Time to read: 25 minutes
Are you a fan of the modern farmhouse style? If so, you’re not alone. This style has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It combines the best of both worlds: the warmth and coziness of a traditional farmhouse, and the sleek and minimalist features of a modern home.
But what exactly is modern farmhouse style? How did it come to be? And how can you achieve it in your own home? In this blog post, we’ll answer all these questions and more. We’ll take you on a tour of some stunning modern farmhouse homes, and show you how to incorporate this style into your own space. Whether you’re looking to renovate your entire home, or just add some farmhouse touches to your existing decor, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is Modern Farmhouse Style?
Modern farmhouse style is a design aesthetic that blends the rustic charm of a farmhouse with the clean lines and functionality of a modern home. It’s all about creating a balance between comfort and simplicity, old and new, natural and industrial.
Modern farmhouse homes typically feature:
- Gable roofs with metal accents
- Board and batten siding or shiplap walls
- Front porches with rocking chairs or swings
- Open floor plans with spacious living areas
- Rustic wood accents such as beams, floors, or furniture
- Neutral color schemes with pops of color
- Farmhouse furniture such as tables, benches, or cabinets
- Vintage decor such as signs, clocks, or baskets
- A mix of modern and farmhouse elements such as lighting, hardware, or appliances
The History of Modern Farmhouse Design
The modern farmhouse style has its roots in the American countryside, where farmers built their homes with practicality and durability in mind. They used local materials such as wood, stone, or metal, and incorporated features such as porches, fireplaces, or barn doors to protect them from the elements and provide comfort.
However, the modern farmhouse style as we know it today is largely influenced by two factors: the popularity of HGTV shows such as Fixer Upper, which showcased the transformation of old farmhouses into modern homes; and the rise of social media platforms such as Pinterest or Instagram, which allowed people to share their inspiration and ideas for modern farmhouse decor.
These factors have contributed to the widespread appeal of modern farmhouse style among homeowners who want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in their homes, while also enjoying the convenience and functionality of modern features.
Elements of Modern Farmhouse Homes
Now that we know what modern farmhouse style is and where it came from, let’s take a look at some of the key elements that make up a modern farmhouse home. We’ll start with the exterior features, then move on to the interior features.
Exterior Features
One of the first things that catches your eye when you see a modern farmhouse home is the roof. Modern farmhouse homes usually have gable roofs, which are triangular-shaped roofs that slope down on two sides. Gable roofs are common in traditional farmhouses, but they also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a modern home.
Another distinctive feature of modern farmhouse roofs is the metal accents. Metal roofs are durable, eco-friendly, and easy to maintain. They also contrast nicely with the wood or stone siding of the house, creating a rustic-industrial look.
Speaking of siding, another popular choice for modern farmhouse homes is board and batten siding. Board and batten siding consists of vertical boards that are joined by horizontal battens. This type of siding creates a clean and simple appearance that complements the gable roof.
Alternatively, some modern farmhouse homes opt for shiplap siding instead. Shiplap siding consists of horizontal boards that overlap each other. This type of siding creates a textured and cozy look that adds character to the house.
Last but not least, one of the most essential features of a modern farmhouse home is the front porch. A front porch is not only a practical space for relaxing or entertaining guests, but also a welcoming element that adds curb appeal to the house. A front porch can be decorated with rocking chairs, swings, plants, or lanterns to create a charming and inviting vibe.
Interior Features
Moving on to the interior features, one of the most noticeable aspects of a modern farmhouse home is the open floor plan.
An open floor plan means that there are no walls separating the main living areas such as the kitchen, dining room, and living room. This creates a spacious and airy feel that allows natural light to flow throughout the house.
An open floor plan also encourages social interaction and family bonding. You can easily communicate with your loved ones while cooking in the kitchen, eating in the dining room, or lounging in the living room. An open floor plan also allows you to customize your space according to your needs and preferences.
Another common feature of modern farmhouse homes is shiplap walls. As we mentioned earlier, shiplap walls are made of horizontal boards that overlap each other. They add texture and warmth to the interior of the house, and create a cozy and rustic feel.
Shiplap walls can be painted in any color, but the most popular choice is white. White shiplap walls create a bright and clean backdrop that allows the other elements of the house to stand out. They also reflect light and make the space look bigger.
