Style Chronicles: Modern Farmhouse

Imagine snuggling up in an oversized chair with a cozy blanket tossed over your legs as you flip through the latest issue of Elle Décor. The smell of banana bread is wafting in from the kitchen, as you anxiously await the ding from the oven timer. The last bit of daylight peeks in through the windows and falls over hardwood floors, casting the shadow of an articulating lamp against the wall. There’s no place you’d rather be. 
 
This is how I envision modern farmhouse — a style that invokes feelings of casual comfort and sophistication. I like to visualize living rooms you can actually live in and homes that are rich with history. Because it’s such a timeless style, we’re highlighting Modern Farmhouse as part of our Expedition Design style lab.
 
Create a farmhouse design style: a cozy environment that’s both rustic and refined with these five tips:
 
 
1. Bring a little history into the space. Whether it’s a reclaimed piece you’ve put some TLC into or a new item with an old vibe, build a foundation for a farmhouse design style with rustic wood pieces that feel a little bit time-worn. When it comes to adding décor pieces for a personal touch, think about vintage items that have character or family history behind them. Use a similar color palette so the space feels both eclectic and refined.

 
2. Swap out standard knobs for traditional hardware. This is one of the smallest, but most effective, ways to give your newer furniture pieces a touch of traditional American elegance. Shop the flea markets or purchase affordable pieces and give them an upgrade to fit your modern farmhouse style. Think brushed metal hardware in nickel, brass or copper. Also, don’t be afraid to mix and match finishes for a casual, authentic look.
 
3. Think light, bright and airy. One of my favorite parts about a Modern Farmhouse look is the feeling of openness. Plenty of natural light flooding into a space with primarily white and cream paint colors is spacious, inviting and elegant. Minimalist accessorizing gives off a modern vibe while warm wood tones help keep this stark space from feeling too sterile. Steer clear of heavy window coverings and instead opt for delicate fabrics or shades that can be pulled tight to the top of the window. Remember: Modern Farmhouse design style is meant to evoke the feeling of being out in the rural, open country, so keep it simple.
 
4. But don’t be afraid of color. Even though the Modern Farmhouse look typically features whites, creams and other soft, natural tones, a pop of color here and there can be the perfect way to add personality and visual intrigue. Bright flowers or a bowl full of vegetables can add colorful, natural elements. Accent chairs or pillows with large bright patterns provide a counterbalance to the softer colors. Vintage pieces full of color add to the eclectic, curated feel. Let your imagination roam!
 
 
5. Consider your ceiling. If your home is new construction or recently remodeled, it may lack the kind of character and charm you find in older homes. When creating a Modern Farmhouse design style, remember to look up! Crown moldings, ceiling medallions and faux exposed beams give a historic feel to even the most cookie-cutter spaces. You can also find rustic pendant lighting or bring in a more modern, polished item, like a chandelier, to balance out the farmhouse feel.
 
These ideas are just the beginning. For more Modern Farmhouse inspiration, check out our Pinterest board.
 
Modern Farmhouse not quite your style? Check out these other styles — Coastal Cottage, Vintage Eclectic, Urban Classic and Modern Simplicity  — to find what style fits your individual taste the best.