Few names in home design spark as much admiration as Joanna Gaines, whose signature style has redefined the meaning of comfortable, lived-in spaces.
With her focus on natural textures, timeless details, and effortless charm, her approach to living rooms resonates with those looking for both beauty and practicality.
As more people seek inviting areas that reflect personality while staying functional for daily life, her design principles offer valuable inspiration.
Whether updating a small corner or rethinking an entire layout, gaining insight from her most effective ideas can help create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and built to enjoy every day.
Vintage-Look Area Rugs
Weathered patterns underfoot bring an essential foundation to Joanna Gaines’s living spaces.
Vintage-look area rugs, characterized by their faded motifs and timeworn appeal, ground the room while introducing subtle artistry.
These pieces often feature muted hues like sage, rust, and ivory, complementing surrounding neutral tones without overpowering them.
By anchoring seating areas and defining open-concept layouts, distressed rugs help establish a cozy flow throughout the room.
Opting for designs with classic medallions or understated florals lends authenticity and complements the relaxed farmhouse vibe Gaines frequently champions.
Beyond aesthetics, these rugs offer practical benefits, from softening hardwood floors to reducing noise and adding insulation.
Their worn appearance is intentionally curated, making them ideal for high-traffic areas while preserving an elegant, lived-in charm.
Selecting the right vintage-inspired rug ensures a balanced composition, harmonizing both old and new elements for a cohesive, welcoming environment true to Gaines’s design principles.
Reclaimed Wood Mantel
Historic character often finds its place through architectural details, and a reclaimed wood mantel serves as a prime example in Joanna Gaines’s living rooms.
Salvaged beams with visible knots, grain variations, and aged patina contribute authenticity while preserving sustainability.
These mantels become the focal point above a fireplace, bridging the gap between rustic charm and modern functionality.
Each piece tells a story, whether sourced from old barns or deconstructed farmhouses, enhancing the space with irreplaceable history.
Styling the mantel with understated decor—such as ceramic vases, framed prints, or seasonal greenery—keeps the emphasis on the wood’s natural beauty.
The contrast between the mantel’s organic texture and smooth painted walls strengthens the room’s visual balance.
For those seeking to emulate Gaines’s design philosophy, incorporating a reclaimed wood mantel is an approachable way to introduce warmth, depth, and a meaningful connection to craftsmanship without sacrificing elegance or cohesion.
Open Shelving With Curated Decor
Intentional display spaces make a lasting impact, particularly through the use of open shelving styled with handpicked accents.
Joanna Gaines often utilizes this approach to add personality and function without closing off the room visually.
Wooden shelves, typically mounted against neutral walls, provide the perfect backdrop for layering everyday objects with unique finds.
Thoughtfully arranged items like vintage books, ceramic pitchers, potted herbs, and framed family photos lend authenticity and warmth.
The goal isn’t to overcrowd but to curate—balancing negative space with purposeful pieces. This strategy encourages frequent rotation of decor, allowing the room to evolve seasonally or with personal milestones.
Harmonizing colors, materials, and scales ensures the shelves integrate smoothly with the broader design scheme.
For those aiming to capture Gaines’s effortless style, well-organized open shelving offers an ideal solution, merging practicality and aesthetic appeal while keeping the atmosphere light, airy, and approachable.
Oversized Slipcovered Sectional
Generous seating arrangements are essential for creating welcoming, family-friendly living rooms, and nothing accomplishes this better than an oversized slipcovered sectional.
Joanna Gaines often selects these plush, versatile pieces for their comfort and relaxed sophistication.
Neutral-hued slipcovers in durable fabrics like cotton or linen offer both style and practicality, standing up to daily use while being easy to clean or swap out.
Their understated design provides a blank canvas, allowing throw pillows and blankets to add seasonal pops of texture and color.
The spacious proportions encourage gatherings, ensuring everyone has a cozy spot without feeling crowded.
Positioning the sectional to define the seating area within an open-plan layout enhances flow while anchoring the overall design.
Whether hosting movie nights or quiet mornings with coffee, this centerpiece embodies Gaines’s emphasis on livability.
Prioritizing comfort without compromising style, oversized slipcovered sectionals perfectly embody the essence of modern farmhouse charm.
Antique Coffee Table Find
Timeless appeal often emerges through well-worn pieces that anchor a living room with character and function.
Joanna Gaines frequently incorporates antique coffee tables to introduce history and patina into her signature spaces.
These tables, often sourced from flea markets or reclaimed sources, bring authentic texture through distressed wood, aged hardware, and hand-carved details.
