Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design

Must-Have Elements for a Stunning Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

By Interior Designer, Tracy Svendsen | Published April 13, 2022

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design: In today’s design landscape, the modern farmhouse aesthetic is all the rage, and nowhere is this more evident than in the heart of the home – the kitchen. With its blend of rustic charm and sleek contemporary elements, a modern farmhouse kitchen is a stunning space that strikes the perfect balance between old-world coziness and modern functionality.

But what must-have features make a modern farmhouse kitchen truly stand out? This article will explore the top 15 essential elements for creating a stunning modern farmhouse kitchen. From charming open shelving and farmhouse sinks to reclaimed wood accents and industrial-inspired lighting fixtures, we’ll delve into the key elements that will transform your kitchen into a picture-perfect space that embodies the modern farmhouse style.

Whether you’re giving your kitchen a complete renovation or simply looking to refresh the area, these must-have elements will guide you in designing a kitchen that seamlessly merges the warmth and character of a farmhouse with the clean lines and contemporary touches of modern design. Get ready to be inspired by these transformative ideas that will make your modern farmhouse kitchen the envy of all who enter. Feature image courtesy of West of Main.

Key Features of a Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

Modern farmhouse kitchen designs are popular for those who love the rustic charm of a traditional farmhouse kitchen with contemporary features and functionality. They typically feature a neutral color palette and natural materials like wood and stone, as well as modern appliances and sleek finishes.

The overall aesthetic is warm, inviting, and cozy while being clean and streamlined. Some common elements of a modern farmhouse kitchen include open shelving, shaker-style cabinetry, farmhouse sinks, and vintage-inspired lighting fixtures. A modern farmhouse kitchen design aims to create a warm, inviting space that feels both modern and timeless.

Several key features set it apart from other design styles when creating a stunning modern farmhouse kitchen. First and foremost, a modern farmhouse kitchen should have a warm and inviting aesthetic. It should be a space where family and friends can gather, cook, and create memories.

Modern farmhouse kitchens incorporate natural materials such as reclaimed wood, exposed brick, and stone to add a sense of authenticity and warmth to the space. Natural textures like woven baskets and linen curtains can further enhance the farmhouse feel.

Another essential feature of a modern farmhouse kitchen is open shelving to add visual interest and easy access to frequently used items. Displaying dishes, glassware, and cookbooks on open shelves creates a sense of charm and character while making the kitchen feel more lived-in and functional. To further enhance the farmhouse aesthetic, consider using vintage-inspired brackets or wrought iron supports for your open shelving.

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design
Image above courtesy of Flemming Interiors.

Elements of a Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design

1.  Incorporate Natural Materials Such as Wood and Stone

Adding natural materials to modern farmhouse kitchens provides a warm and inviting feel that synthetic materials cannot replicate. These materials are aesthetically pleasing and also durable and long-lasting.

They add a touch of authenticity and tradition to the kitchen, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. Natural elements such as wood flooring, beams, cabinets, and stone help to soften up the modern farmhouse look. All work together to bring in pattern, color, and texture.

Furthermore, natural materials are environmentally friendly and sustainable, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Overall, incorporating natural materials into modern farmhouse kitchens is a great way to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside while creating a space that is both functional and stylish.

A Farmhouse Kitchen with Modern Elements and Exquisite Detail
Image courtesy of Beyond Beige Interior Design

Beyond Beige Interior Designer Reisa Pollard designed this majestic farmhouse kitchen in Vancouver, B.C. The homeowners of this stunning modern rustic home wanted to embrace rural living without giving up modern amenities.

They also wanted the finishing materials to feel like they could be for the outdoors. All the kitchen millwork was handcrafted from lime-washed rift-cut oak.  A specialty store mason was enlisted to recreate the authentic stone walls in the master suite bathroom. The island counter is a unique soapstone with all the local trees’ colors – from greens to browns to rusts.

