Farmhouse meets modern
Country-inspired decor finds new foothold in a city kitchen
Modern farmhouse style continues to be a popular home design trend inspired by HGTV darlings Chip and Joanna Gaines of the television show Fixer Upper.
Best described as comfort without the clutter, it’s crisp, fresh and neutral palette is a perfect pairing of cosy farmhouse meets modern and minimal.
The hallmarks of this look include a mix of modern and vintage pieces set against a contrasting palette that includes light coloured walls and generous amounts of rustic wood and matte black touches. Add a splash of green in the form of plants and you’ve got the quintessential farmhouse modern look.
Kelly and Colin Smyth renovated their circa-1979 home in Oakville to create the kitchen of their dreams following the modern farmhouse design style.
Although still a work in progress — the backsplash has yet to be installed — the charm and character comes through.
The busy parents of three children and a dog named Marlowe wanted a space that fit their lifestyle. They love a rustic look and gravitated toward natural woods, earth tones and vintage pieces with a timeworn, industrial edge.
Colin, who handles all of the cooking, wanted a practical kitchen area that opened into a space that suits their bustling life style.
“We were definitely inspired by Fixer Upper,” says Colin, adding, Gaines had so many elements in her kitchen designs that he believed he he could replicate to suit his own style.
“Our kitchen is a family affair — it makes using the space and sharing it with friends so easy, and something really comfy and inviting,” he says.
Whether you live in an urban home filled with original details or a boxy new build, it’s easy to create a kitchen with a modern farmhouse look.
Simplicity is the key. To keep it fresh and modern, stick to a light colour palette and don’t overload the space with clutter. Here are some tips for getting the look. Incorporate open shelving Many farmhouse style kitchens incorporate a mix of open and closed shelving. Open shelving is a great way to keep everyday objects easy to reach. If custom shelving is not in the budget, create a DIY shelf. Purchase shelf brackets and top with wood boards cut to size at a lumber yard. Finish with stain or paint. Incorporate rustic elements such as reclaimed wood A large, rustic wooden table is a natural addition to a farmhouse style home. Keep an eye out at antique markets or online shopping sites such as Kijiji for rustic old tables. If your budget allows, have a dining table custom built using reclaimed wood. It is sure to be a treasured heirloom. Contrast dark and light A lighter, neutral palette allows darker objects to shine in a modern farmhouse space and helps create a more contemporary look. Paint window frames or doors black. Try incorporating black and white geometric tiles in flooring or as a graphic backsplash. To get the look without the commitment use accessories such as ceramic bowls, throw pillows or upholstered furniture. Include vintage and industrial accents Add some contrast and texture with accessories, furniture or lighting. Metal storage cabinets, lighting and counter stools with an industrial feel mixed with vintage finds add character and warmth. Mix in perfectly imperfect, handhewn pieces Rustic wood bowls and bread boards add warmth and character to a kitchen counter. Stack cutting boards against a wall or fill a large hand-carved bowl with fruit. Pick up handsome wood cutting and serving boards at HomeSense stores. Add a healthy dose of fresh greenery Pretty potted plants look right at home in a sunny window or hang an indoor garden of fresh herbs or plants to help keep the air inside fresh. Don’t forget the wall art We love this playful wallpaper, below, designed by Prince Edward County artist Kate Golding. Create a feature wall that makes adds a bit of fun to the room. Choose a faucet that fits the look This handsome faucet has a great vintage, industrial vibe.