Is Farmhouse Design Still Trendy? Design Experts Give Their Thoughts
Interior design trends come and go—two-toned kitchen cabinets? As of now, out. Incorporating natural elements? As always, in. But, there's one decorating movement that’s ridden the trend wave for years (and years) now, and we want an answer to its ultimate trendiness: farmhouse design.
After a decade of shiplap walls and barn doors saturating the interior design world, the question remains: is farmhouse still in style? Or, should you set down the distressed wood and try another trend? We asked two design experts for their thoughts.
Meet the Expert
Ami McKay is the president and principal designer of Vancouver-based PURE Design: Interior Design, Build, & Shoppe.
Jamie Young is the founder of Jamie Young Co.
What Is Farmhouse Design, Exactly?
First things first: how can you recognize farmhouse design? According to McKay, farmhouse style can include a variety of features, including large doors, vaulted ceilings, and reclaimed materials, such as old wood beams and boards. Other materials often used include copper, cedar shingles, stone, wainscotting, and wallpaper.
A farmhouse feel can be incorporated into any room, from a living room with an oversized fireplace to a petite powder bath with reclaimed wood walls. Most farmhouse designs are dominated by a melange of neutral hues, like whites and creams.
“I would consider farmhouse a style that is meant to convey a warm and inviting atmosphere,” says Young.
When Did Farmhouse Design Take Off?
There’s nothing new about the style. In fact, its roots are very, very old—think colonial era 1700s.
“Similar to how most trends begin, the style originated just as a way of life,” Young says. “It was first popularized in rural settings, by necessity.”
So farmhouses have been around forever, according to McKay, conjuring up feelings of the country and wide open spaces. Imagine big porches, simple living, rustic architecture, and natural materials.
In comes contemporary farmhouse design, which quickly rose to popularity in the last decade. McKay pinpoints the style's explosion to when interior designers started creating homes in what they coined “modern farmhouse style,” which were then featured in magazines and on home renovating shows.
Why Is Farmhouse So Popular?
No one can deny the charm of farmhouse design. It creates a feeling of warmth and nods to an appreciation of the simple life—just without the need to milk any cows.
“Its warm and welcoming aesthetic is desirable for homeowners who are looking for a comforting space in the fast-paced world we’re living in,” Young says.
Its versatility is appealing, too. Farmhouse elements can be incorporated into various other design styles (like organic, industry, or even luxe), adding a layer of personalization and flexibility.
“I think this is ultimately what has made it appeal to homeowners from all walks of life and allows the look to evolve when new trends become more prevalent,” says Young.
The Verdict: Is Farmhouse Design Still Trendy?
The answer: yes and no. If you don’t use farmhouse design in moderation or mix it with other styles, Young says, it can be overdone. Certain elements have seen their (extended) time in the spotlight, making them feel a bit dated.
“I think shiplap and farmhouse doors had their moment and are a bit overused now,” Young says.
McKay agrees, especially in the case of the modern farmhouse style.
“It’s a beautiful style, but we need to use more originality and personality,” McKay says. “Don’t get me wrong, there are ways to do it well—like adding depth, patterns, and character.”
How to Design a Modern Farmhouse Home
The first step? McKay suggests mixing old elements with new ones. Try placing beautiful antiques adjacent to a modern sofa or surround an old farmhouse table with contemporary chairs.
Ultimately, elements of farmhouse design have become passé. Its versatility is a main factor as to why it's so popular though. The style as a whole has been around for centuries, and perhaps it'll feel just as warm and welcoming a few hundred years from now too.
As with all interior design, though, what matters most is that you love it and that the style makes your house feel like a home.
Read Next: Is Gray On Its Way Out? Designers Tell Us Their Opinions
Read the original article on The Spruce.