Beyond aesthetics, they serve as practical surfaces for displaying stacks of vintage books, ceramic bowls, or fresh greenery, enhancing the layered, lived-in farmhouse style.
Their imperfections—such as visible grain, subtle nicks, and fading—contribute to a relaxed, approachable atmosphere while ensuring no two rooms feel identical.
When paired with modern upholstery or neutral textiles, these tables create an ideal balance between old and new.
To echo Gaines’s design principles, selecting an antique coffee table can transform a simple seating area into a focal point rich with history, function, and understated elegance that endures over time.
Gallery Wall of Black & White Family Photos
Personal touches often define a room’s warmth, and one of Joanna Gaines’s signature techniques is creating gallery walls featuring black and white family photos.
This classic display adds both sentiment and visual interest, allowing cherished memories to become part of the decor.
Carefully selecting matching or complementary frames ensures cohesion, while varied sizes introduce dimension.
Arranging photos in a grid or organic cluster maintains balance, with consistent spacing keeping the overall design intentional.
The grayscale palette blends effortlessly with neutral surroundings, reinforcing the understated farmhouse aesthetic without distracting from the room’s other elements.
This approach not only celebrates family but also introduces a timeless, curated layer of storytelling within the space.
For homeowners aiming to reflect Gaines’s welcoming style, a thoughtfully arranged gallery wall transforms blank walls into meaningful focal points, where personal history is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the living room’s overall design narrative.
Woven Baskets for Hidden Storage
Practical solutions double as design features when storage meets style, and Joanna Gaines often relies on woven baskets to achieve this balance.
Ideal for corralling blankets, toys, or miscellaneous household items, these baskets maintain a clutter-free space while enhancing the room’s organic texture.
Handwoven designs in natural fibers like seagrass or rattan complement neutral palettes and add subtle depth beneath consoles, beside sofas, or within open shelving.
The variety of shapes and sizes available allows for versatility, ensuring that each basket serves a clear purpose without disrupting the cohesive look of the room.
Their tactile quality introduces an extra layer of warmth, reinforcing the relaxed, functional elegance Gaines is known for.
By integrating baskets that provide both storage and visual interest, homeowners can maintain order while contributing to a design that feels comfortable, approachable, and effortlessly put together—an essential aspect of farmhouse-inspired living room spaces.
Shiplap Accent Wall
Character and depth often emerge through architectural details, and shiplap walls have become a defining element in Joanna Gaines’s living room designs.
Installed horizontally or vertically, these wooden planks introduce subtle texture while maintaining the clean simplicity of a neutral color scheme.
Painted in soft whites or muted tones, shiplap creates a cohesive backdrop that pairs seamlessly with rustic beams, vintage furniture, and layered textiles.
The linear pattern provides understated dimension, preventing walls from appearing flat or sterile, especially in open-concept spaces.
Beyond its visual impact, shiplap also nods to traditional farmhouse construction, reinforcing authenticity within the home.
Whether applied to a single feature wall or wrapping an entire room, this design choice adds architectural interest without overpowering the space.
For those looking to emulate Gaines’s signature aesthetic, incorporating shiplap creates a timeless foundation that balances comfort, style, and subtle sophistication in any living room setting.
Iron Lantern-Style Lighting
Warmth and ambiance often hinge on well-chosen fixtures, and iron lantern-style lighting remains a cornerstone of Joanna Gaines’s living room designs.
With roots in traditional farmhouse design, these fixtures introduce a sturdy, timeless element through their dark metal finishes and classic silhouette.
Positioned above a seating area or near a focal point like the fireplace, lantern lights provide both practical illumination and atmospheric glow.
Their geometric frames and clear glass panes allow light to disperse softly, complementing the room’s natural materials and neutral color palette.
The understated industrial vibe contrasts beautifully with softer furnishings, striking the balance Gaines is known for.
Whether suspended as a statement piece or paired in multiples for added symmetry, iron lantern lighting contributes a cohesive layer of warmth and authenticity.
This thoughtful detail ensures that the living space feels inviting from morning to evening, reinforcing a design that is as functional as it is beautiful.
Soft Sage or Olive Accent Pillows
Natural tones rooted in muted greens help define the relaxed atmosphere often seen in Joanna Gaines’s living rooms.
Sage and olive accent pillows deliver subtle color without overpowering the neutral base commonly used in farmhouse design.
These earthy shades coordinate effortlessly with linen slipcovers, reclaimed wood furniture, and woven area rugs, reinforcing a cohesive, tranquil setting.
Opting for high-quality fabrics like washed cotton or linen ensures both comfort and durability, making them ideal for everyday use.
