What is a Farmhouse: Find Your Ultimate Relaxation Destination

As far as status symbols go, a farmhouse is definitely one that most people desire – be it India or the world. We’ve all grown up with dreams of owning a beautiful farmhouse away from the hustle and bustle of the city – a private retreat to rediscover one’s peace of mind and rejuvenate the senses. But wait – what is a farmhouse? 

If you know the answer to that question thoroughly, then this guide might not be for you. But even you might be surprised at the distinct features and facilities that a farmhouse offers that makes it stand out from other residential housing options. After all, the definition of a farmhouse might not be difficult to decipher, but it is what it encompasses as a whole is where one can learn a lot. 

If you are looking to find your ultimate relaxation destination, sure, a farmhouse is the answer. But, again, what is a farmhouse? Time to explain!

Deciphering the Farmhouse: What is It?

The idea of a farmhouse is very simple: it is a combination of a farm and a house. That means a farmhouse is a type of luxury accommodation that is often located in tranquil, idyllic, and lush rural settings where one can experience the countryside life and take a break from the chaos of urban areas. In India, for example, many people living in the bustling Mumbai city are increasingly considering investment in private farmhouses away from the MMR – a second home, if you like! 

Typically, a farmhouse has a simple and rustic design. That means you are likely to encounter many farmhouses with features such as wooden beams, stone walls, fireplaces, and porches. Some farmhouses are even centuries old and have a rich history and charm. Others maybe newly built or renovated to provide modern comforts and amenities. All in all, farmhouses can vary in size and style, from small cottages to large mansions, and from traditional to contemporary.

Additionally, a farmhouse will also have vast expanses of agricultural and pastoral land, as well as sheds and stable for livestock. Many even have ranches and barns for horses and other exotic animals! Others have extensive organic farms and vineyards where home owners can grow their own food and products. How’s that for a life rooted to nature?

Defining Features of a Farmhouse

While movies and the description above will provide you with a clear idea of what is a farmhouse, there are some small details that many authentic farmhouses have. If you are looking to purchase or build one, do look out for the likes of:

• Incorporating natural elements: Farmhouse style embraces the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, metal and cotton. These materials bring warmth and texture to your space often showcasing a weathered or aged appearance that adds character. You can incorporate these materials into your furniture, flooring, walls or even as accessories.

• Embracing earthy tones: Farmhouse style relies on a calming and soothing atmosphere achieved through a neutral colour palette. Think of whites, creams, beiges, greys and browns as the colours for your farmhouse. To add a touch of vibrancy to the space, consider incorporating pops of colour with accents like pillows, rugs or artwork.

• Showcasing vintage or antique pieces: Farmhouse style celebrates the beauty of eras and the stories behind each object. To infuse interest and charm into your farmhouse aesthetic, look for vintage or antique pieces that have a history or tell a story. These could include items like a trunk with nostalgic value or sentimental family heirlooms acquired over generations.

• Incorporating shiplap or beadboard: A common feature in farmhouse style is the use of shiplap or beadboard on walls or ceilings. Shiplap refers to boards with grooves between them that create either horizontal or vertical patterns. Incorporating shiplap or beadboard adds texture and dimension to your space while also creating an illusion of spaciousness.

• Building barn doors: These are sliding doors with a rustic and industrial aesthetic. They're perfect, for optimising space and providing privacy in parts of your home like closets, bathrooms, pantries or even as room dividers.

• Open shelving: In farmhouse style design, open shelving takes precedence over enclosed cabinets in the kitchen and other areas of the house. It allows you to showcase your dishes, cookware, books or cherished collectibles while creating a spacious atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Peace, tranquillity, healthy living, rejuvenation, nature – what is there not to like about farmhouses? Given their exotic nature and leisurely offerings, farmhouses are rightly dreamed of by millions as their topmost choice for the ultimate home. And with cities becoming more and more congested and busy, many people in India are seriously looking at investing in farmhouses nearby. The resounding view is that these farmhouse residences are not just weekend escapes from urban homes – but potentially permanent homes for many who want to completely embrace sustainable living in the future.