Best Scandinavian Farmhouse Exterior Styles and Tips

A Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is all about simple design, natural materials, and a welcoming feel. It mixes the clean look of Scandinavian style with the warmth of a farmhouse.

This means light colors, wooden details, and big windows that bring in lots of natural light. The goal is to create a house that looks peaceful and fits in with nature.  

Many Scandinavian farmhouses have white or soft gray walls, black or wood accents, and a simple roofline. They often use natural wood for doors, trim, or porches, giving them a warm and timeless look.

The design is not too fancy but still feels stylish and cozy. If you’re thinking about adding this style to your home, there are plenty of ways to do it. 

Why a Scandinavian Farmhouse Exterior Is a Great Choice?

A Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is the perfect mix of simple and welcoming. It has a clean look, uses natural materials, and blends in with the surroundings.

If you want a home that feels timeless and cozy without looking too fancy, this style is a great choice.

1. Simple: Scandinavian farmhouses focus on clean lines and simple shapes. There’s no extra detail that makes the design feel too busy. Instead, the look is peaceful and fresh, making your home look classic.

2. Versatile: Whether you live in the countryside, near the woods, or even in a suburban area, the Scandinavian farmhouse design blends well with nature. The soft colors and natural materials make it feel warm and inviting.

3. Natural Light: One of the best things about this style is the large windows. They bring in plenty of sunlight, making the house bright and airy. 

4. Neutral Colors: Scandinavian farmhouse exteriors use white, gray, black, and wood tones. These colors don’t go out of style and work well with any surroundings. 

5. Easy to Maintain: Because Scandinavian farmhouse exteriors focus on simple materials and neutral colors, they don’t require a lot of upkeep. The design is made to last, and small updates can keep it looking as good as new.

6. Cozy Vibe: Even though this style is simple, it still feels warm and inviting. The mix of wood, soft colors, and open spaces makes it feel like home. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a house that looks clean but is still stylish

A Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is a great choice for anyone looking for a mix of modern and classic design. It’s simple, beautiful, and built to last.

With the right colors and materials, your home can have a classic look that always feels welcoming.

Scandinavian Farmhouse Exterior Details

A Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is all about simple beauty and natural materials. It has a clean, timeless look that feels both fresh and welcoming.

If you want to bring this style to your home, focusing on the right details can make all the difference.

1. Siding and Exterior Materials: Scandinavian farmhouses often use natural wood, board, and batten siding. Light-colored wood or painted white, gray, or black siding keeps the look clean and simple. 

2. Roof Design: Most Scandinavian farmhouses have steep roofs, which help with snow and rain runoff. Metal roofs are popular because they last a long time and add a modern touch. Some homes also use classic shingles.

3. Windows: Large windows are a key feature of this style. Black-framed or wood-trimmed windows add contrast and give the home a modern farmhouse look. Many Scandinavian farmhouses also have skylights.

4. Front Door and Entryway: The front door is a statement piece. Natural wood doors add warmth, while black or muted colors keep things sleek. A simple porch or small overhang provides shelter and adds style.

5. Outdoor Lighting: Simple black metal light fixtures work best for a Scandinavian farmhouse exterior. Wall-mounted lanterns or industrial-style sconces near the front door and garage keep the lighting simple but stylish. 

6. Landscaping: Scandinavian farmhouse landscaping is neat but natural. Gravel paths, simple stone walkways, and native plants help keep things low-maintenance. Raised garden beds or wooden planters add warmth and texture. 

7. Fencing and Gates: For fencing, simple wood or low stone walls are the best choices. A natural wooden gate adds character without being too bold. Some Scandinavian farmhouses use hedges or shrubs instead of fences.

8. Garage: If you have a garage or shed, keeping it in the same style as the main house helps everything feel connected. Using the same siding, roof material, and color scheme makes a big difference.

The details of a Scandinavian farmhouse exterior may be simple, but they make a big impact.

By using natural materials, neutral colors, and thoughtful design, you can create a unique and stylish home.

Popular Scandinavian Farmhouse Exterior Looks

Scandinavian farmhouse exteriors have a simple, clean, and timeless look. They mix modern and rustic elements, using neutral colors, natural materials, and big windows.

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some of the most popular Scandinavian farmhouse exterior looks.

1. Classic White with Black Trim

A white house with black trim is one of the most well-known Scandinavian farmhouse styles.

The white siding keeps the home looking fresh and bright, while black window frames, doors, and roof details add contrast. This look works well in both the countryside and suburban areas.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Paint your home in crisp white or soft off-white.
• Add black accents on windows, doors, and gutters.
• Use metal or shingle roofing in black or dark gray.

