The modern or contemporary style of home design and interior decoration has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years. Some, however, might not know exactly what it means to have a “modern” style. Simply put, the aspects typically associated with the style accentuate simplicity, usefulness, and minimalism, all while giving the onlooker a sense that all of the separate parts come together, breathing refinement and genius.
Colors
While the “modern” style has been around for decades, there have been some slight changes in the evolution of color usage. Contemporary modern interior design focuses on stark contrasts of darks and lights, with highlights of loud color. Much like the concept of yin and yang, the contrasts add to each other to create balance.
Neutral colors can also be useful in floors, carpets and wall paints, but they shouldn’t be used for things like large sofas, which function more as “main attractions.”
This Black Pierre Sofa Set captures the eye with its bold black color against the white background; a staple of modern design.
Read our article on Basic Color Coordination here!
Shapes
The two adjectives to associate with the modern home are “sleek” and “sharp.” Typically, furniture will be made with square frames and streamlined edges, or curvy waves. Avoid placing too many pieces of furniture with differing shapes in any one room. Minimalistic elegance is one of the most important defining features of the modern contemporary room and home.
This Gladstone Side Chair exhibits the contemporary dedication to simplicity.
Materials
Materials of choice vary with each individual, and depend on what feeling each room is trying to promote. For arm chairs, sturdy metal frames covered by comfortable leatherettes are a comfortable and desirable option. For bar stools and dining room chairs, reinforced plastic are also great additions to consider. For counter-tops, kitchenware and household machines, chrome or stainless steel can be particularly appealing.
Art
One of the most important characteristics of the modern contemporary home is the inclusion of tasteful art pieces. Typically, you’d find interesting figures or frames incorporated into the wall décor. Framed works usually work with the color scheme of their surroundings. Ideas for these art pieces include black and white pictures, unfinished sketches that are partially colored or monochrome.
Cool or Cold?
One of the common misconceptions that people have of this style is that everything inside the home will be cold, boring, and show an overly conscious effort to stick to hard rules. This is simply not true. There are many ways to make the contemporary home inviting, and the specifics are very much up to the owner or designer themselves.
The previous topics are meant to be suggestions to be taken into consideration, rather than pressing rules to enforce. One of the hallmarks of the modern contemporary style is to let true individuality shine through!