Modern Interior design is one of the most popular design styles of today. Deriving from the artistry of the mid 1900s, modern interior design has become a staple in many urban areas. Modernism incorporates elements from both previously featured design styles, minimalism and industrial design, and therefore bring a new and unique experience to every room. Modern design will often feature an array of textures while maintaining a strong minimalist feeling.
Colors
Neutral and earthy color palettes are the staple of true modern design. Soft whites, neutral grays and beiges, as well as earthy wood and brick are commonly used. In contrast to the whites from minimalism, Beige, brown, or off-white sofas and decor can keep the room from feeling stark. If you use true modern design colors well, the room will still feel warm and inviting even though the room is sparsely decorated. If a pure minimalist color palette is not what you’re looking for, contemporary modern styles will use high-contrast whites and often bring in bright spots of color with a dramatic art piece, a unique furniture accent, or brightly colored pillows.
Furniture
Strong lines are important for the modern architectural style and equally important for modern interior design. Furniture should be functional above all else with no ornamentation or excessively unique designs. The only pattern used in modern furniture should be woodgrain on the tables and natural texture from the fabrics. Sofas and chairs are usually monochromatic and sleek. Treated leather is one of the most common fabrics for modern sofas and the furniture will almost always provide powerful lines that guide your eye around the room. If you’re looking for a more contemporary feel, you can include more unique shapes and furniture with more exaggerated curves.
Lighting
Lighting for modern design tends to be one of the most unique and eye-catching aspects of the modern style. Unique light fixtures with exposed bulbs are the norm. To give it a more industrial feel, use large metal light fixtures that incorporate Edison bulbs. Outside of overhead fixtures, modern design also incorporates large windows to allow for natural light with floor standing lamps that can either be understated or a signature piece. It just depends on the purpose of your room. Is your lighting going to be eye-catching or would you rather use natural light with eye catching furniture and decor. In a more contemporary modern style you’ll see a lot of recessed lighting and understated fixtures.
Art and Décor
Art and décor in a modern home is purely minimalist. Check out the Art and Décor section of the minimalism post here. That being said, there is a common combination of BoHo and modern style that incorporates a lot of plants into the décor, keeping with the natural earthy colors required for modern design.
Space
There should be a focal point in the modern home. Use your space wisely to direct attention toward a centerpiece or focal point that everyone can gather around. In keeping with the minimalist style there is an element of functionality to everything. Space shouldn’t be filled unless it’s going to be used for something important. Open spaces and high ceilings provide for popular meeting spaces that make the room feel large.
Modern design can be hard to understand because people use the term modern when referring to things that look new and up-to-date. As mentioned earlier, modern design actually derives from the mid 1900s and has a very unique style to it. Current contemporary design has brought a revival of many modern themes that have come back in style over the last few decades. Many interior design experts seem to disagree on some differences between modern and contemporary design, which makes it even more difficult to understand exactly what modern design entails. When seeking to incorporate pure modern styles into your home, remember these five main aspects of modern design and you’ll do well.
