Homes decorated in the farmhouse style—think industrial-sized sinks, cabinetry fronted in chicken wire, and sliding barn doors—are quickly gaining favor with potential buyers and selling for significantly more than properties in other styles. Listings with descriptors such as “barn doors,” “exposed beams,” and “free-standing tubs” tend to fetch prices up to 30 percent higher than other homes, according to research from RealEstate.com. A listing that boasts a “farmhouse sink” in the entry-level and luxury price points could see a 26 percent and 16 percent premium, respectively.
Chip and Joanna Gaines, former hosts of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper,” are widely credited for making farmhouse decor mainstream. The Wall Street Journal dubs the trend “farmhouse fever.” Urban farmhouse’ is a safe choice that appeals to a wide audience.
How To Stage The Farmhouse Style:
When creating a farmhouse design, it’s all about layering different and unexpected textures, like placing rough hewn wood accessories against clean white subway tile, or using rustic milk jugs with varying patinas as a side table against a classic refined sofa. The mix prevents the style from becoming too predictable and helps the design appeal to a variety of buyers.
Homebuilders also are jumping on the trend. Construction company Pulte Group says many of its model homes now reflect a farmhouse look, including one of its Las Vegas-area developments, which offers properties with board-and-batten siding, wood beams, and barn lighting. Imagine Homes, another builder, features shiplap, stone walls, and a desk that looks like a butcher block in its model homes in San Antonio. Toll Brothers has introduced modern farmhouse exteriors in several of its communities in Virginia, as well as an “urban farmhouse”-styled home in a new development just outside Washington, D.C.
However, some designers are concerned that the farmhouse style’s popularity may fade quickly. “I do worry about market saturation. … It’s starting to be commonplace,” Lisa Gabrielson says. She predicts that the next big decor trend will be “California cool,” which tends to feature bleached floors and warm, light brown accents.
Sources: RealtorMag, The Wall Street Journal
Donald Horne, Broker / Owner | Team Success Listing LLC
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