Rustic vs Farmhouse Style: What's the difference?

Rustic interior with stone walls, old white wooden door, wooden dining room set, and antique winged chair with antique stove in the background.

When it comes to home decor, rustic and farmhouse styles are both popular choices that offer a cozy, homey feel. But what is the difference between these two styles? In this article, we'll explore the characteristics of rustic and farmhouse styles, and help you decide which one is right for your home.

First, let's define each style. Rustic style is characterized by a rough, natural aesthetic that is inspired by the outdoors. It often includes elements such as wood, stone, and natural materials, and has a warm and welcoming feel. Rustic style can also include elements of vintage or antique decor, as well as a sense of history and nostalgia.

Rustic shelving with antiques scattered about, plants in wooden boxes, and antique looking picture frame on the brown wall

Farmhouse style, on the other hand, is characterized by a more modern and polished aesthetic that is inspired by the simple, practical design of traditional farmhouses. Farmhouse style often includes elements such as distressed wood, shiplap, and white or light-colored walls, and has a clean, orderly feel. Farmhouse style can also include rustic elements, such as reclaimed wood and vintage decor, but it tends to be more refined and cohesive than rustic style.

Farmhouse interior with black and white gallery wall, white and black metal chairs, a brow leather couch, and large plants.

One key difference between rustic and farmhouse styles is the overall aesthetic. Rustic style is more rough and natural, while farmhouse style is more polished and refined. This can be seen in the choice of materials, color palette, and decor. Rustic style often incorporates natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather, and has a warm and cozy feel. Farmhouse style, on the other hand, tends to use more refined materials such as shiplap and white-painted wood, and has a clean and orderly feel.

Farmhouse dining room with a large wooden dining table, leather chairs, and plants throughout the room.

Another difference between the two styles is the focus on vintage and antique decor. Rustic style often incorporates vintage and antique elements, such as vintage furniture and antiques, to create a sense of history and nostalgia. Farmhouse style, on the other hand, tends to be more modern and focused on practicality, and may not incorporate as many vintage and antique elements.

Rustic living room with antique vases and pottery, a white fabric couch, wooden stools, and a rustic column.

One aspect that both styles share is a focus on functionality and practicality. Both rustic and farmhouse styles prioritize practicality and simplicity, and often incorporate functional elements such as open shelving, farmhouse sinks, and practical furniture. However, rustic style tends to be more laid back and relaxed, while farmhouse style is more orderly and polished.

Farmhouse living and dining rooms, with large black metal chandeliers, leather chairs, black wooden chairs, and shiplap walls

When it comes to color palette, rustic style tends to use more warm and earthy tones, such as brown, red, and orange, while farmhouse style tends to use more neutral and light colors, such as white, beige, and grey. However, both styles can incorporate pops of color to add personality and flair.

Rustic seating area, with a wooden pallet bench, black hooks on the wall with a plant hanging, and antique lights on the wall

In summary, rustic and farmhouse styles are both popular choices that offer a cozy and welcoming feel. The main difference between the two styles is the overall aesthetic, with rustic style being more rough and natural, and farmhouse style being more polished and refined. Both styles prioritize functionality and practicality, but rustic style tends to be more laid back and relaxed, while farmhouse style is more orderly and polished. When deciding which style is right for your home, consider the overall aesthetic you want to create, as well as your personal preferences and needs.