Of course, no modern farmhouse home is complete without rustic wood accents. Rustic wood accents can be found in various forms, such as beams, floors, furniture, or accessories. Rustic wood accents add a touch of nature and history to the house, and create a contrast with the modern features.
Rustic wood accents can be either natural or stained, depending on the desired effect. Natural wood accents have a raw and organic look that adds warmth and texture to the space. Stained wood accents have a more refined and polished look that adds elegance and sophistication to the space.
Modern Farmhouse Color Palettes
When it comes to choosing a color palette for your modern farmhouse home, the key is to keep it simple and neutral. Neutral colors such as white, beige, gray, or black are versatile and timeless. They create a calm and soothing atmosphere that allows you to relax and unwind.
Neutral colors also work well with any style of furniture or decor. You can easily mix and match different pieces without worrying about clashing or overpowering the space. Neutral colors also allow you to change up your look with ease by adding or removing accessories.
However, neutral colors don’t have to be boring. You can spice up your modern farmhouse home by incorporating pops of color here and there. Pops of color can be found in various forms, such as pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, or plants. Pops of color add personality and interest to the space, and create a focal point that draws attention.
Pops of color can be either bold or subtle, depending on your mood and preference. Bold colors such as red, yellow, or blue can make a statement and add energy and excitement to the space. Subtle colors such as green, pink, or purple can add a touch of softness and romance to the space.
Furnishing and Decor
One of the most fun parts of creating a modern farmhouse home is furnishing and decorating it. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to farmhouse furniture and decor, but here are some of the most common ones:
- Farmhouse furniture: Farmhouse furniture is characterized by its simple and sturdy design. It often features wood or metal materials, straight lines, and minimal ornamentation. Some examples of farmhouse furniture are tables, benches, chairs, cabinets, or shelves.
- Vintage decor: Vintage decor is anything that has an old-fashioned or antique look. It can be either authentic or reproduced items that have a history or story behind them. Some examples of vintage decor are signs, clocks, baskets, jars, or crates.
- Mixing modern and farmhouse elements: One of the best ways to achieve a modern farmhouse look is to mix modern and farmhouse elements together. This creates a balance between old and new, rustic and sleek, cozy and minimalist. Some examples of mixing modern and farmhouse elements are lighting fixtures, hardware, appliances, or accessories.
Modern Farmhouse Kitchens
One of the most important rooms in any home is the kitchen. It’s where you prepare your meals, enjoy your food, and spend quality time with your family and friends. A modern farmhouse kitchen should reflect your personality and lifestyle, while also being functional and beautiful.
Here are some of the essential features of a modern farmhouse kitchen:
- Farmhouse sink: A farmhouse sink is a large and deep sink that extends over the edge of the countertop. It’s also known as an apron-front sink because it has a visible front panel that resembles an apron. A farmhouse sink is not only practical for washing dishes or produce, but also adds a rustic charm to the kitchen.
- Butcher block countertops: Butcher block countertops are made of wood planks that are glued together to form a solid surface. They have a natural and warm look that complements the farmhouse sink. They also provide a durable and hygienic work area for chopping or cutting food.
- Open shelving: Open shelving is a great way to display your dishes, cookware, or utensils in your modern farmhouse kitchen. It creates a sense of openness and spaciousness in the kitchen, while also adding visual interest and personality. You can use open shelving to store your everyday items or showcase your favorite pieces.
If you’re looking for a way to refresh your kitchen and give it a new look, check How to Design a Gorgeous Green Kitchen with Sage Green Cabinets.
Cozy Living Spaces
Another important room in any home is the living room. It’s where you relax after a long day, watch TV, read a book, or chat with your guests. A modern farmhouse living room should be cozy and inviting, while also being stylish and elegant.
Here are some of the essential features of a modern farmhouse living room:
- Fireplace mantels: These decorative structures that surround the fireplace add a touch of elegance to the room. They can be designed in various styles to match the overall decor of the room.
- Comfortable seating: This could include sofas, armchairs, or even a swing. The seating should invite people to sit down and relax.
- Natural elements: This could include wooden beams on the ceiling, a jute rug on the floor, or wicker baskets for storage. These elements bring in a touch of nature and warmth.
- Neutral color palette: Colors like white, beige, or gray are commonly used in modern farmhouse style. They create a calm and soothing atmosphere.
- Vintage or rustic accessories: These could include old farm tools, vintage signs, or antique furniture pieces. They add character and charm to the room.
