When we experience that first snowfall of the season, and our homes are blanketed in layers of white, it’s only fitting that our interior spaces pay homage to the festive outdoors. Farmhouse decor is one of our favourite design styles for this reason, as it draws much of its inspiration from nature. It brings the outdoors in with natural elements like greenery and wood coupled with cozy textures and vintage finds. Here’s how to effortlessly bring the rustic, country-inspired aesthetic into your home this season for a joyful, character-filled atmosphere.
Add Plants and Greenery
Farmhouse decor relies on elements of nature to lend a cozy, rustic feel. During the holidays, channel the frosty outdoors by draping your staircase in a gorgeous faux garland, as lifestyle creator Natalie Ho did in this space to bring her front entrance to life. She sourced the greenery from HomeSense, along with the two charming miniature trees that liven up her entryway bench. The products, all of which cost less than $160, offer a luxurious look for less.
Find Rustic Elements
Rustic-looking pieces (be it a reclaimed wood bench or a woven wicker basket) also contribute to the natural aesthetic of cozy country style. For the festive season, this can be done subtly through natural materials like burlap or linen to bring more dimension and warmth to your space. The petite faux evergreen trees in this space benefit from a farmhouse feel as well thanks to their burlap-wrapped bases.
Source Vintage-Inspired Pieces
Farmhouse style also means embracing decor elements that carry a vintage vibe or natural patina. This could be through cherished holiday hand-me-downs like ornaments or by sourcing new pieces with a time-worn feel. We love how Natalie visited her nearest HomeSense to source these vintage-inspired brass cowbells for $16.99 each (one of our favourite 2023 holiday decor trends), which add so much character to her festive staircase and entryway.
Related: How to Mix Modern and Antique Furniture, According to a Leading Design Expert
Bring on the Plaid
Whether you gravitate toward a more contemporary country style or prefer a more classic rustic aesthetic, plaid and checkered fabrics can adapt to any farmhouse look. The traditional patterns give even the most neutral spaces a welcome hit of colour and character. For the holidays, source a pair of plaid toss cushions in festive hues to accessorize an entryway bench or living room sofa. Or introduce the pattern through elements like stockings, a tree skirt or even wrapping paper.
Introduce Cozy Textures
Layered textures are another fundamental element of this design style, which become all the more essential come winter, when no number of layers ever feels like quite enough to keep us warm. ’Tis the season to display your favourite chunky knit throw and seasonal toss cushions for an ultra-snug atmosphere. All you’ll be missing is a warm cup of hot cocoa.
Related: 10 Genius Tips for Holiday Entertaining on a Budget
Make It Sparkle
Finally, the holidays wouldn’t be the holidays without a dash of festive shimmer. And since rustic farmhouse decor is all about adopting an aesthetic with a lived-in feel, it’s the perfect canvas for introducing pops of colour. Don’t be afraid to go bold with oversized bows adorning a staircase or sparkly ornaments embellishing a tree to fully embrace all that holiday magic.
