Style is a revolving door. What was once old is revived, refreshed and made new again. Bell bottoms and skinny jeans, platform shoes, midi skirts, leggings, and shoulder pads were the “old” styles of the 1960’s, 70’s, and 80’s. But now, in 2018, these styles are “new” once again—worn by our children and grandchildren, albeit with a fresh take.
That same revolving door can be seen in home decor—what was once “old” has become “new.” Bold colors, patterns, and shag rugs are a retro style with roots in the 60’s and 70’s. Whereas the vintage look of mid-century modern furniture is a throwback to the 1950’s. Now we are seeing this same trend repeated in farmhouse design.
Farmhouse design has never gone away, but it has definitely evolved over the years. Perhaps you remember a few of its variations: Country, French Country, Shabby Chic, and Vintage Flea Market. The principle behind farmhouse design—making the new old and the old new—is in all of those styles. While all have had their day in the spotlight, farmhouse design is different. It’s not country kitsch—it’s classic and timeless.
One of the hottest home decorating shows on television has made its mark specializing in this style. By using shiplap, large metal fixtures, and soft natural fabrics, the hosts have made farmhouse design one of the most sought after in years. It’s new, made to look old, or its repurposed—and it reminds me of home.
I grew up in a 100-year old farm house. It is a house rich in history. To me, however, it was always just home. But what I viewed as old, chipped, and common, others now see as inviting, homey, and alluring.
I must admit there were warm feeling of nostalgia in the mismatched plates handed down through generations.
This is why farmhouse style is so appealing. It is a nod to an earlier, simpler time. A time before smartphones and constant distractions. A time when families ate dinner together around a large table, when dishes were washed in a large sink, when weathered-white was not a paint color but a fact of life.
Rustic, natural elements—wood, fieldstone, or hand-forged metal—help to make this design warm, cozy, and relaxing, full of charm and character. It’s a style deeply rooted in our desire not just to be comfortable in a house, but to feel like we have come home.
It’s ironic that we are drawn to the familiar, and we love our “new” to look “old.” But it’s a style that is here and, I am happy to say, it’s here to stay.
If welcoming and comfortable with an urban farmhouse feel reminds you of “Home” stay tuned as Neal Communities reveals Canoe Creek and PureStyle’s interpretation of Farmhouse Design.