Farmhouse Chic

When we think of farmhouse style, several images may come to mind. For many, the first may be the neutral interiors created by Joanna Gaines of HGTV “Fixer Upper” fame, who introduced a modern version of this style to the world. Others may recall memories of the cozy and colorful countryside home of their grandparents or great-grandparents. Whatever décor we associate with the countless variations of this design approach, one thing is the same — they all focus on inviting spaces built for gathering and comfortable living. See how local interior designers and custom homebuilders achieved just that for their clients with these farmhouse-inspired projects.

Subtle and Sleek

As part of a complete renovation of this 7,500-square-foot home in Gainesville, Georgia, by Hearth and Haven Design, this kitchen was transformed with soft, modern farmhouse elements. Shaker-style cabinets were used, and warmth was added with wood accents like the floating shelves and vent hood with wood trim by Chris Lund Studios. Industrial pendant lights over the island and structured gold hardware provide a contemporary touch. The minimalistic lighting was carried into the library, as was the black-and-white theme inside and outside the home.
Details: Light fixtures by Capital Lighting Fixture Company, interior and exterior paint is White Dove OC-17 by Benjamin Moore, exterior trim and window paint is Tricorn Black SW 2658 by Sherwin-Williams, cabinet finishing by Hearth and Haven Design.
www.hearthandhavendesign.com

Down Under Farmhouse Style

For an equestrian couple, designers Susan Victor and Sue Shannon of Nandina Home & Design wanted to create an Australian farmhouse aesthetic that was extremely livable. The pair used wide plank floors, items with a rougher finish like the custom island made with reclaimed lumber, and easy-to-care-for fabrics to make it happen. White walls and black-and-white art add to a clutter-free appearance and serve as the perfect backdrop for bright colors to pop in every room.
Details: Barstools by Four Hands, dining table light fixture is Currey & Company Eufaula Rectangular Chandelier, master bedroom chandelier is Robert Abbey Rico Espinet Candelaria Chandelier, horse photograph by Shelly Marshall Schmidt.
www.nandinahome.com

Everyday Glamour

Using their luxury-farmhouse-living lens, Chathambilt Homes took this Southern Living show home plan in Woodstock and made it their own. The team adored the wraparound front porch and oversized fireplace and wanted to create areas inside that also encouraged togetherness. Airiness was achieved with a light color palette reflected in the marble countertops and stain of the white oak floors, as well as the addition of windows throughout, including those above the kitchen sink. Natural elements such as the cedar beams add to the farmhouse feel.
Details: Natural stone was laid in an ashlar pattern on the outdoor fireplace, island pendant lights by Millennium Lighting, bathroom floor and shower tile is Volakas marble, bookcase paint is Naval SW 6244 by Sherwin-Williams (appears lighter in image), bedroom paint is Passive SW 7064 by Sherwin-Williams.
www.chathamlegacy.com

A Warm Welcome

Charming details allow this modern farmhouse presented by America’s Best House Plans (designed by Royal Oaks Design) to stand out from the crowd. Brick highlights break up the white horizontal siding without taking away from the farmhouse essence. Style favorites such as the black window casings and awnings are enhanced with wooden window boxes perfect for an easy-to-access herb garden to complement home-cooked meals. Finally, a stone perimeter skirt anchors the exterior and helps the eye transition from the house to the front yard.
Details: Exterior materials include white painted brick, HardiePlank^® lap siding, and stone.
www.houseplans.net

Farming with a Modern Twist

This Sandy Springs renovation by Sheehan Built Homes presents an updated take on farmhouse style with traditional elements like white, board and batten siding played alongside more timely elements such as the rough cut stone and floor-to-ceiling windows. The corrugated metal roofing and dual fireplaces in the main living space nod to the style’s old roots.
Details: The custom gas lanterns and a steel I-beam frame the front entry to draw the eye and create a sense of invitation.
www.sheehanbuilthomes.com

