Hey there, design enthusiasts! Craving that perfect blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication? You’re not alone! Contemporary farmhouse style has taken the interior design world by storm, offering a cozy, inviting atmosphere with clean lines and updated touches. It’s about celebrating the warmth of traditional farmhouse elements while embracing a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.
Forget the overly-themed, kitschy farmhouse looks of the past. We’re talking about a refined, curated approach that feels both timeless and totally now. Ready to infuse your home with this irresistible style? Let’s dive into 21 contemporary farmhouse decor ideas that will inspire you to create a space you absolutely adore.
1. Neutral Color Palette with Pops of Boldness
The foundation of any great contemporary farmhouse space is a soothing, neutral color palette. Think warm whites, creamy beiges, soft grays, and even subtle shades of greige (gray + beige). This creates a calming backdrop that allows your other design elements to shine.
- But don’t be afraid to add personality! Introduce pops of bolder colors through textiles, artwork, or even a statement piece of furniture. Think deep navy blues, rich forest greens, or even a touch of muted terracotta.
- Expert Tip: Stick to 2-3 main neutral colors and 1-2 accent colors for a cohesive and balanced look.
2. Embrace Natural Materials: Wood, Stone, and Woven Textures
Bring the outdoors in! Contemporary farmhouse style thrives on the use of natural materials. Think exposed wooden beams (if you’re lucky enough to have them!), wide-plank wood floors, stone fireplaces, and plenty of woven textures.
- Reclaimed wood is your best friend. Use it for accent walls, shelving, furniture, or even smaller decorative items. The weathered, rustic look adds instant character.
- Don’t forget the textiles! Incorporate natural fibers like linen, cotton, jute, and wool through rugs, curtains, throws, and upholstery.
3. Modern Farmhouse Lighting: Go Big and Bold
Lighting is crucial in setting the mood and defining the style of any room. In a contemporary farmhouse setting, opt for lighting fixtures that make a statement while maintaining a touch of rustic charm.
- Think oversized pendants, industrial-inspired sconces, and chandeliers with clean lines. Black metal, brushed brass, and even wood-toned fixtures work beautifully.
- Consider the scale of your space. A large, dramatic chandelier can be a stunning focal point in a dining room or living room with high ceilings, while smaller, more delicate pendants might be better suited for a kitchen island or hallway.
- Layer Your Lighting: Don’t depend on just one light. Use multiple for a better ambiance.
4. Shiplap: The Farmhouse Staple (But Use It Wisely!)
Shiplap. It’s practically synonymous with farmhouse style, right? Those horizontal (or sometimes vertical!) wooden planks add instant texture and character to any space. But in a contemporary farmhouse setting, it’s all about using it strategically.
- Avoid overdoing it. Instead of covering every wall in shiplap, consider using it as an accent wall, on a fireplace surround, or even on the ceiling.
- Paint it! While classic white shiplap is beautiful, don’t be afraid to experiment with other neutral colors, like a soft gray or even a muted blue-green.
5. Mix Old and New: Antique Finds and Modern Pieces
The beauty of contemporary farmhouse style lies in the artful blending of old and new. Don’t be afraid to mix vintage or antique finds with sleek, modern furniture and accessories.
- Hit up flea markets, antique shops, and online marketplaces for unique pieces that tell a story. An old wooden ladder, a vintage mirror, or a weathered trunk can add instant charm.
- Balance these vintage treasures with clean-lined furniture and contemporary artwork to keep the overall look fresh and updated.
6. Farmhouse Kitchen: Open Shelving and a Statement Island
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and a contemporary farmhouse kitchen is no exception. It’s all about creating a warm, inviting space that’s both functional and stylish.
- Open shelving is a key element. Display your favorite dishes, glassware, and cookbooks on open shelves made of wood or metal.
- A large kitchen island is a must-have. It provides extra counter space, storage, and seating. Consider a contrasting color or material for the island to make it a focal point.
- Apron-Front Sink: Install a white ceramic apron-front sink for a genuine farmhouse touch.
7. Cozy Textiles: Layers of Comfort and Texture
Pile on the pillows, throws, and rugs! Contemporary farmhouse style is all about creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and textiles are a key ingredient.
- Mix and match different textures and patterns. Combine chunky knit throws with linen pillows, and layer a jute rug over a softer, patterned rug.
- Stick to a cohesive color palette to keep the look from feeling too busy.
8. Incorporate Greenery: Bring the Outside In (Again!)
Plants add life, color, and a touch of freshness to any space. In a contemporary farmhouse setting, greenery is a must-have.
- Choose plants that complement the rustic aesthetic. Think olive trees, fiddle leaf figs, ferns, and even herbs in terracotta pots.
- Display plants in a variety of ways. Hang them from the ceiling, place them on shelves, or create a statement-making plant wall.
9. Modern Farmhouse Bathrooms: Clean Lines and Rustic Touches
Extend the contemporary farmhouse style to your bathroom for a cohesive look throughout your home.
- Combine modern fixtures with rustic elements. Think a sleek, freestanding bathtub paired with a reclaimed wood vanity.
- Use subway tile in a creative way. Instead of the classic brick pattern, try a herringbone or vertical layout.
- Add Rustic Hardware: Choose drawer pulls and doorknobs with matte black or aged finishes.
