The Top 40 Best Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas – Exterior Home Design

While modern farmhouse interiors are characterized by shiplap and rustic-chic furnishings, it’s the exteriors where the designer can stretch their wings and create a home that stands out.

Modern farmhouse exterior ideas have taken over in popularity. With the wide range of ways to achieve this look, it’s no wonder why this style continues to be on the rise. 

Although there are some key characteristics, there aren’t many limitations to your personal taste. While black and white are the traditional base exterior colors, a house might benefit from a modern facelift with contemporary features and materials. 

Let’s explore the many ways you can make the modern farmhouse style elevate your home’s curb appeal.

1. All White Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

If you prefer to stick with a more traditional palette, opt for an all-white modern farmhouse exterior design. The home’s color flows seamlessly when paired together with the same color trim. The monochromatic design lends to a clean and pristine first impression. If you want to add a contrasting element, consider a dark-colored front door.

All-white palettes are pretty much the classic farmhouse style, but with the right touches, you can create a modern flair that stands out in neighborhoods and farmlands alike.

2. Board And Batten Siding Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

A popular farmhouse siding style is board and batten. It’s where wooden panels or planks or “boards” come together with a thin strip of wood molding or “batten.” The batten works to cover the seams of the vertical planks. The paneling provides texture and shadowing to the home’s exterior.

Traditionally, board and batten siding is a wood product. However, the look can also include vinyl, metal, or fiber cement materials. You can also choose to color the siding by selecting durable outdoor paint.

3. Combination Siding Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

Mixing different house exterior design styles can save money while adding depth and interest.

Stucco is a traditional cement-style finish that’s durable and low in cost. This style pairs well alongside board and batten siding. The vertical lines within the siding complement the solid appearance of stucco. You should consider featuring the siding within your home’s high peaks and crevices.

Another commonly seen exterior pair is horizontal siding and brick. This is another great cost-saving option, as brick is expensive to use for the entire home. They flow together in various ways, but often the brick is on the lower forefront. The horizontal siding will then fill in the surrounding areas for a cohesive look.

4. Dark Trim Modern Farmhouse Exterior

A common detail seen throughout farmhouse style homes is dark trim. If against a bright white backdrop, the trim accentuates your home’s striking details. If you have a porch, you should carry over the dark color throughout its structural columns and posts.

Dark trim very much embodies the flair of modern farmhouse exterior design. While traditional farmhouse design would see window trim and corner boards painted to match the siding, dark trim helps these features stand out, completely changing the way the house resonates with admirers.

5. Exterior Paint Modern Farmhouse Ideas

Don’t feel limited to white when choosing your home’s exterior paint color. There is a wide range of styles and color options that work well for a modern farmhouse.

If you are daring enough, a black-on-black color scheme is the ultimate definition of chic. Wood accents or stone detailing instantly stand out against the overall dark tones.

If that farmhouse style seems too bold for your taste, how about a color block pattern instead? A bright white contrast against a dark hue, such as black or blue, provides instant curb appeal. And, if that still seems too much, you can’t go wrong with subtle neutrals.

6. Front Door Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

You can give your home an instant refresh by revamping the appearance of a front door. It’s a simple way to enhance your home’s curb appeal, and there are plenty of style options. You won’t want to forget about the surrounding space either. Front door planters are the perfect way to soften up the area and add a touch of natural greenery.

The standard size front door is 36 by 80 inches, but that’s not your only option. An oversized barn door is the perfect farmhouse detail to consider as your entryway. Or, if you want to stick to a more traditional style, opt for a door with sidelights. There’s even an option of installing a set of double doors to create a statement.

If you want to add character to the front door, consider doing this with a pop of color. Black is a great color for contrast. Or, opt for a bright accent color, such as yellow or teal, for a playful touch.

Choose a door with glass windows for an elegant and farmhouse-classic touch. Frosted glass helps to maintain privacy, which can be a typical family concern.

7. Gable Roof Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

A common exterior feature in a modern farmhouse design is a gable roof. You may not know it by its name, but rather its triangle shape. It’s pretty much a spitting image of the house you’d draw as a kid.

The exterior style is recognizable by the roof’s steep pitch. This works wonders to showcase your home’s height. You will generally see a gable roof paired with asphalt shingles. The material creates a bold, dark contrast to the traditional white farmhouse exterior.

The benefits of a gable roof aren’t only visual. The slope of the peaks helps tremendously with efficient drainage. This can be crucial if you live in an area that is heavily affected by rain or snow. Additionally, the high slant provides adequate space for an attic or vaulted ceilings.

8. Horizontal Siding Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

Horizontal siding is one of the topmost commonly chosen exterior materials. Almost all contractors are comfortable working with it. Its familiarity works to increase the speed and ease of the installation process. It also works to drive down the cost.

