EDMOND EXECUTIVE
The Listing of the Week is an executive home on a big corner lot in Edmond
Sout her nor farmhouse style is certainly having a moment. Many homeowners crave a cozy retreat, particularly as the outside world feels increasingly harsh and polarized.
And the style, long a staple in rural areas, has become an aspirational look for urban homes as well, in part thanks to HGTV and shows such as “Fixer Upper” that have brought the aesthetic to a broader audience.
Some would say, though, that the overuse of the look has pushed it into kitsch territory.
For anyone who loves those cute sayings and can't imagine a kitchen wall without the stencil proclaiming “Live, Laugh, Love,” by all means, you do you. A home should be, first and foremost, a reflection of your own style.
But if you want to implement that cozy, rustic style in a subtler, more classic way, listen up.
Kim Leggett, of City Farmhouse in Franklin, Tennessee, author of “City Farmhouse Style,” says the key is to keep things simple, relaxed, natural and unfussy.
Here are her suggestions, taken from a phone interview and an email exchange, for creating a comfortable space with a farmhouse vibe—minus the cliches.
•Say no to massproduced pieces.
Part of the kits ch problem, Leg gett says, is that a lot of big- box retailers sell mass-produced items to capitalize on the farmhouse trend. But in reality, the style is best created with authentic pieces.
Instead of searching Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration, Leggett suggests turning to books and magazines from 10 to 20 years ago for a more authentic version of the a esthetic. Leggett likes Architectural Digest, Country Li vi ng a nd other shelter magazines, or books such as “New Farmhouse Style” by Terry John Woods.
Then shop local antique shops, flea markets and thrift stores to find items you love. There are also large annual antique shows, such as the Mar burger Farm Antique Show in Round Top, Texas, or the Nashville Show in Tennessee, that can yield great finds while doubling as a fun weekend getaway (though getting larger pieces home could be problematic, depending on where you live).
When choosing furniture, go with a minimalist approach, Leggett says.
• Keep it neutral.
“Most design mistakes are the result of color,” Leggett says. She suggests keepin gt he walls white. She likes Dune White from Benjamin Moore and Pure White from Sherwin-Williams, saying they work well in both large and small s paces and complement both white and gray upholstery.
Leggett prefers white sofas to keep things light and bright. Although she generally recommends antiques and one-of-a-kind items, this is one area where she says to buy new.
Warm up the neutral walls and furniture with colorful accessories, including pillows and area rugs.
“A rug is the best place to start if you want to incorporate some color,” Leggett says.
• Make textures and accessories the star.
“Accessories are the jewels of the space,” Leg get t says. But choose them carefully. They should be conversation pieces, rather than generic items purchased online.
“You have to get out and visit places where you can find these things ,” she adds. “The thrill of the hunt is part of the story, and these things will be more meaningful.”
But don't go overboard. Edit the accessories to create the look of a carefully curated space.
The not-going-over-board advice also applies to the current ship lap obsession. Leg get t says that although shiplap can add texture while still being fairly minimalist, it should be used sparingly unless it is in a period home. It's more difficult to change than wallpaper or paint, and when the trend fades, it could make contemporary homes look dated. If you want to incorporate some ship lap in your home without overdoing the look, she suggests using it in a kitchen or a bathroom.
When it comes to fabrics, look for natural textiles.