At some point, someone has probably asked you, “So, what’s your decorating design style?” Seems like a simple enough question. But it’s often a bit complicated to explain. So, let’s start with some descriptions of a few popular design styles.
Design Style #1: Modern Farmhouse
Modern Farmhouse is a cousin of good ol’ traditional, but with a bit of a rustic feel. This design style incorporates the beautiful wood of traditional but allows pieces to be imperfect, such as an old Elm Farm Table.
Because Modern Farmhouse is more laid-back, it allows for more comfort while keeping design alive. But don’t take laid-back for non-sophisticated. Each element in Modern Farmhouse is carefully chosen to create a sense of home.
Our Autumn Ridge and Stone Creek house plans are beautiful examples of the Modern Farmhouse design style. (For the complete selection of Elements Design Build Modern Farmhouse house plans, click here.)
Design Style #2: Craftsman Storybook
Craftsman Storybook Style is the crazy aunt of traditional. This design style has an old-world flair like Tudor, with beautiful wood. But it is a bit more laid-back like Modern Farmhouse, with an added touch of gorgeous whimsy.
Our Somerset house plan is an excellent example of this whimsical, imaginative style. (For the complete selection of Elements Design Build Craftsman Storybook house plans, click here and scroll to the middle of the page.)
Design Style #3: English Cottage
English Cottage is the loveable grandfather of traditional. This old-world style calls for dark wood, rich fabrics, and an old-fashioned family feel.
Our Essex house plan is a wonderful example of this lovely style. (For the complete selection of Elements Design Build English Cottage house plans, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.)
Design Style #4: Urban Modern
Urban Modern (aka Contemporary or Minimalist) is the hip, super cool, up-to-date family member. Whether mid-century modern, Frank Lloyd Wright contemporary, or Generation XYZ minimalist, all of these lend themselves to the sleek lines, simple forms, and minimal décor items found in Urban Modern.
While our Brook house plan is located in “Modern Farmhouse,” it has some urban modern design elements, such as a low-pitch metal roof and the use of simple materials.
What is your design style?
Perhaps this is the best time to admit it… It’s hard to explain design styles because so many design elements overlap. Personally, while I do love English Cottages, I could find myself just as cozy in a Modern Farmhouse. That is why design build is such an important element. This process, which includes our Elements of Life Analysis©, allows us to find those creative features you love from different design styles and pull them together to put you in your element!
Contact us to start your Elements of Life Analysis©!


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