I am fortunate to live in a 1903 farmhouse on the edge of town in the Midwest. I became enraptured with country life through the idyllic paintings of Carl Larsson. His drawings of family life in Sweden still make such an impact on me. On the other side of the country, I spent time on my grandparent’s farm which solidified the decision to pursue life in a farmhouse. I’m excited to share with you My Formula For European Farmhouse Charm!
European Farmhouse Style is more than good interior design. It represents a way of life that should be treasured. Old fashioned and wholesome, the house chocked full of kids and laughter. We have been living life to the fullest for the past 25 years in our beloved farmhouse. We raised six children here and a plethora of animals over the years. Everything about this charming style is durable.
My Formula For
European Farmhouse Charm
Vintage Wood Furniture
I have gotten all but one piece of furniture in our home from the thrift store, hand-me-down, or curb. Our dining room table was a gift from my in-laws. Beautiful furniture can be acquired slowly and cheaply. You can always refinish a piece if needed. Keep only what you love.
Blue and White China
Easy to find at the thrift store or garage sales for pennies. There is something lovely about the classic blue and white dishes. I get so many letters and comments about my blue and white porcelain collection, telling me it reminds them of their grandmas.
Wicker
I have wicker baskets and even a trunk scattered throughout the house. Provides a great way to organize things beautifully. Wicker made of willow is extremely hardy and will last for years. So many styles to choose from!
Vintage Paintings
Beautiful paintings of landscapes and of course a few Carl Larsson paintings fill my home. Paintings inspire creativity and provide food for the imagination. Frames are artwork too! It is so incredibly important to live in a beautiful and organized home. It enables our family to thrive.
Layered Accents
What do I mean by accents? These are decorative items that make a house a home. They represent your interests, travels, and family life.
Slipcovers
I slipcover everything I can because it makes life easier! A muddy dog or child, just strip the furniture and throw it in the wash. Slipcovers make life better!
Pops of Painted Furniture
Painted furniture is a European practice, I use chalk paint for my painted furniture and I usually paint things white or Carl Larsson Green! Chalk paint is easy to use and indestructible. Did I mention that I find painting relaxing?
Creamy Colored Throw Blankets
My first creamy-colored blanket was hand-knitted by my husband’s grandmother and that blanket started it all. I have collected many more soft and cozy cream blankets from the thrift store!
Lots of Vintage Books
Oh, how I love vintage books with gilt lettering and I love the content as much as the exterior. I have and continue to collect my favorites. Forming a vintage home library of sorts. Tip: Air your antique books outside in the sun for a day to prevent dust allergens from coming into your home. Reading slows everything in the home, it’s relaxing and can provide world travel in a few cherished words.
Fresh Flowers & Live Plants
Having living plants in your home is not just to make things aesthetically pleasing. They provide health benefits too! I love white Geraniums, Peace Lily, African Violets, Spider Plants, Ferns, and Ivy…in the Spring, Summer, and Fall months, I have cut flowers from the garden everywhere!
Why put in all the effort? For your family of course! This is a way you can bless your family. Beauty has the power to change lives! An added benefit of the European Country Style is that is inexpensive to decorate your home in this way, as you can purchase things at the thrift store!
YOUR TURN…
What is your favorite style of home?
Peacefully Yours,
Janelle
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