Perhaps it’s a bit ironic that today’s hottest exterior design trend achieves modernity by calling upon tradition. After all, doesn’t “modern farmhouse plan” sound like a contradiction in terms? How can a farmhouse – rustic, unassuming, rugged – harmonize with the austere look of modern design? But here we are with pared-down, streamlined farmhouse designs taking over (or so it feels). And it seems that a few key elements tie it all together: the metal roof and sleek siding.
The formula is well known by the today’s hot designers. Says designer Jason Breland (from popular design firm House Plan Zone): “When it comes to the exterior of the modern farmhouse, it’s all about one thing….clean lines. Horizontal and vertical siding as well as metal roofing all merge together perfectly to form the trifecta of ‘cleanliness.’ Pair that with high contrasting colors such as dark metal roofs/white siding or white siding/dark windows, and you can rest assured that the design will stand out from the crowd.”
Here are four new house plans that nicely demonstrate the trend.
It’s easy to imagine this modern farmhouse as the product of a cool design show, in which a young, hip couple wants a re-imagined rustic look that also features modern conveniences. The “wet room” in the suite on the main level provides a perfect example, with the clawfoot tub sharing a large space with the shower. A spacious island anchors the open kitchen. French doors open to the rear porch. A large loft upstairs can become a home office, business area, art studio, etc. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
A Little Bit (or a Lot) Country
It’s all about the porch living with this family-friendly, 1,963-square-foot farmhouse design. A breezeway provides a covered transition from the two-car garage (with a big bonus room available for later expansion upstairs) into the main home. Skylights and a bay window create a bright and cheerful breakfast nook, right next to the island kitchen. The master suite showcases a walk-in closet and access to the back deck. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
Many of today’s large kitchen islands line up barstools all in a row, but this can feel impersonal and makes it hard to carry on a conversation. In this chic farmhouse design, the island extension puts two people each on three sides, creating a friendly vibe and ensuring eye contact. The rest of the layout feels equally relaxed, with the open dining room flowing into the great room, then out to the back porch. Busy families with school-age kids will appreciate the lockers in the mudroom. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
Generous bedrooms and an informal open layout create everyday comfort in this two-story farmhouse design. A wide porch off the great room segues to decks on either side, plus a screened porch on the left and extra storage on the right. The extra-spacious laundry room makes chores less of a hassle. Seating for five at the kitchen counter accommodates snacks and relaxed meals. See more images, information, and the floor plans.
