Living in the Southern Highlands of Australia means it’ll probably come as no surprise that I favour a design aesthetic that is accented with country touches, however having deep family roots in rural New England NSW has meant I have always been exposed to and influenced by that style of living.
To me the “modern farmhouse” is where all this collides perfectly. I’ve written more about this recently here and shown exactly how you can create that modern farmhouse look in your own home!
It’s the combination of the classic “American barn”, with modern sensibilities and style. In layman’s architectural terms, it’s the city-girl-that-moved-to-the-country!!
Although I love a typical weatherboard house any day of the week, I’m particularly drawn to ‘board and batten’ siding. Architecturally, it’s characterised by large sheets of exterior plywood with timber battens running vertically and interspersed equally.
Board and batten is very common in America and New Zealand but less so here in Australia. I’ve had an obsession with it for over 10 years and I love it more now than ever!
This is what we based the renovation of our current home around – modern farmhouse style using board and batten exterior siding with a grey metal roof. A sneak peek at our house below featured in Australian House & Garden Magazine.
Our siding is painted white and our roof is a mid to light grey colour. We’ve also installed black up/down exterior lights which add a real architectural element, especially at night. I also love board and batten internally too – it adds genuine character to otherwise plain walls.
The ideal modern farmhouse should be filled with texture and a mix of natural materials, but by far and away my favourite design element is planked or shiplap walls. To me you can never have enough wall planking! Vertically or horizontally – it doesn’t matter. Think of it as a modern update on traditional wainscotting and tongue and groove lining.
ARCANUM ARCHITECTURE / JENNIFER ROBIN INTERIORS
This incredible mountain view nook above is the most liked pictured on my Instagram! MICHAEL REX ASSOCIATES
What I love the most about modern farmhouse style is it’s relaxed and unpretentious yet still tailored and timeless. I always want people to feel as if they can walk through the door and slump on the sofa, never being afraid of fabric or furniture. Hence my love of everything slipcovered!
WADE DESIGN ARCHITECTS / JENNIFER ROBIN INTERIORS
If you LOVE modern farmhouse style then you will love this more RECENT post all about how to create that modern farmhouse aesthetic, click here.
Nicki x