Not Your Average BWH — A Modern Farmhouse Exterior Update

For years, the big white house — better known as the BWH — defined modern farmhouse exterior design. White board and batten siding, black windows, and high-contrast simplicity became the go-to formula for new construction homes across the country. It was clean. It was classic. It was everywhere.

But today, that look is shifting. What we’re seeing now isn’t the end of the modern farmhouse — it’s an evolution. Homeowners and designers are rethinking the big white house exterior and moving toward something softer, warmer, and more timeless.

The new direction? A refined blend of modern farmhouse and European cottage style.

A Softer Take on the Modern Farmhouse Exterior

One of the biggest changes in home exterior trends right now is the move away from stark contrast.

Black windows, once a defining feature of the modern farmhouse, are being replaced with warmer tones like clay, taupe, and muted neutrals. These subtle shifts create a warm exterior color palette that feels more natural and less rigid.

How to Update a Modern Farmhouse Exterior

Instead of sharp black-and-white contrast, today’s homes are embracing:

• soft white and creamy exterior paint

• earthy window colors

• layered, tonal palettes

This approach doesn’t just change the look... it changes the feeling. Homes feel more inviting, more grounded, and more connected to their surroundings.

left: Kelsey Leigh Design Co. | right: unknown

Architectural Details That Add Character to a New Build

Another major shift in custom home exterior design is the return of thoughtful architectural detail.

Where early modern farmhouse homes leaned minimal, today’s designs focus on depth and craftsmanship. Homeowners are looking for ways to add character to a new build, and the answer is in the details:

• exterior shutters that are properly scaled and believably functional

• dormers that bring dimension and visual interest

• stained beam headers that introduce warmth and gives the home a look of history

• subtle trim and millwork that elevate the facade

These elements transform a home from builder-grade to custom without relying on trends alone.

left: James May Home | right: Pinterest

Moving Beyond Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten siding has long been a staple of the modern farmhouse exterior. But now, we’re seeing a clear transition toward horizontal lap siding.

This change brings a more traditional, historically rooted look — one that aligns with timeless exterior home design ideas. Horizontal siding feels quieter, more classic, and less tied to a specific trend cycle.

For homeowners asking how to update a modern farmhouse exterior, this is one of the most impactful changes you can make.

The Rise of European Cottage Style

At the core of this shift is a broader movement in design: the influence of European cottage style homes.

This style blends rustic charm with refined simplicity — creating homes that feel curated rather than constructed. It’s less about perfection and more about authenticity.

Key elements include:

• exposed brick or stone facade

• softer lines and organic shapes

• warm, neutral exterior colors

• natural materials and textures

• layered architectural details

This is what many are now calling the new farmhouse style — though in reality, it’s something more evolved.

The European farmhouse is here.

photos: Pinterest

How to Soften a White House Exterior

White homes aren’t going away, but they are changing.

Instead of bright, stark white, we’re seeing:

• creamy whites

• warm beiges & tans

• subtle tonal variations

If you’re wondering how to soften a white house exterior, the answer lies in layering:

• swap black windows for taupe, clay or cream tones

• incorporate wood elements like stained beams

• add shutters or dormers for dimension

• choose horizontal siding for a more classic feel

• copper or bronze lanterns

These small changes create a home that feels timeless rather than trend-driven.

So… Is the BWH Gone?

Not exactly. The modern farmhouse isn’t disappearing. It’s being refined.

The big white house isn’t disappearing. It’s becoming more thoughtful, more detailed, and more connected to its surroundings. The clean slate is still there, but now it’s paired with warmth, character, and a deeper sense of design.

For homeowners searching for new construction exterior ideas or timeless home design, this shift offers a better path forward. Because the goal isn’t just to build something that looks good today, it’s to create a home that still feels right years from now. And that’s what makes this version of the BWH not average at all.

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Building or designing a home? Let’s take your exterior beyond the typical BWH. Reach out to start designing a home that feels custom, thoughtful, and anything but average.