29 Simple Small Modern Farmhouse Exterior Ideas

You don’t need to overcomplicate things to create a modern exterior for your small farmhouse.

Simple designs can greatly affect how your home looks and feels.

A modern farmhouse style blends clean lines with rustic charm, and you can easily add this touch to a smaller space.

From choosing the right materials to adding small but meaningful details, there are many easy ways to bring your vision to life.

I’ve gathered some simple ideas to help you make your home feel cozy, stylish, and welcoming.

These tips focus on maximizing your space while keeping things practical and beautiful.

You don’t need a large property to achieve that charming farmhouse look.

Let’s explore some easy ways to transform your small home’s exterior into something special.

How to Begin Your Small Modern Farmhouse Exterior Design

It’s important to set a direction for your design before we look at the specific ideas.

The key to a successful farmhouse exterior lies in simplicity.

Think about your space and your style. Your home should reflect warmth, charm, and simplicity.

Let’s look at how you can achieve that with some simple ideas:

1. Use Simple, Neutral Colors

When designing the exterior of your small modern farmhouse, one of the first things I recommend is choosing simple, neutral colors.

Soft whites, grays, and beiges can create a clean and calm look.

These shades make the home feel larger and more open, perfect for smaller spaces.

A light color palette gives a fresh, airy feeling to your home, helping it stand out without looking too busy.

You can mix and match with darker shades for the roof or trim to add contrast, but I always suggest keeping it simple and balanced.

2. Add Wood Accents

Wood is a classic farmhouse material.

Even for a small house, adding a bit of wood can bring warmth and character to the exterior.

You can use wood for the front door, shutters, or even as accents on the trim.

If you want a modern twist, go for a natural wood finish rather than a painted one.

I love how wood can add texture and create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Just be sure to choose weather-resistant materials to keep the look fresh year-round.

3. Install a Farmhouse-Style Front Door

A modern farmhouse front door can make a big difference in the overall look of your home.

A simple wooden door with glass panels or a barn-style sliding door can stand out.

I suggest choosing a door that’s not too ornate but adds charm.

A well-chosen door adds personality and invites guests inside while maintaining the farmhouse aesthetic.

4. Embrace Open Porch Space

It can be a focal point even if you have a small porch.

You can create a cozy outdoor area with simple elements like a wooden bench, potted plants, and a cute rug.

I recommend keeping the porch layout simple and uncluttered to feel open and spacious.

The idea is to use your space in a way that makes it feel inviting and comfortable.

5. Choose Simple Landscaping

In a small modern farmhouse, less is more when it comes to landscaping.

Stick with easy-to-care-for plants and flowers that match the home’s color palette.

I love the look of low-maintenance bushes, like boxwood or lavender, which add greenery without taking up too much space.

You can also add a few flower pots or hanging baskets to give a pop of color and texture.

6. Add Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are not only practical but also add a modern touch to any farmhouse design.

They are durable, weather-resistant, and come in a variety of colors.

Choosing a dark metal roof, such as black or charcoal, can create a striking contrast against a lighter exterior.

I personally think that the sleek, clean lines of metal roofing perfectly match the modern farmhouse look.

7. Keep the Windows Simple

Modern farmhouse exteriors tend to favor large, simple windows.

The goal is to allow natural light into your home, making it feel bright and airy.

I recommend choosing windows with simple, straight lines and minimal decoration.

Opting for black or dark-colored frames adds a contemporary touch without taking away from the farmhouse style.

8. Add a Cozy Porch Swing

A porch swing is the perfect touch for any farmhouse exterior.

It’s simple and charming and gives the home a welcoming feel.

I suggest adding a small porch swing with comfy cushions if you have enough space. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

And it gives your home that classic farmhouse touch.

9. Use Classic White Fencing

A white picket fence is a classic farmhouse feature, but you don’t need a large yard to make it work.

A simple, low white fence can be a perfect addition to a small modern farmhouse.

It defines the boundaries of your property while maintaining a clean and simple look.

I find that a white fence brings a lot of charm to a home without making the space feel crowded.

10. Incorporate Vertical Siding

Consider using vertical siding for a modern twist on the traditional farmhouse look.

This style adds height and depth to a small home, giving the illusion of more space.

Vertical boards also help the home feel more dynamic, and they can make your small farmhouse look sleek and modern. I

I think it’s a great way to add a contemporary touch while staying true to farmhouse traditions.

11. Focus on Symmetry

Symmetry is key in creating a clean, balanced look for your small farmhouse exterior.

I suggest placing windows and doors in symmetrical positions on the front of the house.

This approach brings order to the design and can make even a small space look polished.

Whether it’s matching the number of windows or balancing the front porch, symmetry is a simple way to improve the overall look of your home.

12. Add Rustic Lighting Fixtures

Lighting is an often overlooked but important element in farmhouse exterior design.

