Trendy Contemporary Farmhouse Exterior Styles Build Beautiful
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By Tania Melissa
last updated February 18, 2025
Contributions sourced from
40 Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas
Unveiling a captivating fusion of architectural trends, modern farmhouse exterior ideas beckon aficionados of design to embark on a journey through contemporary pastoral aesthetics. This article serves as a guiding compass, navigating the realm where modern innovation harmoniously entwines with rustic charm. Roaming these pages, enthusiasts and homeowners alike will encounter a diverse tapestry of concepts that reimagine the traditional farmhouse, seamlessly weaving in sleek lines, minimalist elements, and rural warmth.
Within the realm of modern farmhouse exterior ideas, authenticity finds a new language, one that speaks volumes through the interplay of materials, colors, and forms. Explore the artful juxtaposition of clean stucco walls against weathered wood accents, invoking a sense of nostalgia without compromising on present-day sophistication. Venture further, and discover how large windows not only illuminate interiors but also frame picturesque views, becoming artistic vignettes of the surrounding landscape.
Innovative restraint comes to the fore as traditional gables and slanted roofs find companionship with sleek metal roofs that catch sunlight in unexpected ways. Gravel pathways, native flora, and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces bridge the gap between urbanity and rural simplicity, creating an ambiance that marries the past and the future. As we delve into these modern farmhouse exterior ideas, we invite you to partake in the evolution of a classic style, where architectural heritage meets the promise of innovation.
Contents
1. Modern Farmhouse Exteriors in Alluring White
If you prefer to stick with a more traditional palette, opt for an all-white modern farmhouse exterior design. The homes color flows seamlessly when paired together with the same color trim. The monochromatic design lends to a clean and pristine first impression. If you want to add a contrasting element, consider a dark-colored front door.
All-white palettes are pretty much the classic farmhouse style, but with the right touches, you can create a modern flair that stands out in neighborhoods and farmlands alike.
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2. Board and Batten Charms
A popular farmhouse siding style is board and batten. Its where wooden panels or planks or boards come together with a thin strip of wood molding or batten. The batten works to cover the seams of the vertical planks. The paneling provides texture and shadowing to the homes exterior.
Traditionally, board and batten siding is a wood product. However, the look can also include vinyl, metal, or fiber cement materials. You can also choose to color the siding by selecting durable outdoor paint.
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3. Unique Siding Combinations
Mixing different house exterior design styles can save money while adding depth and interest. Stucco is a traditional cement-style finish thats durable and low in cost. This style pairs well alongside board and batten siding. The vertical lines within the siding complement the solid appearance of stucco. You should consider featuring the siding within your homes high peaks and crevices.
Another commonly seen exterior pair ishorizontal siding and brick. This is another great cost-saving option, as brick is expensive to use for the entire home. They flow together in various ways, but often the brick is on the lower forefront. The horizontal siding will then fill in the surrounding areas for a cohesive look.
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4. Exploring Dark Trim
A common detail seen throughout farmhouse-style homes is dark trim. If against a bright white backdrop, the trim accentuates your homes striking details. If you have a porch, you should carry over the dark color throughout its structural columns and posts.
Dark trim very much embodies the flair of modern farmhouse exterior design. While traditional farmhouse design would see window trim and corner boards painted to match the siding, dark trim helps these features stand out, completely changing the way the house resonates with admirers.
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5. Painting Possibilities
Dont feel limited to white when choosing your homes exterior paint color. There is a wide range of styles and color options that work well for a modern farmhouse.
If you are daring enough, a black-on-black color scheme is the ultimate definition of chic. Wood accents or stone detailing instantly stand out against the overall dark tones.
If that farmhouse style seems too bold for your taste, how about a color block pattern instead? A bright white contrast against a dark hue, such as black or blue, provides instant curb appeal. And, if that still seems too much, you cant go wrong with subtle neutrals.
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6. Front Door Gateway to Style
You can give your home an instant refresh by revamping the appearance of a front door. Its a simple way to enhance your homes curb appeal, and there are plenty of style options. You wont want to forget about the surrounding space either. Front door planters are the perfect way to soften up the area and add a touch of natural greenery.
The standard-size front door is 36 by 80 inches, but thats not your only option. An oversized barn door is the perfect farmhouse detail to consider as your entryway. Or, if you want to stick to a more traditional style, opt for a door with sidelights. Theres even an option of installing a set of double doors to create a statement.
If you want to add character to the front door, consider doing this with a pop of color. Black is a great color for contrast. Or, opt for a bright accent color, such as yellow or teal, for a playful touch.
Choose a door with glass windows for an elegant and farmhouse-classic touch. Frosted glass helps to maintain privacy, which can be a typical family concern.
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7. Gable Roof Variations
A common exterior feature in a modern farmhouse design is a gable roof. You may not know it by its name, but rather by its triangle shape. Its pretty much a spitting image of the house youd draw as a kid.
The exterior style is recognizable by the roofs steep pitch. This works wonders to showcase your homes height. You will generally see a gable roof paired with asphalt shingles. The material creates a bold, dark contrast to the traditional white farmhouse exterior.
The benefits of a gable roof arent only visual. The slope of the peaks helps tremendously with efficient drainage. This can be crucial if you live in an area that is heavily affected by rain or snow. Additionally, the high slant provides adequate space for an attic or vaulted ceilings.
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8. Contemporary Horizontal Harmony
Horizontal siding is one of the topmost commonly chosen exterior materials. Almost all contractors are comfortable working with it. Its familiarity works to increase the speed and ease of the installation process. It also works to drive down the cost.
