This article is for you if you still can’t tell the difference between modern and contemporary interior design. Telling the difference between the two has been a long-standing question for designers and it, therefore, becomes indispensable to understand the styles’ main highlights. Although synonymous in critical aspects, modern and contemporary designs stand on their own.
What’s contemporary design?
Although you’re likely to spot a few modern design aspects in the contemporary interior design, the two have their distinctive signatures. Contemporary means occurring or living at the moment. At its core, contemporary is ‘of the moment,’ meaning contemporary designs are current interior design trends that pay homage to the past. Its inception began in the 70s, and it combines tenets of other design styles. Therefore, you are sure to identify futuristic flourishes, Art-Deco inspired furnishings and modern elements in a contemporary-designed home.
Unlike other design concepts that are usually glued to a specific time, spirit, and look, contemporary design is ever-changing and gaining traction by the moment. Curved lines, prominent minimalism, and neutral colors are the primary identifiers of the contemporary interior design.
What’s modern design?
The modern design features several incarnations, thereby becoming a bit complex in the definition. Simply put, modern design is the reflection of modern art movements in home interiors. Founded in German and Scandinavian design and architecture, modern style is decidedly elementary and fuss-free. The style’s primary focus is on using earthy colors and neutral materials while minimizing unnecessary detailing. Contrary to the hits of color in contemporary design, modern style focuses on monochromatic colors and patternless creations sprinkled in whitewashed rooms.
Contemporary Vs. Modern
Modern style tends to incorporate a significant mix of natural materials, including leather, wood, and stone. Although contemporary style retains this concept, it pairs these materials with industrial-inspired elements such as steel and concrete.
Modern decorative pieces boast of a purpose, while those of a contemporary design emphasize aesthetics and form.
Modern living spaces aren’t cold or stark. Although focusing on minimalism, modern rooms aren’t cold with stark hues. They are filled with warm neutrals instead. On the other hand, contemporary living spaces feature plenty of bold starkness like monochromatic whites and blacks.
Modern furniture favours strong and straight lines, while contemporary furniture is a bit curvier. Contemporary furniture combines sophistication and comfort with a fresh feel and look.
The confusion between contemporary and modern design styles ranges on because mid-century modern elements are continually being incorporated into contemporary designs. But the Tylko’s guide to modern and contemporary styles will put the confusion to rest.