I love using simple, rustic lighting fixtures like lantern-style lights or pendant lights.

These fixtures can enhance the overall design without overwhelming the space.

Plus, they provide the perfect soft glow for evening gatherings on the porch.

13. Use Natural Stone for the Foundation

Adding a natural stone foundation to your home can give it a timeless, sturdy look.

Stone is an excellent material that blends well with both modern and rustic designs.

If you’re on a budget, you can also use stone accents on the bottom portion of the house to create a similar effect.

It adds texture and visual interest, making the exterior of your small farmhouse feel grounded and cozy.

14. Choose Simple Gutters and Downspouts

For a modern farmhouse exterior, it’s best to keep the gutters and downspouts simple.

I recommend choosing clean, straight lines with a matte finish for a more modern look.

Avoid overly decorative designs and stick to something practical yet understated.

A well-chosen gutter system can complement the overall design without standing out too much.

15. Install a Small, Simple Balcony

If your home has a second floor or a rooftop space, a small balcony can be a great addition.

A simple railing and a couple of potted plants can transform an otherwise empty space into a charming area for relaxation.

I suggest keeping the balcony design simple so it doesn’t overwhelm the exterior, especially if you have a smaller home.

16. Keep the Entryway Uncluttered

The entryway of your home sets the tone for the entire exterior.

I always recommend keeping it simple and uncluttered.

A basic doormat, a small table for decorative items, and a few plants can create a welcoming feel.

Avoid too much decoration or furniture, which can make the space cramped.

17. Add a Touch of Farmhouse Charm with a Wreath

A simple wreath on your front door is an easy way to add a farmhouse touch to your home.

Even if made from fresh greenery, dried flowers, or simple twigs, it brings a welcoming vibe to the exterior.

You can even change it with the seasons for a fresh, updated look throughout the year.

18. Use Simple, Clean Railings

For porches and stairways, I suggest using simple, clean railings.

A metal or wood railing with minimal decoration can add to the modern farmhouse vibe.

These types of railings provide both function and style without drawing too much attention away from the rest of the home.

I think that simple railings help maintain the clean lines and natural feel of the design.

19. Opt for Simple Yet Functional Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture doesn’t need to be fancy to look great.

A few simple pieces, like a wooden bench or a metal chair, can fit perfectly with the modern farmhouse style.

I recommend choosing furniture that’s comfortable and practical for your space.

A few well-placed chairs or a table can transform your small porch or patio into a cozy outdoor area.

Timeless Design Ideas for a Small Modern Farmhouse Exterior

1. Urban Country Style

This style blends modern city aesthetics with country charm.

Think simple, practical elements with a rustic edge.

Materials: Use a combination of concrete and wood. Concrete for a modern touch, and wood for warmth.
Neutral Palette: Stick to neutral tones—grays, whites, and soft earth tones—for the walls and trim. A charcoal or slate roof adds a modern touch.
Industrial Touches: Incorporate metal elements like exposed steel beams or metal roofing accents for an urban feel.
Simple Landscaping: Go for low-maintenance plants, like succulents, grasses, or boxwoods, paired with sleek planters for that urban vibe.

2. Modern Twist on Traditional Farmhouse

This design combines traditional elements with modern touches and puts a contemporary spin on the classic farmhouse look.

Clean Lines: Opt for a straightforward roofline with a low-pitched roof and minimal, straight lines.
Mixed Materials: Combine traditional materials, like wood and stone, with sleek, modern finishes like glass and metal.
Large Windows: Incorporate oversized windows or glass doors that offer panoramic views and bring in natural light, helping the house feel open and airy.
Minimalist Design: Keep exterior details simple and streamlined, focusing on clean shapes and unobtrusive decorations.
Neutral and Warm Tones: Use natural wood tones along with muted shades of white or beige for a modern but inviting exterior.

3. Modern Farmhouse with a Pop of Color

This style is timeless because it allows you to add personality without overwhelming the space.

Bold Front Door: Use a brightly colored front door in a bold hue, like deep navy, mustard yellow, or forest green, while keeping the rest of the home in neutral tones.
Clean Shutters: Opt for simple wooden shutters painted in a complementary color, like black or dark gray, for contrast.
Industrial Features: Add metal finishes like black steel or iron railings, lighting fixtures, or window grids for an industrial touch that still feels grounded in farmhouse tradition.

4. Rustic Minimalism

Rustic Minimalism combines natural, earthy elements with modern design for a clean, organized, and cozy feel.

Natural Materials: Use unpolished, raw materials like stone, reclaimed wood, and unpainted metals to bring out the rustic, natural vibe.
Open Space Design: Focus on a spacious, open layout with simple, uncluttered exteriors. Minimalist elements can help your small farmhouse feel larger.
Flat Roof or Shed Roof: Consider a flat or shed roof for a more modern twist. It simplifies the lines while still maintaining a functional, classic farmhouse silhouette.
Simple Landscaping: Keep the yard minimal, with clean walkways and potted plants arranged on either side of the entrance.

