The Modern Farmhouse style has become very popular in the last decade for its blend of rustic charm and contemporary simplicity. It's a look that strikes the balance between cozy and clean, rooted in traditional farmhouse design but with a fresh, minimalistic approach. For a while it seemed like every renovation included white shiplap, distressed wood and barn doors. So is Modern Farmhouse officially over?
While I think it's still a relevant style in 2025 and beyond, the current version has evolved to be more refined and less restrictive than the 2010s iteration. Current farmhouse design is less rustic than before and includes cleaner, more streamlined design elements. There’s also more freedom within the design style now - while previously colour palettes were very neutral (white, black and grey), many designers are incorporating gorgeous jewel tones like deep navy, hunter green and rich terracotta into their farmhouse rooms.
Below are some tips for incorporating some Modern Farmhouse style into your home. As always, don't feel like you have to commit to just one style. I think that the best designed homes are ones that borrow from different eras and styles to create a space that reflects the people who live there.
If you're not sure where to start or would like some input on choosing pillow covers to fit any style, I'm happy to help! Get started on our Free Design Help page here.
Key Components of Modern Farmhouse
Neutral and Natural Tones
Neutrals are still a staple, but feel free to expand into bolder accent colours like deep greens and blues or golds. Current Modern Farmhouse design draws inspiration from nature - colours tend to be more muted and dusty vs. bright pops of colour.
Blending Old and New
Modern Farmhouse is known for balancing old and new elements - to keep it current, lean less rustic and more minimalist but keep a few well-chosen vintage touches to add texture and warmth to your room (like a reclaimed wood table or a pottery-inspired table lamp).
Functional Spaces
Comfort and utility are key in Modern Farmhouse design. Furniture and accessories should have modern, clean lines but everything should feel cozy and not too precious.
Materials
Wood
Natural wood is a common staple of Modern Farmhouse design. Reclaimed wood is often used for flooring, furniture, and beams.
Stone and Brick
Natural stone fireplaces, marble floors, counters and backsplashes
Metals
Matte black, aged bronze or unlacquered brass hardware and fixtures
Textiles
Linen, cotton, wool, and leather for upholstery and decor
Ceramics and Glass
Handcrafted pottery, glass accents
Colour Palette
The Modern Farmhouse colour palette is all about creating a cozy, timeless feel with a mix of neutrals and natural accents. It often starts with a soft, neutral base of whites, beiges and gentle grays that set a calm and inviting tone. Earthy shades like tan, brown and olive bring warmth, while bolder shades like black, deep blue, or rich green add contrast and depth. Warm, honey-toned or weathered woods—often reclaimed—are typical, adding texture and a lived-in vibe. For hardware and metallic fixtures, matte black, aged bronze or copper are typical for the Modern Farmhouse style.
Modern Farmhouse Throw Pillows
Neutrals with Texture
Although the latest versions of Modern Farmhouse are incorporating more and more colour, the soul of farmhouse is still rooted in neutrals. These calming hues create a versatile base, but what keeps the room from feeling flat and lifeless is varying textures. Look for woven, knitted, or embroidered patterns that add visual interest and a tactile element.
Plaid and Stripes
You can’t go wrong with classic farmhouse prints like plaid and stripes. These timeless patterns add rustic charm while keeping the look clean. Striped pillows work beautifully as accents on neutral sofas or bedding, while a traditional plaid can introduce a bit of country-inspired character. Stick to muted or monochromatic palettes to avoid veering towards cottagecore style.
Natural Fibers
Choosing natural fibers like cotton, linen and wool whenever possible is ideal for achieving the authentic, cozy vibe that defines Modern Farmhouse style. These materials not only look beautiful but also feel soft and inviting. Linen adds an airy, relaxed feel, wool offers warmth and texture, and cotton provides durability and comfort. Together, they create a look that’s timeless.
Muted Patterns
To add patterns without overwhelming the space, choose pillows with muted florals or understated geometrics. Soft florals in neutral tones bring a hint of nature indoors, while subtle geometric patterns add a modern edge. The key is sticking to a gentle colour palette—think soft grays, earthy tans, or faded greens—that keeps the look grounded and cohesive. These muted patterns effortlessly blend into the Modern Farmhouse aesthetic, adding just the right amount of visual interest.
Furniture & Accessories
Obviously, a room is made up of more than just pillows - although we think they’re pretty important. A few things to consider if your Modern Farmhouse room is also in need of some furniture and accessories:
Vintage Meets Modern
The heart of Modern Farmhouse design lies in the balance between vintage charm and modern simplicity. Try to think of the room as a whole and balance the mix of old and new with the furniture and accessories you choose. For instance, rustic or antique elements like reclaimed wood furniture and vintage sconces should be paired with modern pieces like a minimalist neutral sofa. The blend of old and new is what keeps the overall look fresh yet timeless.
Cozy & Functional Accents
What sets this style apart from many other modern design styles is coziness. Soft rugs add comfort and visual warmth. Add a throw blanket in a chunky knit or woven material for functional softness. Decorative baskets made from natural fibers can be very utilitarian, storing blankets, books or everyday essentials, but they also help make a room feel lived-in. Wooden trays on a coffee table can also be super helpful for organizing small items while adding a natural warmth.
Greenery and Natural Elements
Plants and trees breathe life into any room, regardless of design style. If you happen to have a black thumb or a room with little to no light, luckily there are tons of faux plants available now that look convincing and get the job done. Some options to consider beyond the usual potted plants are olive trees, eucalyptus wreaths or cut branches arranged in a sculptural vase.
Hopefully this guide gave some insight into the Modern Farmhouse style. From neutral colour palettes and rustic materials to cozy textiles and functional decor, the Modern Farmhouse design allows you to bring warmth, character, and simplicity into every room of your home. Whether you’re adding shiplap walls or simply switching out throw pillows, these small changes can transform your space into a modern sanctuary. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out my Pinterest board below.
