Waukesha County Home

AUGUST 2019 HOME 3 How to nail the farmhouse style in your interior decorating (StatePoint) — Farmhouse style is cozy, rustic, charming and eclectic. While creat- ing the vibe in your own home is easy, according to home decorating experts, it requires some attention to detail. Designer, Instagram personality, blogger and business owner Liz Marie Galvan, who recently renovated her 1840s farmhouse, is sharing a few key elements to consider: Natural wood elements Searching for the perfect table, picture frame, or bookshelf ? When in doubt, use natural wood. "Natural wood really evokes that old-time feel. In our home we have wood flooring in every room, but you can also bring in natu- ral wood kitchen cabinets, dressers, trim and so much more." To be eco-conscious while nailing the weathered look, consider sourcing locally reclaimed lumber, where possible. You can continue the wood motif by adding shiplap accent walls or even shiplap ceilings to cer- tain rooms. Replacement windows "Most people don't think a lot about win- dows — window treatments, yes, but win- dows ... not so much," points out Galvan. "But windows themselves can be a game- changer. One of the key parts of our reno- vation was all-new windows with a histori- cally accurate grille pattern, which totally changed the look and feel of the house." This upgrade not only complemented the historical period of the home's structure to define the look, it also eliminated the draft she was experiencing from the old windows that came with the home — a good reminder that old-school charm does not need to be accompanied by old-school dis- comfort. While Galvan did hers in white with colo- nial grilles, other colors, such as black, would also go great in a farmhouse-style home. Keep in mind, there are many ele- ments to consider, and you'll want the flex- ibility to customize. This is why Galvan turned to Renewal by Andersen, the full- service custom replacement window divi- sion of Andersen. Offering a start-to-finish process, one can select among 49 color com- binations, numerous hardware choices and a wide variety of grille patterns and frames — including a custom-designed option. For customization inspiration, visit renewal- byandersen.com/style. As for trim, Galvan says you can get instant farmhouse vibes and make a new build look old by using thick, chunky win- dow, door and floorboard trim throughout the entire home. Extra touches Decorate with items you'd actually find on a farm, as much as possible. Galvan used rustic farmhouse fabrics like grainsack, tobacco baskets, chicken nesters, farm- house signs, barn wood and more. And about 80% of her home's furniture is antique or vintage, she says. Antiquing is not only fun, but when you find that perfect treasure, there may be a touch of triumph involved. However, if the treasure hunt starts to feel more like a search for a needle in a haystack, consider going the "faux antique" route. Many stores sell convincing reproductions. For more style inspiration and to learn more about Galvan's project, visit: renewal- byandersen.com/farmhouse. Whether your home was built last year or last century, a farmhouse style will give the space coziness and warmth. Statepoint Natural wood a variety of touches, including fabrics and antiques help create a farmhouse style. In doing renovations, aim to be true to the style.

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