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What Is A Modern Farmhouse?

The modern farmhouse is exactly what it sounds like: a modernized version of the classic farmhouse.

But there's much more than just mixing older and newer elements. The modern farmhouse is an excellent example of the farmhouse's evolution, which is a style that has been around since early settlers arrived in the 1700s.

Over the last several decades, the farmhouse has seen many variations, such as:

Plantation
Victorian
Classical and Greek Revival
Cracker Style
Pennsylvania Dutch and Piedmont

However, it always has the same key elements which all tie back to functionality: big, open spaces, clean lines, and a large porch.

Most recently, in the late 2010s, the voguish yet country style that is of the modern farmhouse has skyrocketed in design choice.

The Difference Between Farmhouse and Modern Farmhouse

Instead of an architectural style, the farmhouse started as a method of functionality because of its large, open spaces and wrap-around porches, slowly evolving into what we know it as today.

But unlike its classic counterpart, the modern farmhouse has become an element of decor as opposed to an actual architectural style.

The classic farmhouse style is supposed to remind you of the olden days with natural wood accents, vintage furniture, traditional fabrics and patterns, and simplified decor.

Meanwhile, the modern farmhouse takes the elements of the classic version and "modernizes" it by making it more sophisticated with details such as:

Cleaner lines
Glossier accents, like stainless steel appliances
Sleek, modern lighting
Dark and striking elements among neutral colors

Along with these characteristics, the modern farmhouse has a set of exterior, interior, and decorative key features.

Key Features of a Modern Farmhouse

Also known as farmhouse modular homes, this style is very unique. It appeals to the person who craves the traditional coziness of a classic farmhouse but also has a taste for the contemporary and minimalist details.

Minimalism made a surge back in the 1990s and 2000s, and it's coming back with the chic and rustic style of the modern farmhouse.

Sherwin-Williams' 2017 Color of the Year was Poised Taupe: a simple and neutral beige. Can your walls get any more minimalist than that?

In addition to upgrading the classic farmhouse's look, a modern farmhouse is typical in rural and urban communities. It is still designed to fit large families, but don't have to sit on a large lot of land to match the farmhouse criteria.

The chic style isn't going anywhere anytime soon since it holds the quaint appearance of the classic farmhouse while tying in the important components of a modern home.

Exterior Features

Most modern farmhouses will have a clean, simple exterior — usually light, neutral sliding with large, open windows.

Although modern farmhouses are more about aesthetics than an architectural type, it's easy to spot one from the street. Some notable exterior features include:

Lots of windows
Barn style lighting, like black-rim gas lights
Large covered porch
Black or gray gabled roofs
Carriage-style garage doors

Interior Features

Inside, you'll still find plenty of space with rustic decor sprinkled throughout the home. Perfect for families of any size, there's no reason to compromise style for functionality.

When it comes to the modern farmhouse, it's all about design. Here are some standard interior features:

Natural woodwork and stone, like exposed beams and wooden furniture
Big, open kitchen with a farmhouse or apron sink
Lots of shiplap or use of different elements
Shaker-style cabinetry
Wide plank floors

Some decor elements might include:

Flipped or upcycled materials

Light color palette with dark accents

Vintage and antique accessories

Industrial, modern decor mixed with traditional, older pieces

Wood mixed with metal

Is The Modern Farmhouse Right For You?

If you're the type of person who can't choose between classic and modern, then call the hosts of Fixer Upper. This stylish, cozy upgrade of the traditional farmhouse might be exactly what you're looking for.

The great thing about modern farmhouses is that although uncomplicated and minimalist, they are still perfectly fit for any size family. You can always add playful, colorful elements in households with children — or keep it clean and straightforward for those craving monotony.

These homes also fit perfectly in suburban and urban neighborhoods, whereas the classic farmhouse does better in more rural areas with larger lots.

Find the Perfect Modern Farmhouse Plans

With different styles every era, the classic traditional form of the farmhouse seems to be evergreen.

And most recently, Americans have taken the liking of upgrading the classic style to something more simplistic.

Modular farmhouses are known to have unique curb appeal, with light sliding, and natural and industrial-mixed features with gas-lit, barn-style lighting. They often mix older elements, like worn, exposed wood, and vintage furniture, all of which help give the home a feel back to its roots.

If you're looking for a home that has that special classic charm, then the modern farmhouse might be the answer.

And although the interior design will be up to you or one of our design professionals, your perfect modern farmhouse is out there waiting for you — so check out some of the best modern farmhouse floorplans today!