2. Soft Gray with Wood Accents

Many Scandinavian farmhouses use soft gray siding with natural wood accents for a warmer feel. This creates a calm and inviting look while still keeping the simple Scandinavian design.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Choose a light or medium gray paint for the exterior.
• Use natural wood for doors, shutters, or porch beams.
• Add black or dark gray trim for a modern touch.

3. Dark and Bold Exteriors

While many Scandinavian farmhouses are light-colored, some go for a dark and bold look. Black or deep charcoal siding with wood or white trim creates a modern yet cozy feel.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Paint or stain the exterior in deep black or dark gray.
• Use wood accents to soften the bold color.
• Choose large windows to let in plenty of natural light.

4. Minimalist White with Natural Wood

A simple white home with raw, untreated wood accents is another popular Scandinavian farmhouse style. This look is all about blending in with nature while keeping a fresh and bright appearance.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Use soft white or off-white paint.
• Keep wood elements in their natural color (doors, porches, beams).
• Use simple landscaping with stone pathways and native plants.

5. Black and Wood Combination

A black house with rich wood details is a popular modern Scandinavian farmhouse look. The deep color makes the home look striking, while the wood adds warmth.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Choose black or charcoal siding.
• Use natural wood for the front door, shutters, or porch area.
• Keep landscaping simple with a mix of gravel and greenery.

6. Earthy and Neutral Tones

Some Scandinavian farmhouses step away from the typical black-and-white scheme and use soft earth tones like beige, taupe, or muted greens.

These colors create a warm and natural look that blends well with the surroundings.

How to Achieve This Look:

• Pick a neutral shade like light brown, beige, or soft green.
• Use wooden doors and window frames to add texture.
• Keep outdoor lighting and decor simple and modern.

Whether you prefer a bright white home, a bold black exterior, or something in between, there are many ways to bring this style to life.

The key is to keep it simple, cozy, and connected to nature.

Choosing the Right Materials for a Scandinavian Farmhouse

Picking the right materials for a Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is important. The goal is to keep things simple, natural, and long-lasting.

Scandinavian farmhouses focus on clean lines, neutral colors, and materials that blend well with nature. Here’s a look at the best options for siding, roofing, doors, and more.

1. Siding

The right siding gives your home its main look and feel. Scandinavian farmhouses often use materials that are strong and easy to maintain.

The best choices include:

• Wood Siding – Natural wood is common, especially in light or dark stains. It adds warmth and texture.
• Board and Batten – This vertical siding style is simple but stylish, making the home feel taller.
• Fiber Cement – A great low-maintenance option that looks like wood but lasts longer.
• Painted Brick – Some farmhouses use brick, painted white or gray, for a softer look.

2. Roofing

Scandinavian homes are made to handle cold weather, so the roof needs to be strong and simple. The top material choices for roofing are:

• Metal Roofing – Durable, modern, and perfect for handling snow and rain.
• Asphalt Shingles – A budget-friendly option that comes in neutral colors like gray or black.
• Standing Seam Roof – A sleek metal roofing style that adds a modern touch.

3. Windows

Large windows are a big part of Scandinavian farmhouse design. They bring in natural light and make the home feel open. Popular options include:

• Black-Framed Windows – These create contrast against the light siding.
• Wood-framed windows – A natural choice that blends with the farmhouse feel.
• Floor-to-Ceiling Windows – A great option if you want lots of natural light.

4. Doors

The front door is one of the first things people notice, so choosing the right material can make a big impact. The best choices are:

• Wood Doors – Keep them natural for a warm, rustic feel, or paint them black for a modern touch.
• Steel or Fiberglass Doors – Great for durability while keeping a simple design.
• Glass Panel Doors – Let in extra light while keeping the minimalist look.

5. Trim and Accents

The little details make a big difference in a Scandinavian farmhouse exterior. Here’s what can be used:

• Wood Beams – Used for porches, overhangs, or entryways.
• Simple Black or White Trim – Keeps the home looking clean and modern.
• Stone or Brick Accents – Adds texture to the base of the house or around doorways.

The best exterior materials for a Scandinavian farmhouse are simple, strong, and natural.

Whether you choose wood siding, metal roofing, or black-trimmed windows, keeping it clean and classic will give your home a timeless look.

How to Get the Scandinavian Farmhouse Look on a Budget?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get the Scandinavian farmhouse look. With simple changes and smart choices, you can create a beautiful exterior without going over budget.

