Kitchen Style Inspiration: Rustic Farmhouse Kitchens

Written by Andrew Published Feb 20, 2025 Category The Kitchen Expert

Natural, characterful and homely – here’s how to get the rustic farmhouse look in your kitchen, whether you live in a country cottage or an urban terrace…

At Naked Kitchens we can build the bespoke kitchen of your dreams: just for you, for the look you love and the way you live. The only limit is your imagination, so our Kitchen Style Inspiration series is designed to get your creative juices flowing and spark some ideas. Next up, we visit the farm…

What is a rustic farmhouse kitchen?

Rustic farmhouse kitchens are inspired by the kitchens of historic British rural cottages, where practicality and durability were what mattered.

Not to be confused with the more refined English country house look, rustic farmhouse kitchens are defined by natural textures, aged finishes, and a sense of down-to-earth authenticity. Connected to nature and rooted in tradition, the style combines rugged natural materials, warmth and charm, and a sense of homeliness that makes it feel inviting and lived-in.

But while the traditional farmhouse kitchen is deeply nostalgic, a contemporary urban take might introduce cleaner lines, subtle contrasts, and a mix of old and new elements that keep the space feeling fresh and modern.

*Freestanding units, warm colours and plenty of character in the Houghton kitchen, a contemporary take on the farmhouse kitchen*

Rustic Farmhouse interior design: the key elements

1. Natural materials

Farmhouse kitchens are essentially woody spaces. Natural, grainy timber, reclaimed timber dining tables, and exposed beams bring that rustic warmth and character. Stone countertops, ceramic tiles, and natural fiber textiles all fit the look.

A farmhouse kitchen should have that lived-in, passed-down-the-generations look, so go for weathered wood, patinated metals, and vintage-inspired hardware – such as antique brass or wrought iron – for a sense of history.

2. Classic cabinetry

Shaker-style cabinets are the first port of call, either in exposed natural timber finishes or or perhaps painted in soft, muted tones like sage green, warm greys, or creamy whites.

*Classic Shaker cabinetry in muted colours, natural timber and glazed cabinets*

3. Muted colours (and greenery)

Generally a farmhouse kitchen will keep the colour palette warm and neutral, layering natural tones with subtle pops of colour through accessories or feature walls.

Bring in natural greenery, whether it’s fresh herbs on the windowsill, a potted plant or hanging dried flowers for a touch of countryside charm.

4. Open shelving

Exposed shelving or glass-fronted cabinets help with the relaxed, informal look, and are perfect for showing off your classic cookware and crockery.

*A gorgeous custom-made pantry cupboard in the Raynham kitchen*

5. Pantries and larders

There’s nothing homelier than a beautiful, custom-made pantry cupboard, bursting with ingredients and implements. It’s extremely practical, too. Go for a freestanding cabinet if you have the space.

6. Old-fashioned sinks

The iconic Belfast or Butler sink is a good farmy feature, often paired with a traditional-style tap in a rustic metal finish like aged brass or perhaps a matte black.

7. Warm and inviting lighting

Pendant lights with vintage-inspired designs, such as brass and glass lanterns – create a cozy, glowy feel. Wall sconces provide additional practical illumination and charm.

8. Soft textiles

Soft, handcrafted items, linen curtains, cotton runners or wool rugs to add warmth and cosiness.

9. Traditional details

Traditional elements like butcher block islands, free standing dressers and cupboards, and classic Agas and range cookers add authenticity. Finish the look with accessories such as ceramic canisters, glass jars, tankards, woven baskets, and fresh herbs in terracotta pots.

*An Aga oven is right in the Rustic Farmhouse sweet spot!*

Rustic farmhouse - with a contemporary urban twist

If you live in the city and want to bring in rustic elements without going the full farmhouse, or if you just want to give the rural aesthetic a slightly sleeker, more refined feel, think about incorporating modern elements:

Minimalist lines: Go for a streamlined layout with simple, uncluttered cabinetry, but retain natural textures and grainy timber finishes.
Contrasting materials: Pair warm woods with polished concrete, steel accents, or bold marble countertops to give your kitchen an industrial edge.
Dark accents: Introduce deep charcoal or matte black fixtures to create a striking contrast against lighter wood tones. (Naked Kitchens Black Core timber finish is perfect for this).
Mixed textures: Blend smooth, contemporary surfaces with rough-hewn beams or brick walls to balance rustic warmth with urban sophistication.

Whether you prefer a classic country farmhouse or a more contemporary take, a rustic farmhouse kitchen offers plenty of possibilities for warmth, charm, and individuality – and a kitchen built for life.