Is the Modern Farmhouse Dead?
When we say “Modern Farmhouse,” what images come to mind? To us, we think of stark, white spaces filled with builder-grade tiles and light fixtures. At first, they can often feel cold and we want to get in there and warm them up immediately.
But, how?
You can have a modern farmhouse look that is well done, but we so often see the same look because it is done using cheaper materials. If you have builder-grade materials in your home, we are here to help you achieve the look with 3 simple updates that will make a huge difference.
Notice the lack of color—and the exposed bulbs (Teal’s personal pet peeve)! You’ll also notice the space feels very cold. (Photo by Eaglewood Homes.)
But first, what is ‘Builder-Grade?’
Builder-grade, or contractor-grade, is an industry term for a product built to meet construction code requirements, using simple materials with minimal detailing. These products are usually advertised as affordable but may be lower in quality.
Builder-grade materials can look cheap, but the products we love you can find at similar price points. Swapping out builder-grade for some of the products we suggest will elevate your space and create a look that’s personal to you.
STEP 1: Switch Out Light Fixtures
We are head over heels with this Katy Skelton light fixture at Verde Vista. It adds the perfect detail to an otherwise neutral space.
We aren’t afraid to sound like a broken record when it comes to this tip. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—swapping builder-grade or outdated light fixtures is the easiest way to revamp your space! It can stay affordable, too.
STEP 2: Select Furniture with Round Shapes & Textured Fabrics
One great way to refresh a space is by choosing a few pieces of contemporary furniture to shake things up. Furniture with round edges and spherical shapes can offer some relief from sharp lines and stark edges. Read below to find some of our favorite furniture and fabrics!
When looking for fabrics, we recommend starting your exploration in person at your local designer's mart or fabric shop – feeling the textures are key before investment. If that's not an option, try ordering samples from an online retailer.
Step 3: Show Personality with Plants and Art
This dynamic pair of paintings by artist Theresa Benavidez hangs at Treehouse.
And when we say art, we mean art! Taking a real acrylic painting and reframing it in a new and fresh modern frame does wonders. If you’re new to the art world, try going out of your comfort zone and finding a vintage canvas painting online or at your local thrift store. Garage sales are a great place for these finds.
Sourcing art doesn’t have to be complicated, but it means more when it is special to you. Bonus points if there’s a story behind the art or if it just reminds you of, and place you’ve traveled to, or a fun afternoon of treasure hunting.
A ‘Triostar’ plant has a fun color and shape to complement the bedroom at our Lake Oswego Modern project.
Our biggest beef with builder-grade materials is the lack of life and character. Plants are a straightforward way to make your home feel alive. Try a large planter out for size, or opt for a more demure planter basket on the wall. And the more texture and interest for the planter, the better.
So, how do you get this look and make easy swaps to warm up your space? Keep scrolling to shop some of our favorite products, both low and high-end.
SHOP THE LOOK
We've carefully selected a range of our favorite items to help you achieve this look, offering options at various price points. Subscribe to our newsletter, ‘Nest’ by Teal and Scott, to get our favorite picks straight to your inbox!
Oh, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun with it!
Teal & Scott
HELPFUL LINKS
Check us out on YouTube for more design education!
For more tips on modernizing a traditional space, check out the Story of The Sweet Flag Cabin.