Introduction to the Modern Farmhouse Kitchen
The modern farmhouse kitchen style has become one of the most sought-after looks for today’s homeowners. Characterized by a rustic yet refined aesthetic, the modern farmhouse kitchen seamlessly blends old and new design elements for a warm, inviting, and timeless space.
At its core, the modern farmhouse kitchen pays homage to the practical farmhouse kitchens of the past while incorporating modern amenities and materials. It brings together natural materials like wood and stone with clean lines, crisp white cabinetry, and industrial accents. The result is a lighter, brighter, and more airy take on the traditional farmhouse kitchen.
In recent years, the modern farmhouse kitchen has exploded in popularity thanks to home renovation shows, social media, and a desire for cozy authenticity. Homeowners are drawn to the look because it feels grounded in heritage and craftsmanship, while still meeting the needs of how we live today. The timeless style works well for everyone from urban dwellers to suburban families to country residents.
With both vintage charm and contemporary function, the modern farmhouse kitchen offers the best of both worlds: a space that feels connected to history but designed for modern life. Let’s explore the essential elements that make up this coveted style.
Key Elements of the Look
The modern farmhouse kitchen is defined by several key elements that create the light, airy aesthetic this style is known for. Here are some of the most important features:
**White Cabinets** Crisp, white cabinetry is essential for a modern farmhouse kitchen. The bright white paint creates a fresh, clean look and opens up smaller kitchen spaces. Shaker-style cabinets with visible hinges and a simple design are common.
**Open Shelving** Open shelves lend the casual charm farmhouse style is known for. They allow you to display dishes, cookbooks, and decor in a rustic way. Mix open shelving with upper cabinets for a balance of form and function.
**Neutral Backsplash** Earthy, organic backsplash materials like brick, wood, or stone are hallmarks of the modern farmhouse kitchen. White subway tile is also widely used. Keep the backsplash neutral to allow other elements to shine.
**Stainless Steel Appliances** Sleek stainless steel appliances complement the rustic touches in a modern farmhouse kitchen. Their streamlined look blends with the pared-down aesthetic.
**Large Apron Sink** A deep, spacious apron front sink is ideal for farmhouse kitchens. The large basin allows for washing larger dishes and pots easily. Stainless steel and fireclay are common apron front sink materials.
**Rustic Wood Accents** Incorporating reclaimed wood beams, open shelving, and furniture-like islands or carts brings rustic warmth. Weathered wood, vintage finds, and unpainted pieces contrast beautifully with the clean white cabinetry.
Choosing Cabinets and Hardware
Cabinetry is a defining element of any kitchen design, and particularly important in creating the modern farmhouse look. The key is opting for cabinet styles and finishes that have a timeworn, artisanal feel while still offering plenty of storage and functionality.
Popular cabinet door styles for modern farmhouse kitchens include:
- Shaker – Clean, simple recessed panel doors are an excellent choice. The flat recessed center panel and frame give a nod to traditional style while still feeling fresh and modern.
- Beaded inset – Inset cabinet doors with a beadboard design offer a more ornate, vintage look. The rounded molding adds charming detail.
- Louvered – Doors with horizontal slats have a breezy, cottage feel perfect for modern farmhouse. Louvered cabinets look great in lighter whitewashed finishes.
- Glass front – For open display and to break up cabinetry, add some glass-front uppers. Seeded glass options enhance the old-fashioned vibe.
On finishes, painted cabinets in light neutrals like cloud white or antique white are ideal for modern farmhouse style. For variation, mix in some wood tones like weathered oak or a light natural stain on island cabinets. Distressed finishes with rub-throughs to show wood grain also help achieve the well-loved aesthetic.
When it comes to hardware for modern farmhouse cabinets, wrought iron bin pulls, knobs, and handles have an appropriately vintage look. Other options include:
- Black iron or bronze pulls with an arched or curved shape
- Porcelain knobs with a cracked or distressed pattern
- Hammered metal hardware for added texture
- Simple square bar pulls in black, bronze, or aged brass
Hardware should coordinate with cabinet finishes but can provide nice contrast, like black pulls against white cabinets. Go for bin pulls, knobs, or handles in various sizes to create visual interest.
Selecting Countertops
One of the most important design choices in a modern farmhouse kitchen is selecting the right countertop material and style. There are several popular options that align well with the aesthetic.
