Contemporary interior design is one of the most misunderstood design styles, often confused with modern interior design. Channelling trends that are popular at the current time, contemporary interior design styles incorporate a range of decor designs, from art déco to minimalism to boho to Scandinavian. What makes contemporary design unique is its fluidity and evolution. Despite this, contemporary design has key elements, defined by feature abstract artworks, feature walls, textures and clear, strong lines.
We will walk through what makes contemporary interiors so alluring and relaxing and how to achieve this style in your own home.
What is Contemporary Interior Design?
A common mistake is to confuse modern interior design with contemporary interiors. Modern design is a particular interior style, whereas contemporary home interior design follows basic rules while incorporating the styles and trends of the present. It’s an innovative, up-to-date fusion of different interior styles and is constantly evolving. In saying this, there are key elements that make contemporary design what it is: open space, crisp lines, curated lighting, textures, accent colours and patterns.
Key Elements of Contemporary Interior Design
To achieve contemporary style interior design, focus on key elements like neutral and contrasting colours, geometric shapes, open space and natural materials. For contemporary interior design ideas, read on.
OPEN FLOOR PLAN
A key feature of contemporary house interior homes is open spaces, rather than enclosed rooms. There’s no need to fill every nook and cranny with furniture, decor and artwork. An open, minimal room gives the illusion of a bigger space. The open space in your contemporary home is just as important as the furniture.
DECLUTTER
Contemporary interior design is all about open spaces and minimalism. The key to open space is the purposeful placement of furniture and decorations that doesn’t clutter the room. A minimally decorated home allows for the furniture and decor you have to stand out and make a statement.
MINIMALIST FURNITURE AND DECOR
Contemporary interior decorating is all about simplicity. However, this doesn’t mean your home decor is boring. To achieve a contemporary home, buy furniture that is simple, uncluttered and timeless. Neutral tones, black, or white furniture is best, made from natural materials like timber, as well as industrial-style materials such as steel, copper, or brass. When picking your furniture, it’s important to go for styles that are both timeless and of the moment. The best way to do this is to opt for simple designs that won’t end up outdated. Overall, less is more when it comes to contemporary interior design. Think sleek and simple sofas, chairs and ottomans, with open space underneath. Avoid over-the-top patterns and embellishments.
NATURAL MATERIALS
Opt for natural elements in your home like wood, metal and jute. Exposed brick walls, upholstery like linen or leather and stone floors are key elements of contemporary interior design. Don’t be afraid of house plants, but stick with large and dramatic feature plants that are a focal point of the room.
PLAY WITH TEXTURES
Contemporary interior design combines elements of both minimalist interior and modern interior design, but with the addition of textures, you can add warmth to your home. Opt for materials like wood, marble and velvet, as well as wall textures and subtle prints and patterns.
LIGHTING
Contemporary interior design favours natural light through tall and wide windows and opts for light fixtures and simple floor lamps. Your lighting should be an artistic choice, placed strategically, drawing attention to the focal areas of your house. Warm lighting is a must–avoid cool-toned, artificial lights.
SIMPLE SHAPES AND CLEAR LINES
Sleek lines, angles and curves define contemporary interiors. When designing and decorating your home, go for crisp lines, curved or straight.
BARE FLOORS
Contemporary homes feature bare, smooth flooring, usually comprising wooden, polished concrete, or tile floors.
BOLD ARTWORK
From canvas paintings and photographs to sculptures, mosaics and glass art, contemporary interior design is all about bold and abstract artwork. Look into contemporary artwork by artists like Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama and David Hockney.
NEUTRAL, DARK AND CONTRASTING COLOURS
Depending on your personal taste, contemporary interior design allows for different colour schemes, from lighter neutral tones to dark hues with accented and contrasting colours. At the heart, contemporary interior is balanced and minimalist. Avoid overdoing it by using too many colours and tones in your home–keeping it simple is best.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, contemporary interior design is about balance, subtlety and sophistication. It’s a curated style that is minimal and uncluttered, in which you have free rein to add your own personal touch.
