It’s been 23 years since my husband and I purchased our old farmhouse fixer-upper. What a privilege it has been to restore a home to its former glory. It’s been a lot of hard work too and we are still going, on the list is currently a new (old) back door, replacing the sump pump again, and continue working on the years-long bathroom remodel! Along the way, I have learned a few things. I am so excited to share with you my 5 Farmhouse Room Essentials!
When designing a home the most important element is to survey your family. What are their opinions? What do they want and need? How does your home need to function for you? I want my home to be a peaceful haven in a dark world, a sanctuary for my family. Their wishes are important to me, even if they sometimes get in the way of my creative pursuits.
5 Farmhouse Room Essentials
Natural Fibers
OK, my kids make fun of me for this one but I always, and I mean always check what fabric is made from. If there is more than 10% polyester then it’s a no-go for me! What you put in your home must be healthy. If the fabric is full of toxic chemicals it has no place in your home. I choose linen, wool, cotton, and hemp. Natural fibers can also include sheepskin, talk about cozy! Our sheepskin comes out in the Autumn and Winter months and then gets put away for the Spring and Summer. When you are planning out a room make sure you include different textures too.
Vintage
Something old, antique, handmade, vintage. Using vintage finds in your home adds history and interest to every room. (I am partial to a beautiful piece of blue and white china too!) It could be anything from carved wood furniture to a collection of ironstone plates. My friend has an antique typewriter in her living room that the children write stories on. When a person walks by that old typewriter they add a sentence to the story. Educational and beautiful! If you happen to be lucky enough to live in a historic home, why not try to research the history of the home? When we did this we found out a judge lived in our home and performed marriages in our very own living room!
Family Mementos
This could be family heirlooms like photographs, furniture, or books. My favorite piece of furniture in my living room is my grandmother’s hope chest from when she got married. It has been our coffee table for the past 32 years. I also try to display my children’s artwork throughout our home. Create an art wall just for that purpose. The kids will love this idea! Your home should tell your family’s story not be some copycat version of someone else’s home.
Homemade
Whether you are artistically inclined or not, a farmhouse calls out for homemade and handmade items. I love to sew, paint and do anything crafty so my 1903 farmhouse is filled with things I’ve made. However, I also find lovely handmade items at the thrift store. I have made it my ambition to save every handmade linen or quilt! Embroidered items from past generations are especially beautiful and can be purchased quite inexpensively. Lest I forget today’s artisans, I highly recommend shopping on Etsy, Instagram shops, Facebook, and local shop owners in your hometown!
Plants
Plants add so much to a home and they improve the air quality as well. Hands down my favorite farmhouse plant are the white geranium. In summer and spring, they head outside in the garden. In the fall and winter, they become houseplants that bloom all winter long. Some other easy house plants include ivy, peace lily, ferns, and African violets. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, why not fill your home with cut flower bouquets!
YOUR TURN…
What are your favorite farmhouse room essentials?
Blessings,
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This really answered my problem, thank you!
I am so thankful you found this article helpful Jason!