Key Design Elements Of A Farmhouse Exterior

June 30, 2019

A farmhouse is defined as a home in a rural or agricultural setting. 

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The modern farmhouse style has gained popularity after “Fixer Upper” first aired. The simple clean lines and vintage touches make for a cozy designed space. These homes are minimalistic in appearance with key distinct factors which every farmhouse should have. Even if you don’t have a farmhouse, you can incorporate a few of these elements to update your exterior.

Here is a list of key characteristics that create that Modern Farmhouse Exterior.

Paint It White

I view many farmhouses and they are predominantly painted white. There is a history behind the white painted farmhouse. It began with whitewash, also known as lime paint, which was used during colonial times to prevent mildew on the exterior. White farmhouses were a sign of cleanliness and purity according to This Old House. 

Barn and Lantern Lighting 

Gooseneck lights were first made popular in the mid 1900’s. This style is iconic, known for the swooping bent shape of their arm, the vintage look is reminiscent of farmhouse and barns of the past.  

Nothing says nostalgic like a gas lantern. If you want to make a statement with your lighting, copper gas lanterns provide the ultimate in design and beauty. Primo Lanterns

Board and Batten/ Lap Siding 

Board and batten consists of alternating wood boards with vertical thin wood strips know as battens. When applied to an exterior it creates depth and dimension. 

Fiber cement lap siding is a great option for durability. It is insect, moisture, wind and rain resistant. Placed horizontally, they are meant to overlap creating a water tight seal for your home. 

Rustic Bricks

Bricks are gaining popularity as a finish on new homes. They add a vintage feel that people want to capture. With a variety of colors and designs, bricks create depth and character to any exterior. 

Criss Cross Outdoor Planters 

Simple and gorgeous, criss cross planters are an easy way to brighten up your front entryway. Fill with topiaries or small hedges for that pop of green by your front doors.  

Front Doors

Front doors make the entrance. For the modern farmhouse style a 4- Lite design is simplistic and evokes that contemporary feel. You can paint your door a vibrant color or stain the wood. I prefer the warmth of stained wood myself.

Garage Doors

Adding the right style of garage door makes a huge impact. Designs such as the “X” gives the doors a barn appearance. There are so many styles you can choose from, such as shaker and board & batten for the modern look. You can also incorporate black hardware for a little more interest. 

Metal Roof

Metal roofs were the choice of farmhouses back in the day for durability to withstand the harsh environmental elements. Congregated galvalume panels are the most popular choice today and have been used in the U.S. for 100‘s of years.

Wrap Around Porch 

The quintessential farmhouse feature is a wrap around porch. They are rather welcoming and fun to decorate. It’s the perfect spot for a swing and some rocking chairs to sit with an ice cold drink and watch the world go by. 

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