Often the inside of a house is a different style from the outside. Like this Colonial home with modern furnishings: This Colonial has a distinctly contemporary feel: More Colonials done in a contemporary style: and Color, clean lines and interesting art work make these spaces.

Well just remember modern isn't a style per se, so much as it its an approach or way of looking at things that values simplicity, honesty of materials, etc. So you can do 'traditional' in a modern way. Or use modern pieces in a traditional way. That's basically what the 'transitional' style is to an extent.

If you look at the work of someone like Darryl Carter or Thomas O'Brien or Jed Johnson, they are experts at doing this exact thing. Using traditional furniture in a modern minimalist way or the other way around. I've seen a number of people mix Eames or Jacobsen-style wooden chairs with a Biedermeier Greek-Revival pedestal table, for instance. I would consider less about trying to match styles, but rather having an approach. Do you want the home to feel more contemporary with some tradition juxtaposed into it, or the other way around?

The first house in particular is a great juxtaposition of a using an Egg chair as a wingback chair.

I say go for it! My neighbors have a gorgeous farm house colonial that is modern decor inside. The outside is a yellow wood siding. Entry has a beautiful blown glass clear chandelier. The living room is bright blue and the kitchen has neon green ceiling. Wish I has pictures it is very striking and somehow all works together. Looks like a fun place to live. Just make it your own, it's your house and you should love everything about it!

Thank you, everyone. I've always heard that it's important to respect and stay true the architecture of a home by furnishing accordingly or it would feel disjointed or not authentic. I've always been a "by the books" kinda girl. I always have to follow the rules. And in the process, maybe I just haven't really let my creative side come out to play.
This is our first purchased home (lived in hubby's childhood home for 23 years) and I am ready to make my mark! I'm inspired by your encouragement and LOVE the inspiration photos. I can do this! :-)

Architectural features are permanent (or meant to be); furnishings are temporary...so buy what makes you feel "at home" :-)