See, I understand. Something feels a little strange when you enter your bedroom. You’re browsing Pinterest at two in the morning, thinking, “I want that cozy farmhouse vibe,” perhaps because of the mismatched furniture or the walls that shout “builder beige.” You’re in the right place, buddy. I’ve done more bedroom makeovers than I’d like to admit, and I’m here to share the tricks that really work—no nonsense, no do-it-yourself projects that are too complicated or require a degree in woodworking.
Start With Your Color Palette (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)
Boring is not the same as neutral. I discovered that after painting my bedroom walls three times—yes, three times—before I finally got it right. Soft, subdued hues that evoke the feeling of waking up in a cottage in the country are ideal for farmhouse design.
For your foundation, stick to warm beiges, creams, whites, and soft grays. Farmhouse bedrooms are known for their spacious, serene ambiance, which is created by these hues. Believe me, if you get your base palette just right, everything else falls into place. You can always add pops of color later with accessories.
Want to add some depth? Try using different shades of the same color family. I painted one accent wall in my bedroom a shade darker than the others, and it instantly added dimension without breaking the farmhouse rule book.
Embrace Shiplap (But Don’t Go Overboard)
Everyone gets excited at this point. For good reason, shiplap walls are the epitome of farmhouse design; they offer amazing texture and personality. Here’s my opinion, though: it’s not necessary to have it on every wall.
One accent wall behind your bed? Chef’s kiss. All four walls? That’s a lot of horizontal lines staring at you while you’re trying to sleep.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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10 Inch Bamboo Wood King Size Bed F | 10 Inch Bamboo Wood King Size Bed Frame with Iron Leg Design, Metal Slat Support King Bed Frame No Box Spring Needed, Heavy Duty, Easy Assembly, Noise Free, Reinforced |
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Walker Edison Mid Century Mod | Walker Edison Mid Century Modern Grooved Handle Wood Nightstand Side Table Bedroom Storage Drawer and Shelf Bedside End Table, 2 Drawer, Caramel |
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FYI, if real shiplap isn’t in your budget (and let’s be honest, it rarely is), peel-and-stick wallpaper that mimics the look works surprisingly well. I used it in my guest bedroom, and visitors still run their hands along it thinking it’s real wood.
Invest in a Statement Bed Frame
Since your bed is the room’s main feature, why would you cut corners here? The whole room is instantly improved with a wrought iron headboard or a solid wood bed frame. I’m referring to large, substantial pieces that appear to have been handed down through the generations.
Look for these features:
- Distressed or weathered finishes that add character
- Simple, clean lines without too much ornate detail
- Natural wood tones or matte black metal
- Height and presence that commands attention
Ever noticed how farmhouse bedrooms always feel grounded and substantial? That’s because the furniture isn’t floating around like it’s in a modern minimalist showroom. It’s anchored, sturdy, and built to last.
Layer Your Bedding Like Your Life Depends On It
Folks, this is where the magic happens. Layers and texture are key components of farmhouse bedding. I’m referring to a vintage-inspired quilt, crisp white sheets, a chunky knit throw, and possibly some linen pillowcases.
Here’s my formula:
- Start with white or cream sheets (preferably linen or cotton)
- Add a textured duvet or comforter
- Layer a lightweight blanket or quilt on top
- Throw in 4-6 pillows in varying sizes
- Top it off with a cozy throw draped casually at the foot
The goal? Your bed should look so inviting that you want to cancel all your plans and just burrow in. That’s the farmhouse dream, right there.
Bring in Vintage or Antique Pieces
Furniture with a backstory is the epitome of farmhouse. For items with genuine character, check out estate sales, flea markets, or even your grandmother’s attic. My favorite blanket holder is an old wooden ladder that I bought for $10 at a yard sale.
You don’t need everything to be authentic antiques (that gets expensive fast), but having a few genuine vintage pieces mixed with newer items creates that collected-over-time look that farmhouse style is known for.
