As a Portland native and owner of Renaissance Homes, the longest-established home-building company in the area, Randy Sebastian is proud of his roots. His grandfather and great-grandfather were Oregon farmers, and Sebastian attributes his time spent on their farms to his appreciation for space, light, and clean design.

“Even as a kid, I was drawn to the simplicity of farm life and the beautiful homes at the heart of it,” Sebastian says. “I think people are looking for that same simplicity today. Add in Portland’s love of all things farm-to-table, and it’s easy to see why the modern farmhouse is so popular.”

These days, that beautiful simplicity is on full display at Renaissance Homes’ modern farmhouses. In 2016, Renaissance Homes purchased a property in Lake Oswego that included both a house and a century-old barn. The city required that, in order for Renaissance Homes to build a new house, the design of the new home needed to complement the old. “We had to research early 1900s farmhouses and we instantly fell in love,” Sebastian says. “That home and barn were the catalyst for the designs we’re building today.”

A mix of old and new is how Sebastian defines his company’s modern farmhouse aesthetic. “We blend the traditional with the sophistication of mid-century modern and urban industrial,” Sebastian says. Although Renaissance Homes’ modern farmhouses vary in design, high ceilings, clean lines, modern kitchens, and spa-like master baths are givens. Floorplans are typically open and filled with natural light. Bold contrasts are key as well, with wood floors set against gleaming white walls, rustic millwork, and elemental detailing throughout.

Regardless if you’re in the market for a modern farmhouse or an urban condominium, Sebastian has some sage words of advice. “Research the builder,” he says. “Look at the quality of homes a company produces, as well as its procedures for ensuring that quality.” Sebastian also recommends finding a builder that’s been working in the area for several years, rather than a limited liability company (LLC), which will often build one project and move on. Energy efficiency is another thing to look for. “Renaissance Homes uses state-of-the-art technologies to optimize indoor air quality, moisture control, and smart construction,” Sebastian explains. “We build homes that heat and cool for only $80-$100 per month.”

Innovative design, thoughtful detailing, and personal commitment to quality place Renaissance Homes at the forefront of the local industry. Take a tour and see the difference firsthand. For more information about Renaissance Homes and available houses and townhome-style condominiums, visit Renaissance-Homes.com.