What is Contemporary Design?

A modern or contemporary design might be the right pick for you if you want a sophisticated and straightforward style. Contemporary design highlights the space versus stuff by bringing that to life in design.

Although some might consider contemporary design to be cold, it can come to life to create a welcoming and comfortable space for all with the right blend of pieces. So, if contemporary design sounds like it might be a good fit for you, keep reading.

What Is Contemporary Design?

The word contemporary, by definition, refers to anything present. Therefore, anything that fits within the current styles and is known as modern will fit into a contemporary style. The idea is to create a fresh and sleek space through focused shapes, space, and colors.

This design style is particularly unique because it is ever-evolving with the design trends of the present. For a quick way to summarize this design style, think of focusing design efforts on showcasing the space rather than the things to fill an area with. Contemporary design is welcoming and comfortable without being dark or cluttered.

History of Contemporary Design

Contemporary design has roots dating as far back as the 1970s, but as you’ll see as a common trend throughout this article, it is ever-changing with the times of the present. The design style itself borrows elements from various other design aesthetics, including:

• Futuristic
• Art deco
• Traditional
• Modern

Contemporary vs. Modern Design

People often use the terms contemporary and modern synonymously when referring to design styles. While the two words have the same meaning by definition, when using them in context with design styles, there are specific connotations to differentiate each style from the other.

As previously mentioned, the word contemporary means, by definition, present. To further the definition, contemporary design is ever-evolving depending on what is trending in the present. Thus, contemporary shifts do not refer to a fixed or specific set of design values or characteristics contrary to other design styles.

Alternatively, modern design typically refers to a trending movement that evolved from the Arts & Crafts in 1875. Modernism, or contemporary design, has seen many transformations over time but ends in the 1980s with the Post-Modernism era.

An easy way to remember the difference between the two design styles is that whatever is contemporary now will in the future become history. In contrast, today’s modern design will forever refer to the trending design style of the 20th century.

Characteristics of Contemporary Design

Contemporary design is characterized by neutral colors, curved lines, and minimalism. But, what is trendy today may look entirely different in the future. For now, you can get a better idea of what to expect from contemporary design today by looking at some commonalities.

Colors

The prominent colors found in contemporary design styles today include:

• White
• Black
• Neutrals

To add some extra life to your contemporary space, you can consider incorporating accent colors that are bold or bright. These vibrant hues will help to play against the neutrals of the central area.

For example, if you decide on an accent wall in a bold and bright color, you should fill the rest of the room with neutrals. Or, if your window and walls are a pastel color, your trims should all be neutral.

Lines

Strong and visible lines are a predominant feature of all contemporary designs. These lines are the most distinctive and unmistakable element of this interior design style, whether curved, horizontal, or vertical. These thoughtfully placed lines can be found throughout any contemporary space, including in:

• Wall art
• Bare windows
• High ceilings
• Bold color blocks
• Architectural details

Space

Another common characteristic of contemporary design is the use of intentional space. Since less is considered more in this design style, it equally values bare space and walls with artwork.

Highlight structural elements help draw the eye to different room areas and showcase the apparent space. Some examples of structural elements to take advantage of in contemporary spaces include:

• Exposed plumbing
• Broken bricks
• Air ducts

Furniture

The furniture pieces that should fill a contemporary space are the perfect balance between uncluttered and simple while acting as a bold statement to the room. Geometric shapes that are smooth and clean are the way to fill a contemporary space, as well as with upholstered furniture that includes the fundamental contemporary colors (white, black, or neutrals) as well as natural fiber such as:

• Jute
• Silk
• Linen
• Cotton
• Wool

Tips to Bring Contemporary Design Into Your Apartment

Here is a quick guide for a more specific approach to bringing contemporary design into your apartment.

Contemporary Bedroom

Opt for clean, straight lines to create a sense of impeccable contemporary design and richness in your bedroom. For extra comfort and warmth, add in tonal textures through:

• Minimal accessories
• Rugs
• Bedding

Avoid any items that are gender-oriented or too cute. For a contemporary bedroom, avoid bed skirts, tassels, and trims as another rule of thumb.

Contemporary Living Room

The essential elements of a contemporary living room include a well-considered color palette that’s easy on the eye, geometric shapes, and close attention to the use of lines and space in the room.

In committing to this modern simplicity but ensuring your room still showcases your sense of play, you should add decorative pieces that are unique for the area. Some ideas include:

• Vases
• Sculptural lamps
• Throws
• Pillows
• Two-toned rugs
• Expressive art pieces

Contemporary Bathroom

A contemporary bathroom should serve as your serene and clean oasis within your apartment. As a basic rule of thumb, opt for natural light, brightness, and white.

Contemporary Kitchen

While you might not have as much freedom to change up the design style of your kitchen, there are ways you can integrate a contemporary feel to remain consistent throughout your apartment. Opt for whites, neutrals, and soothing grays in your kitchen as much as you can.

Keep as much of your kitchen items as possible stored away, keeping your surfaces clear from any clutter. Don’t forget - less is more.

Final Thoughts

Deciding if a contemporary design is suitable for you depends on personal preference. If you like the idea of a clean and sophisticated look, a contemporary-style apartment is going to be an excellent option.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more colorful and eccentric approach filled with ornate details, you might want to reconsider.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. But, thankfully, now that you have a better idea of contemporary design, its features, and its benefits, you can decide what is best suited for your lifestyle. And, if you choose to, now you know how to integrate contemporary design into your apartment.

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