2. Use Rustic Elements for Authenticity 

Rustic elements add a touch of authenticity and charm. Use reclaimed wood for kitchen countertops, backsplashes, or even as a decorative feature on the ceiling or walls to add a sense of history and character and to provide a unique visual element.

Another way to incorporate rustic elements is by incorporating vintage-inspired hardware and fixtures. Consider choosing cabinet handles and knobs with an aged or weathered finish or a farmhouse sink with an apron front. These small details can make a significant impact and help to tie the entire kitchen design together.

A Kitchen with Soft Olive Green Cabinets & Brass Details
Image courtesy of Heidi Callier Design

3. Mix in Stand-Alone Wood Pieces to add Warmth

Using free-standing cabinetry creates interest and the opportunity to bring in warm wood tones or a splash of color. Stand-alone pieces also add interest and personalize a space. A free-standing kitchen island can be a great solution to add extra counter space and storage to your farmhouse kitchen.

With its versatile design, you can use it as a prep station, a breakfast bar, or even a spot to display your favorite cookbooks and kitchen accessories. Plus, with its rustic charm and timeless appeal, a free-standing kitchen island is sure to enhance the overall aesthetic of your farmhouse kitchen. 

A Well-Designed Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Black Cabinets & Warm Textures
Image courtesy of Park & Oak

In this stunning kitchen designed by Park & Oak, the clients felt strongly about keeping the full-size sink off the island but also wanted the convenience of a prep sink. Park & Oak loves a little creative space planning, and the result is a placement for both sinks that feels intentional, gives interest to the room, and still meets their client’s distinct needs.

The location of the main sink along the back cabinet bank also gave them a great opportunity to highlight the beautiful Tabarka tile. Tabarka is renowned for its collections of terracotta tiles that are formed, painted, and glazed by hand. By locating the sink here and adding a pretty Kohler Artifacts faucet, the focus will always come to this special tile.

Pottery Barn Aubrey Free Standing Kitchen Island

Modern Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen with Beautiful Stone Walls 
Image courtesy of Sean Anderson Design

An Elegant and Well-Designed Modern Farmhouse Kitchen
Image courtesy of Remedy Design Firm

This elegant modern farmhouse kitchen was designed by Remedy Design Firm and features a standalone wood accent cabinet, hammered brass lighting black countertop, and rustic counter stools. These components, including the wood ceiling, flooring, and shelving, create a harmonious and organic space.

4. Be Creative with Farmhouse Kitchen Cabinet & Island Colors

When it comes to choosing the color for your kitchen cabinets in a modern farmhouse kitchen, there are a few options that can work well. White cabinets are always a safe bet for a clean and classic look. However, if you want to add a bit of warmth and texture to the space, natural wood cabinets can be a great choice. Another option is a soft grey or blue shade, which can add a touch of color without being too bold. Ultimately, your chosen color will depend on your style and the overall look you want in your kitchen.

If you’d like to explore different color options for modern farmhouse kitchen cabinets, please refer to the following blog posts: 

• Black Kitchen Cabinets
• Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets
• White Kitchen Cabinets
• Cream Kitchen Cabinets
• Blue Kitchen Cabinets
• Green Kitchen Cabinets

Livable Luxury in a Modern Farmhouse Kitchen in Willow Glen, CA
Image courtesy of KGB Design

This fresh modern farmhouse kitchen was designed by Katelyn Gilmour of KGB Design. It includes plenty of texture – from rustic stools to the unique mosaic tile backsplash and aged wood bead chandeliers. The soft green cabinets and island perfectly contrast the warm wood floors, copper faucets (rose finish), and white countertops.

