A modern offshoot of traditional farmhouse decor, modern farmhouse decor is the brighter, sleeker version. Whilst still incorporating that relaxed feel and a sense of warmth and character, the modern farmhouse trend is more restrained, more minimalist, and more, well,modern.
With some similarities to Scandi interior style, whether it’s our newfound focus on a simpler, clean and organic lifestyle or a yearning to embrace the past in what can feel like complicated modern times. Modern farmhouse decor bridges the gap between past and present for a sophisticated style that looks right at home in a contemporary or period house.
How does modern farmhouse decor differ from traditional farmhouse decor?
As ever in the interior design world, trends are not a monolith. One inspires and evolves into another. And that’s just the case with traditional and modern farmhouse decor. The original, traditional farmhouse decor is nostalgic and sentimental—it’s a celebration of the past and looks back to a bygone era.
Whereas modern farmhouse decor is forward-facing. It’s an updated version, better suited to our modern lives and contemporary homes. It’s more minimal. There’s less fuss and fewer trimmings. There’s still that same focus on natural materials and rustic elements, but with added modern touches like glossy white marble countertops and sleek industrial lighting. There are still vintage or reclaimed elements but used more sparingly. Less is more when it comes to modern farmhouse decor.
Key characteristics of the modern farmhouse decor style
Modern farmhouse characteristic: neutral colour palette
A neutral colour palette is synonymous with modern farmhouse decor. Creating a relaxed and inviting backdrop, warmingbeiges,greigesand oatywhitesare the paints colours to go for on your walls, whilst introducing accent colours through your furnishings. Take a look at our guide onhow to style new neutrals in your hometo get the look or get a betterunderstanding of the different neutral colour palettes.
Modern farmhouse characteristic: natural elements
Natural elements are another cornerstone of the modern farmhouse decor style. The original farmhouses that inspired the trend would have had wood-panelled walls, wood floorboards and exposed wood beams. Whilst this might be a bit too much wood for our modern tastes, you can recreate elements of it withshiplap cladding, a rustic wood coffee or dining table or reclaimed scaffolding style open shelving in the kitchen.
