas. We’ll look at 5 main categories, starting with the must-have essentials to the finishing touches that can make a difference. All you need to follow along and replicate these ideas in your home is some creativity and a good eye for detail!
Table of Contents
- The Farmhouse Essentials
- The Importance of Lighting
- Farmhouse Kitchen Accessories
- The Right Color Palette
- Furniture & Storage Options
Farmhouse Kitchen Decor Essentials: Setting the Foundation
Shop Farmhouse Kitchen Essentials
When designing interior decor in a specific style, I always like to start with the basics. Especially if we are talking about a full kitchen makeover, I find it much easier to have my key elements set the tone for the rest of the decor.
For farmhouse kitchen decor, you’ll need some must-haves that can help you define the rustic, simple, and effortlessly elegant framework for your design.
1. Farmhouse Sink
One of the best pieces to invest in when it comes to farmhouse kitchen decor is a farmhouse sink. Also known as an apron-front sink, this is a deep, wide sink that is perfect if you always find yourself with too many dirty dishes or produce to wash.
For a true farmhouse vibe, opt for a white porcelain or fireclay sink. However, this piece can also be used for a more modern design. Simply choose stainless steel or copper for a unique statement piece.
2. Shaker Cabinets
If you like farmhouse kitchen decor, I’m sure you are already familiar with shaker-style cabinets. They are classic, simple, and functional – everything farmhouse interiors are all about!
Their clean lines, recessed panel doors, and understated hardware are perfect for an understated but elegant kitchen where quality speaks for itself.
Customizing your shaker cabinets in neutral colors can also help you open up the kitchen, making the area feel brighter and more airy. Reclaimed wood and darker tones can instead help you add rustic charm and texture, making the space more visually interesting.
3. Butcher Block Countertops
The keyword when it comes to farmhouse kitchen decor is functionality. And nothing is more practical than butcher block countertops. They are the perfect way to add warmth and texture to your decor, truly leaning into the old-fashioned charm that is so characteristic of this design style.
I also love that they’re easy to maintain—just give them a good oiling now and then to keep them looking fresh.
Bonus tip: if you love the look but don’t need new countertops, simply invest in an oversized butcher cutting board. My mother invested in one and her counters have never looked better!
4. Open Shelving
If you are great at keeping your kitchen organized and love to have anything you need readily available, then open shelves are the farmhouse kitchen decor you need.
They keep the overall design casual and can be the perfect place to show off your favorite dishes, glassware, or even a few indoor plants and herbs.
My personal favorites are wooden shelves with steel brackets. So rustic and chic!
5. Exposed Beams
If you have been blessed with exposed beams in your space, then you have hit the farmhouse kitchen decor jackpot. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Don’t be afraid to play with paint to make sure the beams are a statement piece in your kitchen while still matching the overall palette of your design.
However, no need to despair if you don’t have beams in your kitchen. Faux beams made from reclaimed wood or high-quality composites can give you that rustic look on a fraction of the budget and effort.
Farmhouse Kitchen Decor: Lighting Solutions
Shop Farmhouse Lighting
The right lighting can completely transform your kitchen, helping you to create a cozy, inviting space where everyone wants to gather and cooking no longer feels like a chore.
Farmhouse kitchen decor embraces warm lighting and presents plenty of options for you to upgrade your space with cost-friendly pieces.
1. Pendant Lights
I like to think of pendant lights as jewelry. They are small pieces that always stand out, making your space more practical (no one likes a dingy kitchen) and stylish at the same time.
For farmhouse kitchen decor, look for pendants with a bit of industrial or vintage flair. I love metal shades, exposed bulbs, or glass domes. You can also visit your local antique market to score some authentic gems!
2. Under-Cabinet Lighting
A more modern element, under-cabinet lighting can also be included in your farmhouse kitchen decor if you want to move away from a vintage approach.
LED strips under your cabinets can be practical and help you set the mood if your kitchen also contains a dining area.
Be mindful of choosing warm white lights for your farmhouse kitchen. They’ll give you that cozy glow that’s perfect for evening cooking or family dinners, especially if you like to complement your lighting with candles.
3. Wall Sconces
If you have been reading the blog for some time, you know I love a good set of wall sconces! I find them so stylish and elegant.
They’re perfect for illuminating specific areas like over the sink or next to open shelves. They can also shine a spotlight on specific pieces of wall decor like a vintage floral print or a rustic sign.
I recommend looking for barn lights or lantern-style sconces to fully adhere to the farmhouse style. Gold sconces can also add a more formal and luxurious touch to your farmhouse kitchen decor.
4. Chandeliers
Farmhouse interiors have some of the most beautiful chandeliers. A rustic, large chandelier can be the perfect statement piece in your farmhouse kitchen decor.