In the trades, contractors and home suppliers refer to horizontal siding as clapboard or lap siding. The style consists of long, horizontal planks and is comparable to an outdoor shiplap. The design leaves a clean, finished look, which is great for a simple farmhouse.

9. Low Pitch Gable Roof Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

By tradition, a gable roof displays a high peak; however, the style is still achievable at a lower level. Although it won’t serve as well for drainage, a low-pitch gable roof has many other benefits.

Building is much cheaper as there is less surface area to cover. That can also be helpful if you run into any unexpected repair issues. The upkeep is easier to maintain when the roof is at a lower slope, as the walkability is much safer.

Your home’s interior design can benefit as well, depending on the roof’s design and materials. For example, the comfort and temperature are easier to control when avoiding high ceilings and extra space.

10. Metal Roof Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

Selecting the best roofing material can seem overwhelming.

While asphalt shingles take the lead in popularity, a metal roof is close to follow. Metal does have a higher upfront cost, though. Its longevity can outstand asphalt up to three times. Its powerful water-shedding capabilities allow for the material to withstand harsh climates. This is extremely important, depending on where you are living.

The modern design is also aesthetically pleasing. Depending on the roof’s shape, you’ll choose between layered shingles or standing seams. Standing seams lends the classic metal roof design to your home. Layered shingles (which actually come in sheets) aren’t as likely to tip off passersby to your home’s metallic hat. You can even consider mixing the two design styles to complement one another.

Regardless of the material, it’s always best to speak with a professional if taking on this project.

11. Narrow Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

When faced with a small house plan, consider a narrow architectural style. This layout is common throughout many cities, where space is generally limited. You can even consider installing a second-story porch to provide additional outdoor space.

Not only are these homes compact, but the design is very stylish. Mixing sharp structural lines with country-inspired accessories forms the perfect modern farmhouse design. The interior design equally benefits from the layout. High vaulted ceilings create a dramatic and spacious impression. Carry on this theme by keeping an open floor plan throughout the home’s interior.

12. Porch Ideas Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

What’s not to love about an old-fashioned front porch furnished with rocking chairs? The only thing you’d be missing is a glass of iced sweet tea.

A porch is a classic feature seen throughout many modern farmhouse style homes. Be sure to select sturdy materials for its base, such as brick, wood, or concrete. Other than that, there aren’t many rules to consider for this area.

With the many design variations, it’s easy to tailor to any budget. You can keep it as simple or as elaborate as your heart desires. Railings and an open design both fit into the farmhouse theme. Even the size and place of the porch are to your discretion. As you can see, there is a wide variety of porch options available, and you are by no means limited.

For more porch ideas, click here.

13. Window Shutters Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

If you are looking for a way to elevate your home’s outdoor appearance, consider window shutters. They’re simple, but they’re also a great way to give your home character. With the vast amount of styles available, you’ll be sure to find the perfect shutter.

You’ll want to pick a material that is durable and weather-resistant. Cedar is the most commonly used wood option, but vinyl or plastic can also work. If you want to paint the shutters, opt for high-quality paint, best for your shutters’ specific material. Lastly, play up the farmhouse design by adding barn-like hardware around the shutter.

14. Wood Accent Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

Wood is another way to highlight your home’s architectural style. You’ll want to choose a finish or grain that best complements the exterior paint color, but can withstand the outdoor conditions. The most durable and rot-resistant options include cedar and redwood. If you’re planning to include multiple finishes, you’ll want to be sure the contrast is not overpowering.

With wood being a versatile detail, it’s easy to showcase this element in many different ways. Support beams around windows and the entryway are where you’ll most commonly see wood accents. Wooden garage doors are also on an upward trend for a rustic exterior feature. You can even add black handles or accents on the door to achieve a more modern style.

Source: @thegroenstead via Instagram

For an interior approach to wood accents, click here.

Modern Farmhouse Exterior FAQ

What’s the difference between a classic and modern farmhouse design?

The two styles share several similar characteristics. However, a classic farmhouse design displays a more rustic look throughout. Reclaimed and unfinished wood elements are at the forefront. Whereas with modern, you’ll see more glossy or stained wood furnishings in its place.

How can I modernize my front porch?

To start, you’ll want to highlight the structural features of the porch in a dark color. The detailing stands out against your home’s exterior. It creates a contemporary feel by emphasizing the defined sharp lines.

Also, you can install industrial light fixtures. A gooseneck lamp or barn light are two chic styles that fit into the farmhouse design.

• What are the best exterior materials to withstand the outdoors?
• The full answer is dependent upon your climate and weather conditions, but here are a few tips:
• For roofing, metal is the most durable and long-lasting material.
• Brick and vinyl siding throughout the home’s exterior are great for longevity.
• If you’re looking to include wood features, go for cedar or redwood. Both are natural rot-resistance species.

As always, we recommend seeking advice and help from a professional.