This breathtaking modern farmhouse is designed by Derrick Custom Homes in collaboration with Home Design by Annie, nestled on 15-acres in Stillwater, a city in Washington County, Minnesota. Back in 2016 this family unfortunately lost their entire home and belongings to a fire on this exact same property. It was a hobby farm, so they boarded their two horses at a close-by farm and took their four kids, two dogs, two cats and two bunnies and rented a home in a farming neighborhood. This was a great experiment for the family to test their new lifestyle needs.
They weighed their new options, everything from purchasing a condo or lake home to moving abroad for a year. After lengthy discussions, the family came to a decision that nowhere felt like home than their original property. So they came to the decision to re-build, but use the footprint of the original home. The project began with finding a floor plan, then a builder to construct the plan. The family hired Midwest Drafting and Design to draw up the plans, while the builder modified the plans to their liking. The interior designer helped to refine exterior design and details. Part of this was locating window types, sizes and locations to modernize the farmhouse design.
The previous dwelling was a contemporary, multi-level home of 7,500 square feet. It had been in the family for decades, with memories that were not replaceable. Moving forward, the family saw this as an opportunity to try something a little different, as they planned to retire in this home. They decided to down-scale the size so there would not be additional rooms not being used. The new open and airy layout called for 3,700 square feet, with a tranquil atmosphere that reflects on the surrounding environment. With a crisp and clean aesthetic, this stunning modern farmhouse boasts four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
What We Love: Light, bright and airy characterizes this breathtaking modern farmhouse constructed to replace an unfortunate fire of the original home. We love how the designer brought in accents to tie this home into the past, making it feel warm and inviting. Although the homeowner’s lost their home in a tragic way, they were able to create a fresh start and create their dream home while making new memories with their family and friends.
Tell Us: What do you think of the design style of this home? What details caught your eye? Please share your thoughts in the Comments below!
Above: To infuse warmth into this breathtaking modern farmhouse, the designer opted to paint the walls a light, creamy color instead of stark white. Furnishings, accessories and artwork were selected to enhance the charm of this home, softening the modern feel. A local metal worker fabricated the metal surround of the fireplace, the focal point of the living room. This also helped to blend the television into the background. Shiplap is added above the fireplace, giving it a softer touch.
Above: Adding a cozy touch to this modern living room are patterned throw pillows — a reminder of the homeowner’s grandmother and a connection to the past.
Above: Above the kitchen island are radial wave steel pendant lights. On the backsplash is hand-painted tumbled tiles, a nod to old farmhouse style.
Above: In the master bedroom, the subtle spruce tree patterned accent wall acts as the artwork.
Above: In the powder bathroom, the barn owl wallcovering connects to the past. The homeowner wanted to have subtle hints of a reminder of her grandmother throughout.
Above: In the lower level of this modern farmhouse, the designer selected a palette that is dark and cozy — reminiscent of a Colorado lodge.
Above: The lower level “man cave” includes a full bar, along with a window that opens out to an outdoor entertaining area, along with a sauna. The window is a pass through for beverages and snacks.
Above: In the lower level guest bedroom, a playful accent wall of colorful geometric shapes adds a pop of color.
Above: Outdoors, there is plenty of space for family living and entertaining. There is a swimming pool, expansive patio and fire pit. Just off the pool area is a pool house with a changing area and bathroom.
Above: Prairie restoration was also done on the property, as the homeowner’s were able to get grant money since there is a creek that flows into the St. Croix River. This makes their property a conservation management area.
Fun Fact: To help with the clean up of the invasive buckthorn along the edge of their property, the homeowner’s ‘hired’ 12 goats to devour it — a fantastic alternative to herbicides!
Photos: Spacecrafting Photography
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