- Modern touches: While maintaining the rustic farmhouse vibe, modern elements like contemporary art pieces or modern lighting fixtures can be incorporated to keep the look fresh and current.
Bedrooms in Modern Farmhouse Home
If you love the cozy and inviting feel of a modern farmhouse style, you might want to bring some of that charm into your bedroom. In this blog post, I’ll share with you some tips on how to create a modern farmhouse bedroom that is both stylish and comfortable.
A. Rustic Bed Frames
One of the key elements of a modern farmhouse bedroom is a rustic bed frame. A rustic bed frame can add some character and warmth to your space, as well as contrast with the clean and simple lines of the rest of the room. You can choose a wooden bed frame that has a natural or distressed finish, or a metal bed frame that has an aged or patina look. You can also mix and match different materials, such as wood and metal, to create a unique and eclectic bed frame.
B. Soft Bedding and Linens
Another way to make your modern farmhouse bedroom cozy and inviting is to use soft bedding and linens. You can opt for neutral colors, such as white, beige, gray, or cream, to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere. You can also add some pops of color, such as blue, green, or yellow, to brighten up your space and add some personality. You can also layer different textures, such as cotton, linen, wool, or faux fur, to create a cozy and luxurious feel. Don’t forget to add some pillows and throws to make your bed extra comfy and inviting.
C. Barn Door Closets
A final touch that can make your modern farmhouse bedroom complete is a barn door closet. A barn door closet is a great way to add some rustic charm and functionality to your space. A barn door closet can save some floor space, as well as hide any clutter or mess in your closet. You can choose a barn door that matches the style and color of your bed frame, or one that stands out and makes a statement. You can also customize your barn door with different hardware, such as handles, hinges, or rollers, to suit your taste and preference.
If you are looking for a new bed frame that complements your farmhouse style, check out our Farmhouse Bed Frames Guide
Bathrooms with a Farmhouse Touch
If you’re looking to add a touch of country charm to your bathroom, consider a farmhouse aesthetic. Farmhouse bathrooms exude warmth, hospitality and individuality. They meld classic components with up-to-date fittings, fashioning a zone that’s evocative yet contemporary. The following are some of the prime attributes of farmhouse bathrooms that you can utilise in your own blueprint.
A. Clawfoot Tubs
Nothing says farmhouse like a clawfoot tub. These classic bathtubs have a timeless appeal that can make any bathroom feel more luxurious and relaxing. You can find clawfoot tubs in different shapes, sizes and colors to suit your preference and space. Whether you opt for a white, black or copper tub, you can enhance its beauty with a vintage faucet, a shower curtain and some fluffy towels.
B. Vintage Vanity
Another way to add some farmhouse flair to your bathroom is to use a vintage vanity. A vanity is not only a functional piece of furniture, but also a focal point of the room. You can repurpose an old dresser, cabinet or table into a vanity by adding a sink, a faucet and some storage. You can also paint it, distress it or embellish it with hardware to give it more personality. A vintage vanity can add some warmth and charm to your bathroom, as well as some extra storage space.
C. Subway Tile
Subway tile is a classic choice for any bathroom, but especially for a farmhouse one. Subway tile is simple, elegant and versatile. You can use it on the walls, the floor or the shower to create a clean and bright look. You can also play with different colors, patterns and grout to create some contrast and interest. Subway tile can complement any style of vanity, tub and accessories, making it a perfect choice for a farmhouse bathroom.
Lighting Choices
One of the most important aspects of interior design is lighting. Lighting can create different moods, enhance the beauty of your space, and even make it look bigger or smaller. But how do you choose the right lighting for your home? In this blog post, I will share with you some of the best lighting choices for different styles and purposes. Whether you want to add some personality, elegance, or brightness to your rooms, these lighting options will help you achieve your goals.
A. Mason Jar Light Fixtures
If you love the farmhouse or rustic style, you will love mason jar light fixtures. These are simple, DIY, and affordable ways to add some charm and character to your kitchen, dining room, or bathroom. You can use clear or colored jars, fill them with fairy lights, candles, or flowers, and hang them from the ceiling or the wall. You can also use them as table lamps or nightstands. Mason jar light fixtures are versatile, cozy, and creative.
