Farmhouse VS Modern Farmhouse Homes: Definitions, Similarities and Differences

Save to Find It Later!

Over the past decades, farmhouse and modern farmhouse home decor styles have become incredibly popular, thanks in large part to TV shows like Fixer Upper with Chip and Joanna Gaines. I remember watching these shows (awfully dubbed in French, may I add) every Sunday morning!

These shows have brought the cozy, rustic charm of farmhouse decor into the spotlight, showcasing how it can transform a home into a welcoming and stylish space. The appeal lies in its blend of comfort, practicality, and timeless design, making it a favorite for many homeowners.

Originally rooted in American rural living, farmhouse decor has spread far beyond the borders of the USA. Its natural materials, neutral colors, and focus on functionality have resonated with people around the world. In Europe, for example, the modern farmhouse style has been adapted to suit local tastes, blending the rustic American aesthetic with European design sensibilities. This global influence has only added to its popularity, proving that the charm of farmhouse decor is universal.

Whether you’re looking to create a warm, inviting space or a more polished, contemporary look, understanding the differences between traditional farmhouse and modern farmhouse styles can help you find the perfect fit for your home.

What is Farmhouse Home Decor?

Farmhouse decor comes from the practical, simple living of rural farmhouses. It’s all about creating a home that feels warm, inviting, and functional. It’s usually a style that is associated with southern states like Tennessee but it’s made its way to most places now!

Natural Materials

In traditional farmhouse decor, you’ll often see natural materials like wood and stone. Think of wooden beams on the ceiling, stone fireplaces, and lots of natural light.

Color Palette

The color palette is usually warm and earthy, with shades like white, beige, and brown. Sometimes, a bit of color finds its way in, especially colors such as sage green or pastel lavender. These colors help create a cozy atmosphere that feels like home. A farmhouse style home is generally bright and airy!

Furniture & Decor

The furniture in a farmhouse-style home is usually sturdy and practical. For example, you might see a large wooden dining table that can fit the whole family. Many pieces might be vintage or have a distressed look, giving them a sense of history.

Decor items often include things like mason jars, galvanized metal containers, and barn doors. Actually, mason jars are a great way to decorate your farmhouse style home for each season as you can fill them up with different items such as pinecones or fall leaves.

Overall, farmhouse decor feels cozy and lived-in. It’s not about perfection but about creating a space where you can relax and feel comfortable.

Farmhouse Style Home Examples

What is Modern Farmhouse Home Decor?

Modern farmhouse decor takes the traditional farmhouse style and gives it a fresh, updated twist. It keeps the warmth and charm of farmhouse decor but adds a bit of polish and sophistication.

A Mix Of Natural And Modern Materials

In modern farmhouse style, you still see a lot of natural materials, but there’s a bit more balance, which is why it has become popular; you don’t have to choose! For example, you might see rustic wood beams paired with sleek metal light fixtures.

Color Palette

The color palette is more neutral, focusing on whites, grays, and blacks, with wood tones adding warmth. The main difference with a farmhouse home being the presence of darker colors, especially black. That’s almost always a way to determine whether it’s a farmhouse or modern farmhouse style.

Furniture & Decor

Furniture in a modern farmhouse is usually more streamlined compared to traditional farmhouse style. You might find a mix of rustic pieces with more modern designs. For instance, a simple wooden table might be paired with modern metal chairs. In a modern farmhouse bathroom, you’ll pair wooden cabinets with matte black handles.

The overall look is less cluttered, with fewer but more intentional decorative items. Instead of a mix of vintage pieces, you might see more curated decor like shiplap walls or matte black fixtures.

The modern farmhouse style feels more polished and intentional. It’s still inviting and cozy but with a touch of modern elegance.

Modern Farmhouse Home Examples

How Are Farmhouse and Modern Farmhouse Styles Similar?

Both farmhouse and modern farmhouse styles focus on creating a warm and inviting home. They both use natural materials like wood and stone to bring in warmth and texture.

Comfort is a key element in both styles. You’ll find cozy fabrics, comfortable furniture, and spaces designed for family gatherings in both traditional and modern farmhouse homes. They also share a love for rustic, vintage elements that give a sense of history and nostalgia.

Another similarity is the open, airy layout. Both styles often feature open floor plans that create a spacious feeling and make it easy for people to gather and socialize.

What Are the Differences Between Farmhouse and Modern Farmhouse Styles?

While they share some similarities, farmhouse and modern farmhouse styles have distinct differences. One of the biggest differences is in the color palette. Traditional farmhouse decor uses warmer, earthier tones like beige and brown. In contrast, modern farmhouse decor favors a more neutral palette with whites, grays, and blacks. This gives modern farmhouse homes a cleaner, more contemporary look.

The furniture and fixtures also differ. Traditional farmhouse furniture tends to be bulkier and more rustic. For example, you might find an old wooden table with mismatched chairs in a traditional farmhouse. In a modern farmhouse, the furniture is more streamlined and often combines rustic and modern elements. You might see a simple wooden table with sleek metal chairs, creating a mix of old and new.

Decorative elements also set these styles apart. Traditional farmhouse decor is more eclectic and often includes DIY or handmade items. For example, you might see shelves filled with a mix of old books, mason jars, and vintage signs. Modern farmhouse decor is more curated and minimal. Instead of lots of little items, you might see a few larger pieces like a modern vase or a large piece of wall art.

The overall ambiance is another key difference. Traditional farmhouse decor feels more casual and lived-in. It’s a space where you can imagine a family gathering around the table for a homemade meal. Modern farmhouse decor, while still cozy, feels more designed and intentional. It’s a blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication, creating a balanced and stylish space.

Which Style is Right for Your Home?

Choosing between farmhouse and modern farmhouse decor depends on your personal taste and lifestyle. Honestly, you can’t really go wrong since the farmhouse style goes with anything modern.

If you love the idea of a cozy, lived-in space with lots of history and charm, traditional farmhouse might be the way to go. It’s perfect for people who appreciate vintage items and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner, more updated look but still want that cozy feel, modern farmhouse could be a great fit. It’s a good choice for those who like a mix of old and new and enjoy some darker accents.

Mixing The Two

You can also mix elements of both styles. For example, you might use a traditional farmhouse table but pair it with modern chairs. Or you might have a neutral modern farmhouse color scheme but add some vintage decor pieces for character. Mixing styles allows you to create a home that feels uniquely yours.

Farmhouse and modern farmhouse styles both offer a cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes a house feel like a home. While they share some similarities, the key differences in color palette, furniture, and decor make each style unique.

By understanding these styles, you can decide which one suits your taste and create a home that reflects your personality. Whether you lean more towards traditional farmhouse or modern farmhouse, the goal is to create a space that you love and that feels like home.