What is modern farmhouse style?
What are the origins of modern farmhouse décor? 
Where can I find modern farmhouse inspo?
What is the difference between farmhouse and modern farmhouse?
What is the difference between American and Australian modern farmhouse design?
What materials are used in modern farmhouse?
What colours are used in modern farmhouse?
How do I add modern farmhouse décor into my home?
What modern farmhouse lights do you recommend?
Why is modern farmhouse so popular?

Whether you're renovating, building, or simply planning your dream home, chances are that you've stumbled upon modern farmhouse décor. However, stumbling upon modern farmhouse, and understanding how to apply it in your space are two entirely different things. And, with regional differences, it can be a minefield to navigate and achieve that Insta-worthy look in your home or investment property.

So, in true FSV style, we've done the homework for you and created this comprehensive how-to guide on modern farmhouse decor. It will delve into what 'modern farmhouse' is per se, what its origins are, the regional distinctions (e.g., between the USA and Australia), the materials and colours, and suggestions on how to inject this quirky contemporary style into your home. Keep reading to find out more, and as always, if you have any burning questions at the end, we're always a phone call, email or DM away.

Once you've finished reading this guide, browse our modern farmhouse lighting collection to get you started on your rustic chic journey.

What is modern farmhouse style?

'There's a homeyness to it... it has a sense of memory with comfort and family and country and a connection to the land.'

- Vanessa Alexander, Interior Designer

A modern farmhouse has certain key characteristics: a rectangular or T-shaped floor plan, usually on one or two stories, a white exterior, large fireplaces, large porches or verandahs, dormer windows, and side gable end roofs. Keep in mind that this is evocative of American farmhouse, which may be different to the local Australian variations that exist. 

In terms of decor, there's a large emphasis on a rustic yet chic look — think barn doors, shiplap walls, reclaimed wood, and wraparound porches for structural features,  and interior styling using neutral-coloured layered throws and textures, wooden crates and antique pieces as a point of contrast, such as brass tapware or door fittings.

It's important to note that when decorating a modern farmhouse space, you need to be careful not to veer into kitschy design, as American modern farmhouse can very quickly steer into Americana overload. You want a house that's beautiful now, and in 50 years’ time.

What are the origins of modern farmhouse décor?

The modern farmhouse style originates from the early colonial homes that were built in America in the early 18th century. These homes started as simple structures. However, heading into the more industrialised mid-19th century was when farmhouses began to be built with better materials and greater flourishes, such as stained glass, gothic elements and larger wraparound porches/verandahs.

Where can I find modern farmhouse inspo?

We're glad you asked! As mentioned earlier, we've done the legwork for you and collated some of our favourite modern farmhouse inspo to get you started on your creative journey. Here are some of the Instagram accounts we adore that ooze that modern farmhouse/rustic chic vibe.

@countryhomemagazine

@bigfamilylittlefarmhouse

Another avenue for finding inspiration is in pop culture. If you've ever watched a film directed by the legendary Nancy Meyers, you'll know that many of her films are set in homes with a modern farmhouse aesthetic. Plus, who doesn't want an excuse to rewatch The Holiday

What is the difference between farmhouse and modern farmhouse?

The most distinct difference between a farmhouse and a modern farmhouse comes down to location. An actual farmhouse is what it says on the tin it's a farmhouse in a rural location. In contrast, a modern farmhouse can be located anywhere a small town, or a big city.

Given that modern farmhouses are commonly seen in suburban or inner-city areas, they can occupy less space than a farmhouse, which by its nature has a large piece of land to be built on. Moreover, a modern farmhouse is also trying to instil contemporary, fresh and oftentimes quirky elements into its layout and style. So, if you're looking for the little home on the prairie, you'd be leaning towards a traditional farmhouse; whereas if you want a rustic chic home with modern elements, you're definitely in the modern farmhouse boat. 

What is the difference between American and Australian modern farmhouse design?

We think this is a super interesting topic, because you don't typically think about Australia when you think about the modern farmhouse style. However, Australia definitely has its own take on modern farmhouse. Oftentimes it's easiest to define differences according to what something isn't, so let's look at how Australian modern farmhouse design isn't like its American counterpart. 

In American modern farmhouse design, the look is somewhat rigid and defined - not to its detriment, but it's clearly identifiable. It also tends to be very 'matchy matchy', in that the style criteria are usually followed quite closely. However, Australian modern farmhouse seems to take a looser approach, steering away from the colonial origins of this style, and leaning towards an approach that focuses on the environment surrounding it. A great example is this home in Trentham, Victoria, which shows how the modern farmhouse style can effortlessly transition with nature.

Home in Trentham Victoria - Photography by Peter Clarke

The sense of it being a modern farmhouse is retained, however, it strips back the monochromatic black/white colours and interjects farmhouse elements much more sparsely, to great minimalist effect. Masses of decorative items, which are common in American modern farmhouse, have also been pared back, with a greater emphasis on statement pieces to frame the home, such as large furniture, a fireplace, and lights, thereby creating a warm and inviting space with much less frills and clutter.

