Farmhouse sink, apron sink, country sink—so many names for this modern farmhouse staple. You don't have to plow an alfalfa field to love farmhouse design, but you'll need more than a fitting sink to make this style work. Modern farmhouse design uses a combination of organic materials, neutral colors and traditional lines to conjure up images of a simple and self-sufficient time.
The great thing about farmhouse design is that it's equally comfortable in a family's suburban clapboard as in a single's Manhattan high-rise. In fact, Houzz's fourth annual Kitchen Trends Report shows that traditional farmhouse décor is a favorite among millennials, of all people.
So sit a spell while Moen provides design tips on how to revive or create a modern farmhouse interior–wherever you live.
Comfort is king
Farmhouse design isn't buttoned up. It's casual and not fussy; traditional and utilitarian, because “waste not" is a farm value. Moen's Belfield collection of kitchen and bath faucets features high arches and a lever handles that recall old-timey water pumps—a lovely reference to farm steads long ago.
Go natural
Wood beams, exposed brick and stone hearths are the rustic and natural touches that grab the eye in modern farmhouses. Hardwood floors are either low-gloss or distressed, inviting you to eat, play and fully live in the house. Farmhouse rooms are never reserved for company, rather they're created to make family feel special and visitors feel at home.
Dark and light play together
Farmhouse design loves contrast, dark wood accents against light walls; bronze fixtures installed among white cabinets are still a kitchen favorite. Moen's Belfield faucets are available in oil-rubbed bronze, which gives neutral decor a design kick. The fixtures also come in shiny chrome and spot resist stainless.
Add color kicks to neutrals
Although traditional farmhouses rely on whites and neutrals for wall and cabinet colors, yellows, teals and lavenders energize open kitchens. Consider adding pops of color in backsplashes, window treatments and chair and stool cushions. Or, dare to be different by installing a farmhouse sink with a stainless apron.
Accessories from everywhere
Farmhouse is equal opportunity décor that embraces your grandmother's rocking chair as well as contemporary accessories and French country knickknacks. Match vintage tables with reclaimed or distressed flooring. Hang wrought iron pendants over a granite center island to combine matte and glossy finishes.
Copper hot spots
A little bit of copper adds a big splash to farmhouse kitchens. As copper ages, it oxidizes and changes color. What starts as a glowing copper range hood eventually becomes muted by a turquoise patina, giving it an appealing antique appearance. Moen's oil-rubbed bronze fixtures work well with copper, no matter its stage of evolution.