B. Chandeliers with Rustic Charm
Another way to bring some rustic flair to your home is to use chandeliers with natural or vintage elements. Think of wood, metal, rope, or antlers. These chandeliers can add some drama and elegance to your living room, bedroom, or foyer. They can also complement other rustic furniture and accessories in your space. Chandeliers with rustic charm are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
C. Natural Light Enhancement
If you want to make your home look more spacious, airy, and fresh, you should consider enhancing the natural light in your rooms. Natural light can improve your mood, health, and productivity. It can also make your colors and textures pop. To enhance the natural light in your home, you can use mirrors, curtains, blinds, or skylights. You can also choose light colors for your walls, floors, and furniture. Natural light enhancement is a great way to brighten up your space and save energy.
Sustainability in Modern Farmhouse Design
Modern farmhouse design is a popular trend that combines rustic elements with contemporary aesthetics. But how can you make your modern farmhouse more sustainable and eco-friendly? Here are some tips from an expert interior designer.
A. Eco-Friendly Materials
One of the easiest ways to make your modern farmhouse more sustainable is to choose eco-friendly materials for your furniture, flooring, and accessories. For example, you can opt for reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, or natural fibers instead of synthetic or plastic materials. These materials are not only environmentally friendly, but also add warmth and texture to your space.
B. Energy-Efficient Features
Another way to make your modern farmhouse more sustainable is to incorporate energy-efficient features into your design. For example, you can install solar panels, LED lights, low-flow faucets, and smart thermostats to reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint. These features are not only good for the planet, but also save you money on your utility bills.
By following these tips, you can create a modern farmhouse design that is not only stylish and cozy, but also sustainable and eco-friendly. If you need more help with your modern farmhouse design, contact us today for a consultation.
Case Studies
As an expert interior designer, I love to share some of the amazing projects I’ve worked on with my clients. In this blog post, I’ll show you two examples of different styles that I helped to create, and how they reflected the personality and preferences of my clients.
A. Bohemian Style
Bohemian style is a style that embraces creativity, freedom, and individuality. It’s all about mixing and matching colors, patterns, textures, and cultures. Here are some of the key elements of bohemian style:
- Eclectic furniture: This is furniture that is collected from different sources, such as flea markets, thrift stores, or travels. It can be vintage, ethnic, or modern, as long as it has character and charm.
- Colorful rugs: These are rugs that add warmth and coziness to the floor. They can be oriental, kilim, or Moroccan, or any other style that has vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
- Plants: These are plants that bring life and freshness to the space. They can be succulents, cacti, ferns, or flowers, or any other type that suits the climate and the mood.
- Accessories: These are accessories that add personality and flair to the space. They can be candles, lanterns, pillows, blankets, baskets, books, or art, or any other item that has meaning and beauty.
Here is an example of how I used these elements to create a bohemian style living room for my client:
This living room was bland and boring before I gave it a makeover. The walls were white, the furniture was beige, and the floor was bare. My goal was to inject some color and fun into the space.
I started by adding a colorful rug that covered most of the floor. It had a geometric pattern that added some interest and contrast. I then added some eclectic furniture that matched the colors of the rug. I chose a blue velvet sofa, a yellow armchair, a green ottoman, and a wood coffee table. I also added some plants in different pots and baskets that added some greenery and freshness.
Next, I added some accessories that reflected my client’s personality and style. I added some candles and lanterns that created a cozy and romantic atmosphere. I also added some pillows and blankets that had different patterns and textures. I also added some books and art on the wall that showcased my client’s hobbies and passions.
The result was a colorful and fun living room that my client loved. They said it felt like a reflection of their soul.
B. Scandinavian Style
Scandinavian style is a style that embraces simplicity, functionality, and comfort. It’s all about creating a bright and airy space with natural materials, minimalistic furniture, and cozy accents. Here are some of the key elements of Scandinavian style:
- White walls: These are walls that are painted white or light colors to reflect the natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. They also provide a blank canvas for adding pops of color or art.
- Wood floors: These are floors that are made of wood or laminate to add warmth and texture to the space. They can be light or dark, depending on the preference and the mood.
- Modern furniture: This is furniture that has clean lines, simple shapes, and neutral colors. It is designed to be functional and comfortable, without being too bulky or ornate.
- Cozy textiles: These are textiles that add softness and coziness to the space. They can be rugs, curtains, pillows, blankets, or throws. They can have subtle patterns or solid colors, depending on the preference and the mood.