10. Metal Accents: A Touch of Industrial Chic
Introduce metal accents to add a touch of industrial chic to your contemporary farmhouse space.
- Black metal is a classic choice. Use it for lighting fixtures, furniture legs, hardware, and decorative objects.
- Brushed brass or copper can also add warmth and sophistication.
11. Declutter and Simplify: Less is More
A core tenet of the contemporary update is a focus on simplicity. Edit your belongings and keep surfaces relatively clear.
- Embrace “Japandi”: This popular blend of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality works surprisingly well with farmhouse.
- Focus on quality over quantity. Invest in a few well-made pieces that you truly love, rather than filling your space with clutter.
- Use storage solutions: baskets, closed shelving and drawers.
12. Gallery Walls: Curated Collections with a Farmhouse Twist
Gallery walls are a great way to add personality and visual interest to any space. In a contemporary farmhouse setting, curate a collection of artwork, photographs, and other objects that reflect your style.
- Mix and match frames. Combine different styles, sizes, and finishes for a collected look. Consider incorporating some rustic wooden frames.
- Choose a cohesive theme or color palette to tie the gallery wall together.
- Include a mix of artwork and objects. Combine prints, photographs, vintage signs, and even small shelves with decorative items.
13. Barn Doors: Function and Style Combined
Barn doors are a quintessential farmhouse element, but they can also be incorporated into a contemporary setting.
- Use a barn door as a stylish alternative to a traditional door for a pantry, laundry room, or even a bedroom.
- Choose a barn door with a modern design. Opt for a clean-lined door with simple hardware, rather than an overly rustic one.
- Paint or Stain: Customize the door to match with existing color schemes.
14. Fireplace Focus: Cozy Up Your Living Space
A fireplace is often the focal point of a living room, and it’s a great opportunity to incorporate contemporary farmhouse style.
- If you have an existing fireplace, consider updating it with a new surround or mantel. Shiplap, stone, or reclaimed wood are all great options.
- If you don’t have a fireplace, you can create a faux fireplace using an electric fireplace insert and a custom-built surround.
- Decorate the mantel with a mix of rustic and modern objects. Candles, plants, vintage books, and framed artwork are all good choices.
15. Dining Room Gatherings: Rustic Table and Modern Chairs
Create a welcoming dining space that’s perfect for family meals and entertaining.
- Start with a rustic wooden dining table. A farmhouse table with a trestle base or a reclaimed wood tabletop is a classic choice.
- Pair the rustic table with modern chairs. Choose chairs with clean lines and comfortable upholstery.
- Add a statement-making light fixture above the table, such as a large chandelier or pendant.
16. Entryway Essentials: Make a Welcoming First Impression
Your entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home, so make it count!
- Add a console table or bench for storage and display.
- Include a mirror to brighten the space and make it feel larger.
- Add a rug to define the area and add warmth.
- Incorporate a few decorative objects that reflect the contemporary farmhouse style, such as a woven basket, a ceramic vase with greenery, or a vintage-inspired sign.
17. Window Treatments: Let the Light Shine In (or Not!)
Window treatments are essential for privacy, light control, and adding a finishing touch to your decor.
- Choose window treatments that complement the contemporary farmhouse style. Linen curtains, Roman shades, or woven wood blinds are all good options.
- Keep it simple. Avoid overly fussy or ornate window treatments.
- Consider layering window treatments for added dimension and functionality. For example, you could combine sheer curtains with heavier drapes.
18. Hardware Updates: Small Details, Big Impact
Don’t underestimate the power of small details! Updating your hardware can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your space.
- Swap out old cabinet knobs and pulls for new ones in a contemporary farmhouse style. Black metal, brushed brass, or even leather pulls are all great options.
- Update your door hardware with new doorknobs and hinges.
- Consider updating your light switch plates and outlet covers for a cohesive look.
19. Outdoor Spaces: Extend the Style to Your Porch and Patio
The principles can easily be adapted for your outdoor spaces.
- Use comfortable, weather-resistant furniture made of natural materials like wood or wicker.
- Rocking Chairs or Swings: Essential for relaxing.
- Outdoor Rugs: Add rugs and textiles for a cozy and inviting feel.
- Add string lights, lanterns, and planters to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
20. Don’t Be Afraid to Break the Rules
While these tips provide a great starting point, don’t be afraid to break the rules and make the contemporary farmhouse style your own!
- Incorporate elements that you love.
- Experiment with different colors, textures, and patterns.
- Most importantly, have fun and create a space that you truly enjoy!
21. Seasonal Decor: Subtle Swaps for a Fresh Look
Contemporary farmhouse style is great because minor changes can make a difference.
- Swap Out Textiles: Change throw pillows, blankets, and even lightweight curtains to match the season. Think warm, earthy tones in autumn and bright, airy colors in spring.
- Natural Elements: Use seasonal natural items for decoration. Pinecones, pumpkins, and branches in the fall; fresh flowers and greenery in the spring and summer.
- Scented Candles: Use candles with scents that reflect the season – cinnamon and apple in the fall, fresh linen in the spring.
Wrapping Up
There you have it – 21 inspiring ideas to help you create the contemporary farmhouse home of your dreams! Remember, it’s all about blending rustic charm with modern sophistication to create a space that’s both stylish and inviting. Don’t be afraid to experiment, mix and match, and most importantly, have fun with it! We can’t wait to see what you create. Happy decorating!