In the trades, contractors and home suppliers refer to horizontal siding as clapboard or lap siding. The style consists of long, horizontal planks and is comparable to an outdoor shiplap. The design leaves a clean, finished look, which is great for a simple farmhouse.
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9. Low Gable Roofs Redefining Farmhouse Exteriors
By tradition, a gable roof displays a high peak; however, the style is still achievable at a lower level. Although it wont serve as well for drainage, a low-pitch gable roof has many other benefits.
Building is much cheaper as there is less surface area to cover. That can also be helpful if you run into any unexpected repair issues. The upkeep is easier to maintain when the roof is at a lower slope, as the walkability is much safer.
Your homes interior design can benefit as well, depending on the roofs design and materials. For example, comfort and temperature are easier to control when avoiding high ceilings and extra space.
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10. Metal Roof Statements
Selecting the best roofing material can seem overwhelming. While asphalt shingles take the lead in popularity, a metal roof is close to follow. Metal does have a higher upfront cost, though. Its longevity can outstand asphalt up to three times. Its powerful water-shedding capabilities allow for the material to withstand harsh climates. This is extremely important, depending on where you are living.
The modern design is also aesthetically pleasing. Depending on the roofs shape, youll choose between layered shingles or standing seams. Standing seams lend the classic metal roof design look to your home. Layered shingles (which actually come in sheets) arent as likely to tip off passersby to your homes metallic hat. You can even consider mixing the two design styles to complement one another.
Regardless of the material, its always best to speak with a professional if taking on this project.
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11. Space-Savvy Serenity
When faced with a small house plan, consider a narrow architectural style. This layout is common throughout many cities, where space is generally limited. You can even consider installing a second-story porch to provide additional outdoor space.
Not only are these homes compact, but the design is very stylish. Mixing sharp structural lines with country-inspired accessories forms the perfect modern farmhouse design. The interior design equally benefits from the layout. High vaulted ceilings create a dramatic and spacious impression. Carry on this theme by keeping an open floor plan throughout the homes interior.
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12. Porch Perfection
Whats not to love about an old-fashioned front porch furnished with rocking chairs? The only thing youd be missing is a glass of iced sweet tea.
A porch is a classic feature seen throughout many modern farmhouse-style homes. Be sure to select sturdy materials for its base, such as brick, wood, or concrete. Other than that, there arent many rules to consider for this area.
With the many design variations, its easy to tailor to any budget. You can keep it as simple or as elaborate as your heart desires. Railings and an open design both fit into the farmhouse theme. Even the size and place of the porch are at your discretion. As you can see, there is a wide variety of porch options available, and you are by no means limited.
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13. Shutter Sophistication
If you are looking for a way to elevate your homes outdoor appearance, consider window shutters. Theyre simple, but theyre also a great way to give your home character. With the vast amount of styles available, youll be sure to find the perfect shutter.
Youll want to pick a material that is durable and weather-resistant. Cedar is the most commonly used wood option, but vinyl or plastic can also work. If you want to paint the shutters, opt for high-quality paint, best for your shutters specific material. Lastly, play up the farmhouse design by adding barn-like hardware around the shutter.
14. Elevating Wood Accent
Wood is another way to highlight your homes architectural style. Youll want to choose a finish or grain that best complements the exterior paint color, but can withstand the outdoor conditions. The most durable and rot-resistant options include cedar and redwood. If youre planning to include multiple finishes, youll want to be sure the contrast is not overpowering.
With wood being a versatile detail, its easy to showcase this element in many different ways. Support beams around windows and the entryway are where youll most commonly see wood accents. Wooden garage doors are also on an upward trend for a rustic exterior feature. You can even add black handles or accents on the door to achieve a more modern style.
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10 Gorgeous Modern Farmhouses: Ideas & Inspiration
Taking old things and making them new again is architectures seemingly endless challenge, one that sparks inspiration for designers and architects around the world. Lately, a new crop of work has displayed clever takes on what is perhaps residential architectures most classic motif: the farmhouse. The modern farmhouse uses common elements from traditional pastoral buildingstimber cladding, A-frame roofs, and lofted spacesand puts a sleeker spin on them for a home that's streamlined but still connected to its natural surroundings. These buildings run the gamut from simple remodels to entirely new structures, each more inventive and elegant than the next. Take, for example, Tom Givones ethereal Floating Farmhouse: The early-19th-century manor home was reworked to become a strikingly modern residence. As recent construction goes, Lloyd Architects Snuck Farm is a brand-new structure built on farmland thats been in the same family for centuries, a building that perfectly embodies the farms sustainable spirit. Here are the ten contemporary farmhouses catching our eye today.
Tom Givone's Floating Farmhouse.Photo: Mark Mahaney
Glass House Meets Farmhouse
Floating Farmhouse, Catskills, New York, Givone HomeNew York Citybased architect Tom Givone reimagined an 1820s manor home as the Floating Farmhouse, a modernist residence perched next to a creek in the Catskills. Available to the architecturally inclined for event and vacation rentals, the home is defined by simple angular geometries and flooded with natural light.
Photo: Jinas Bjerre-Poulsen
A New Take on Traditional Materials
Reydon Grove Farm, Suffolk, U.K., Norm ArchitectsSituated on the edge of farmland in Englands Suffolk county, Reydon Grove Farm is a flat-roofed latitudinal volume whose windowed walls offer staggering views of the surrounding landscape. Wood details on the structures faade and interior recall the vernacular farmhouse style thats evident in the sites other buildings.