Here is an example of how I used these elements to create a Scandinavian style bedroom for my client:
This bedroom was dark and cluttered before I gave it a makeover. The walls were painted a dark blue color, the furniture was mismatched and old-fashioned, and the floor was covered with carpet. My goal was to brighten up the space and make it more relaxing.
I started by painting the walls white and removing the carpet. This instantly made the room feel more spacious and airy. I then added some wood flooring that matched the color of the bed frame. This added some warmth and texture to the space.
Next, I chose a minimalistic furniture set that had a modern design. I picked a white bed frame with storage drawers underneath, a white nightstand with a lamp, and a white dresser with a mirror. I also added some cozy textiles that added some comfort and color to the space. I chose a gray duvet cover with white stripes, a yellow pillow with polka dots, a blue throw blanket with tassels, and a white rug with black dots.
The result was a bright and relaxing bedroom that my client loved. They said it felt like a peaceful retreat.
FAQ
Now I’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about modern farmhouse design and give you some tips on how to achieve this look on a budget.
A. How can I achieve a modern farmhouse look on a budget?
One of the easiest ways to create a modern farmhouse look is to use neutral colors, natural materials, and vintage or rustic accents. You don’t need to spend a fortune on new furniture or accessories. You can repurpose old items, shop at thrift stores, or DIY some projects. For example, you can paint your walls white or beige, add some wood or metal shelves, use baskets or crates for storage, and hang some framed prints or signs on the walls. You can also mix and match different textures and patterns, such as linen, cotton, plaid, stripes, or floral.
B. What are some common mistakes to avoid in modern farmhouse design?
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid in modern farmhouse design is going overboard with the farmhouse elements. You don’t want your home to look like a barn or a museum. You want to balance the rustic charm with the contemporary flair. To do that, you need to limit the number of farmhouse items you use and choose them carefully. For example, you can use a farmhouse sink or a sliding barn door, but not both in the same room. You can also use some industrial or minimalist pieces to contrast with the farmhouse style.
C. Is modern farmhouse style suitable for all types of homes?
Modern farmhouse style can work well in any type of home, as long as you adapt it to your space and preferences. You don’t need to have a large or rural property to enjoy this style. You can create a modern farmhouse vibe in a small apartment or a suburban house. The key is to use the right colors, materials, and accessories that suit your home’s architecture and layout. For example, if you have a small kitchen, you can use white cabinets, open shelves, and a subway tile backsplash to create a bright and airy space.
D. How do I balance modern convenience with farmhouse aesthetics?
One of the challenges of modern farmhouse design is to find the right balance between modern convenience and farmhouse aesthetics. You want your home to be comfortable and functional, but also cozy and authentic. To achieve this balance, you need to consider both form and function when choosing your furniture and appliances. For example, you can opt for a sleek sofa with clean lines, but add some throw pillows with farmhouse motifs. You can also choose appliances that have a vintage look but are energy-efficient and smart.
In conclusion, the modern farmhouse style is more than just a trend. It is a way of living that celebrates simplicity, comfort, and authenticity. By incorporating these elements into your home, you can create a cozy and inviting space that reflects your personality and values. Whether you choose to go for a rustic or a refined look, the modern farmhouse style can help you achieve a balance between the old and the new, the natural and the artificial, the functional and the aesthetic.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to embrace the modern farmhouse lifestyle and transform your home into a sanctuary of warmth and charm.
If you want to learn more about the modern farmhouse style, here are some additional resources that you can check out:
- Books and magazines: There are many books and magazines that showcase the modern farmhouse style and offer tips and ideas on how to achieve it. Some examples are Modern Farmhouse Style by Country Living, The New Farmhouse Style by Terry John Woods, and American Farmhouse Style magazine.
- Online communities and forums: You can also join online communities and forums where you can interact with other people who share your passion for the modern farmhouse style. You can ask questions, share photos, get feedback, and find inspiration. Some examples are The Modern Farmhouse Project on Facebook, Modern Farmhouse Style on Pinterest, and r/ModernFarmhouse on Reddit.
- Professional designers: If you need some professional help or guidance on how to create your dream modern farmhouse home, you can hire a designer who specializes in this style. They can help you plan, design, and execute your project according to your budget, preferences, and needs. You can find local designers in your area or online platforms like Houzz or Thumbtack.