Cornwall Slate SW 9131 (216-C4) covers most kitchen cabinets and helps establish a balanced look. “The color has a beautiful warmth to it,” Gilmour says of the green-gray color. “It’s traditional but very fresh and livable.” A warm custom white paint on the range hood and paneled refrigerator provides the perfect complement. “It’s definitely a warmer white, but it’s still bright,” she says. ~ Sherwin Williams

The mosaic tiles are from Walker Zanger’s Vibe line and extend from the backsplashes into the backs of the glass-door upper cabinets.  The color of the tile complements the cabinets perfectly and provides a slightly eclectic look.

Modern Farmhouse Kitchens With Blue Cabinets
Image courtesy of Marriane Simon Design

This elegant and feminine kitchen was designed by Marriane Simon.  Although it has more of a coastal style design, I have included it shows the beauty that can be accomplished through color in a kitchen. A county or farmhouse feel could easily be achieved by swapping out the art print.

5. Use the Range Hood as a Statement Piece – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

Today, designers make the range a statement piece in the kitchen to serve as a canvas for color or a venue for something more sculptural. A range hood should be functional, beautiful, and aligned with the overall design aesthetic. Range hoods add a touch of elegance and sophistication while serving a practical purpose by removing smoke, steam, and cooking odors from the air. 

A Stunning Large Modern Farmhouse Kitchen in Contrasting White & Blue
Image courtesy of O’Brien Harris Fine Fitted Furniture

This magnificent modern farmhouse kitchen has a large expanse of windows providing natural sunlight.  The contrasting white cabinets complement the shades of blue in the countertops, range hood, and kitchen stools. It’s elegant, sophisticated and packs plenty of country charm.

6. Choose Unique Lighting Fixtures – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

Lighting fixtures can set your design apart. They create a design focal point and can bring the whole room together. It’s also a great way to introduce further rustic elements – from iron and copper pendants to iron chandeliers. Metallic lighting fixtures such as copper and brass create depth while adding warmth.

A well-appointed farmhouse chandelier can instantly add a cozy and nostalgic feeling to your home. They serve as a statement piece while providing a warm ambiance and unique charm.

A Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with a Neutral Palette
Image courtesy of Sadie & Co

A neutral palette intermingled with eclectic moments makes this charming kitchen a sanctuary for years to come. This warm and inviting kitchen has a hammered metallic pendant light, black detailing, woven textures, and a balance between rustic and refined surfaces.

7. Incorporate a Hint of Vintage – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

The modern farmhouse style is about embracing older homes’ charm and character. Incorporating vintage and repurposed items into your kitchen design is a great way to achieve this. Vintage or thrifted decor can lend itself well to the mismatched farmhouse style, so you can focus on modern cabinetry or lighting to balance modern lines with rustic touches.

Look for antique furniture pieces, such as a farmhouse table or a vintage hutch, to use as a centerpiece in your kitchen. Additionally, consider repurposing old items to give them a new life in your modern farmhouse kitchen. These small touches add a sense of history and personality to the space.

Moody Green Farmhouse Kitchen with Black Countertops
Image courtesy of Kelsey Leigh Design Co.

This kitchen was designed and built by designer Kelsey Leigh and her homebuilder husband, Scott McGregor of McGregor Homes.  They decided to focus and combine their talents on the heart of their home – a kitchen that would remain timeless for years. With the help of their painters, a 50/50 Sherwin-Williams mix of Ripe Olive and Pewter Green was chosen for this cabinet color that remains the clear standout of this design today.

Calcutta Gold leathered Marble was selected for the kitchen island and backsplash, while black Vermont leathered quartzite was chosen on the countertops for their muted, textured appearance and durability. They chose Engineered French white oak flooring for its durability. The final touches were the mixing of metallic finishes and white Cafe appliances. The kitchen is alive with warmth, texture, and a hint of vintage.

8. Choose a Neutral Palette for Modern Appeal – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

The color palette you choose for your modern farmhouse kitchen plays a crucial role in setting the overall tone and atmosphere of the space. While white is a popular choice for farmhouse kitchens, it’s not the only option. Earth tones like beige, cream, and gray can also work well in this style.

