What is Modern Farmhouse Style?

Love Studio McGee? Let's examine their overall style which many refer to as Modern Farmhouse...

Modern Farmhouse style is a real design aesthetic, a movement even, though most Europeans know this look as a very American design aesthetic straight out of American interiors books, magazines and of course from Syd & Shea at Studio McGee (I love their show on Netflix).

If you’re not sure what Modern Farmhouse style is, or you know but are still curious to stick around and learn more about its foundational elements and how to create the look in your own home, that’s great - I have a mini design lesson for you today.

First of all, Modern Farmhouse can be called a few other things - some refer to it as Classic Modern Rustic, others refer to it as Traditional Modern, and still others classify it as Studio McGee style. :)

I see it as Modern Farmhouse because it’s not purely traditional nor is it purely contemporary - it’s transitional - it blends a traditional farmhouse aesthetic with modern, rustic, and contemporary elements which makes it feel very fresh and sophisticated.

This style emphasizes natural materials, rustic finishes, and a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. Foundational colors are mostly neutrals such as white, cream, beige, and gray. Black is used mostly as an accent. There’s a lot of layering which is where the colors start to appear in shades of blue and green, etc. These come through mostly in textiles, wallpaper and accessories.

As for patterns, you’ll spot classic patterns such as stripes, checks, plaids, and florals like those from William Morris. A focus on natural materials is a big part of this aesthetic so you’ll find many types of natural woods, marble, metal and stone.

Modern Farmhouse incorporates vintage, antique or distressed items alongside brand new pieces. You’ll see weathered wood furniture, antique or industrial lighting fixtures, archways, light and bright, and shiplap walls with a modern twist. This style also incorporates modern design elements like clean lines, sleek metal finishes, and minimalist decor.

You can find furnishings from many periods in this look - it’s not just contemporary, or Danish pieces, or even antiques - it’s a little bit of everything. The key is to balance a room and create visual harmony so choosing woods in the same tone for instance makes furniture from different periods work together.

You’ll also spot loads of open shelving, Shiplap walls, exposed beam ceilings, barn doors and vintage or vintage-reproduction lighting fixtures.

Key elements in a nutshell:

• Neutral color palette: Modern Farmhouse decor often features a neutral color palette of whites, grays, and 50 shades of beige. :)

• Natural materials: Natural materials like wood, linen, stone, and metal.

• Rustic finishes: Rustic finishes such as weathered wood, distressed metal, and reclaimed materials.

• Vintage and antique items: Vintage and antique items like old signage, barn doors, and farm equipment are often incorporated into Modern Farmhouse decor. These items add a sense of history and nostalgia to the space.

• Simple and clean lines: Modern Farmhouse decor is characterized by simple and clean lines. This creates a minimalist feel and allows the natural materials and rustic finishes to take center stage.

• Cozy textiles: Cozy textiles like soft blankets, plush pillows, and woven rugs are essential in Modern Farmhouse decor. These items add warmth and comfort to the space and create a welcoming atmosphere.

• Family-friendly and livable: For the most part, a family can really live in these rooms since they aren’t just nice to look at but also function well for all types of families. Adequate storage is a big consideration - spots to keep everything tidy and neat (and out of sight).

In summary, Modern Farmhouse decor style is a harmonious combination of traditional farmhouse elements combined with modern design and aesthetics that is warm, welcoming, and family-friendly, with a focus on comfortable, livable and inviting spaces.

I certainly like elements of it, what do you think? Are you a fan of this look? What do you love? What do you tend to dislike about this aesthetic? Could you live in a Modern Farmhouse interior?

Photos: Kate Marker Interiors | Studio McGee