Add Exposed Wood Beams (Real or Faux)
Do you want to add some interest to your ceiling? A simple bedroom can be elevated to a unique space with the addition of exposed beams. The difference was astounding when I used lightweight materials to install faux beams in my bedroom.
| Beam Type | Cost Range | Installation Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Real Wood | $$$$ | Expert Level |
| Faux Wood | $$ | Moderate DIY |
| Decorative Molding | $ | Easy DIY |
Unless you’re doing a major renovation, faux beams are your friend. They’re lighter, easier to install, and way more budget-friendly.
Use Reclaimed Wood Everywhere
The key component of farmhouse design is reclaimed wood. If you can use old barn wood to create headboards, floating shelves, picture frames, or even accent walls, do it. New materials are unable to replicate the patina and weathered texture.
I built a simple headboard from old fence boards I found on Facebook Marketplace, and people constantly ask where I bought it. The imperfections? They’re not flaws—they’re features that add authenticity.
Install Barn Doors (Function Meets Style)
Alright, barn doors may seem like a fad, but pay attention. A sliding barn door can provide significant visual interest while concealing your bathroom or closet. Additionally, because they don’t swing open like conventional doors, they save space.
Choose hardware in oil-rubbed bronze or matte black to keep that rustic vibe going. And if you’re handy, you can install one yourself in a weekend. (Or call someone who actually knows what they’re doing—no judgment here.)
Incorporate Industrial Lighting
Soft and cozy isn’t enough for a farmhouse; it also needs some edge. The contrast between all those soft textiles and industrial-style light fixtures with metal finishes is ideal. Consider wire cages, exposed bulbs, or plain pendant lights with personality.
I swapped out my boring ceiling fan for an industrial chandelier, and wow—it completely changed the room’s personality. The best part? Most of these fixtures are surprisingly affordable.
Add a Cozy Reading Nook
Make a reading nook in your tiny corner by setting up a cozy chair, a soft throw, and adequate lighting. Creating a useful area that improves the usability of your bedroom goes beyond simple decoration.
My reading nook consists of:
- An oversized wingback chair (thrifted for $50)
- A small side table for my coffee
- A floor lamp with warm lighting
- A basket full of blankets
- A small bookshelf within arm’s reach
Do I actually read there? Sometimes. But mostly I sit there scrolling my phone while pretending to be sophisticated 🙂
Use Natural Fiber Rugs
In farmhouse bedrooms, rugs made of jute, sisal, or braided cotton are a must. They provide texture, warmth, and that organic touch that unifies everything. Additionally, they are typically neutral enough to complement any color scheme you decide on later.
Layer a smaller, softer rug on top if you want something plush for your feet in the morning. I learned this trick after stepping on cold jute too many times before my coffee.
Display Meaningful Art and Signs
Simple, meaningful artwork is adored on farmhouse walls. Consider black and white photos, prints with a vintage feel, or those wooden signs with sayings (please, don’t pick ones that are overly corny).
Here’s my rule: if a sign makes you roll your eyes, it doesn’t belong on your wall. Find pieces that actually resonate with you, not just what’s trendy on Instagram.
Bring Nature Inside
Natural accents, greenery, and flowers—fresh or dried—soften and liven up the room. The delicate aroma of the eucalyptus stems I keep in a vintage pitcher on my dresser is wonderful. In the fall, cotton stems? Perfect.
You don’t need a green thumb for this. Even faux greenery looks good if it’s high-quality and placed thoughtfully.
Choose Simple Window Treatments
Forget bulky, elaborate curtains. Light, flowing fabric in white or natural linen is what farmhouse windows are looking for. To maximize natural light and make windows appear larger, I hang mine high and wide.
If privacy is a concern, layer with simple Roman shades or wooden blinds underneath. The combination of soft and structured works beautifully.
Add Open Shelving
Reclaimed wood floating shelves add architectural interest and provide display space. Combine books, plants, antiques, and personal belongings to style them. Making it appear naturally curated rather than cluttered is crucial.
IMO, odd numbers work best for styling—three items here, five items there. It creates visual balance without looking too symmetrical and forced.
