In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, the farmhouse kitchen offers a sanctuary of simplicity and serenity. It’s a place to unplug, unwind, and savor the joys of cooking and companionship. This style resonates with those seeking a retreat from the modern world, a space that feels grounded and genuine.
In the heart of these kitchens lies a feature that is both functional and aesthetically compelling – the brick backsplash. Far from just a utilitarian surface, a well-chosen brick backsplash infuses character and warmth into the kitchen, creating an enduring backdrop for living and making memories.
In this blog, we delve deep into the world of farmhouse kitchen design, with renowned farmhouse designer Emily Starr Alfano of MStarr Design Studio, whose expertise in blending modern functionality with the traditional charm of New England farmhouses is nothing short of inspiring.
Emily Starr Alfano of MStarr Design Studio
The Appeal of Farmhouse Style in Kitchens
The farmhouse kitchen is a return to roots, a homage to the simplicity and authenticity of rural living. This style's popularity has surged, not just for its aesthetic appeal but for the values it represents – comfort, warmth, and a connection to nature.
Characteristics of Farmhouse Style
Natural Materials: Emphasizing organic beauty, farmhouse kitchens often feature natural wood, stone, and, notably, brick elements. These materials add texture and warmth, grounding the space in an earthy, authentic charm.
Neutral and Earthy Tones: The color palette typically revolves around whites, creams, and grays, accented by the rich, warm tones of natural wood or splashes of green. This palette creates a soothing and welcoming atmosphere.
Practical and Spacious Design: Functionality is key in farmhouse kitchens. Spacious layouts with large sinks, ample countertops, and open shelving reflect a design that prioritizes ease of use and accessibility.
Vintage and Rustic Accents: To capture the essence of pastoral life, these kitchens often incorporate vintage elements like antique furniture, heirloom decorations, and distressed finishes.
Respecting the Past, Embracing the Present
Design: R Titus Designs | Image: Kip Dawkins Photography
In her approach to designing kitchens in old farmhouses, Emily emphasizes the importance of honoring the original architecture. However, she advocates for a blend of styles and aesthetics. "Brick is a natural material that has been around forever and lends itself well to old homes," she explains. "But I encourage incorporating elements that may be outside of the "expected"." This philosophy allows the homeowner to maintain historical integrity while infusing personal style and contemporary functionality.
The Timeless Appeal of Brick
Brick has a timeless quality that transcends specific design eras, making it an ideal choice for both traditional and contemporary farmhouse kitchens. Its natural texture and color variations resonate with the rustic charm of old structures, providing a bridge between the past and the present.
A Canvas for Creative Expression
Emily encourages homeowners to view their kitchen as a canvas for creative expression. Incorporating a brick backsplash in a historical home is not about rigidly adhering to historical accuracy but about creating a space that feels authentic and personal. She suggests using brick as a backdrop to highlight original architectural features or as a contrast to modern appliances and fixtures, thus creating a unique blend of old and new.
Choosing the Right Hue
Design & Image: Emily Starr Alfano
When it comes to designing a farmhouse kitchen, the brick backsplash is not just a feature; it's a statement. Emily brings a fresh perspective on this, emphasizing the crucial role of color in brick backsplashes. "There's certainly been a resurgence of color in design and it's not going anywhere. Fireclay offers more tempered colors & neutrals (like Big Horn and Elk) that will work with other decor & colors, and also bolder colors that can instantly make a statement."
Sheen: The Subtle Difference Maker
Design & Image: Emily Starr Alfano
The sheen of the brick glaze is another factor to consider. A gloss finish can reflect light, adding brightness and a sense of space, while a matte finish can lend a more understated, earthy feel. The choice of sheen can dramatically alter the ambiance of the kitchen, adding layers of depth and character.
Traditional vs. Modern Farmhouse Design
Farmhouse kitchens, steeped in tradition yet evolving with time, present a spectrum of styles. Emily, with her deep understanding of both traditional and modern farmhouse aesthetics, offers insights into navigating these diverse design realms.
Traditional Farmhouse: A Nod to Heritage
Design: Lauren Madden | Image: Sarah Porter
The traditional farmhouse kitchen is a celebration of history and heritage. Emily, with her inclination towards historical homes, appreciates the depth and character they bring. "I definitely lean more towards traditional/historical houses." In these spaces, every element, from exposed wooden beams to hand-crafted furniture, tells a story of the past. The choice of brick backsplashes in such kitchens is often influenced by the home's original features, favoring natural, subdued tones that complement the rustic charm.
Modern Farmhouse: Functionality Meets Style
Design: Heidi LaChapelle Interiors | Image: Erin Little
On the flip side, the modern farmhouse kitchen offers a fresher, more contemporary take on the classic style. Emily observes that while these kitchens may lean towards a more updated look, the essence of the farmhouse feel is never lost.