Make sure to go for designs that incorporate wood, wrought iron, or distressed finishes for that perfect blend of rough and elegant.
If your kitchen has a breakfast nook or dining area, consider placing the chandelier above your table to help visually separate that area from the rest of the kitchen. You’ll also want to spend some time making sure your chandelier is the right size for your space—it should complement it, not overpower it.
5. Edison Bulbs
Edison bulbs are a staple of farmhouse kitchen decor and for good reasons!
Their warm glow and vintage-style filaments add a nostalgic touch that fits right into the retro feel of this design style. You can use them in your pendants, sconces, or even on their own as simple, bare bulb fixtures.
Bonus tip: invest in dimmable Edison bulbs to easily switch between bright lighting and softer, more ambient lighting. Especially when used on their own, they may be a bit too bright for your taste.
Farmhouse Kitchen Decor Accessories: The Finishing Touches
Shop Farmhouse Accessories
Nothing brings me more joy than accessorizing a room. I always find it fun to search for the perfect finishing touches to tie together my decor and give the room a more cohesive feel. This is where your attention to detail comes into play.
When it comes to farmhouse kitchen decor, the right accessories can make the space feel less thematic and more unique. These little details add warmth, character, and that lived-in charm that only your taste can bring into your farmhouse kitchen.
1. Vintage Signs and Wall Art
For a quick way to complete your farmhouse kitchen decor, opt for vintage signs and rustic wall art.
You’ll want to look for pieces with farm-related themes, old advertisements, or simple sayings that bring you joy. The goal is to introduce visuals that can help you create a cozy atmosphere.
If you are working with a very large empty wall in your farmhouse kitchen, consider creating a gallery wall with a mix of signs, framed prints, and other decor items like metal stars or wooden plaques. This composition can be upgraded over time and it will feel like your personal creation!
2. Mason Jars & Ceramic Containers
Mason jars and ceramic containers are the ultimate farmhouse kitchen decor accessory—versatile, charming, and rustic.
You can use them for everything from storage solutions and vases to dry food containers and self-standing decor. You can even paint them or distress them if you love a DIY project.
3. Rustic Baskets and Bins
Farmhouse kitchen decor looks most authentic when it’s used to support a well-lived-in kitchen that sees plenty of cooking.
Pieces like woven baskets, wire bins, and wooden crates are perfect for adding both storage and texture to your kitchen, leaning into the more practical aspect of farmhouse kitchen decor.
Use them to store fruits and veggies, making them part of your decor. They can also serve as a great way to display your collection of cutting boards or kitchen towels. The possibilities of combining design and functionality are truly endless!
4. Wooden Cutting Boards
If there is only one piece you can invest in as you start your farmhouse kitchen decor journey, then look no further than a wooden cutting board.
Wooding cutting boards are not only practical, but they also make for beautiful decor when displayed against your backsplash or on open shelves. You can collect a few in different shapes, sizes, and textures for an effortlessly curated look.
5. Farmhouse Textiles
Another great set of farmhouse kitchen decor accessories is textiles. From tea towels and table runners to curtains and table cloths, soft linens are a must-have to add a cozy layer to space and tie together your decor.
My favorite farmhouse prints include gingham, stripes, and florals in neutral tones or soft pastels.
Embroidered or lace pieces are also a wonderful option if you don’t mind the higher maintenance requirements when it comes to washing them!
Farmhouse Kitchen Decor: Choosing the Right Palette
Shop Your Farmhouse Colors
The colors and finishes you choose for your farmhouse kitchen decor play a big role in the overall vibe of your space.
While you can include high-contrast pieces and accent colors, try to keep the design feeling warm and inviting, using a palette of soft, muted colors and natural materials.
1. Neutral Colors
Neutral colors are the backbone of good farmhouse kitchen decor. Ultimately, this design style focuses on simplicity, and this holds even for the colors it uses, which are often muted, letting the high-quality materials speak for themselves.
Whites, creams, beiges, and soft grays keep the space feeling light and airy while providing the perfect backdrop for all your accent pieces and farmhouse decor.
Of course, you can layer different shades of the same color to add depth and interest without making the space feel too busy. A neutral palette doesn’t need to be boring!
2. Warm Wood Tones
There is no farmhouse kitchen decor without wood. Whether it’s through cabinetry, flooring, or decor, warm wood tones are essential to bring in that cozy, natural feel that makes this style so special and nostalgic.
Reclaimed wood beams, a butcher block countertop, or a wooden range hood are all great options to include wood in your farmhouse kitchen decor if you’re investing in a kitchen makeover. Smaller pieces like cutting boards, boxes, and chairs are more budget-friendly but equally charming.
Don’t forget that mixing wood tones can add even more depth and character to your kitchen. As usual, don’t be afraid to combine light and dark woods for a more dynamic look.
