Introduction
Farmhouse design is all about creating a space that feels warm, cozy, and welcoming, and your window treatments play a big role in setting that tone. The right curtains can soften a room, add texture, and even become a focal point in your decor. I’ll never forget the time I revamped a client’s farmhouse living room—she had beautiful shiplap walls and vintage furniture, but her windows were bare. Once we added soft linen curtains with rustic tiebacks, the room felt complete, cozy, and more inviting than ever.
Farmhouse curtain styles embrace natural materials, neutral tones, and timeless designs. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your dining room or create a cozy vibe in your bedroom, this guide will walk you through the top farmhouse curtain styles and how to incorporate them into your home.
Why Curtains Are Essential in Farmhouse Design
The Benefits of Farmhouse Curtains
- Soften the Space: Curtains add a cozy, layered look that softens the edges of a room.
- Control Light: Sheer or opaque options allow you to balance natural light with privacy.
- Tie the Room Together: The right curtains can complement your color palette and design elements.
Farmhouse Curtain Features
- Natural Fabrics: Linen, cotton, or burlap for an organic feel.
- Neutral Tones: Whites, creams, and soft grays dominate.
- Rustic Details: Features like ruffles, tiebacks, or plaid patterns enhance the farmhouse vibe.
1. Classic White Linen Curtains
Why They Work
White linen curtains are a farmhouse staple, offering a light and airy feel that pairs beautifully with rustic decor.
How to Style Them
- Use them in living rooms or dining rooms to maximize natural light.
- Pair with black or bronze curtain rods for a modern farmhouse touch.
- Add simple tiebacks made from jute or rope for a natural accent.
2. Buffalo Check or Plaid Curtains
Why They Work
Buffalo check patterns add a touch of farmhouse charm and a hint of nostalgia.
How to Style Them
- Choose black-and-white or gray-and-white checks for a neutral look, or opt for subtle colors like muted red or sage green.
- Pair with solid-colored furniture and decor to keep the pattern from overwhelming the room.
- Use buffalo check curtains in kitchens, breakfast nooks, or entryways for a playful yet cozy vibe.
3. Burlap or Textured Curtains
Why They Work
Burlap curtains bring an earthy, rustic texture that complements farmhouse interiors.
How to Style Them
- Use them in casual spaces like a mudroom or home office.
- Pair with wooden or wrought iron curtain rods for a cohesive look.
- Add lace or crochet trim for a softer, more feminine touch.
4. Ruffled or Layered Curtains
Why They Work
Ruffled curtains add a touch of elegance and softness to a farmhouse space, balancing the ruggedness of rustic decor.
How to Style Them
- Use them in bedrooms or nurseries for a romantic, vintage-inspired look.
- Stick to neutral or pastel tones like ivory or blush for a subtle effect.
- Pair with antique furniture or vintage mirrors to complete the look.
5. Sheer Panels
Why They Work
Sheer curtains let in natural light while creating a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere.
How to Style Them
- Layer sheer panels with heavier curtains for a versatile, layered look.
- Use them in spaces where privacy isn’t a concern, like sunrooms or living rooms.
- Add curtain tiebacks to let the light flow freely during the day.
6. Grain Sack or Striped Curtains
Why They Work
Grain sack-inspired patterns, featuring simple stripes on neutral backgrounds, evoke a farmhouse feel rooted in tradition.
How to Style Them
- Use them in kitchens or laundry rooms for a casual, country-inspired look.
- Pair with wooden or metal curtain rods for an authentic farmhouse aesthetic.
- Choose curtains with wide or narrow stripes, depending on your room’s scale and style.
7. Drop Cloth Curtains
Why They Work
Drop cloth curtains are a budget-friendly option that looks effortlessly chic in farmhouse spaces.
How to Style Them
- Use them in larger spaces like living rooms or open-concept areas.
- Add curtain clips for an industrial-farmhouse vibe.
- Hem or leave the edges raw for a more natural, relaxed look.
8. Tie-Up or Roman Shades
Why They Work
Tie-up and Roman shades are perfect for small spaces, offering a clean and tailored look while maintaining the farmhouse charm.
How to Style Them
- Use tie-up curtains in kitchens or bathrooms for a practical yet stylish solution.
- Opt for Roman shades in neutral fabrics or soft patterns like floral or ticking stripes.
- Combine with long drapes for a layered, polished look in larger rooms.
9. Lace Curtains
Why They Work
Lace curtains add vintage charm and a delicate texture that softens any room.
How to Style Them
- Use lace curtains in bedrooms or dining rooms to add a romantic touch.
- Layer them with burlap or linen panels for contrast.
- Choose lace with simple patterns to keep the look understated and elegant.
10. Blackout Curtains With Farmhouse Flair
Why They Work
Blackout curtains are practical for bedrooms, and farmhouse designs ensure they still look stylish.
How to Style Them
- Choose neutral or textured blackout curtains to maintain the farmhouse aesthetic.
- Pair with decorative curtain rods and tiebacks for a finished look.
- Use them in combination with sheer curtains to adjust light levels throughout the day.
Picture Gallery
Conclusion
Choosing the right curtains for your farmhouse-style home is about more than just function—it’s about enhancing the warmth and charm of your space. From the breezy elegance of linen panels to the rustic texture of burlap or the playful charm of buffalo check, farmhouse curtain styles offer something for every room and personality.
Remember to consider the role your curtains will play, whether it’s letting in light, adding privacy, or serving as a decorative focal point. By pairing natural materials with thoughtful details, you can create a window treatment that ties your room together while staying true to the farmhouse aesthetic.
FAQ
Can I mix and match curtain styles in my home?
Yes! Mixing curtain styles adds variety and character. Just make sure they share a common element, like a neutral color palette or similar materials.
Are burlap curtains practical for everyday use?
Burlap can be slightly rough and doesn’t block much light, so it’s best used in spaces where texture is the priority over function.
How do I make my farmhouse curtains stand out?
Use decorative curtain rods, tiebacks, or layers to add visual interest and elevate your window treatments.
What’s the best fabric for farmhouse curtains?
Natural fabrics like linen, cotton, or burlap work best, as they complement the rustic and organic feel of farmhouse design.
Can I add farmhouse curtains to a modern home?
Absolutely! Farmhouse curtains can soften modern spaces, creating a warm, inviting balance between the two styles.
About the Author
M.Arch. Julio Arco is an architect, interior designer, and urban planner with degrees from ITESM, McGill University, and a certificate in Architecture in Urban Context from LDM. Julio has designed interiors for over 1,200 clients and also teaches architecture at ITESM.
His go-to sites for inspiration include Houzz, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, Architectural Digest, and The Spruce.