With some of the oldest houses in America, locals from Southern New Hampshire and Vermont have an edge at achieving that modern farmhouse style that’s become so sought-after. Built as early as the 1700s, with 16-inch-wide, original, pine flooring and hand-hewn beams that look more at home in a barn, these houses have character in spades. But it’s 2024. So how do you blend all that personality into a comfortable, warm home?

Simplicity and Authenticity

I like to think about my home in terms of form and functionality. First, I want it to have a blend of textures and colors that work together to create cohesive spaces. Secondly, I want it to balance chicness with that comfy, inviting atmosphere that makes a home a happy place. 

Unlike farmhouses of old with their mustard-yellow kitchens and avocado bathroom fixtures, modern farmhouse style is peaceful and flexible. Though recent trends have focused heavily on white and beige, I like to picture my neutrals as a jumping off point for pops of color.

A neutral palette can adapt. Think clean lines and natural materials like stone, wood, and especially metal. Industrial features from distinctive lighting to garden décor set a stylish tone that weaves the modern in. And antique pieces like lanterns, reclaimed washboards, and original door handles keep the 1700s mood alive and well. Integrating metallics is a trend that’s here to stay.

Welcome to My Home 

I love spending time with friends and family, and I help encourage these special moments by creating the go-to gathering place. From regular Sunday-night football sessions to seasonal celebrations, I want my guests to feel welcome and cozy. At the same time, at the end of a long day, home should be a nest to rest in. 

My house accomplishes both by having furniture pieces built to last the ages, such as a rustic sideboard to shelter serving ware for entertaining. It keeps things out of the way of day-to-day activities with built-in storage. It’s great to have things tidy but also right at your fingertips for ease. Then you’ll make better use of them! Be sure to complement impressive wood furniture with something soft. A large, pillowy sofa is the perfect place to land for lazy Sunday mornings or catching a game with the crew. Can anyone say charcuterie?

Wide Open Spaces

Rambling farmhouses with tons of skinny, tall, paned windows can be found around every curve of the road around here, and that means loads of natural light. But to cultivate the open-concept feel quintessential to modern farmhouse style, you may need to strategically open up a wall or two.  

Brilliant white trim, warm butcher block countertops, and the soft touch of Grey Owl by Benjamin Moore make an excellent recipe for the bright, airy ambiance of farmhouse living. Add a highly coveted, deep farmhouse sink that can hold an entire bushel of cabbages to complete the look.  

As a lover of home decor that functions both to serve your needs and brighten your days, I recommend taking these ideas and running with them—in any direction you choose! It’s the personal touch that makes a home the place everyone wants to be.