Here are some affordable ways to bring this style to your home.

1. Use Paint for a Fresh Look

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to transform your home is with paint. A fresh coat of white, gray, or black can instantly give your house that clean, Scandinavian farmhouse feel.

Painting trim or doors in black or a natural wood tone adds contrast without a big cost.

2. Add DIY Wood Accents

Natural wood details bring warmth to a Scandinavian farmhouse. Instead of replacing siding, add wood shutters, a simple porch railing, or a wooden front door.

You can even stain or seal existing wood to refresh the look without spending too much.

3. Choose Affordable Siding Options

If your home needs new siding, look for budget-friendly materials like fiber cement or vinyl in simple, neutral colors that match the Scandinavian farmhouse style.

Board and batten siding can be done with plywood or other low-cost materials. Adding a fresh coat of paint in white, gray, or earthy tones can further enhance the design without a high cost.

4. Upgrade Your Front Door

A stylish front door can make a big impact, setting the tone for your home’s exterior. Instead of buying a new one, consider repainting your current door in a warm wood tone, bold black, or soft gray.

Adding new handles, a simple wreath, or modern house numbers can also give it a fresh, welcoming feel. A small overhang or wooden trim around the door can further enhance the look without a big cost.

5. Use Simple Outdoor Lighting

Scandinavian farmhouse lighting is usually black metal and has a simple, modern look. You can find budget-friendly outdoor wall lights at most home improvement stores.

Replacing old fixtures with new black or matte-finish lights can instantly update your home’s exterior.

6. Keep Landscaping Simple and Natural

Scandinavian farmhouse landscaping is neat but not overly designed, focusing on simplicity and natural beauty. Gravel walkways, simple stone paths, and native plants are affordable and easy to maintain, blending well with the surroundings.

Wooden planters or a small raised garden can add beauty without a big cost, creating a welcoming outdoor space. Low wooden fences or hedges can help define the yard while keeping the open, airy feel. 

7. Upgrade Your Porch or Entryway

A small porch or simple overhang above the door adds character to your home, giving it a welcoming and stylish touch. If you already have a porch, adding wood beams, a bench, or a few potted plants can make it feel more inviting and warm.

Soft outdoor lighting, like black metal sconces or lantern-style fixtures, can enhance the cozy feel. A natural wood or black-painted front door paired with a simple doormat and minimal decor keeps the look clean and classic.

8. Repurpose and Reuse Materials

Check secondhand stores, salvage yards, or online marketplaces for affordable materials like reclaimed wood, vintage doors, or outdoor furniture. These small touches can bring beauty to your home without a big price tag.

You don’t need a big budget to get the Scandinavian farmhouse look. Simple updates like painting, adding wood accents, and choosing the right details can make a big difference. 

Conclusion

A Scandinavian farmhouse exterior is all about simple beauty, natural materials, and a classic look. Its neutral colors, large windows, and warm wood accents make it easy to recognize.

Whether you go for a classic white house with black trim, a modern dark exterior, or soft gray with wood details, the key is to keep things simple and natural.

You don’t have to spend a lot to get this style. Small changes like painting your home, adding wood accents, or upgrading your outdoor lighting can make a big difference. 

The best part about this style is that it never goes out of fashion. With the right choices, your home can feel both modern and classic at the same time.

Keep things clean, bright, and welcoming, and you’ll have a Scandinavian farmhouse that looks great for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Landscaping Suits a Scandinavian Farmhouse?

Minimalist landscaping with gravel paths, native plants, and simple wooden fences works best.

Raised garden beds, stone walkways, and outdoor seating areas add beauty without being too busy.

Are Dark Exteriors Common in Scandinavian Farmhouses?

Yes! While white is the most popular, dark black or deep charcoal exteriors are also common.

They create a modern and bold look while still fitting the simple farmhouse style.

Can I Mix Scandinavian Farmhouse with Other Styles?

Yes! This style blends well with modern, rustic, and traditional elements.

Mixing materials like stone, metal, or brick can add character while still keeping the clean and simple look.

Should I Add Shutters to My Scandinavian Farmhouse?

Shutters are not common in Scandinavian farmhouse design, but simple wood or black shutters can work if kept minimal.

Large windows with clean trim are more typical for this style.

How Do I Maintain a Scandinavian Farmhouse Exterior?

Use weather-resistant paint and stains to protect wood surfaces.

Keep siding and windows clean, and refresh trim or accents when needed. Choose durable materials to keep upkeep low.