Modern Farmhouse: Contemporary Twist on a Classic

Reinventing a Traditional Style for Today’s Homeowner

 

While HGTV shows and the popularity of Fixer Upper spotlighted the modern Farmhouse style – placing it in the architectural mainstream and the collective consciousness – the design had been gaining in popularity long before Joanna Gaines appeared on the scene. As supersized American homes began to lose their luster in the early 2000s, there was a pull toward the simplicity, comfort, and relaxed feel of a traditional home.

So began the reinvention of the classic Farmhouse into a “shabby chic” country-living-inspired modern design. As more people look to embrace that which is familiar – and things that make them feel good – the simple farmhouse has been upgraded for modern living while maintaining its innate charm and warmth.

 

Let’s explore the timeless Farmhouse style as it has evolved into an adaptable modern design that brings the quaint and folksy into the chic and sophisticated. We look at the elements that make the "Modern Farmhouse" different from its classic counterpart – and yet just as refreshing and homey. And if you're looking for an architectural style reminiscent of a working farm but with all of today's modern amenities, be sure to take a closer look at the popular modern barn house or barndominium plans. 

 

Farmhouse Style: Classic vs. Modern

What familiar images come to mind when someone says "Farmhouse"? A rambling two-story structure on a lush expanse of land, an inviting wraparound porch, warm and comforting surroundings?

Truly an icon of American architecture, the classic farmhouse draws from the look and feel of the homes of the early settlers. Typically, a two-story or 1.5-story structure, it has simple vertical lines and combines minimalistic decor with sturdy, practical furnishings. Bedrooms are usually on the second floor – although transitional and, of course, one-story Farmhouse style homes have master suites on the main level.

You can expect dormer windows on the second floor, gable style roofs, window shutters, a fireplace in the living room, natural wood accents that include exposed beams and wide-plank floors, function-over-form kitchens, apron sinks, vintage furniture, and fabrics that lean toward florals.

 

The Modern Farmhouse style is a sophisticated version of the classic design that effortlessly blends the rustic and the industrial. It takes the beautiful simplicity and cozy vibe of the traditional farmhouse and elevates it to fit contemporary living and needs.

The style – while remarkably like the classic farmhouse – has a more open floor plan and larger windows. It features smooth lines, natural textures, and modern accents like stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, and sleek lighting. Neutral color schemes are dominant, but bright and bold tones are also mixed in occasionally.

And where traditional farmhouses were typically two or 1.5 stories – with living areas downstairs and sleeping areas upstairs – it's not unusual to find a single-story home in the Modern Farmhouse style. It's also quite the trend to have the master suite on the first floor – even with new 1.5 or two-story Farmhouse plans.

 

Elements of the Modern Farmhouse

 

1. White and Gray

A more neutral color palette is a great strategy for creating a timeless and warm design. Think neutrals such as white, shades of beige, creams, silver, and other muted tones – like light gray and slate – especially for the home’s exterior facade. A splash of color here and there is on-trend, particularly with decor accents that spice up the interior space.

 

2.  Primary/Secondary Metal Roof

With their clean straight lines, standing-seam metal roofs are an ideal complement to the simple, practical elements of the Modern Farmhouse, and are particularly attractive in designs with asymmetrical shapes and low slopes. There are three distinct panel styles – corrugated, striated, and ribbed, or standing seam – that can be customized to the home. Nowadays, standing seam metal roofs are by far the most popular and come in many colors, including the fashionable matte gray.

Beyond their appealing aesthetic, standing-seam metal roofs are a popular choice because of their good looks, durability, sustainability, and easy maintenance. Remember that original farmhouses were built on farms and homesteads and had to withstand the forces of nature, such as strong wind gusts, heavy rain, and snow, so these metal roofs play to that tradition.

In addition to function, standing-seam metal roofs are also used as decorative accents over a porch, portico, or bay or boxed window when the rest of the roof may be covered in less-expensive asphalt shingles.

 

3.  Vertical Siding

It seems fitting that one of the elements of Modern Farmhouse design is vertically oriented siding, which like the original architectural style, dates to Colonial times when early settlers built and protected their homes with sawn boards cut from trees. Created out of necessity centuries ago merely as a practical and functional element, vertical siding has evolved into a trendy and versatile design feature in today’s modern residences.

Vertical siding gives traditional homes – like Farmhouse and Ranch styles – a more contemporary, stylish look, and the materials' clean, bold lines can complement other components – the home’s roof, ceilings, kitchen, and bathroom backsplashes – making overall design and decor bright, attractive, and appealing.

 

4.  Simple Front Porch

While a wide and spacious covered front porch is the most distinctive characteristic of the traditional Farmhouse style, the modern version’s porch is normally simpler in structure but still as cozy and homey. Where possible today, porches eschew railings, column brackets, fascia trim, and other decorative frills.

In addition, the decor accents of the Modern Farmhouse style – porch swings, rocking chairs, and comfy outdoor furniture – are minimalistic, in keeping with the clean and sophisticated lines of the architectural design.

 

5.  Natural Materials

From wood to fabrics, natural materials play an important role in the overall design of the modern Farmhouse. You will find wood floors, exposed beams, barn board for wall paneling, and butcher block for kitchen island countertops. There is also an emphasis on natural fibers – cotton, canvas, leather, wool, linen, rattan, and wicker.

Experts recommend using a variety of textures to give the look some depth, so don’t be afraid to mix woods and metal – and mix and match your fabrics, too.

 

6.  Industrial Accents

Take your style up a notch by mixing the natural woods and fabrics with modern industrial accents. In the kitchen, for example, it's a good design decision to replace the usual porcelain apron sink with a stainless steel or copper one. How about a few sleek and eye-catching lighting fixtures like pendant lights in modern steel or iron? You could also use polished concrete for the countertops and/or floors.

 

Design Tips

Here are a few tips when designing your modern Farmhouse:

• Minimalism rules. Create a cozy, relaxing, and uncluttered room or rooms with just a few well-placed furniture and accent pieces.

• Choose furnishings and accessories that are welcoming and practical. You and your guests should walk into the space and be able to kick off your shoes and relax. Your furniture should not be like the precious china and dinnerware that you only use on special occasions.

• A pop of color can add to the ambiance of the space. But stick to the predominantly neutral palette of the Modern Farmhouse look for the overall decor.

Whether you are a stickler for the cozy and homey classic farmhouse or prefer the clean and elegant lines of the modern version, you can't go wrong with the Farmhouse architectural style!

 

Additional Sources:

Living Spaces 

The Spruce