An elegant and sophisticated farmhouse design is a beautiful way to add character, warmth, and charm to building a brand new custom home. A modern farmhouse’s key elements are clean lines with an industrial twist that features open floor plans and soaring ceilings. Let’s explore some of these key elements that make up a modern farmhouse design.

1.    Start With Clean Lines & Simple Design

The first modern farmhouse element to steal from the pros is clean, simple lines that accentuate an open floor plan. Common architectural features of modern farmhouse style homes include A-shaped or gable roofs, lots of windows, a large covered porch, carriage style garage doors, and vaulted ceilings in key areas that bring a sense of drama or grandeur to the interior.

To achieve the modern farmhouse look, start with stark exterior contrasts such as bright white vertical siding with black accents. Black accents are commonly shown through window frames, doors, metal roofing, and barn style outdoor lighting that bring the modern design features to the forefront.

When you create a home with clean and simple lines, you’ll have spacious rooms with lots of natural light. This architectural style will naturally make your home more inviting and welcoming to guests while creating a space that’s uniquely you.

2.    Incorporate Reclaimed Wood & Exposed Rustic Beams

If you’re looking for a new home with more character, the modern farmhouse design adds a level of sophistication without being too over-the-top. This style uses wide plank wood for your flooring and exposed beams on your ceilings to create an atmosphere of warmth and coziness. Bring out the character of your home by finding reclaimed wood that produces a palette both above and below.

Picture walking into an old farmhouse with the rafters above all exposed, the floor below scattered with hay. The modern farmhouse captures the essence of the nostalgic feel of an old farmhouse, with modern upgrades. It’s more than just design; it infuses character in each room so you can enjoy your space every day without the area feeling monotonous.

3.    Create A Focal Point

To create a modern farmhouse design, homeowners should highlight a focal point such as a fireplace or oversized kitchen island to draw guests into the main space.

What are these attractive spaces that bring people together? Here are some ideas to get you started: 

-An oversized kitchen island with ample space for preparing meals and a large farmhouse sink. You can pull up a couple of barstools and invite guests to sit with you as a meal is pulled together.

-A communal wood dining table for eating and seating. Gathering around a table has always been a way to bond with friends and family.

-A cozy reading nook for a rainy day or any time you want some alone time. You can accomplish this with comfortable furniture that begs you to sit back and read a book, go through old family photos or just relax with your thoughts.

-Not just a fireplace, but a hearth invites warmth into the home. A fireplace is not only for winter but is enjoyed year-round to create ambiance and a glow that begs people to pull up a chair and stay awhile.

4.    Mix Modern Furniture With Rustic Vintage Pieces

The beauty of a modern farmhouse is that you are not stuck with one genre of décor. You want to perfectly curate a mix of different statement furniture pieces from a variety of sources. The right chairs and tables made from the right materials, like old wood or metal, can breathe new life into your home. For instance, if you’re not sure what to do with that rustic wooden table in your basement, put it in the dining room and pair it with modern metal chairs. This will give your home a balanced feel where one style is complementing another.

Part of the allure with modern farmhouse design is the freedom to mix elements from different eras to create visual cohesion. This is a fun way of adding your personal touch without going overboard in one direction or the other.

5.    Decorate With Natural Textures & Tones

Modern farmhouse design is all about organic, natural textures like wood, stone, or galvanized metal. The desire is to have a more natural look that fulfills those looking for a rustic style without sacrificing modern convenience. Farmhouses are a cozy place to live – they have an intimate feel, and their warm colors genuinely make you feel at home in no time flat. The design should blend rustic charm with contemporary amenities.

There are lots of inspiring ways to add natural textures to the design without sacrificing elegance. To design a farmhouse with the feel of simplicity and sophistication, we recommend these key elements:

-Use neutral colors that accentuate the natural beauty of the home. Popular tones consist of warm whites, shades of tan, and classic greys.

-Use a variety of natural materials to create visual depth. Mix fabrics like cotton, linen, canvas, or leather with decorative elements made of weathered wood, stone, wicker, or rattan.

-Layer in mixed metals through accessories like wire baskets, galvanized lighting, and iron rod chairs or console tables. Make sure to use no more than three mixed metals within one room.

-Create texture on sterile walls with shiplap or board and batten accents.

Remember to embrace the minimalist approach by have a few statement décor pieces, without the clutter.

What’s next?

Do you want to create a modern farmhouse design, but you’re not sure how to get started?

Imagine creating your dream home with the help of an experienced custom home builder. With over 60 years of experience in building homes, Wausau Homes can help you create a modern farmhouse inspired by your Pinterest board and fueled by your imagination.

Wausau Homes is here for all your custom home needs! With more than 200,000 satisfied families in new homes, we work with you every step of the way to ensure that your custom home is everything you’ve dreamed it would be. Find your local builder today to get started!