From wooden beams to squishy sofas – why everyone’s obsessed with farmhouse style
Farmhouse style is about creating a cosy, inviting space full of warm, neutral colours. The key features of farmhouse decor are a neutral colour palette, exposed wood, and a blend of vintage and modern elements. The main goal of this style is to create a comfortable, calm space.
The best thing is, that a farmhouse look can be created in any home – you don’t need an actual farmhouse. Many elements of farmhouse style can be used throughout your home, but in this guide, we’re focusing on farmhouse living room ideas to suit any space.
10 dreamy farmhouse living room ideas
1. Neutral colour palettes
The first and easiest way to get the farmhouse look in your living room is to choose a neutral colour palette. This means opting for colours like white, cream, beige or grey alongside more earthy tones. Use these colours across the room including wall colour, furniture and rugs for a cohesive look.
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2. Make the most of natural wood
Natural and reclaimed wood is a big part of a farmhouse interior, it’s a great way to achieve that rustic charm. In a living room, this could be done using furniture like coffee tables, shelves or bookshelves.
When choosing furniture opt for lighter-coloured wood, like pine, oak or elm. You can also look for items with an organic shape that embraces the uniqueness of the wood by keeping imperfections visible.
A great example is this beautiful coffee table from Etsy. It’s a handmade item so each one is individual, embracing the wood's innate flaws. The top of the table will be smooth, but the edges and legs will have lots of character.
3. Embrace the daylight
Getting as much daylight into your space as possible will open up the room to make it feel more spacious. To do this, try not to put items of furniture in front of windows – you want the light to flow through. Also opt for light-coloured or sheer curtains, rather than dark curtains or blinds.
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4. Big squishy sofas
Farmhouse decor often features large, squishy sofas in light cream tones. However, a giant sofa might not be the best fit if you have a smaller space. Instead, you can achieve the same cosy look with a smaller sofa, complemented by oversized cushions and plenty of throws for a relaxed yet stylish feel.
This option from Dunelm brings a modern touch to your farmhouse decor while giving a vintage timeless feel. It’s available in a variety of colours and sizes that can suit any space.
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5. Fireplaces or log burners
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace or log burner, then you’re halfway there! There’s nothing cosier than reading a good book by the fire. But alas, not everyone can afford or has the space for a log burner, so we need to be creative!
A fireplace beam, whether or not you have a fire, adds plenty of warmth to your living room. If you have a wall where a fireplace has been filled in, you could place it there, or on an empty wall, it would make a great shelf.
This chunky wooden beam from B&Q has oodles of charm, and will bring warmth to any room, fireplace or not!
6. Large light-coloured rugs
A large light-coloured rug can bring interest to your living room. They work well over both wooden and carpeted and really bring a room together. For a farmhouse look opt for light colours and subtle patterns, so as not to overwhelm the space.
This Sarrah Sage rug from Ruggable embodies all of these traits. It’s soft, light in colour and available in a variety of sizes to suit any space.
7. Large leafy green plants
Big, leafy green plants will enhance your farmhouse living room even further. Floor plants are a lovely option if you have the space, while trailing plants hung up high can add height in a smaller room.
If you’re new to caring for larger plants, this palm from B&Q is a great choice. It’s easy to maintain and thrives even in shady spots. Its lush green leaves will bring a breath of fresh air to your living room.
8. Warm, cosy lighting
Lighting is key to creating a cosy atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It also offers the perfect opportunity to introduce vintage-inspired touches to your space.
This charming ceiling light, featuring a ribbed glass shade and a pewter-style finish will add character to your living room.
Don’t forget about lamps! Opt for materials like wood, stone, or metal to enhance the farmhouse feel.
This beautiful lamp is crafted from natural materials, with wooden branches forming its base. Paired with a light-coloured shade and a warm bulb, it will cast an inviting glow in your living room.
9. Farmhouse-style artwork
When choosing your artwork look for soft colours, like beige, light green, or cream. Ideal subjects include flowers, animals, countryside landscapes, or subtle abstract patterns.
This artwork is in keeping with the country farmhouse style and proves that you don’t need rolling countryside outside your door to feel the vibes inside your home.
A great example is this vintage botanical artwork from Etsy. It adds a touch of colour while keeping a back-to-nature feel. There are a few different designs available, so opt for your favourite or pick a few for a cohesive look across your home.
10. Wooden accessories
For the final touch, add accessories made from organic materials around your space to create interest. For example, if you have a log burner, keep your logs in a wicker basket next to the fire. If you don’t, use the wicker basket as a cushion or blanket storage.
Other ideal accessories include dried flowers, chunky candles, and clay pots or bowls. Choose pieces with a natural, weathered look to enhance the farmhouse look.
Farmhouse living room ideas everyone will adore
Getting the farmhouse decor right is easy by following a few simple steps. The key elements are embracing soft colours, opting for reclaimed wooden furniture, and looking out for big squishy sofas with lots of soft throws and cushions.
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Looking for more inspiration or other home decor ideas? Take a look at our modern living room ideas including everything from colour drenching to mid-century modern style.
