No skirts, trim, fringes, florals or tassels here.
Contemporary interiors are uncluttered. Bare walls, open spaces and structural elements are as important as the objects that fill your rooms.
This design aesthetic features state-of-the-art materials, glass and metals and a neutral color palette focused on line, shape and form.
Wondering what distinguishes contemporary from modern?
Modernism began in the early 1900s with the German Bauhaus Design schools and the Scandinavian design emphasis on simplicity and function, continuing through the mid-20th century.
Borrowing elements from modernism, art deco and other styles, contemporary became popular starting in the 1970s, and constantly evolves to reflect current trends.
FURNISHINGS
Contemporary interiors have polished surfaces, light colors and natural materials: wood, glass, nickel, chrome and stainless steel.
Kitchen design often incorporates metal elements.
Designed for comfort, furniture has simple, clean, geometric shapes free of decoration.
Sofas and chairs, typically made of light-colored woods with minimal graining (such as maple and birch), have exposed legs. Upholstered pieces are most often black, white, or neutral in natural fibers with texture.
Floors are typically hardwood, tile, or polished concrete. Carpeting is generally commercial grade and area rugs have texture or geometric patterns.
ACCENTS
Bold color is most often found on pillows, a single wall, or on rugs.
Large-scale art, often a key feature in contemporary interiors, is best showcased in industrial spaces or contemporary-built homes with large, uncovered windows and high ceilings.
Pendant, chandelier or natural, lighting is important, aided by those floor-to-ceiling windows. Contemporary lighting is all about letting the sun in.
Put you personal stamp on a contemporary-styled home with a bold bronze sculpture. And if you’re remodeling, consider a dramatic stone fireplace or sleek lighting fixture.
Add your brand of whimsy and panache for contemporary design that adapts to the way you live.
