5 Mistakes Experts Say You're Making When Decorating in Modern Farmhouse Style

Embrace the modern farmhouse look by correcting these five mistakes.

Modern farmhouse blends iconic and traditional farmhouse aesthetics with contemporary elements. The interior design style requires the right combination of historic farmhouse charm, like shiplap doors or open shelving, with modern-day elements like sleek metal finishes.

The modern farmhouse style has been getting a lot of negative attention lately—but maybe it's because people aren't doing it right. There is no shortage of mistakes when achieving a tasteful and elegant modern farmhouse interior.

According to design experts, most people make five common mistakes when attempting to DIY modern farmhouse style. Here's what you need to know to avoid typical farmhouse flubs.

Too Much Clutter

The tricky part about incorporating modern farmhouse design is finding the right way to blend the two.

Allowing too much clutter and miscellaneous décor items is a common and glaring mistake for homeowners going for the modern farmhouse aesthetic, says interior designer Emily LaMarque of Emily LaMarque Design Studio. LaMarque encourages homeowners to remember it’s also about achieving a modern look.

“So keep things clean and tailored and make sure to leave enough white space left for the eye to visually rest,” she says. Don't go overboard with the antique or farm-themed cluttered decorations.

An Imbalance Between “Modern” and “Farmhouse”

Clutter coincides with the most common modern farmhouse style mistake. Drew Hamblan, president of Fairview Custom Homes, says homeowners often prioritize rustic elements when DIYing this style, causing the space to lose its contemporary touch.

“For instance, while whitewashed woods and vintage furnishings are quintessential to the farmhouse vibe, combining them with modern, sleek lines and technology ensures the space feels current and functional,” Hamblan says. It’s this marriage of old and new that defines the modern farmhouse style.

“Something as simple as pairing a rustic wooden table with contemporary metal chairs can exemplify this balance beautifully,” he notes.

Balance also means combining the right amount of new and old items. “The best spaces combine a mix of newer furnishings with pieces that have a bit of wear and patina to them,” LaMarque says.

Not Enough Natural Textures and Materials

Materials and textures exude modern farmhouse design. Whether you repurpose barn wood or transform old glass jars into light fixtures, embrace natural materials to achieve a modern farmhouse interior.

“Introduce natural materials into a neutral color palette to create timelessness and warmth throughout the space," says LaMarque. These materials could include wood, terracotta accents, wicker baskets, or jute rugs. Even natural linen is versatile for both casual and formal uses.

Hamblan adds that natural stone is another essential element. These materials bring nature indoors and create warmth, he says. Natural textures and materials can also integrate into decor items and a room's infrastructure, like flooring or countertops.

Underestimating Lighting

As with all interior design styles, lighting contributes to and enhances a room's features to maximize whatever look you intend to achieve. Feel free to get creative with lighting options when styling for a modern farmhouse space.

Lighting is crucial. Try sourcing different lighting options from local artisan shops or flea markets for vintage or reclaimed lamps, shades, or fixtures.

“Opting for fixtures that exude an industrial yet homey feel can invigorate the space with a modern twist,” Hamblan says. He recommends blending a mix of new purchases with vintage or reclaimed pieces to achieve authenticity and design balance.

Too Many Black Fixtures

Black is not the only metal finish that works for modern farmhouse design. Using too many dark fixtures around the home can take away from the natural light and warmth of a space. Try alternative metallic finishes like copper or gold.

“Feel free to mix brass in with the matte black and you can sprinkle in a few items with sparkle as well,” says LaMarque.

In addition to other metallic finishes, shop around for unconventional looks that will brighten your modern farmhouse decor. Wholesalers, retailers, and handmade finishes can all do the trick. For unique and independent creations, find local craftsmakers who can add painted, handblown, or repurposed elements.

Try sanding down new, shiny items for a pre-worn look that will surely nail the farmhouse look.

Read Next: 7 Dining Room Design Mistakes to Avoid Making, According to Designers

Read the original article on The Spruce.