Warm and approachable. These are the first two things that come to mind when I think of modern farmhouse design.
I spent a significant part of my life in the Catskill mountains. We lived on acres upon acres of land full of beautiful birch trees scattered among the towering evergreens with mazes of stone walls made of shale. We rode horses, made mud pies, and chased fireflies for fun. My family chopped wood, hosted huge family picnics every weekend and visited my aunt and uncle’s nearby working farm regularly. It was simple, wholesome, and fun.
I suppose this is why farmhouse design appeals to me. Back in those days, the farmhouse was more of a way of life than an aesthetic. The rustic feel of exposed wood beams was as authentic as it gets because they came from the land right outside our doors. The harvest yellow kitchen and avocado-colored appliances were the “aesthetic” of that time period.
Nowadays, farmhouse design is a warm, sophisticated style inspired by farm life and I am here for it. And it is versatile so you can mix rustic, traditional, or industrial touches and it will flow perfectly. You can play with this hybrid style and truly make it your own.
One of my favorite modern farmhouse touches is the sink. Back in the day, the kitchen sink was strictly a utilitarian piece. When traced back to its humble beginnings, the farmhouse sink was strictly functional. Today, it’s an architectural focal point.
We had the pleasure of designing and building a custom farmhouse in Eastern Connecticut and it’s just gorgeous!
The white cabinets provide for clean lines, and look at all of that storage! I can’t take my eyes off of the farmhouse sink but only to look at the modern rustic lighting! The granite countertops work so well with the flooring and lighting to pull the entire room together.
White and black is a common farmhouse color palette, and black hardware, (even black window grills), add a sophisticated contrast. We used Andersen Windows for this build which will offer exceptional energy efficiency to the entire home.
Other materials such as white shiplap and natural wood accents add layers of texture and provide warmth and depth to the space.
I certainly have a personal connection with a farmhouse that takes me back to a much simpler time. The sophisticated yet down to earth charm of a farmhouse just feels like home. I hope this family, who we now call our friends, enjoy their beautiful home for years to come.