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in the day, cabinetry may have been painted a dusty white, or it might have been raw oak cabinets, or whatever wood was found on the property," she says. "Now clients are using color to modernize the design style by painting it a fun, bright hue." Bagley Catlin and Davenport add that cabinet hardware is also an integral part of the design, with the latter designer in- dicating that larger, straightforward hardware modernizes the design. "Hardware is more rustic with elements of iron," says Bagley Catlin, noting that it might also be darker and slightly 'beaten up' in appearance. Upper cabinets are often reduced in number, or eliminated altogether, in favor of floating shelves. "Wall cabinets are a bit of a faux pas in farmhouse design," says Billings. "If wall cabinets are included, we'll use a mesh or glass front to keep the design as open and airy as possible." Davenp ort agrees. "Minimal upper cabinets allow for an op en, airy feel…like what you would find in more contemporary Modern farmhouses are also distinguished by their cab- inetry, typically a Shaker style, often with inset drawers and doors. However, if the budget allows, Bagley Catlin encourages clients to think beyond basic shakers, which she indicates can sometimes be a bit 'builder grade.' "I encourage clients to invest in something unique and special," she says, noting a recent project that included inset doors with wide rails and stiles, and applied moulding to dress up the cabinets. Colorwise, cabinets are frequently the same color as the wall, creating an overall monochromatic design scheme, notes Davenport. Conrad adds that off-white is common, although gray tones are becoming popular as well. "I think it adds to the clean, contemporary mountain look," she says. Billings relates that some clients are modernizing cabi- nets by adding color, as highlighted in a recent project that showcased cabinetry painted a vibrant shade of blue. "Back The handpainted tile on the 'Wall of Wonder' and the cherry island topped with quartz serve as focal points in this kitchen designed by Bonnie Bagley Catlin. The matte finish of the tile and the prominent grain pattern of the island's wood base also epitomize today's modern farmhouse design style, and her clients' desire for non-glossy finishes and more natural woods. Additional farmhouse details include the quintessential farm-style sink, floating shelves and perimeter countertops crafted of Virginia black granite that resemble soapstone. Inset cabinets with wide rails and stiles enrich the look. Photos: Madison Shockley January 2018 • KitchenBathDesign.com 91