3. Matte Finishes
Matte finishes are ideal for farmhouse kitchen decor because they feel more natural and less polished than glossy surfaces. Think for instance of how modern a lacquered piece can feel or how antiqued mirrors are not as shiny as brand new ones.
For your kitchen, give priority to matte black hardware, chalky paint finishes, and distressed wood. This is a small detail that can make a great impact on how authentic your decor feels.
4. Add a Pop of Color with Blues and Greens
As I mentioned earlier in the section, accent colors can belong to a neutral palette and you shouldn’t forget about them when it comes to your farmhouse kitchen decor.
For instance, soft blues and greens are perfect for a farmhouse kitchen. They add a subtle pop without overwhelming the space.
Personally, I love to use vintage dinnerware with floral, colorful designs and display these pieces to introduce color in my kitchen.
5. Distressed Finishes
Distressed finishes are another way to add that lived-in, vintage look that’s so essential to farmhouse kitchen decor.
From painted cabinets with a bit of wear to furniture with a slightly aged patina, these finishes help your pieces tell a story and make your space feel like it’s been lovingly used for generations.
Bonus tip: instead of investing in expensive new, distressed pieces, make it a DIY weekend project to give your pieces a weathered look. You can achieve this by lightly sanding painted surfaces, using a distressing tool, or adding a glaze.
Farmhouse Kitchen Decor: Furniture & Storage
Shop Farmhouse Furniture
Last but not least: what are the pieces of furniture your farmhouse kitchen decor should include? Here are some of the more iconic pieces you can invest in for your farmhouse kitchen.
1. Farmhouse Table
Farmhouse kitchen decor just isn’t complete without a classic farmhouse table.
You should look for a sturdy, wooden table with a simple design; bonus points if you can find a piece with a distressed or weathered finish. You can pair your table with mismatched chairs or classic wooden benches for a casual design that looks welcoming and timeless.
If you are working with a small budget, consider using a farmhouse table as a more affordable kitchen island. The piece will double as a dining area and precious counter space!
2. Kitchen Island
A kitchen island can serve as the centerpiece of your farmhouse kitchen decor, providing additional workspace, storage, and seating.
Look for islands made from high-quality, resistant materials like wood or metal, and consider adding features like open shelving or towel racks. A basic piece can easily be upgraded by adding storage options.
If your budget allows it, consider choosing a butcher block or stone countertop for your island for the ultimate farmhouse statement piece to serve as a focal point for your kitchen.
3. Bar Stools
If you have invested in a kitchen island, make sure to complete the look with a set of beautiful bar stools. They can add seating options to your space, making your kitchen not only a place for cooking but also conviviality.
Choose stools with rustic elements like metal frames, wooden seats, or upholstered cushions in neutral or plaid patterns.
If you’re feeling bold you can also mix and match different styles and finishes that still complement your overall farmhouse kitchen decor. Just make sure the result remains cohesive enough!
4. Storage Solutions
Farmhouse kitchen decor embraces functionality in a very timeless way, often hiding storage solutions across the entire space to maximize how practical the room can be.
Opt for a combination of open shelving, glass-front cabinets, and vintage-inspired pantry units to keep your kitchen organized and accessible.
Visible storage of pots, pans, and cutting boards via hooks or a pegboard is also a staple of farmhouse kitchen decor. These solutions make your items easy to grab and put your beautiful cookware on display.
5. Breakfast Nook
If space allows, consider adding a cozy breakfast nook to your kitchen.
You can include in your farmhouse kitchen decor a built-in bench with a small table and comfy cushions to create a charming spot for morning coffee and casual family meals.
To make this idea more budget-friendly, use vintage or repurposed furniture for your nook, and add a mix of throw pillows in farmhouse-inspired patterns for added comfort.
6. Rolling Cart
If you do not have space for a kitchen island and like your storage options to be mobile, consider investing in a rolling cart.
There are plenty of budget-friendly options in materials like metal or wood that can be a perfect match for your farmhouse kitchen decor.
This is also a great temporary solution if you are not ready yet to commit to a specific layout for your farmhouse kitchen.
To Conclude: How To Create The Perfect Farmhouse Kitchen Decor
This post showed you 26 ideas for charming farmhouse kitchen decor!
From those key essentials like farmhouse sinks and shaker cabinets to little details like mason jars and vintage signs, there’s so much you can do to infuse your space with rustic charm. Ultimately, when choosing farmhouse kitchen decor, the goal is to create a space that’s not just beautiful, but also warm, inviting, and full of character.
Whether you’re adding a few new accessories or planning a full kitchen renovation, transform your space in the heart of your home with the perfect farmhouse kitchen decor! Let me know in the comments what ideas you end up recreating!
