Let’s take a look back at the Modern Steel Farmhouse, our new construction project nestled in the woods of Newmarket, New Hampshire. Our story begins back in 2018, when we teamed up with our client to discuss the vision and possibilities of this modernized farmhouse. When we got started, the structural engineering was already in place, and our client mostly had questions about the layout, electrical plans, and design materials.
While we were in the preliminary phase of design, we got hit by the pandemic and our project timeline took a little longer than originally expected. It wasn’t until a couple of years later that we got everything in place, and the construction process moved forward smoothly.
Exterior: A Dark and Moody Farmhouse
Our client had a clear vision for the exterior. Instead of going with the typical black-and-white farmhouse look that has been trending in recent years, they wanted something darker and moodier. The first floor was finished with Hardie Plank Lap Siding in Iron Gray by James Hardie and Hardie Panel Siding in Iron Gray on the second floor.
To break it up, we painted the fascia, soffit, and window trim in Benjamin Moore’s Raccoon Fur 2126-20, to give the farmhouse a striking contrast. We also added black goose neck barn lights over the garage and recessed LED soffit lights to add that classic farmhouse touch.
Interior: A Blend of Steel and Warmth
As you step into the first floor, you’re welcomed by an open living plan, with a vibrant kitchen that overlooks a spacious living room and bar area. Given that our client owns a steelworks company, we had the perfect chance to incorporate his steel products into the design. The focal point of the interior is a steel staircase he personally fabricated. And in the living room, the ceiling is highlighted by exposed steel beams, further tying into the modern farmhouse aesthetic with an industrial edge.
To complement the craftsmanship, we designed the rest of the interior around the staircase. One of the most fun parts of the project, besides the steelwork, was choosing the tile. We stuck mostly with Fitzgerald Tile for the majority of the home, with the exception to the primary bathroom. In the kitchen, we spent extra time fine-tuning the details, especially the cabinetry, to get everything just right.
Our goal was to find the perfect balance between the space, our client’s vision, and staying within budget. While it took some time and creativity, the end result was definitely worth it—and our client’s involvement ensured everything came together beautifully.
Kitchen
The kitchen was a key area where the design really came together. Our client was set on having blue cabinetry with brass finishes and a farmhouse apron sink. We paired that with white hexagon tiles that flow seamlessly into the hardwood floors. Some of the standout features include:
- Lighting – Forked Pendant in Brass by Buster + Punch
- Faucet – Mia 1.8 GPM Single Hole Pull Down Kitchen Faucet in Champagne Gold by Miseno
- Sink – Atlas 33” Farmhouse Single Basin Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink with Curved Apron in Matte Gold by Signature Hardware
- Pot Filler – Parma 2.2 GPM Wall Mounted Pot Filler in Brushed Bronze by Gerber
- Countertop – Calacatta Veneto CV130 by Radianz Quartz
- Backsplash – Gray, White, and Blue Hexagon Tile by Fitzgerald Tile
- Cabinetry – Drawing Room Blue No. 253 by Farrow & Ball
- Hardware – 6” Centers Trinity Pull in Satin Brass by Emtek
- Floor Tile – Magnolia Hex White Matte Porcelain Tile 6×7 by Mineral Tiles
Primary Bathroom
The primary bathroom was one of the most fun spaces to design. We went for bold, playful materials but kept things balanced with a neutral color palette to tie it all together. Some of the key elements include:
- Lighting – Z-Bar LED Vanity Light in Matte Black by Lumens
- Mirror – Double Vanity Rounded Rectangle Metal Framed Mirror in Oil-Rubbed Bronze by Rejuvenation
- Faucet – Modern 1.0 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet in Matte Black by Delta
- Shower Wall Tile – Glossy Black & White Marble by Italian Gres
- Wallpaper – Tiger Face Print Wallpaper by Gucci
- Floor Tile – Traffic Hex 8.62” x 9.87” Porcelain Patterned Wall & Floor Tile by Wayfair
Looking Back
The Modern Steel Farmhouse is a perfect blend of bold design choices and functional, modern living. The steelwork, combined with unique materials and finishes, created a home that’s truly one-of-a-kind. It’s been an exciting journey, and we’re looking forward to more projects like this. If you’re ready to start your own dream project, book a free consultation with us today!
