A Modern Farmhouse Inspired by Tahoe Pines
This retreat feels like stepping into a living Pinterest board—but not in the overdone, staged way you’d expect.
It was warm, inviting, and just a little bit quirky. The inspiration came from two places: the Houston Estate’s timeless elegance and the rustic charm of Tahoe Pines.
Originally wanted a modern, minimalist look, but along the way, they realized their hearts were stuck in the cozy vibes of gingham patterns and farmhouse design. Who knew a simple plaid pattern could completely transform a space?
One thing I’ve learned from this house is how important it is to embrace a design theme that speaks to you, even if it’s not trendy.
Trends come and go, but a home that feels authentically you? That never goes out of style.
If you’re thinking about incorporating a theme into your home, don’t overthink it. Start small—a throw blanket, a few patterned tiles—and build from there. Let your design evolve as you live in the space.
Grand First Impression Entryway
You know how they say first impressions matter?
The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a staircase that’s like a piece of art: warm wooden steps, sleek black railings, and lighting that’s just dramatic enough without being over the top.
And let’s talk about that floral-patterned bench. It’s genius.
If you’re designing your own entryway, think about how you can combine function and beauty. A statement piece like a patterned bench or a unique rug can make all the difference. Just don’t forget the storage—it’s the unsung hero of every stylish space.
Kitchen Heart of Home
It’s like a masterclass in how to make a space functional and stunning. The light oak cabinetry? Chef’s kiss. The marble countertops? Dreamy. But what really stuck with me were the little details—open shelves with neatly arranged dishes and greenery, pendant lights that added just the right amount of sparkle, and a layout that practically begged you to whip up a batch of cookies.
If you’re redoing your kitchen, my advice is to focus on functionality first.
Think about how you actually use the space—where you chop, where you mix—and design around that.
And don’t skimp on lighting. Good lighting can make even the simplest kitchen feel luxurious.
Cozy Family Room
A family room is more than just a place to sit—it’s the heart of every home where memories are made. The first thing you notice is the large sectional sofa, perfectly positioned to invite everyone to sink in and stay a while. It’s big enough for movie nights, lazy Sunday naps, or just catching up with friends over coffee. Draped with soft blankets and accented by throw pillows in muted tones, the sectional becomes the centerpiece of this inviting space.
Living Room, Elegance with Comfort
The living room feels like the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The dark green accent wall immediately draws you in, while the plush armchairs and textured rug invite you to sit down and stay awhile.
And then there’s the fireplace—it’s not just a fireplace; it’s a statement.
I’ve always struggled to make my living room feel cohesive, but this space taught me the power of a focal point. Whether it’s a fireplace, a gallery wall, or even a bold piece of furniture, having something that anchors the room makes everything else fall into place.
Sophisticated Dining Nook
The sophisticated dining nook in this house is proof that functional spaces can be just as beautiful as statement-making ones. As soon as you walk into this cozy corner, you’re greeted by a round wooden table that feels both rustic and refined. Surrounding it is a mix of chairs and a built-in bench, which is cushioned with plaid fabric that ties in perfectly with the rest of the home’s farmhouse charm. It’s not just a space for meals—it’s a gathering place that feels intimate yet elevated.
What makes this nook stand out isn’t just the furniture, though. It’s the way the natural light floods in through the large, floor-to-ceiling windows, making the whole space feel warm and inviting, no matter the time of day.
This dining nook isn’t just about eating—it’s about gathering, connecting, and creating memories in a space that feels as special as the people who fill it.
Luxurious Master Bedroom and Bathroom: A Spa-Like Retreat
Let’s be honest—there’s something magical about a bathroom that feels more like a spa than a functional space. The freestanding tub is the star of the show, with its elegant curves and brass fixtures that glint just enough to catch your eye without overwhelming the room. It’s the kind of tub that practically begs you to fill it with warm water, sprinkle in some bath salts, and light a candle (or five).
What sets this bathroom apart is its careful attention to texture and materials. The wooden vanity adds warmth and grounding to the space, balancing out the cool tones of the white marble countertop. It’s practical, too, with deep drawers for tucking away toiletries and open shelving that’s perfect for plush, rolled towels or small decorative baskets.
Kids Bedroom
The kids’ bedroom is straight out of a storybook. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to curl up with a good book—even if you’re an adult. What really caught my eye was how they balanced the plaid with neutral tones so it didn’t feel overwhelming.
Guest Bedroom Warmth: A Home Away From Home
Let’s talk about the guest bedroom. The bed is made up of neutral bedding and plaid accent pillows, giving it that signature farmhouse charm. Light wooden nightstands flank the bed, each topped with a simple lamp and a little greenery. It’s those small touches that make the room feel welcoming.
If you’re setting up a guest room, think about what you’d want if you were staying there. Comfortable bedding is a must, but don’t stop there. Add a little extra touch, like a book of local attractions or a small tray with snacks.
Reading Nook
This might be my favorite part of the house. Nestled by a window, the reading nook at a cozy corner should be. A built-in bench with plaid cushions and throw pillows invites you to curl up with a book. Shelves above the bench hold just the right mix of books, candles, and little trinkets, creating a space that feels curated yet lived-in. There’s even a soft area rug underfoot, making it the perfect spot to escape for an hour (or three).
What I loved most was how the space felt like it had been designed with intention. It wasn’t just about creating a pretty corner; it was about making a space where someone could relax and recharge.
If you’re setting up a reading nook, think about comfort first. Soft cushions, warm lighting, and maybe a blanket or two are must-haves.
Patio Retreat
I don’t know about you, but there’s something magical about a patio that feels like an outdoor living room.
The flooring? Natural stone that somehow feels elegant and rugged at the same time. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to sip coffee in the morning and unwind with a glass of wine in the evening.
One of my favorite details was the subtle plaid accents on the outdoor textiles. It tied everything together without being overwhelming.
If you’re designing your outdoor space, start by thinking about how you want to use it. Is it for lounging, dining, or entertaining? Once you have a purpose, focus on creating zones—like a seating area with comfy chairs or a dining table under a canopy.
Designing Functional Spaces
Okay, Take the laundry room, with light wooden cabinetry, a farmhouse sink, and patterned tile flooring that adds just the right amount of character. Open shelving with woven baskets keeps everything organized and stylish. Honestly, I might actually enjoy folding laundry in a space like this.
Then there’s the home office. It’s tucked into a quiet corner of the house, with built-in shelves filled with books and decor that feels personal rather than staged. The desk faces a large window, so you get natural light (and maybe a bit of daydreaming) while you work.
If you’re working on functional spaces in your home, don’t settle for purely practical.
Add a touch of style with things like patterned tiles, decorative baskets, or a statement chair.
These little details make all the difference and turn “meh” spaces into ones you actually enjoy spending time in.
Concluding the Masterclass Modern Farmhouse in Design
If there’s one thing this design taught me, it’s that great design is about balance.
The house is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, tradition and modernity.
Every room feels cohesive yet distinct, thanks to thoughtful details like plaid patterns, natural wood tones, and a muted color palette.
It’s the kind of house that feels just as welcoming on a lazy Sunday morning as it does when you’re hosting a dinner party.
