As a celebrity style editor, part of my job is to explore the homes of the world’s most famous people – and find a common theme for their spaces. The modern farmhouse look is perhaps the one I see most often – and with its rustic roots but ability to impress in a contemporary home, it’s easy to see why. However, this eclectic look can sometimes seem a little boring, so it’s important to bring in some individuality. Here, Diane Keaton’s living room takes center stage.
Designed by Hollywood favorite designer Stephen Shadley, the space offers the most personal take on modern farmhouse style yet. Keaton is known for her quirkiness, so this is only fitting, after all.
Contrary to the conventional, standardized ways of pursuing this style, Keaton has used an abundance of antiques and vintage furniture to create a warmer, cozier space that exudes more personality than the modern pieces I typically see in other farmhouse-style living rooms. Her curated pieces ensure that it feels anything but boring, and I can’t believe how easy it is to replicate her style.
While there’s nothing wrong with using modern, neutral furniture (I’m not denying that it can look both chic and elegant), decorating with antiques really brings the modern farmhouse aesthetic to life. From her statement artwork to the marble bear statues and books on her coffee table, the decor feels as personal as it is lighthearted and fun.
As mentioned, part of her role is spotting themes in the stars’ homes, but that also includes spotting common threads in individual homes—and with Keaton, the Spanish Revival trend is unmistakable everywhere. This look is arguably best seen in her kitchen, where signature arches meet whitewashed walls, but in the living room, this Mediterranean style takes on new meaning thanks to the modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Keaton stays true to the classic Southern European style of her property, experimenting with mosaic planters, colorful tiles, and glass chandeliers that are different from the “industrial” furnishings I usually see in modern farmhouses. These pieces not only break up the black and white color scheme (a staple of the farmhouse look), but bring Keaton’s personality to life in a way less common in modern homes.
Another example I can find is this shot below, which also takes the basic elements of a modern farmhouse (exposed beams, bricks, and a black and white base), but keeps it interesting with earthy toned upholstery and a quirky coffee table.
Following Keaton’s example is easy, even if we can’t all own a Sullivan Canyon Revival. While my house doesn’t follow the modern farmhouse style, she still reminded me of the power of antiques, even when it’s something as seemingly small as a flower pot or a coffee table book (not that I need any more encouragement to buy even more hardback books for my overflowing shelves). Modern farmhouse or not, this is our cue to fill our living rooms with unique pieces that call our name. I’d say that’s what Keaton would have wanted.
Shop Diane Keaton’s new Hudson Grace collection
Domino – salad plate made of half-dipped stoneware
Nothing embodies Keaton’s new collection like this black and white salad plate. Each piece is crafted in Portugal and designed to combine class with long-lasting versatility.
Modern dotted ceramic centerpiece
There are home accessories and there are works of art—and this ceramic centerpiece falls into the latter category. Made in Italy by artisans, it features a playful ceramic polka dot pattern that looks great anywhere.
White linen number napkins
Keaton designed her collection to add a playful touch to any dining experience, and nothing achieves that quite like these napkins. Each napkin is made from 100% linen and features a striking number that will add a modern flair to any table setting.