Modern farmhouse style took off in popularity thanks to HGTV shows like Fixer Upper but I’m here to tell you that it’s evolved and grown up a little for 2023! So what does it take to pull this style off?
9 Must Have’s for Modern Farmhouse
- Neutral monochromatic colors
- Dark or neutral wood finishes
- Unfussy minimal decor
- Textures & subtle pattern
- Consistent Trim Color
- Matte or dull metals
- Walls and backsplashes that recede
- Vintage & antique touches
- Open layouts
Farmhouse modern or “new country” now incorporates elements of Scandinavian, new European, even coastal decor. Is it still popular? Well that depends.
If your home IS in the country or you’re partial to a laid back vibe with rustic and modern elements, then why not embrace the “farmhouse” vibe? The beauty of farmhouse style is can bring a warmth to city living too.
Comfort plays a big part too in creating a warm cozy space that says I can just kick my boots off at the door.
We’re getting used to living/family rooms open to dining/kitchen aren’t we? We want to live in one big room because we don’t want to miss a thing. We want to be able to talk and cook, watch TV or play on the computer, do homework and socialize all at the same time. Open plan with vaulted ceilings and lots of windows is the essence of a “modern” farmhouse.
What Defines Modern Farmhouse Style?
IMO the most defining element of farmhouse style is a clean and stripped back look. No fuss or frills.
1. Neutral Monochromatic Colors
Keep colors neutral. Think of an open prairie, a field of wheat or even the wild coast. Simple, organic and soothing to look at. Try different shades of white, cream, tan and gray. Add deep colors like steel gray or navy blue for contrast.
2. Neutral Wood Finishes
Woods should like they were ripped out of a barn or naturally aged to a deep dark patina. Once again neutrals work best. Forget the reddish or golden brown hues of classic oak and go for grayed out or deep tones.
3. Minimal decor
Keep it simple. No frou frou allowed. Simple organic patterns for pillows, rugs and accessories. Art on the wall should feel part of the landscape. Give natural textures like wood floors or large glass windows a chance to shine.
4. Texture & Subtle Patterns
Think of using textures as an alternative to patterns. Subtle details like woven fabrics, rugs and nubby pillows create a cosy rustic vibe that feels down to earth.
5. Consistent Trim Color
Keep your trims such as baseboard, wainscoting consistent throughout. Use simple not ornate moldings in a Shaker, tongue in groove or shiplap style. Love a dark painted wainscot!
6. Matte or Dull Metal Finishes
A touch of matte or distressed metal is another way to add depth and texture to farmhouse decor. It’s not rustic or country but sleek. Finishes are subdued. No shiny brass but deep gold, copper or soft black will do.
7. Walls and Backsplashes that Recede
Keep backsplashes or walls in kitchens and bathrooms muted. No crazy color combos or dated patterns. They shouldn’t be focal points but should slide into the overall color scheme. Off white subway tile or chevron patterns for example.
8. Vintage & Antique Touches
Always add a vintage touch here and there to keep things looking authentic. A row of old glass jars or a vintage cupboard mounted on the wall. Old windows re-purposed as headboards. Let that wear and tear show.
9. Open Layouts
Opening up your walls and creating light and a feeling of space is key to modern farmhouse. Which of course is completely different from a traditional farmhouse, but hey we’re talking 2023 here! Lots of glass and bringing the outside in creates that farmhouse warmth whether you live in the city or the ‘burbs.
Okay so now you’ve got the big open plan living you’ve been craving. But what’s the secret to farmhouse decorating without walls?
Decorating Open Plan Space Farmhouse Style
- Use larger scale sectionals, over-sized chairs and couches.
- Try moving furniture away from walls by “floating” your sofa or sectional
- Create “rooms” within the space, such as dining and living
- High ceilings can be intimidating. Bring them “down” with color
- Ground your room or furniture arrangement with the right scale rug
How to Choose Accessories, Rugs, etc
- Does it fit or work with your color palette?
- Does it keep your mostly minimal vibe?
- Is it a good quality modern version of a traditional style?
- Do you love it or does it “speak” to you?
Farmhouse Decorating 101
Trying to create a farmhouse look with your existing home? Ripping everything out and starting from scratch makes it easier. But if you’re on a budget, start to update your look with the walls and floors.
Start with a color palette and a theme – in this case farmhouse – so you have a “template” to work from when you shop. Ask yourself; does this fit with the theme or feeling I’m trying to create? Does it scream “next to a farm?”
Choose two main colors and two accent colors. Keep it simple and use these throughout your home. Keep walls mostly monochromatic. Using one color throughout simplifies your decisions! You can focus on bringing in texture and accent colors instead of panicking about what color to paint each wall.
Once you pick your colors and main textures (wood, tile, rugs) then rinse and repeat throughout. As budget and time allows, take out those elements that no longer fit your farmhouse vision and replace them with what does.
Need some guidance on where to start with your color palette. Hit me up!
No Comments