S7, E5: Modern Mountain vs Modern Farmhouse Design
In this episode of The Art of Custom, part of our 20 Homes for 20 Years celebration, we explore how these popular design styles are not only stunning, but also deeply personal and adaptable.
First, we’re joined by Park City client Elizabeth Sayer, who shares how her family embraced modern mountain architecture to create a home that truly belongs in the Wasatch Back's landscape. From lifestyle inspired features to locale-driven design details, Elizabeth walks us through the process of building her family's custom home in one of the most scenic areas in the country.
Then, we head to St. Louis to talk about one of our standout modern farmhouse builds in Town and Country, MO. We bring Hibbs Homes' in-house designers Ann Fritz and Karla Todd in to explore what makes this nostalgic-yet-modern style such a favorite for families who want warmth, comfort, and clean sophistication under one roof.
You can read the transcript below, or...
Episode Tool Box:
LINK: SkyRidge Multigenerational Home Build | See Inside
LINK: See Inside the St Louis Modern Farmhouse
SEASON SEVEN, EPISODE FIVE | TRANSCRIPT
Today’s faceoff is between two architectural heavyweights:
- Modern Mountain – sleek lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, natural stone, and wood.
- Modern Farmhouse – timeless Americana blended with contemporary charm, all-white exteriors, and cozy, character-rich interiors.
Both are stunning. Both are timeless. But which is right for you?
In this episode, we explore two standout custom builds - one in Utah, one in St. Louis - and talk with homeowners, designers, and builders about how these styles take shape in very different markets.
The Modern Mountain Home: The Sayer Family Project
Our first stop is SkyRidge in Park City, Utah, where the Sayer family wanted a vacation home big enough to bring their large extended family together. With five grown sons and over 20 family members, they needed plenty of bedrooms, gathering spaces, and room to breathe.
Design Goals:
- Multiple gathering areas so not everyone had to be in one space.
- Private bedrooms for retreat and relaxation.
- Outdoor living areas with hot tub, fireplace, and snow-melted patios.
Design Style:
- Rustic exterior with a contemporary, warm interior.
- Natural materials to reflect the mountain setting.
- Commissioned artwork from local artists, personalized with family names and meaningful symbols.
Special Touches:
- Radiant floor heating throughout for comfort and clean air.
- Radiant driveway heating for Park City winters.
- Floor-to-ceiling stone and vertical applications for fireplaces and backsplashes.
Client Takeaway:
“It takes time and commitment, but the key is collaboration. A strong team that problem-solves together makes the process smoother and the result unforgettable.”
The Modern Farmhouse: The Mentel Home
Back in St. Louis, the Mentel family wanted a fresh take on the modern farmhouse style. With its classic board-and-batten exterior and white-on-white simplicity, the home is instantly recognizable but with custom touches that set it apart.
Key Elements:
- Shaker-style cabinetry with a mix of white finishes and wood accents.
- Beamed ceilings and shiplap details, balanced with clean lines.
- Beaded chandeliers, herringbone tile, and layered millwork to add texture and warmth.
- Contrasting black doors and windows for modern appeal.
Design Insights from Hibbs Homes designers Anne & Karla
- Trends come and go so use them sparingly and try to stick with easily changeable elements like lighting, wall color, or hardware.
- Accent walls, fluted wood details, and darker floors are emerging updates to the farmhouse look.
- A large front porch, natural elements, and warm lighting remain enduring hallmarks.
Modern Mountain vs. Modern Farmhouse: What They Share
While the styles are different, they share some timeless principles:
- Layering Textures: Wood, stone, tile, and paint create character and warmth.
- Personalization: Each family brought their lifestyle into the design, from fireplaces to entertainment spaces.
- Timelessness: Both homes reflect current tastes but are designed to last for decades.
From the peaks of Park City to the porches of St. Louis, Modern Mountain and Modern Farmhouse design prove there’s no single definition of “home.” It’s about finding a style that speaks to you and making it your own.
OUTRO: For more information visit www.artofcustompodcast.com or find us on Facebook and LinkedIn as The Art of Custom. Be sure to subscribe to get the latest episodes and please rate and review. The Art of Custom is produced by HugMonster sound with original music by Adam Frick-Verdeen. Thanks for listening.
