Achieving the Look - Modern Farmhouse

Modern farmhouse continues to be one of the most requested design styles we see and for good reason. While we love the warmth and character it brings to a home, we always encourage our clients to think beyond the trend and create a space that will still feel beautiful years from now.

The key to achieving a timeless modern farmhouse is balance. We recommend blending modern finishes with subtle farmhouse elements instead of leaning too heavily into rustic details. This creates a home that feels warm, inviting, and current without looking overly themed.

Like all areas of design, there aren't strict rules. Some of the best spaces intentionally break them. The important thing is that every design choice feels purposeful and contributes to the overall vision of the home.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to achieve a modern farmhouse look that feels timeless rather than trendy:

• Shiplap

• Board and Batten

• Industrial Lighting

• Neutral Color Palette

• Simple Mitered-Edge Baseboards

• Custom Subway Tile

• Simple Cabinetry

Shiplap is one of the signature elements of modern farmhouse design, but more isn't always better. Instead of using it throughout the home, choose a few areas where it can create a focal point and add architectural interest.

Some of our favorite places to use shiplap include:

• Fireplace walls

• Stairwells

• Powder bathrooms (especially in an accent color)

• One bedroom accent wall in a warm neutral or charcoal gray

Using shiplap strategically can help create a custom, timeless look without overwhelming the space.

With Board and Batten Less is often more. Rather than using it throughout the home, choose one or two areas where it can serve as a focal point, such as a fireplace wall or large accent wall. Taking the time to plan the spacing and proportions beforehand will ensure a custom look that feels balanced and intentional.

Industrial-inspired lighting is a staple of modern farmhouse design. We especially love matte black fixtures for the contrast and character they bring to a space. Whether you're selecting pendants, sconces, or chandeliers, pair them with warm 2700K–3000K bulbs to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Cooler white bulbs can make a space feel sterile and wash out the warmth of your finishes.

Light-colored flooring creates an airy, timeless foundation that complements the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Whether you choose engineered hardwood or a high-quality wood-look flooring, lighter oak tones help brighten a space while allowing other design elements to shine.

If your space allows, consider wider planks. They create a more seamless, custom look and can make larger rooms feel even more open and expansive.

A neutral color palette will never go out of style. By layering warm whites with soft taupes, grey’s, and natural textures, you can create a home that feels both elegant and inviting without feeling overly trendy. Statement pieces like black, or dark browns help to elevate the space and really bring the room to life.

Baseboards are often an overlooked design detail, but they can make a significant impact on the overall feel of a home. Taller baseboards with a simple mitered-edge profile create a clean, finished look that complements modern farmhouse design without feeling too formal.

Custom subway tile offers an elegant look with added personality. The slight variations from tile to tile create movement and texture, giving your backsplash a custom feel while adding subtle visual interest.

Design elements to reconsider when trying to achieve the Modern Farmhouse look

Rich, Saturated Colors: Deep, highly saturated colors can push a space toward a more traditional farmhouse aesthetic. Instead, opt for muted or earthy versions of your favorite colors to introduce warmth while maintaining a modern, timeless feel.

Narrow Shiplap Planks: When incorporating shiplap, proportion matters. Wider planks tend to feel more current and complement modern farmhouse interiors, while very narrow planks can make the space feel dated. Be sure the width is proportional to your trim, ceiling height, and overall scale of the room.

Short Baseboards: Trim details have a significant impact on the overall design of a home. We recommend choosing baseboards that are at least 3¾ inches tall to create a more custom, finished appearance.

Overly Rustic Lighting: Lighting should feel sophisticated rather than themed. Instead of heavily distressed or rustic fixtures, choose lighting with clean lines and simple silhouettes that complement the rest of your home's design. Creating a cohesive lighting plan throughout the home will help each space feel intentional and connected.

Warm Red-Toned Wood Flooring: Flooring with strong red or orange undertones can make a home feel dated and pull away from the clean, modern farmhouse aesthetic. Instead, look for neutral or lightly warm wood tones that blend seamlessly with the rest of your finishes.

Dated Prints & Patterns: Modern farmhouse design embraces simplicity. Instead of overly busy or dated patterns, choose classic textiles and lasting prints that add texture and interest without overwhelming the space. Layering natural materials and subtle patterns creates a look that feels fresh, inviting, and enduring.