5. Farmhouse Cottage

For a charming, timeless farmhouse exterior with a cozy twist, go for a cottage-style look.

Stone Accents: Natural stone can be used around the foundation or as a cladding material for part of the exterior.
Cottage Windows: Install multi-pane windows with small grids or wooden shutters to capture the quaintness of a cottage while keeping the overall design simple and classic.
Wrought Iron Details: Use black wrought iron for elements like gates, balcony railings, or light fixtures for added character.
Soft Landscaping: Incorporate a variety of flowers, winding paths, and bushes to give your home a garden-like feel.

6. Contemporary Farmhouse with Clean Silhouettes

This design is all about sleek lines and minimal decor while keeping farmhouse roots intact.

Flat or Low-Slope Roofs: Instead of the traditional gabled roof, choose a flat or low-slope roof to give the home a modern, streamlined look.
Black and White Color Scheme: Go with a sharp contrast of black and white. White walls paired with a black roof or black window frames help create a modern farmhouse vibe.
Geometric Patterns: Incorporate geometric design patterns through decorative metal railings, windows, or the front porch to give a contemporary feel.

7. Scandinavian-Inspired Farmhouse

A Scandinavian-inspired farmhouse offers clean, minimalist lines while keeping the warmth and charm of a farmhouse.

Wood Paneling: Use wood paneling on part of the house or as a feature wall for a natural, light feel.
Whitewashed Exteriors: Whitewashed wood or stucco is popular in Scandinavian designs and keeps the home feeling fresh and open.
Simple Shapes: Go for basic, geometric shapes for the roof and exterior lines. Simple, unembellished windows and doors work well.
Nature-Inspired Accents: Bring nature into the exterior with natural stone or wood details, and add greenery through potted plants or small trees.

8. Farmhouse with an Industrial Edge

A blend of traditional farmhouse charm and industrial materials gives this design a timeless, modern appeal.

Exposed Metal Beams: Metal beams on the exterior give the house an industrial touch while still maintaining the farmhouse structure.
Large Windows with Black Frames: Huge windows with black metal frames are both modern and industrial, bringing in natural light and an open feel.
Concrete and Wood: Use raw concrete for walkways, driveways, or even parts of the foundation and pair it with wooden accents to keep the rustic charm intact.
Simple Landscaping: Opt for a few structured, easy-to-maintain plants, adding to the industrial yet cozy feel.

9. Farmhouse with a Contemporary Porch

A timeless design idea for a small modern farmhouse includes focusing on the porch area, which becomes the main feature of your home’s exterior.

Wraparound Porch: Add a wraparound porch or a smaller, extended front porch to make your home feel larger and more connected to the outdoors.
Vertical and Horizontal Wood Paneling: Use a combination of vertical and horizontal wood paneling to add dimension to the porch and give it a modern touch.
Industrial Light Fixtures: Use large, modern light fixtures or farmhouse-style sconces along the porch to complement the overall design.

10. Clean, Simple Farmhouse with White and Gray Tones

For a minimalist modern farmhouse exterior, clean white walls paired with soft gray accents will always be timeless.

Monochromatic Color Scheme: Use various shades of gray with white to keep it calm and sophisticated while maintaining the farmhouse character.
Simplified Roofline: Opt for a simple, low-pitched roof to keep the design looking fresh and modern.
Open, Uncluttered Yard: Keep the landscaping simple and clean with a few neatly manicured bushes, a lawn, or a vegetable garden.

Conclusion

When designing the exterior of a small modern farmhouse, the goal is to keep things simple, functional, and beautiful.

Each element, from your chosen materials to your colors, contributes to creating a welcoming and stylish space.

Every detail matters, whether adding wood accents, choosing the right roofing, or installing classic farmhouse features like a porch swing or picket fence.

The key is to balance modern touches with rustic charm to create an inviting exterior that reflects your personality.

With these ideas, you can transform your small farmhouse into a cozy and modern space.

Keep it simple, and your dream home will come to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my small farmhouse look larger?

Use light, neutral colors, and large windows to create a sense of openness. Vertical siding and simple landscaping can also help make the space feel bigger.

Can I have a modern farmhouse with a small budget?

Yes, by using affordable materials like vinyl siding, keeping landscaping simple, and incorporating DIY touches like a wooden door or budget-friendly outdoor furniture.

What are some simple landscaping ideas for a small farmhouse?

Low-maintenance plants like boxwoods or lavender work well, along with a stone or gravel pathway and minimal flower beds to keep the exterior looking neat and inviting.

What materials are best for a modern farmhouse exterior?

Wood, stone, metal, and glass are key materials. Wood adds warmth, and stone gives rustic charm, while metal and glass bring a sleek, modern touch.