For the Love of Outdoor Living

In true farmhouse fashion, a massive 1,133-square-foot wraparound porch is the star of the exterior of this home by Allen Patterson Builders located in a Southern Living- and Coastal Living-inspired community. Because the porch is so low to the ground, the need for railings was eliminated — giving onlookers an unobstructed view of the outdoor living space. The metal awning pays homage to the sturdiness of old-school farmhouses, while 6-inch HardiePlank^® lap siding on the house provides 21st-century weather resistance.
Details: Siding color is Extra White SW 7006 by Sherwin-Williams, door color is Classic French Gray SW 0077 by Sherwin-Williams, lanterns are Bianca 4-Light Sconce in Hazelnut Bronze by ELK Lighting.
www.allenpattersonbuilders.com

Total Transformation

It’s hard to imagine, but this Milton house was once painted a shocking shade of green. As soon as the team at Renew Properties got their hands on it, a comprehensive makeover followed to give it farmhouse flair. The home’s rectangular shape was visually enhanced with the addition of a front porch featuring exposed rafters and gray-stained, tongue-and-groove flooring. Stucco was traded for board and batten siding, while new white windows and the wooden front door help tie together the updated take on a traditional farmhouse.
Details: Exterior color is White Dove OC-17 by Benjamin Moore.
www.renewpropertiesllc.com

Country Meets Contemporary

Before working with Interior Design by S&S, the owner of this bungalow in the Cascade Heights area of Atlanta favored traditional style. Sharon Falcher and Sherica Maynard were able to nudge her toward transitional farmhouse, which paired well with the home’s vaulted ceilings. The duo used pieces with updated farmhouse features such as the clean-lined chandelier and dining table chairs with lattice woodwork to achieve the look. A lighter finish on the laundry room barn door reduces its rustic feel and flows well with the space.
Details: Chandelier by Uttermost, rug by Surya.
www.interiordesignbysns.com

Find Your Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse style is everywhere these days, and with good reason. This popular approach pairs well with various design styles, meaning you can take it in just about any direction your heart desires. If you’re unsure which type of farmhouse style you’re drawn to, take this quick quiz, which we put together with input from Hearth and Haven Design, Chathambilt Homes, Interior Design by S&S, Nandina Home & Design and Elise Forness Designs, to find out which of the four main options appeals to you.

Circle the answer that suits you best, then see how many A’s, B’s, C’s, and D’s you got to find your farmhouse style.

Would you prefer the hardware in your kitchen be…?
a. Detailed and slightly luxurious
b. Simple and sophisticated
c. Handcrafted with a few imperfections
d. Timeless

What color palette would you use throughout a space?
a. Tan and other soft neutrals
b. Black and white
c. Colors found in nature
d. Warm and muted

When decorating a shelf or bookcase, which of the following looks would you go for?
a. Orderly with an effortless feel
b. Streamlined yet interesting
c. Layered with rich detail
d. Classic with seasonal or personal touches

A barn door in your home would be…
a. Slightly rustic
b. Black with glass panes
c. Made from reclaimed wood
d. New with contemporary accents

You need to reframe a picture. The frame you choose has…
a. Traditional lines
b. Rustic wood
c. A sentimental saying
d. A minimalist feel

Mostly A’s — European Farmhouse
Approachable elegance is what you’re after. Intertwine traditional pieces such as cabinets that resemble furniture with items or features that have a rougher/worn look and feel. Look for candelabra-like light fixtures with reclaimed metal or wood. Choose raw wood over stained, add masonry work and consider a stone fireplace.

Mostly B’s — Modern Farmhouse
Black, white and gray are this style’s trademark colors. It is also famous for its minimalist approach to décor and clutter-free look. Keep your rooms bright and airy, and anchor them with classic farmhouse elements like shiplap and light rustic touches, then add modern finishes, metals and textures to create high visual contrast.

Mostly C’s — Traditional Farmhouse
You prefer a space full of detail and texture that radiates warmth. Add character by showcasing antiques, older artwork and hand-me-downs that may have been repainted with chalk paint, which gives them new life but maintains a slightly distressed look. Depending on how rustic you want to go, include elements like dried flowers, chicken wire and light fixtures with wood and metal.

Mostly D’s — Transitional Farmhouse
Much like the traditional take, a transitional approach to farmhouse celebrates older elements and evokes coziness. However, it puts a fresh spin on it all. Achieve this look by opting for a more current and playful color palette and wood finishes that are less rustic. Incorporate clean lines such as exposed beams or vaulted ceilings and avoid a feeling of stuffiness.