If you’re obsessed with perusing interior design trends – ahem, like me – then chances are, you’ve probably come across Modern Farmhouse and Modern Cottage. 

These styles have become increasingly popular, with ‘Modern Cottage’ being called the new ‘Modern Farmhouse’. While both have striking similarities, they also have notable differences that make them appealing to different crowds. 

Whether you’re looking for a rustic and industrial feel or a softer, more feminine look, Modern Farmhouse and Modern Cottage offer unique and stylish options. By the end of this blog post, you should have a better understanding of each style and be able to properly define which is your favourite, and what about each of them you’d like to incorporate into your own home.

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Modern Farmhouse Design

Modern Farmhouse is all about combining traditional farmhouse elements with modern design. This style is a mix of rustic and industrial, creating a cozy and welcoming space. 

Neutral Colour Palette 

Modern farmhouse interiors often feature a neutral colour palette with shades of white (lots of white), beige, and gray as the main colours. This creates a clean and crisp look that complements the rustic and natural materials used in the design.

Rustic Materials

Materials such as reclaimed wood, exposed brick, and stone are commonly used in modern farmhouse interiors to create a rustic and warm feel. These materials add texture and depth to the space, and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Industrial Accents

Modern Farmhouse interiors often incorporate industrial accents such as metal fixtures, lighting, and furniture. These accents add a touch of modernity to the rustic design, creating a unique and stylish look.

Natural Light

Large windows and skylights are common features of Modern Farmhouse interiors, as they allow plenty of natural light to flood the space.

Open Floorplan

Modern Farmhouse interiors often have open floor plans that allow for easy flow and movement throughout the space. This creates a sense of spaciousness and lightness, and makes the space feel more inviting and comfortable.

Minimalist 

Unlike its traditional farmhouse cousin, Modern Farmhouses tend to be more minimalist in their design. 

Modern Cottage Design

Modern Cottage is inspired by the charming cottages of the English countryside, minimalized. This style is all about creating a cozy and relaxed, yet elevated atmosphere.

Vintage Elements

Vintage elements such as antique furniture, decor, and accessories are commonly used in Modern Cottage interiors. These elements add character and personality to the space, and create a sense of history and nostalgia.

Soft Colour Scheme

While Modern Cottage interiors feature a neutral colour palette, they also tend to play with pastels and other soft accents. This creates a relaxed, calming environment.

Natural Materials

The use of natural materials is a key feature of Modern Cottage interior design. Wood, stone, and natural fibers like cotton and linen are popular choices for flooring, walls, and furniture.

Cozy Textiles

Soft, cozy textiles like wool throws, fluffy rugs, and plush pillows are essential for creating a comfortable and inviting space in a Modern Cottage.

Simple, Clean Lines

While Modern Cottage interiors may feature some rustic or traditional elements, they also tend to have clean, simple lines. This gives the space a modern, streamlined look.

Minimalist Decor

Modern Cottage interiors tend to have a minimalist aesthetic, with simple, understated decor that doesn’t overpower the space.

Modern Farmhouse & Modern Cottage Comparison

As you’ve probably noticed, Modern Farmhouse and Modern Cottage styles share many similarities. That said, they also have subtle differences that are worth mentioning. 

Similarities

• Both styles heavily utilize neutral colours
• Both styles are minimalist in their modern design
• Both styles have a streamlined aesthetic
• Both styles are meant to be more current ‘elevated’ versions of their traditional counterpart (farmhouse and cottage)

Differences

• Modern Farmhouse is more rustic and industrial, while Modern Cottage is softer and more feminine
• Modern Farmhouse tends to highlight natural materials such as wood, brick, and metal much more, while Modern Cottage incorporates soft colours, floral patterns, and vintage furniture
• Modern Farmhouse is more suited to larger spaces with high ceilings, while Modern Cottage is perfect for smaller, cozier spaces

Both Modern Farmhouse and Modern Cottage are popular interior design styles for good reason. They are both cozy, inviting, and perfect for creating a welcoming space. 

Consider your personal style and the size of your space when choosing between the two. As mentioned, Modern Farmhouse is great for those who prefer a more rustic and industrial look, with neutral colours and natural materials, whereas Modern Cottage might be better suited for those who prefer a softer and more organic look. 

Whichever style you choose, be sure to add your own personal touches to make it uniquely yours!

Looking to modernize your interior design? Contact Unshelf today!