Get the Look: How to Design a Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

The History of Modern Farmhouse

Traditional American Farmhouse style first emerged in the 1700s as successful European settlers began building large estates to place on their vast expanse farmland to house their families as well as farmhand staff. Over the centuries, the farmhouse style has undergone many twists and turns inspiring many of the popular styles we see today, such as Modern Farmhouse.

During the 1990s and early 2000s, contemporary and minimalist styles became increasingly popular. So popular, in fact, that they began taking hold of classic, traditional styles such as the aforementioned historic Farmhouse style, and giving them a modern touch. Combining the comforts of a familiar, beloved style with a fresh take that’s clean, sleek, and reflective of our modern lifestyles. Basically, Traditional Farmhouse style and Contemporary style had a baby named “Modern Farmhouse” style!

During the 2010s, several influencers from home improvement TV shows and design magazines, as well as interior design bloggers started referring to this newly emerging interior design style called “Modern Farmhouse”.  Joanna Gaines, who hosts HGTV’s Fixer Upper show (which first aired in 2014) is one of the most iconic influencers known for helping to popularize the Modern Farmhouse look.

Introduce more interest and charm to your design by using a contrasting color for specific work areas, or features. For example, a kitchen island or coffee bar area could be contrasted to add more interest and highlight the space. Add additional character to accent cabinetry colors with a distressed finish like our Heritage Paint or Weathered wood, a stained wood to contrast white painted cabinetry, or a pop of color like navy blue or earthy green.

Modern Farmhouse Style Cabinetry

Modern Farmhouse styling is all about clean lines and casual minimalism. Cabinet door styles can range from Transitional to Contemporary featuring door styles that run the gamut from shaker style to slab. Cabinet construction might be full overlay or at times a more modern inset.

Including an accent cabinet door with your design is a simple way to add interest yet maintain a minimalistic look. It could be as simple as a “frame and glass” door or as sleek as a metal framed door. You might also consider a mullion door with a minimalist pattern. After you’ve selected the frame, next select the an insert that’s either plain glass, mirror, or wired mesh to capture the look.

Design Elements of Modern Farmhouse

Remember: less is more when deciding on design elements for a Modern Farmhouse design. Décor and accessories are the key to this design but be sure to keep the space clean and minimalistic by using them sparingly. Consider simplified elements that remind us of country living like shiplap, rustic or character-rich wood textures, distressed vintage decor, galvanized steel, wrought iron, exposed ceiling beams, industrial-inspired details, and wide plank floors. 

Think of modern ways to honor the classic farmhouse style. For example, modern apron sinks, barn doors used as interior doors or on furniture, large-scale industrial light fixtures, subway tile backsplash, and exposed ceiling beams are a few popular elements you’re likely to see in a Modern Farmhouse design. These elements help the design evoke its classic farmhouse heritage.

Textiles will usually feature natural, organic fabrics like canvas, cotton, linen, and wool with minimal or no fabric dies. When it comes to wood tones, look for species that have a rich character or a rustic aesthetic with a natural, raw, or light to medium stained finish. You can keep the design soft with neutral tones or add a touch of black to give it an edge. For example, choose white or light wood window sills if you’re looking for a “gentle” Modern Farmhouse look, or black window frames if you’d like an “edgy” Modern Farmhouse design. 

Is Modern Farmhouse your interior design style?

As you can see, Modern Farmhouse interior design style allows one to embrace the cozy look of classic Farmhouse style that feels homey and comfortable — but with a fresh vibe that speaks more to our modern-day lives. 

To discover more inspiration for your Modern Farmhouse style kitchen or bathroom remodel, browse the gallery carousel below featuring several Modern Farmhouse styled Dura Supreme Cabinetry projects.