**Quartz** is a manufactured stone that offers the look of natural stone with more durability. Quartz comes in a wide range of colors and patterns that pair nicely with modern farmhouse styles, from soft whites to grays with undertones of brown. The nonporous surface resists stains, scratches, and heat. An integrated quartz sink can provide a seamless, contemporary look.
**Butcher block** countertops bring natural warmth and texture to a space. Wood surfaces must be properly sealed and maintained, but provide a timeless appeal. Opt for lighter stains or natural wood tones over darker stains for a lighter, airier look. Butcher block pairs beautifully with apron-front sinks.
**Concrete** is another trendy option, offering a raw, industrial vibe. Concrete can be customized with aggregate mixes and stains to achieve different finishes. The mottled, varied look pairs well with other modern farmhouse materials like wood and metal. Concrete requires sealing to prevent stains and scratches. Undermount sinks provide a smooth transition.
**Soapstone** is a classic natural stone with soft gray and charcoal veining. A popular choice for centuries, soapstone wears beautifully over time. Undermount sinks integrate seamlessly into the slab. Soapstone requires periodic sealing. The natural material aligns with modern farmhouse’s emphasis on authenticity.
Incorporating Rustic Touches
The modern farmhouse kitchen is all about blending modern conveniences with cozy, rustic elements for a relaxed yet sophisticated style. One of the best ways to incorporate rustic touches is through the use of reclaimed wood and galvanized metal accents.
Barn doors are a popular way to add character to a modern farmhouse kitchen. Whether placed on pantries, closets or leading into the kitchen itself, a sliding barn door made from reclaimed wood adds both rustic charm and an unexpected focal point. Opt for a door with visible distressing and imperfections to enhance the vintage vibe.
Another option is to install exposed ceiling beams made from reclaimed wood. Exposed beams add height, texture and a sense of history to new construction. For a more polished look, whitewash or lightly sand the beams. Galvanized metal pendants hung from exposed beams provide an industrial touch.
Small galvanized metal accents are another simple way to work in farmhouse style. Vintage-looking tin pendants, metal barstools, wire baskets and galvanized buckets all lend rustic flair. When grouped with modern stainless steel appliances and clean lines, these touches keep the look feeling current yet homey. With thoughtful incorporation of reclaimed materials and galvanized metal, it’s easy to craft a modern farmhouse kitchen with cozy, timeworn appeal.
Open Shelving and Display
Open shelving is a hallmark of the modern farmhouse kitchen. It lends an airy, rustic feel and allows you to stylishly display dishes, cookbooks, and decor. However, open shelving also has some drawbacks to consider.
Pros:
- Open shelving lightens up the look and feel of the kitchen, creating a more spacious aesthetic. This works well in many modern farmhouse designs.
- It provides easy access to dishes, glassware, and other kitchen items for frequent use. No more digging around cabinets to find what you need.
- Styling open shelves with beautiful dishware, pottery, and accents is an integral part of the look. It allows you to add pops of color, texture, and personality.
- Open shelving is generally less expensive than traditional cabinetry. Depending on the look you want, you can even use inexpensive boards and brackets.
Cons:
- Lack of cabinets reduces storage space, so you’ll need to carefully edit dishware and items on display.
- Open shelving shows all clutter, dust, and grime, so maintaining it takes more work. Dishes and surfaces need frequent cleaning.
- Some people find the look too busy or distracting. It’s not as streamlined as closed cabinetry.
- No protection from cooking splatters and grease means more cleaning is required. Glassware and dishes get dirty faster.
Styling Tips:
- Stick to a cohesive color scheme for dishes and decor on display. Neutrals like white, wood tones, and black work well.
- Incorporate natural elements like woven baskets, pottery, and wood cutting boards. These warm up the look.
- Style decoratively with cookbooks, vases, and trays in addition to dishware. Rotate items seasonally.
- Group items symmetrically for a clean, balanced look. Keep shelves organized.
- Consider lighting like pendant lamps or under-cabinet lighting to highlight displays.
Glass Door Cabinets:
Glass door wall cabinets provide a compromise if you like the open look but need more storage. They allow you to neatly display special dishware while keeping it clean and dust-free. Glass door cabinets also enable you to hide away less aesthetically pleasing items that you don’t use daily. Place frequently used dishes and glassware on open shelves for easy access.
Flooring Options
When it comes to flooring, there are several options that work well in the modern farmhouse kitchen.
