Picking the Style That Fits Your Life
When planning a custom home in North Carolina, one of the first and most exciting choices is the overall style. While the floor plan and features matter, the design style is what gives your home its personality. Two of the most popular looks we see among Longshore clients are modern farmhouse and coastal.
Both styles are beautiful, practical, and well-suited to our region. Each offers a different feel and function, so the right one depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the kind of space you want to come home to every day.
At Longshore Custom Homes, we work closely with homeowners to find the right balance between design, comfort, and functionality. Whether you lean toward the classic charm of a farmhouse or the breezy simplicity of coastal design, the most important thing is that your home reflects who you are.
What Is a Modern Farmhouse?
The modern farmhouse style blends traditional country elements with clean, modern lines. It is warm and welcoming, but also fresh and updated. Think open living spaces, large kitchens, and a mix of natural materials like wood and stone.
From the outside, modern farmhouse homes often feature tall gables, simple rooflines, board and batten siding, and front porches. They feel timeless and grounded, with details that nod to the past while embracing today’s lifestyle.
Inside, the focus is on open-concept layouts, neutral colors, exposed beams, and functional design. There is usually a lot of natural light, wide plank flooring, and a mix of classic and modern fixtures.
This style works especially well for families, rural properties, and those who want a home that feels both lived-in and refined.
Common Features of Modern Farmhouse Design
• Large, covered front porches
• Open floor plans with wide sight lines
• Farm-style sinks and shaker cabinetry
• Black window frames for contrast
• Wood accents and neutral tones throughout
• Simple trim work and clean architectural lines
• Drop zones, laundry rooms, and large pantries for function
The modern farmhouse look pairs well with the natural setting of North Carolina, especially in areas with land or wooded views. It feels peaceful, grounded, and practical without being too rustic.
What Is Coastal Style?
Coastal style is inspired by the shore. It is light, breezy, and built around a connection to the outdoors. This design feels clean and open, with natural colors, soft textures, and plenty of windows to let in light and views.
The exterior of a coastal home might include horizontal siding, lighter color palettes, metal roofing, and second-level porches or decks. Inside, you will find open layouts with an easy flow from room to room, wide windows, and indoor-outdoor living features like sliding doors or screened porches.
Coastal homes are perfect for beach lovers, boaters, and anyone who wants a laid-back atmosphere without sacrificing quality or comfort. They are especially well-suited for Wilmington, Surf City, and other nearby coastal communities.
Common Features of Coastal Home Design
• Light color palettes with soft blues, whites, and natural wood tones
• Open floor plans that invite natural light
• Large windows and glass doors
• Covered outdoor living spaces
• Durable finishes designed for a salt-air environment
• Vaulted ceilings and simple trim
• Breezy, uncluttered interiors
Coastal style works best on or near the water, but its relaxed feeling fits anywhere. The goal is to create a space that feels like a retreat, even when you are home all week.
Which Style Is Right for You?
Choosing between modern farmhouse and coastal design comes down to your personal taste, lifestyle, and where you plan to build. Each style has its strengths and can be adapted to fit your needs.
Here are a few things to think about as you make your choice.
Location
• If your lot is near the coast, marsh, or waterway, coastal design often makes the most sense. The light materials and open-air features help your home stay comfortable and visually connected to the outdoors.
• If your land is inland, wooded, or more rural, the modern farmhouse might fit the surroundings better. It blends naturally with trees, fields, and open landscapes.
Lifestyle
• If you want a cozy, family-oriented space with plenty of function, farmhouse elements like mudrooms, utility spaces, and large kitchens might be appealing.
• If you value natural light, airflow, and an open, minimal feel, the coastal style may suit your taste better.
Design Personality
• Modern farmhouse is warm, classic, and slightly rustic. It feels more traditional but with modern touches.
• Coastal design is airy, calm, and uncluttered. It leans more contemporary and light-hearted.
You can also blend elements of both. For example, a farmhouse-style home with a soft color palette and coastal furnishings can create a nice balance. The key is not to follow a strict formula but to choose what works for you.
Longshore’s Approach to Design
At Longshore Custom Homes, we do not push one style over another. Instead, we help you explore what feels right. Whether you come in with a clear idea or just a few inspiration photos, we guide you through the process.
We believe the best homes reflect the people who live in them. That means taking time to understand your preferences, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Our design partners will help you visualize your options and bring your ideas together into a plan that fits your land, your budget, and your way of living.
We also pay attention to details that matter here in North Carolina. That includes building for coastal conditions, selecting low-maintenance finishes, and planning layouts that work well in this climate.
From concept to construction, we stay focused on quality, honesty, and communication. You will always know where things stand and what comes next.
Building in North Carolina
Whether you are building on the coast or further inland, choosing the right builder makes all the difference. Our team has experience across a wide range of neighborhoods and site conditions. We are familiar with local codes, flood zones, and design standards, and we know how to navigate the approval and permitting process.
We also offer flexibility in how you approach the design. Some clients bring full architectural plans. Others start from scratch. Some mix styles to create something unique. We support all of those paths.
Most importantly, we keep the process clear and manageable. Our goal is to take the stress out of building and keep the excitement in it.
Ready to Build a Home That Fits You?
Choosing your home’s style is a big decision, but it should be a fun one. Whether you are drawn to the modern farmhouse look, coastal design, or a mix of both, Longshore is here to help bring it to life.
Let’s sit down and talk about what you like, what you need, and how we can design a home that fits your everyday life. We are proud to serve families across Wilmington, Hampstead, Surf City, and the surrounding areas.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward building a home that feels just right.