Another important thing to remember is that Australia has a rich history of period homes; so, while we might not be able to have the authentic 'American barn' look, we certainly have our own interpretations of modern farmhouse through our Victorian and Queenslander homes.

What materials are used in modern farmhouse?

As mentioned here a few times, modern farmhouse is all about delving into the past to our nostalgic roots, and bringing in rustic elements into our lives. So, it's no surprise that modern farmhouse design places a significant emphasis on reclaimed and natural materials — the most popular and obvious being wood.

Exposed timber beams, wooden furniture and timber accents are extremely indicative of this style. A distressed or reclaimed wooden dining table with farmhouse style dining chairs is often a focal point of the home.

However, modern farmhouse isn't limited to just wood. In American modern farmhouse, it's quite common to see shiplap walls. Wicker and rattan accent pieces, such as baskets and occasional hanging chairs are also popular, while natural textures are frequently used, such as burlap, cotton and wool, for soft furnishings. 

Given the modern farmhouse focus, it's also no surprise that various metals are incorporated to instil an industrial look, such as in reclaimed brass tapware, door knobs, and other fittings.

In terms of lighting, a variety of materials are common, such as glass, steel, brass and copper that serve to accentuate and complement the farmhouse style.

What colours are used in modern farmhouse?

Modern farmhouse is quite distinctive in that the colours used are very identifiable: monochromatic colours (i.e. black and white) and wood. There can also be occasional accent colours such as gold and brass. As mentioned earlier, there's a strong element of natural and reclaimed wood in modern farmhouse design, so hardwood floors and timber accents are central to this colour palette. Given its rustic origins, modern farmhouse decor also relies strongly on neutral colours and textures, which are seen in rugs, throws, floral accents (e.g. wheat), and more.

How do I add modern farmhouse décor into my home?

Modern farmhouse is humble and unpretentious. It doesn't try to be flashy or over the top; rather, it feels homely, casual and inviting from the moment you walk in the front door. To achieve this, we recommend exposed brick walls, open shelving, knitted throws and textures, pre-loved leather couches, wire baskets, reclaimed wood, distressed furniture, industrial vintage pendant lights and crisp white walls.

Bringing mixed metals in is also a great idea, as it can disrupt the 'matchy matchy' feel that modern farmhouse can sometimes have. Whether it's a copper light, a brass tap, or a wrought iron coat rack, bringing a sense of randomness is perfect for instilling an authenticity into your space, as it eschews that overcommercialised and overdone look that we're all keen to avoid.

We also recommend incorporating industrial elements to act as a point of difference, such as industrial vintage pendant light. The more reclaimed materials or items you can use, the better, as modern farmhouse is all about going back to our roots and bringing it headfirst into the 21st century. So, head into your local antique or thrift shop and go crazy for all things vintage and retro. But remember, we're aiming for modern farmhouse, so don't forget to mix the old with the new and incorporate items that represent a modern life in your home.

What modern farmhouse lights do you recommend?

If you want to take the mixed metals approach, we recommend vintage style copper, brass or steel lighting accents like our Factory pendant lights

So, whether you want to go down the traditional, rustic, or industrial path, there's something for everyone in our lighting collections. And if you're still unsure, why not contact usfor some more recommendations?

For a mixture of farmhouse and industrial, have a look at some of the below lighting ideas.

Broadview Glass Pendant Light	Warehouse Ceiling Pendant Light	Rope Chandelier	Vintage umbrella chandelier

Why is modern farmhouse so popular? Is modern farmhouse going out of style?

We think the reason that modern farmhouse is so popular is that it evokes a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, in reminding us how we used to live. It takes us back in time, yet at the same time brings in modern elements to not feel dated. It is a warm and inviting style by its nature, and it's versatile enough to blend with other styles such as industrial and traditional. It's also popular because it's so accessible you don't need expensive Scandinavian armchairs or great pieces of art. Rather, using reclaimed and preloved furniture and decorative pieces is embraced, and you can achieve this look on a shoestring budget. For these reasons, and for many more, we firmly believe that modern farmhouse won't go out of style anytime soon!

Okay, I'm convinced. But I still need help/have more questions

So, if you're like us, by now you're completely drawn to all things modern farmhouse, and want to inject every inch of space with this décor. But, you still have a few lingering questions and/or concerns, and just want those niggling questions answered. We get it, so why not get in touch with our friendly FSV team? We're always here and ready to help you with any lighting questions you may have; so if you're in doubt, or just need some more info, get in touch! Give us a call, send us an email, or drop into our DMs on social media. No matter your preference, we're here and ready to help you out however we can. 

We also have a growing range of guides available, ranging from lighting guides, to room guides, style guides and Australian architectural style design guides. Whether you're a home renovator, builder, or simply searching for inspiration (been there, done that, bought the postcard!) we're sure to have a guide to help you. And if we don't, simply drop us a line – we’re always looking for new guide ideas to add to the pipeline.