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Nothing is more Americana than a white farmhouse surrounded by green fields. With its clean lines, it is the perfect combination of elegant nostalgia and a simplified aesthetic. The front porch makes it pedestrian-friendly and the vertical lines of the board and batten siding and two over two windows give it an uplifting vibe – especially when paired with a steeply pitched roof. It can easily be modified for a more modern aesthetic. How modern depends upon the location.

I’ve learned that it is still the most popular style when it comes to plan sales. (Is the Modern Farmhouse Going Out of Style? | Builder Magazine) But the same article suggests that the home buyers may be experiencing farmhouse fatigue.

Too much of a good thing

Imagine a streetscape full of farmhouse elevations side by side – I’m sure you can think of a handful of new neighborhoods off the top of your head.

Suddenly, the nostalgia of the style gets lost in a monotonous streetscape. Early adopters of the style found the white exterior a fresh change from the previous go to color of Builder Beige.

Now the very thing that made the style popular has also made it cookie cutter.

The style is evolving

The early origins of the style can be found in the Folk Victorian style. This style was characterized by a combination of elegance and simplicity. Unlike its Victorian roots, this style had classic proportions without the abundance of ornamentation. Add stained roughhewn porch columns and the style is suddenly hugely popular. Picturesque scenes from Chip & Johanna Gaines’ show certainly helped.

The next phase of the evolution of the style is color. Many are discovering the style looks great in colors other than white. Early color schemes focused on grey tones. Then – many started to add actual colors.

Heck – even black can look great with the style.

Next evolution are the materials. To give it a more modern appeal, try using metal siding with vertical ribs – in a variety of colors.

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Though you may only want to try this material in a very urban setting as most deed restricted communities don’t allow metal siding.

The windows are the next. It is possible to keep the vertical proportions without the using the 2 over 2 mullion pattern. Consider casement windows or fixed glass to remove the horizontal sash of the double hung window.

Staying Power

I believe the style will be popular for an extended period of time. Done right, it is the perfect blend simplicity and nostalgia. But even more important is its ability to adapt and look fresh in different colors and materials. It can be classic or modern.