What is European Farmhouse Style?

European farmhouse style kitchen with butcher block island

Written by Laura Shimko

Photography by Ryan Liu

This is part of our Design Glossary series! Catch the whole series to find out more about the different types of farmhouse style!

European farmhouse style is a combination of the relaxed, at-home feel of the American farmhouse, mixed with the old-world feel of European elegance. The style isn’t tied to a specific country or region, but is a mixture of elements from these places.

Unlike the traditional American farmhouse style, which often features signs, patterns, bright colors and a generous use of shiplap, the European farmhouse style tends toward subtle, earthy tones and vintage pieces. Borrowing from the American farmhouse’s simplicity and minimalism, the European farmhouse is not garish or opulent, but rather holds a more understated charm and elegance.

Dining room with archway, rustic table and lantern pendant light — In homeowner **Deb Foglia’s hom**e, the European farmhouse style kitchen takes the lead with rustic touches, arched doorways and vintage accessories.

Also Read: What is Vintage Farmhouse Style?

European Farmhouse Architecture

Much of European farmhouse style borrows its architecture from the American version, including open floor plans, wide porches, mudrooms, open shelving and spacious kitchens. The addition of old-world elements such as arched doorways, diamond grid windows and exposed wood beams bring an added sense of rustic elegance.

European farmhouse style sink area in kitchen with farmhouse sink — Deb’s European farmhouse kitchen shows off traditional farmhouse features like an apron-front sink and open shelves, but also has European touches such as diamond-paned windows.

Also Read: Boho Farmhouse Style

Colors & Textures in European Farmhouse Decor

Use primarily neutral and muted tones that evoke the outdoors and create a blank canvas that will allow your pieces to stand out. Warm colors bring an added sense of timelessness and create a welcoming feel. Adding in a dramatic dark accent color can add depth and richness, and incorporating a variety of metals also helps create a sense of timeless appeal.

The texture is key in the European farmhouse style. Rustic, natural woolens and linens are a staple. Baskets, marble and brick add to the organic feel. Unpolished and unfinished pieces, especially those that bear marks from use and age, also bring an additional layer of texture and contribute to the overall sense of timelessness for European farmhouse decor.

Entryway with bench and map wall art — Deb’s entryway is simple and serene, with a black modern farmhouse bench and and Old World-inspired map as wall art.

Furniture & Art

Vintage flea market finds are an essential feature of this style. Pieces that look a little worn or unfinished evoke a rustic, aged aesthetic. Furniture with painted details add a touch of old-world charm. Imperfections like scratches on tables add to the overall lived-in feel. A neutral palette for couches, chairs and side tables allows for a sense of cohesion and comfort. Minimalism and simplicity is key for European farmhouse decor.

Old Windows to New Greenhouse

Another feature of the European farmhouse style is the use of portraits and landscape paintings. These pieces truly evoke a sense of old-world elegance, and can provide an added layer of richness to any space. A well-placed picture frame light can also be both practical and the perfect vintage finishing touch.

Living room with shiplap and area rug — Deb’s living room has a classic shiplap on the mantel, but also shows off unique details like the marble surround on the fireplace and bookshelves with arched detailing.

European Farmhouse Style: Get the Look

Ready to get this look in your own home? Here are some of our favorite European farmhouse style finds!

Here at American Farmhouse Style, we absolutely love to share our finds from around the web with you! That being said, you may notice that some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, AFS receives a small commission at no extra cost to you! Truly a win-win!

Chesterfield sofa — Chesterfield Sofa via Interior Define

French dining chairs with round cane back — Troutdale King Louis Back Side Chair in Beige/Oak (Set of 2)

ADR-01 Natural / Apricot rug via Loloi Rugs.

reproduction of an antique painting horse in landscape — Reproduction of *Hunter in Landscape* by William Barraud (c. 1845) via Etsy.

Vintage style mirror for European farmhouse style — Vintage style mirror via Antique Farm House

Vintage French Stoneware Pitcher via Vintage Rugs.

Want more? Check out this farmhouse built around an old silo! Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to get your daily dose of farmhouse inspiration!