These colors create a sense of warmth and coziness while providing a neutral backdrop for other design elements. To add visual interest and depth to your kitchen, consider incorporating color through accessories and accents with colorful dishware, textiles like curtains and rugs, or even painted furniture. Just be sure to choose colors that complement the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and create a cohesive look.

A Modern White Farmhouse Kitchen with Touches of Warm Grey
Image courtesy of KGB Design

A bright, modern, white farmhouse kitchen designed by KBG Design that includes warm grey and accents of marble, brass, and natural wood elements. The clients wanted to keep the color palette neutral so that colorful accessories could be swapped out during various holidays.

The cabinet paint color is Dunn Edward’s ‘Cool December’, a perfect white balance with a hint of warmth. The backsplash is a traditional honed Carrera Marble with a 3”x 6” size in an offset pattern, which clearly shows the variety of veining throughout the natural stone.

The island counter is engineered quartz (Vadara’s Calcatta Blanco), which again has ribbons of warm grey mixed with gold on an off-white background. The  Perimeter is a velvet finish Cabrini Grey engineered quartz by Daltile. The island was then custom stained to match the warm-toned engineered hardwood flooring by Hallmark Floors, Alta Vista Collection, in color Del Mar.

9. Backsplashes Should Never Be the Last Thought – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

Whether you choose a simple farmhouse backsplash or want to use handmade artisan tiles for a little more character, backsplashes can have a powerful impact on the overall design aesthetic of the kitchen. There are plenty of options to choose from when creating the perfect backsplash for your farmhouse kitchen.

You could go for a classic subway tile in a muted shade like gray or beige or opt for something more unique, like a patterned cement tile. A shiplap backsplash is also popular for those looking to add rustic charm to their kitchen. Consider a sleek, black subway tile or a glossy white hexagon tile for a more modern look. 

Charming Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Attention to Detail
Image courtesy of Kelsey Leigh Design Co.

This project was a  speculative home designed for the 2019 Spring Parade of Homes and was constructed by McGregor Homes.  The aim was to capture the English cottage style with all the modern conveniences.  It was a huge hit at the parade and took home several awards.

10. Be Sure to Include an Apron-Front Sink – Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

An apron-front sink is a classic element in a farmhouse kitchen. These sinks are available in white ceramic or porcelain and provide a nostalgic feel to the space. It’s also not uncommon to see copper or bronze farmhouse sinks.

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs | Warm and Inviting Blue Country Kitchen
Image courtesy of The Kingston Group

A beautifully designed – warm, and welcoming farmhouse kitchen in blue, white, and wood tones.

11. Selecting Farmhouse-Inspired Fixtures and Hardware

The right fixtures and hardware can significantly impact your modern farmhouse kitchen’s overall look and feel. When choosing fixtures, consider opting for farmhouse-inspired lighting fixtures. Industrial-style pendant lights or lantern-style chandeliers can add a touch of rustic elegance to the space. Matte black or brass finishes are trendy choices for a farmhouse aesthetic.

Regarding hardware, consider choosing cabinet handles and knobs with a vintage or antique-inspired design. These small details can tie the entire kitchen design together and add a sense of authenticity. It’s also worth considering incorporating farmhouse-style faucets and sinks, such as those with an apron front or a bridge-style faucet.

Whether you choose silver, brushed nickel, copper, or brass, faucets contribute to the overall design aesthetic. In terms of color and finish, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, and brushed nickel are standard for the modern farmhouse style. Bronze, in particular, can pop beautifully, surrounded by white and gray, adding warmth.

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Designs | A White Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with an Abundance of Natural Light
Image courtesy of Lissa Lee Hickman Design

Natural light floods this wonderfully feminine, elegant, and luxurious kitchen.