Strategic placement of these pillows along sectionals or armchairs introduces just enough contrast to break up monochromatic palettes while maintaining harmony.
Varying textures—such as quilted stitching or fringed edges—enhance the layered, collected look Gaines frequently incorporates.
For homeowners seeking a simple refresh, these muted green tones provide an approachable, timeless solution that complements a wide range of styles, supporting the calm and inviting ambiance that defines modern farmhouse living spaces.
Simple Ceramic Vases With Greenery
Organic elements frequently play a pivotal role in Joanna Gaines’s living rooms, with ceramic vases offering a timeless vessel for fresh or faux greenery.
Neutral-hued ceramics in matte finishes or subtle glazes contribute quiet elegance while allowing the natural beauty of stems, branches, or seasonal foliage to stand out.
Displaying these vases on coffee tables, mantels, or built-in shelving introduces softness and movement to the room without overwhelming the design.
Opting for simple silhouettes ensures versatility, allowing pieces to transition easily from everyday decor to holiday arrangements.
Varying heights and shapes add dimension while preserving a cohesive aesthetic, particularly when clustered in groups of two or three.
Whether holding eucalyptus sprigs, olive branches, or wildflowers, these arrangements help tie together the rustic charm and approachable style that Gaines consistently champions.
This understated detail enhances both the visual interest and the fresh, welcoming energy central to farmhouse-inspired interiors.
Built-In Window Bench Seating
Extra seating becomes both functional and beautiful through thoughtfully designed window benches, a feature Joanna Gaines often integrates to maximize space and comfort.
Positioned beneath large windows, these built-ins serve as a cozy nook ideal for reading, relaxing, or enjoying morning coffee while taking advantage of natural light.
Topped with tailored cushions in neutral fabrics and accented by textured throw pillows, the bench transforms into a focal point that feels inviting year-round.
Storage beneath the seat adds hidden functionality, perfect for stowing blankets or seasonal decor, preserving the room’s clean and organized appearance.
Painted finishes, often in soft whites or muted grays, keep the design timeless and cohesive with surrounding cabinetry or trim.
This built-in solution supports both the practical needs of daily life and the aesthetic priorities of a farmhouse-style living room, delivering charm, efficiency, and comfort all within a single, seamlessly integrated architectural detail.
Handmade Pottery Display
Unique, artisanal touches often elevate the overall feel of Joanna Gaines’s living spaces, and handmade pottery provides both texture and authenticity.
Displaying a curated collection of handcrafted bowls, pitchers, or mugs on open shelving or coffee tables introduces an organic, tactile quality that mass-produced items lack.
Each piece, with its subtle imperfections and natural glazes, tells a story and adds depth to the room’s character.
Neutral tones such as sand, cream, and charcoal ensure these objects complement the broader palette without drawing undue attention.
Grouping pottery in odd numbers or varying sizes creates visual balance and reinforces a collected-over-time aesthetic.
Whether sourced locally or discovered during travels, these pieces help bridge functionality and beauty in everyday decor.
By incorporating handmade pottery, homeowners can mirror Gaines’s commitment to meaningful, layered design that prioritizes craftsmanship, warmth, and the quiet elegance that defines the modern farmhouse look.
Distressed Leather Armchair
Well-worn materials often become statement pieces, and distressed leather armchairs provide exactly that in Joanna Gaines’s living rooms.
With their aged patina and rich texture, these chairs introduce a grounded, lived-in feel that balances softer textiles and lighter color palettes.
Typically found in warm browns or caramel hues, the leather develops character over time, making each piece unique and increasingly comfortable.
Positioned near a fireplace or as part of a conversational seating arrangement, the armchair offers both visual weight and everyday practicality.
Accenting the chair with a woven throw or a patterned pillow helps tie it seamlessly into the broader design while preserving its distinctive presence.
Beyond style, the durability of genuine leather ensures lasting value, capable of withstanding daily use while aging gracefully.
Incorporating this type of seating aligns perfectly with Gaines’s emphasis on comfort, tradition, and understated sophistication within farmhouse-inspired interiors.
Plaid Throw Blanket Drape
Casual comfort takes center stage when layered textiles are thoughtfully incorporated into a seating area.
Joanna Gaines frequently uses plaid throw blankets to introduce both pattern and practicality, effortlessly softening structured furniture like sectionals or leather chairs.
With their timeless appeal, plaid designs—often in muted tones of cream, charcoal, or sage—complement the neutral palette common to farmhouse interiors.
Rather than folding them precisely, draping these blankets over the back of a sofa or the arm of a chair creates an inviting, lived-in look that encourages relaxation.
