Admit it, you still find yourself cringing over your choice of architectural finishes 10 years back. Barn doors seemed like a great idea, Subway tiles seemed cozy, and repurposing wooden planks to practically anything was seen to be the best home improvement hack out there. 

If it weren’t a trend, farmhouse-inspired design elements wouldn’t seem as dated as it is now. The truth is, the fact that everyone jumped on this trend made it die a natural death. With rustic farmhouse design out the window, what are the modern alternatives to these?


Barn Doors are out, Hidden Doors are Back!

The popularity of barn doors has finally reached its peak and we hope it doesn’t come back soon enough. Instead of a heavy wooden repurposed door hung from the wall using a black barn door hanger, most designers would now prefer the absence of such an overwhelming and massive piece. Hidden doors provide the same utility, while blending and concealing itself with the walls. Hidden doors are great for hiding utility areas such as walk-in closets, stockrooms, and cleaning rooms because it does a great job in blending in. 

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Square Tiles Are the New Subway Tiles

Classic 2×2 and 4×4 inch tiles are making waves today as a tile trend, overtaking the previously popular subway tiles. Coupled with a contrasting grout, these grid-like patterns are most definitely anti-farmhouse.

Square tiles typically complement current design trends of 2022, making the perfect accent to retro-inspired and Minimalist-Japandi style homes. The grid-like pattern produced by this tile trend appeals to the modern and playful aesthetic.


Repurposed Wooden Planks < Fluted Wooden Panels

Clean and fileted wooden strips have now gone viral. As people get tired of the rustic farmhouse trend, we see them embrace minimalism not only as a lifestyle, but also an aesthetic. Sure, repurposing wooden pallets seemed like an economically viable option in the past, but the rustic feel to it has definitely made it age faster.

Fluted wooden panels consist of smoothly-finished wooden strips that have a curved cross section. The appearance of which creates a clean and modern look, that has the same warm and inviting qualities as rustic wooden panels, without the distressed finish.


Undermount Sink Is the New Farmhouse Sink

Approximately 10 years ago, farmhouse sinks were all the rage. We used to see them literally everywhere: in every cottagecore-inspired kitchen tour, and in architecture and interior design magazines all over the world.

Now that we’ve fully transitioned into an era of minimalism, unnecessary details like these are starting to get dated. Instead, most designers now opt for clean forms, which now gives rise to the rebirth if undermount sinks. Unlike farmhouse sinks, undermount sinks possess a minimal characteristic that focuses more on function than aesthetic detail. 


Frameless Glass Over Black Steel Mullions

I’m sure you’ve seen the black steel mullion glass panel blow up Pinterest years back. Unfortunately, it’s now time to say goodbye to this trend. Instead, say hello to frameless glass panels that give the illusion of a wider space. Through the absence of mullions, glass panels have the ability to provide an expansive optical illusion to smaller and bigger spaces, alike. 


Brick Walls Are Out, Limestone Plaster Is In

Brick walls are known to provide a lot of textural dimension but the truth is, seeing this trend for years now, it’s time to move on and try something new. Limestone plaster is a cheap and efficient way to have the same textural effect, without breaking the bank!


Leave Edison Inspired Bulbs in the Past! Smart Lighting Is the Future

For a time, we were fond of Edison inspired bulbs. It provided the ultimate throwback in terms of lighting design, which mimicked the warm incandescent bulbs during the 80’s. It was a design trend for a time, because it worked well with the rustic farmhouse and industrial design trends of the early 2010’s. Now that era’s over, smart lighting is the future. Smart lighting is versatile; it has the ability to take on various colors. The best part in all of this? It’s smart; it can be either voice-activated or controlled remotely using your smartphone.


The Era of Whitewashed Wood is Over

Whitewashed and deliberately weathered wood is now a thing of the past! In this day and age, designers prefer natural wood, coated with a thin layer of sealer. You may opt to add a thin layer of wood stain as well, to balance out the color. 

Just remember that the shabby chic era in interior design is dated. In terms of wood finishes, it is best to stick with natural colors. No deliberate weathering or charring is required. 


Say Goodbye To Repurposed Galvanized Pipe Shelving

Another farmhouse and industrial trend we wish to leave in the past is the use of repurposed galvanized pipes for shelving. As we slowly transition into a modern renaissance, most designers lean towards clean and modern details. Meaning, it’s best to opt for hidden brackets in terms of architectural hardware. Remember, the less detail, the better. 


Terrazzo over Solid Stone Slabs

Solid stone slabs may be considered a classic but Terrazzo will definitely transform your space if you’re looking for a spunky and modern accent piece that will elevate your kitchen. If you do decide on using solid stone slabs, try choosing one with an interesting pattern and color.


Black Metal Hardware and Fixtures

Another cringey element from the past, consider ditching black hardware and fixtures. Stick to the metallic basics like silver and gold. Avoid those faux rustic architectural hardware you see all over Amazon. In order to completely escape from the dark past of a trend known as the farmhouse-style, we need to make better decisions regarding hardware fixtures for our home.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield

Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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