12. Pair Wood Tones with Modern Metallics

The warmth of wood tones pairs beautifully with modern metallics – from lighting fixtures to range hoods and cabinet hardware. Metallics are a popular addition to modern farmhouse kitchens for several reasons. They add a touch of glamour and sophistication while providing a practical solution for durable and easy-to-clean surfaces. Copper, brass, and stainless steel accents are popular for faucets, cabinet hardware, and light fixtures. These metallic finishes can complement the warm wood tones and natural materials commonly found in farmhouse kitchens, creating a cohesive and inviting space. Additionally, the reflective surfaces of metallics can help brighten up darker areas of the kitchen, making the room feel larger and more open. 

A Modern Farmhouse in Soft Honey Tones
Image courtesy of Lissa Lee Hickman Design

Here’s another example of a well-designed neutral farmhouse kitchen that is sophisticated and timeless.

13. Introduce Design Elements that Speak to Your Soul

There are no hard and fast rules for modern farmhouse kitchens. If you like a bit of ‘bling,’ feel free to incorporate it into the space.

A Modern White Farmhouse Kitchen with Glamorous Lighting Fixtures
Image courtesy of Houzz

14. Consider Open Shelving to Display Treasured Items

Open shelving is not only a practical storage solution, but it also adds a touch of farmhouse charm to your kitchen. You create a visually appealing work of art by displaying your favorite dishes, glassware, and cookbooks on open shelves.

When incorporating open shelving into your modern farmhouse kitchen, consider using a mix of reclaimed wood, metal brackets, and glass shelves. This combination adds visual interest and creates a balanced look. Additionally, be mindful of the items you display on your open shelves. Opt for functional and visually attractive items like vintage-inspired crockery or handmade pottery.

Wall-mounted shelves and cabinets without doors keep dishware close at hand and allow the display of dinnerware and décor that brings in color, texture, and pattern. Another option for cabinetry in modern farmhouse kitchens is open wooden shelving so you can show off your collection of vintage dishware in an accessible and stylish way.

In addition to open shelving, it’s important to consider other storage solutions that can help keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free. Incorporating ample drawer space, pull-out pantry cabinets, and built-in spice racks can all contribute to a functional and efficient kitchen design.

Modern Rustic Kitchen with Dark Wood Floors & Beams
Image courtesy of Niko’s Import & Export LLC

15. Use Plants and Floral Arrangements for Country Charm

For many reasons, plants and floral arrangements are a great addition to any farmhouse-style home. They add a touch of natural beauty and bring the outdoors inside. This is especially important for those who live in urban areas or where it’s impossible to have a garden or access to green spaces.

Incorporating plants and herbs into your kitchen design adds a touch of freshness and creates a connection to nature. Consider displaying potted herbs on your windowsill or hanging plants from the ceiling to add a pop of greenery to the space.

Plants and flowers also help purify the air and improve the overall air quality in your home. They can also help reduce stress and promote a sense of calmness, making your home a more relaxing and peaceful space.

Additionally, use plants and floral arrangements to add color and texture to your decor, helping to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you prefer potted plants or fresh flowers, incorporating these natural elements into your farmhouse-style home can enhance its overall beauty and charm.

Faux florals are another fantastic addition to modern farmhouse design for several reasons. They offer all the beauty and charm of real flowers without the maintenance and upkeep required to keep live plants alive. This is especially useful for those with busy schedules who may need more time or energy to care for live plants regularly.

How to Decorate with Faux Florals
Feature image above courtesy of The Faux Flower Company

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Design Conclusion

In conclusion, a modern farmhouse kitchen is a beautiful and functional space that combines the best of two worlds: the charm of a traditional farmhouse kitchen and the sleekness of contemporary design. By incorporating natural materials, rustic elements, vintage-inspired lighting fixtures, and open shelving, you can create a warm and inviting space that is timeless and functional.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or simply looking to refresh your kitchen, these must-have elements will guide you in creating a stunning modern farmhouse kitchen that is sure to impress. So, get inspired and start designing your dream kitchen today!

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