Hardwood
Hardwood floors are a classic choice that add warmth and timeless appeal. Opt for wider planks in a light natural stain or gray wash. White oak and hickory have an attractive grain that fits with the aesthetic. Distressed hardwoods also complement the vintage farmhouse vibe. Consider a herringbone or chevron pattern for visual interest.
Tile
Tile is another excellent flooring choice for modern farmhouse kitchens. Stone tiles like slate, travertine, and marble create an earthy, organic look. Terracotta tiles in interesting shapes bring in texture. For a more modern touch, consider concrete-look tile. Large format tiles help make a space feel more open. Mosaic backsplashes can incorporate vintage tile patterns.
Concrete
Polished or stained concrete floors work beautifully in the modern farmhouse kitchen. The grayish tone and lightly variegated surface add an industrial vibe. Concrete can be stained in a variety of earthy hues, from warm ivory to deep charcoal. For a softer appearance, have it ground and sealed. Concrete is also extremely durable, making it ideal for busy kitchen spaces.
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Backsplash
The backsplash is a prime opportunity to incorporate visual interest and rustic touches in a modern farmhouse kitchen. Popular backsplash materials include classic white subway tile, marble, and travertine.
Subway tile offers clean lines and a timeless look. White is the most common color, but you can also find subway tiles in greys, blues, and other hues for a pop of color. Stick to a basic brick pattern or get creative with herringbone and other layouts.
Natural stones like marble, travertine, and limestone bring organic texture. Veining and imperfections add character and complement the cozy farmhouse aesthetic. Honed finishes provide a matte look, while polished options have more shine. Neutral tones are prevalent, but some stones come in bolder colors.
Incorporate visual contrast with an accent wall or tile border. Mix materials, patterns, and colors to designate specific zones. For example, use patterned encaustic cement tile around the range hood as a focal point. Moroccan fish scale tiles and classic hexagons also deliver eye-catching results.
Warm metals like aged brass and copper make excellent accents. Display antique-inspired tiles, corbels, shelves, and sconces for a collected look. The backsplash offers ample room for creativity and personalization in a modern farmhouse kitchen.
Lighting and Other Finishing Touches
Lighting plays an integral role in achieving the modern farmhouse look and feel.
Pendant lights over islands and dining tables are a must. Go for black metal or wood pendants with exposed Edison bulbs to get that rustic vibe. Wrought iron is another option that pairs beautifully with the modern farmhouse aesthetic.
In addition to pendants, make sure to incorporate recessed lighting. Recessed lighting provides overall illumination while the pendants serve as task lighting over key areas. Go for recessed lighting with a brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze finish to complement the look.
Exposed Edison bulbs are a defining feature of modern farmhouse lighting. Incorporate them into pendants, sconces, and table lamps throughout the space. The visible filament bulbs have an industrial, vintage appearance that brings warmth.
Don’t forget the textiles and decor elements that help tie everything together. Look for sheer linen curtains, wool blankets, and ceramic planters. Bring in greenery with potted herbs, succulents, and leafy plants. Add character with a butcher block island, galvanized metal containers, and a rustic wood beam over the kitchen island.
With the right combination of lighting, textiles, and decor, you can create a modern farmhouse kitchen that is fresh yet cozy. The lighting sets the ambiance while the small touches lend authenticity.
Tying It All Together
The modern farmhouse kitchen pulls together the key elements of classic farmhouse style with a more contemporary and updated twist. It focuses on creating a space that feels cozy and inviting, yet still fresh and current.
Some hallmarks of the style include:
- White cabinetry with simple shaker-style doors and matte black hardware for a classic farmhouse look with modern appeal.
- Light natural wood or concrete countertops that add organic texture without going too rustic.
- Open shelving and glass-front cabinets to keep the space feeling airy and open. Use baskets, crocks, and glassware for charming display.
- Pops of black, like matte black fixtures or hardware, to ground the space and contrast with light walls.
- Rustic touches like exposed beams, brick backsplashes, or reclaimed wood accents to reference traditional farmhouse style.
- Large apron-front sinks and industrial metal fixtures to blend old and new.
- Plenty of natural light with large windows, French doors, and pendant lighting.
The overall look comes together to feel casual yet polished. It mixes modern and traditional in a way that’s cohesive, and allows you to showcase classic farmhouse charm with a fresh twist. The thoughtful mix of materials and classic elements with more contemporary details creates an aesthetic that feels collected over time rather than overly matchy or themed. The result is a kitchen that feels open, airy, and infused with natural light yet still warm, welcoming, and distinctly modern farmhouse.