13 Farmhouse Kitchen Ideas That Are Cozy and Inviting

Keep It Light

This farmhouse-inspired kitchen is actually located within a small, 18th-century rowhouse—but the overall feeling is bright and welcoming. Natural light flows in through abundant windows, and open storage keeps the overhead space from feeling too heavy.

“By loading up concealed storage in tall cabinets along one wall, we were able to maximize the windows, as well as highlight the range with a pair of flanking, unlacquered brass shelves,” says Miriam Dillon, associate at BarnesVanze Architects.

Use Reclaimed Materials

This kitchen is located within a farmhouse that was built in 1815, and the materials used within the space add to its history and sense of place. Both reclaimed and original wood give the kitchen warmth and make it feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

“We added reclaimed walnut flooring, exposed the original timber frame ceiling, and did cherry cabinets. The hood is copper and forged steel,” says Seth Ballard, architect and principal at Ballard & Mensua Architecture.

Mix Old and New Elements

The key to keeping farmhouse kitchen design feeling fresh is balancing both old and new design elements. If you use reclaimed wood, for example, try contrasting it with lighter, airier natural lighting. That’s the approach that Michelle Murphy, principal at MV Architects, took with this space.

“[It] creates a welcoming juxtaposition, paired with concrete countertops and a neutral color palette,” she says.

Splurge on Hardware

Design is in the details, and that’s especially true when it comes to farmhouse kitchens. Think of brass hardware, for instance, as the jewelry of the space, making it sparkle and stand out.

“Honed marble countertops, unlacquered brass fixtures, and a powder blue Lacanche range make [this] space warm and inviting,” adds Murphy.

Use Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone countertops have an organic feel that’s full of movement, which is perfect for a farmhouse kitchen. This design by Lindsell Interiors beautifully juxtaposes the dark soapstone with warm ivory cabinetry. The combination feels natural, elegant, and right at home in a farmhouse-style kitchen.

Add a Bit of Modern Sparkle

Farmhouse kitchens are known for feeling warm and welcoming, but a few clean, contemporary elements can keep the space in 2025, rather than 1925. Use classic farmhouse hallmarks, like reclaimed wood and an apron-front sink, but make sure to add a few more modern details too.

“A zinc-look range hood and zinc pendant lights add a bit of sparkle, while white uppers and bold peacock blue base cabinets keep the space feeling crisp, polished and anything but cookie-cutter,” says Valerie Helgeson, lead designer and founder of Design Directions.

Maximize a Small Space

You can still bring a farmhouse look to a smaller space—doing so can make it feel warmer and more lived in. Here, a few rustic elements create the perfect ambience.

“Beadboard walls, vintage details, and a leathered granite countertop bring cozy country character with a refined edge,” says Jacqueline Gonçalves, founder and principal of Moksa Studio. “A textured Roman shade softens the window and adds a warm, tailored touch.”

Utilize Classic Silhouettes

When you think of a farmhouse-style room, you might imagine a bright, sun-filled space with a garden full of fresh herbs just beyond. That’s exactly what this kitchen looks like—and, although it doesn’t use reclaimed wood like many other farmhouse kitchens do, it still feels connected to history via its specific design elements.

Classic pieces like wooden Windsor stools and enamel pendants give this space by Winslow Design a sense of timelessness. These elements would feel right at home in a centuries-old farmhouse—or one built in 2025.

Connect the Materials to the Setting

Locally mined marble and regional wood give a farmhouse kitchen a stronger connection to its surroundings.

“We wanted this walnut cabinetry to look as if it was site-built. We used tongue and groove, inset cabinets, and a thin stile with curved interior corners on the glass cabinet doors,” says interior designer Laura Medicus. “Texture, authentic materials, and small details are key!”

Bring the Outdoors In

Farmhouse style is all about creating a connection to the land and the seasons. Colors are rarely vibrant or bold. Instead, they echo the natural palette just beyond the windows.

“I wanted this new kitchen to feel both timeless and lived in,” says interior designer Pascale de Fouchier of the above project. “I used thyme cabinets to recall the lakeside outdoors and Mykonos quartzite to balance warmth and elegance.”

Draw Attention to the View

If you’re lucky enough to have lush views beyond your farmhouse kitchen windows, then drawing attention to these vistas will help your space feel more connected to the outdoors.

“Springing from the French provincial ideal of cooking dinner alongside singing birds and gentle breezes, this kitchen was designed with French casement windows that bring in fresh air,” says Joe Mackin, president and co-founder of Period Architecture.

Use Period-Appropriate Hardware

Vintage-inspired hardware, like bin or cup pulls, will add a farmhouse appeal to any kitchen.

“Handwritten labels lean into the look, as do the spring-loaded latches on the cupboard doors,” says interior designer Kate Maloney.

Add Intentional Color

Farmhouse kitchens usually stick to a natural palette, but occasionally, an unexpected hue can work—particularly if it feels warm and sunny. Here, interior designer Jessica Blue went with a cozy, elegant color for the cabinetry.

“It’s a refined yet relaxed space that nods to its rural roots while feeling layered, current, and sophisticated—with the added surprise of buttery, saturated cabinetry,” she says.