The modern farmhouse style has been gaining popularity in recent years as homeowners seek to combine the warmth and comfort of traditional farmhouse aesthetics with the sleek and contemporary look of modern design. Popularized in part by TV shows like Fixer Upper and the rise of social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, this style is characterized by a neutral color palette, rustic wood accents, mixed textures, vintage and antique décor, and industrial-inspired lighting.
From trendy coffee shops and restaurants to celebrity homes, modern farmhouse style has become a ubiquitous design aesthetic that shows no signs of slowing down. Its timeless appeal and versatility ensure that it will remain a mainstay in the design world for years to come. In this article, we will explore the history of farmhouse style, the key elements of modern farmhouse design, and practical tips for incorporating this style into your home décor.
History of Farmhouse Style
Farmhouse style has its roots in the agricultural lifestyle of rural America. The traditional farmhouse aesthetic was simple, functional, and utilitarian, with an emphasis on practicality and durability. The design elements included exposed wood beams, plank floors, and unadorned walls. Over time, this style has evolved to include more ornate details, such as gingerbread trim and decorative moldings.
In the early 20th century, the Arts and Crafts movement emerged as a response to the mass-produced, machine-made goods of the Industrial Revolution. The movement emphasized the value of traditional craftsmanship and hand-made goods, which aligned with the ethos of the farmhouse aesthetic. In the 1980s, the popularity of the “country” look in interior design brought farmhouse style back into the mainstream.
Elements of Modern Farmhouse Style
The modern farmhouse style takes inspiration from the traditional farmhouse aesthetic but incorporates contemporary design elements to create a fresh and updated look. Here are some key elements of modern farmhouse design:
Open & Functional Layout
Emphasis on function and practicality with open floor plans creating a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas and functional elements such as built-in storage, open shelving and multipurpose furniture.
Shiplap & Rustic Accents
Shiplap wooden boards are used on walls, ceilings, and floors to add texture and character to a space. Other types of rustic wood accents include exposed wood beams, reclaimed wood furniture, and barn doors.
Natural Fibres & Textures
A variety of textures and materials creates visual interest and depth. This includes natural materials such as linen, wool, jute, and leather, as well as mixed metals and ceramics.
Vintage & Antique Décor
Items that add character and charm by evoking a sense of history and nostalgia including old signs, vintage books, and antique trunks.
Industrial Lighting
Industrial-inspired lighting fixtures such as pendant lights, chandeliers, and sconces which are typically made of metal and have a simple, utilitarian design that complements the rustic farmhouse aesthetic.
From the Garden
Modern farmhouse style makes use of flower arrangements, and potted plants that convey a rustic, straight-fron the garden aesthetic. Kitchen gardens are also common features of modern farmhouse living.
Modern Farmhouse Color Scheme
The modern farmhouse comprises a neutral color palette of whites, creams, grays, and beiges, with pops of black and white for contrast. These colors will create a warm and inviting atmosphere while also keeping the space bright and airy. If you want to add some color to the space, consider using natural hues like greens and blues to evoke a sense of nature and the outdoors.
Modern Farmhouse Styling
Some key decor items that characterize modern farmhouse style include vintage and antique pieces, such as old wooden crates, metal buckets, and vintage signs. These items add character and a sense of history to a space. Other popular decor items include woven baskets, textured pillows, and natural-fiber rugs, which add warmth and texture to the space. To incorporate modern elements into the design, consider using industrial-inspired lighting fixtures, such as metal pendant lights or wire chandeliers, and sleek, streamlined furniture with clean lines. Finally, don’t be afraid to add a touch of greenery to your space with potted plants or a vase of fresh flowers. These decor items help to bring a sense of the outdoors inside and complete the modern farmhouse look.
Modern Farmhouse Lighting Fixtures
Industrial-inspired lighting fixtures are a staple of modern farmhouse design. Look for fixtures made of metal with a simple, utilitarian design. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and sconces are all great options for adding an industrial touch to your space. You can also incorporate natural elements like wood and rope into your lighting fixtures to soften the look.
Examples of Modern Farmhouse Homes
To get a better sense of what modern farmhouse design looks like in practice, let’s take a look at some real-life examples:
This modern farmhouse kitchen features shiplap walls, a farmhouse apron sink, and a mix of open shelving and shaker-style cabinetry. The brushed steel hardware creates an industrial touch to the space.
This living room combines vintage and modern décor elements to create a cozy and inviting space. The white shiplap walls and wooden coffee table provide a farmhouse feel, while the modern accent chairs and black metal chandellier add a contemporary touch.
This bedroom incorporates a mix of textures and natural materials to create a relaxing retreat. The linen bedding and woven rug add softness to the space, while the black metal industrial-inspired pendant lights provide a touch of masculinity.
Modern farmhouse style is a popular design trend that combines the warmth and comfort of traditional farmhouse aesthetics with the sleek and contemporary look of modern design. Key elements of this style include a neutral color palette, rustic wood accents, mixed textures, vintage and antique décor, and industrial-inspired lighting. By following the practical tips outlined in this article, you can easily incorporate modern farmhouse style into your own home décor.
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