"The key to making the Modern version work is to weave in elements found in the historical version...vintage pieces, cozy textures, mixing patterns. Layer, layer, layer!"
Emily's Timeless Pattern Picks
The Timeless Elegance of Herringbone
Design & Image: Emily Starr Alfano
Emily fondly recalls the herringbone style from one of her past kitchen projects, describing it as a pattern that never loses its allure. "Herringbone is a winner! It's a timeless pattern and looks particularly beautiful done in brick." It's a layout that brings a dynamic sense of movement and an upscale feel, making it a perfect choice for those looking to infuse traditional elegance into their kitchen.
Classic Offset for a French Café Vibe
Design & Image: Emily Starr Alfano
In her current kitchen, Emily opted for a classic offset pattern, seeking to create a distinct French café ambiance. This layout offers a simpler, more understated look compared to herringbone, yet it still carries a strong design impact. The straight lines and regular spacing provide a sense of order and neatness, ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back, cozy aesthetic.
Contemporary Approaches: Vertical and Horizontal Stacking
Design & Image: Shavonda Gardner
For homeowners leaning towards a more contemporary style, Emily suggests stacking the brick either vertically or horizontally. This modern twist on bricklaying adds an element of surprise and can make the kitchen feel taller or wider, depending on the orientation. It's a subtle yet effective way to bring a modern touch to the classic brick backsplash.
Accentuating the Backsplash
Mixing Metals for Dynamic Contrast
One of Emily's key recommendations is the artful mixing of metals. Combining different metal finishes, like brass and polished nickel, adds layers of sophistication and depth. This blend can be reflected in cabinet hardware, faucets, lighting fixtures, and even decorative elements.
Lighting: The Subtle Game-Changer
Design: Tinge Floral | Image: Kate Osborne
Lighting plays a pivotal role in defining the kitchen's ambiance. Emily suggests choosing sconces or lamps with patterned or pleated shades to add an element of layered warmth. The right lighting not only illuminates the space but also highlights the texture and color variations of the brick backsplash, enhancing its natural beauty.
Natural Countertops: A Nod to Authenticity
When it comes to countertops, Emily leans towards natural materials. The organic patterns and textures of materials like marble, granite, or wood bring an earthy, grounded feel to the kitchen. These natural surfaces complement the rustic charm of the brick, while providing durability and functionality.
Personal Touches for a Unique Space
Design & Image: Emily Starr Alfano
Beyond these primary elements, Emily encourages homeowners to add personal touches that reflect their style. Be it a vintage rug, a collection of pottery, or a family heirloom, these small additions make the kitchen uniquely theirs, infusing it with stories and memories.
"It's your home and it should reflect you. Carve out areas that you can really make your own: hang a mirror or piece of art on your vent hood, add gallery rails to shelving, keep your favorite candle out."
Emily's Top 3 Tips for Infusing Individuality
1. Embracing Eclecticism: Mix and Match with Confidence
Emily's first tip is to embrace eclecticism. "It's ok to not stick to just one style," she advises. Mixing elements from different design genres can add layers of interest and complexity to the kitchen. For instance, pairing a rustic brick backsplash with a sleek, modern countertop or juxtaposing vintage kitchenware with contemporary appliances can create a space that is both dynamic and harmonious.
2. Art and Decor: Expressing Yourself on Your Walls
The kitchen walls, especially around the backsplash, offer a perfect opportunity for artistic expression. Emily suggests hanging mirrors or artwork, even on the vent hood, to add a personal touch. Art can bring color, texture, and visual interest, making the kitchen feel more like a living space than just a cooking area.
3. The Joy of the Unexpected
Incorporating unexpected elements can add a sense of surprise and delight. A unique light fixture, a boldly patterned floor tile, or an antique piece can serve as a conversation starter and reflect the homeowner's unique tastes and experiences.
Embark on Your Farmhouse Kitchen Journey with Fireclay Tile
Ready to start your own journey of transformation and personalization?
Discover the Perfect Tile for Your Dream Kitchen
Explore Our Collection: Dive into Fireclay Tile's diverse range of brick tiles, each with its unique charm and character. From subtle hues to statement-making shades, find the color and texture that speaks to your style.
Sample Your Favorites: Visualize how different tiles will look in your space by ordering samples. Touch, feel, and see the colors in your kitchen’s lighting to make the best choice for your backsplash.
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Personalized Assistance: Our Design Consultants are eager to help you bring your vision to life. From color selection to pattern layouts, get expert advice tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Rendering Services: Visualize your ideas before committing. Our team can provide renderings to help you see how your chosen tiles will look in your kitchen, ensuring your design aligns with your vision.
