Contemporary

Modern and contemporary are two styles frequently used interchangeably. Contemporary is different from modern because it describes design based on the here and now. The primary difference separating modern and contemporary design style is that modern is a strict interpretation of design that started in the 20th century. Contemporary on the other hand, is more fluid and can represent a sense of currency with less adherence to one particular style. For example, contemporary style may include curving lines, whereas modern design does not. You can refer to modern vs contemporary article for more information. Key Features The contemporary interior style is current, modern, and constantly evolving. The fluidity of contemporary interior design is particularly exciting – what is considered a contemporary interior now will likely change over the course of the twenty-first century. Today, contemporary interiors feature clean, unadorned spaces. Furniture tends to show exposed legs to create a feeling of space. Metals and glass are popular contemporary materials and intricate details are kept to a minimum. Expert Advice “CONTEMPORARY DECORATING, AT ITS BEST, IS ALL ABOUT CLEAN-LINED COMFORT. THOSE WHO LOVE THIS STYLE UNDERSTAND THAT A HOME CAN BE BOTH PRACTICAL AND BEAUTIFUL. THAT SAID, CONTEMPORARY SPACES CAN FEEL STARK AND IMPERSONAL IF YOU’RE NOT CAREFUL. BALANCE SQUARE CORNERS AND RIGHT ANGLES WITH CURVED EDGES AND MAXIMIZE COZINESS WITH PLUSH TEXTURES, LIKE VELVET & SOFT LINEN. I LIKE TO INCLUDE AT LEAST ONE ANTIQUE OR VINTAGE PIECE OF FURNITURE IN AN OTHERWISE CONTEMPORARY ROOM TO LEND IT A SENSE OF HISTORY AND TIMELESSNESS.” NATALIE MARCHBANKS, INTERIOR BLOGGER a contemporary home might have large windows, use a variety of sculptural shapes, and strike harmony with the outdoor landscape through its architecture. Contemporary style is a relative term – it is not tied to a specific time period, but rather, refers to the styles, materials, and ideas that are popular in the current day, whenever that day may be. Because of that, it is a fluid concept that changes with trends, new technology, and lifestyle changes. At one time, Victorian décor was contemporary and given a few decades, today’s “contemporary” will become vintage. Currently, contemporary design embraces a great deal of midcentury modern style, thus the overlap in these two terms, but contemporary style adds an eclectic, personalized twist to the modern look, making it far more adaptable, livable, and comfortable. In the contemporary take on modern décor, simple lines, unfussy design, and neutral colors are still predominant-- however, you are also likely to find far more colorful accents, rounded or soft lines, and luxurious touches like overstuffed upholstery, layered fabrics, and quirky artwork.