The subtle contrast of lines within the plaid pattern provides visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Durable, high-quality fabrics such as brushed cotton or lightweight wool ensure these throws are as functional as they are decorative.
For anyone aiming to replicate Gaines’s approachable style, thoughtfully placed plaid blankets contribute warmth, texture, and a relaxed sense of hospitality to any living room.
Sliding Barn Door Divider
Architectural elements often serve double duty, and installing sliding barn doors is a strategy Joanna Gaines uses to define spaces without sacrificing openness.
These doors provide flexible separation between adjoining rooms, such as living areas and home offices, while introducing authentic farmhouse character.
Crafted from reclaimed wood or featuring a distressed finish, they offer both visual weight and practicality.
The exposed hardware—typically in matte black or oil-rubbed bronze—adds an industrial edge that contrasts with softer design elements.
When left partially open, barn doors allow natural light to filter through adjacent spaces while still providing privacy as needed.
Their linear design draws the eye and complements other wooden textures found in flooring or ceiling beams.
For homeowners seeking a functional solution that aligns with rustic aesthetics, sliding barn doors create architectural interest and purposeful flow, reinforcing the balance of form and function that Gaines prioritizes in her living room designs.
Subtle Patterned Curtains
Window treatments play a crucial role in completing a room’s design, and Joanna Gaines frequently selects curtains with understated patterns to introduce quiet detail.
Soft geometric prints, faint florals, or delicate stripes in neutral hues provide just enough visual interest without dominating the space.
These patterns contribute to the layered feel of the living room while blending seamlessly with surrounding materials like reclaimed wood, woven rugs, and linen upholstery.
Lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen keep the room feeling airy, allowing natural light to filter through while still providing privacy.
The gentle movement of these curtains adds to the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere that defines the farmhouse style.
Hung on simple iron rods with clean hardware, they frame windows effortlessly while adding cohesion to the overall design.
For those looking to mirror Gaines’s refined approach, subtle patterned curtains offer a timeless touch that balances functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Chippy Painted Console Table
Vintage charm is often brought to life through carefully selected furniture, and Joanna Gaines regularly integrates chippy painted console tables as statement pieces.
The distressed finish, marked by layers of worn paint and exposed wood, introduces a sense of history while reinforcing the casual elegance of farmhouse design.
Positioned behind a sofa or along an entry wall, these tables provide both display space and storage without feeling bulky.
Styled with a mix of ceramic vases, framed prints, and woven baskets, the surface becomes an extension of the room’s curated aesthetic.
Soft hues like muted blue, creamy white, or pale gray maintain harmony within a neutral color scheme while adding a subtle pop of color.
By selecting authentic, weathered pieces or quality reproductions, homeowners can add character and texture in a way that feels genuine and approachable, perfectly aligning with Gaines’s emphasis on timeless, lived-in comfort.
Layered Candles on Wood Trays
Ambient lighting becomes a defining feature when candles are strategically arranged throughout a living room.
Joanna Gaines frequently uses wood trays as a grounding element, grouping together candles of varying heights and styles to create a cohesive, warm display.
Placed on coffee tables, console tables, or sideboards, these arrangements balance simplicity with impact, offering both a visual focal point and functional lighting.
Neutral-toned candles—such as ivory, sand, or taupe—complement the surrounding palette, while natural wood trays add organic texture and contrast against smooth surfaces.
For added interest, mixing pillar candles with tea lights or votives creates layers of flickering light that enhance the room’s welcoming feel.
Seasonal greenery or small ceramic accents can be woven into the arrangement for variety. By using candles thoughtfully, homeowners can replicate Gaines’s cozy, farmhouse ambiance while ensuring their living spaces remain both beautiful and practical year-round.
Layered Neutral Textures
Subtle shifts in fabric, finish, and tone provide Joanna Gaines’s living rooms with depth and warmth.
Neutral palettes, often grounded in soft whites, gentle grays, and earthy beiges, come alive through the interplay of varied textures.
Linen drapes paired with chunky knit throws and woven jute rugs cultivate an inviting atmosphere without overwhelming the senses.
Rather than relying on bold color, texture becomes the star, adding dimension across upholstered seating, natural wood furniture, and ceramic accents.
When balanced carefully, this approach transforms simple materials into an engaging design narrative.
Mixing matte finishes with lightly distressed surfaces introduces visual interest while maintaining the understated charm characteristic of Gaines’s signature style.
For homeowners aiming to replicate this aesthetic, layering textiles and finishes in complementary neutral shades ensures the room feels cohesive and tranquil.
This strategy aligns perfectly with farmhouse-inspired interiors, delivering timeless appeal rooted in tactile comfort and effortless sophistication.