Incorporate Woven Baskets
Natural-material storage baskets are not only useful but also attractive. I use them for everything, including extra blankets, clothing that isn’t in season, and other random items that I’m not sure where else to store. They give your room texture while concealing clutter.
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Jute Rope Laundry Hamper Bask | Jute Rope Laundry Hamper Basket by YOUDENOVA, 58L Tall Laundry Basket, Baby Nursery Hamper for Blanket Storage for Bedroom-Large-Jute |
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Cotton Rope Laundry Basket Ham | Cotton Rope Laundry Basket Hamper for Clothes Woven Storage Basket for Living Room Bedroom Boho Tall Rope Baskets for Blanket Toys Pillow Towels Baby Nursery Hamper Bin striped |
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Stack them on shelves, tuck them under benches, or group them in corners. They’re the hardworking heroes of farmhouse decor.
Install Board and Batten Walls
A different approach to wall texture is provided by board and batten if shiplap isn’t your thing. Particularly on a focal wall or behind a bed, the vertical lines add height and interest. This gave my daughter’s room a boutique hotel feel instead of a plain one.
You can DIY this with basic lumber and paint—it’s more time-consuming than difficult.
Use Metal Accents Strategically
Black metal accents, such as picture frames, light fixtures, and curtain rods, give your space a cohesive look and the industrial edge that farmhouse style adores. I stick with either all black or all bronze to keep things consistent.
Mixing too many metal finishes can look chaotic. Pick one and commit.
Create Vignettes on Surfaces
The tops of your dressers and nightstands make excellent locations for stylized vignettes. Just a lamp, a plant, and perhaps one ornamental item will do. In this case, less is definitely more.
I change mine seasonally because I’m extra like that, but even a static arrangement looks great if you keep it uncluttered.
Add a Bench at the Foot of Your Bed
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, a wooden bench or upholstered ottoman at the foot of your bed serves a practical purpose. You can use it for seating, arranging your clothes for the next day, or, let’s face it, stacking clean laundry.
Look for pieces with storage inside for bonus points. I found mine at HomeGoods, and the hidden compartment holds extra pillows.
Use Mirrors to Enhance Light
Natural light is reflected by large mirrors with distressed frames, which enlarge your room. My relatively small bedroom became much larger when I hung a huge floor mirror against one wall.
Ever wondered why farmhouse bedrooms always look so bright and airy? Mirrors. It’s always mirrors.
Incorporate Galvanized Metal
In addition to being incredibly useful, galvanized buckets, trays, and containers have an air of industrial charm. I use them as planters, to hold jewelry on my dresser, and pretty much anywhere I need a unique container.
They’re inexpensive, easy to find, and instantly farmhouse-y. Just don’t overdo it—a few strategic pieces go a long way.
Keep Surfaces Clutter-Free
To be honest, I find this to be the most difficult. Farmhouse design demands moderation; everything must have a function or significance. Every week, I do a sweep in which I get rid of anything that doesn’t belong or enhance the aesthetic.
A cluttered room, no matter how well-decorated, loses that peaceful farmhouse feeling. Be ruthless with your editing.
Add Architectural Salvage Pieces
Architectural pieces, shutters, or old windows can be used as amazing headboards or wall art. The most talked-about element in the room is the pair of vintage windows I hung over my bed.
Check salvage yards or Habitat for Humanity ReStores for unique pieces with history.
Finish With Thoughtful Details
The finishing touches are important. The look is finished with vintage candle holders, books piled on nightstands, and cozy throws draped just so. Spend some time on this section. Take a step back, evaluate, and make adjustments.
I probably rearranged my nightstand seventeen times before it felt right. That’s not perfectionism—that’s creating a space you genuinely love.
Here are 24 ideas to turn your bedroom from “meh” to “farmhouse charm fit for a magazine.” The nice thing about this style is that you can make these adjustments gradually. Paint first, then layers, and when you find the right vintage pieces, go for them.
Remember, authentic farmhouse style isn’t about buying everything new from one store. It’s about creating a collected, lived-in space that feels warm, welcoming, and uniquely yours. Now go make your bedroom the cozy retreat you’ve been dreaming about—you’ve got this!