What is Contemporary Style?
Contemporary style originated from the contemporary art movement of the mid-20th century. Contemporary interior design inherits modern design lines and is allowed to combine them with characteristics of other interior design styles. Contemporary style is constantly changing, linked to the times. It is not necessarily bound to a specific time period like modern style. Instead, it is a continuously evolving style that reflects what is happening.
Contemporary design is a style that constantly evolves to reflect trends and aesthetics at a given time. It’s always updated and incorporates elements from various other styles. Furniture in contemporary style is typically not overly ornate, focusing instead on simple shapes. Furthermore, raw materials like metal, wood, concrete, or glass are commonly used to create natural and strong accents. Most homes designed in the contemporary style prioritize spaciousness. The contemporary design layout is simple yet elegant and is created by lines, cubes or bold colors.
Characteristics of Contemporary Style Interior
Why is contemporary style so popular and widely chosen? What characteristics make this style so outstanding and unique? The following characteristics will help you understand more so you can apply them to your own home.
Colors in contemporary design
The main colors most commonly used in contemporary design are neutral tones, white, and black, which are then combined with brighter colors to add accents to the space.
Using straight lines and simple spaces
Spaces designed according to contemporary style will be partly influenced by minimalism style. Objects will not appear so frequently, instead designers only use necessary ones. Besides, the furniture within the space also have basic and simple shapes rather than being unique.
Contemporary style features decorative details with straight lines instead of the curved patterns of classical or neoclassical design. Furthermore, there are significant gaps between decorative items to create an airy feel, making the room appear more spacious.
Utilize small details in design
These imperfect details, though seemingly simple, contribute to the perfection of contemporary design. Even something as insignificant as an air conditioning pipe or a broken piece of wall can add uniqueness to your space.
It’s important to note that you should use furniture or decorative items with at least one color that stands out more than the wall paint, or if not, paint them the same color as your home’s main color scheme for the best possible effect.
The art of combining light and lightning
Lighting is always the most important element in all design styles, not just contemporary. If you know how to arrange lighting properly, your entire house will become much brighter and more striking.
Use of unique material
Products made of metal like chrome, nickel or stainless steel will create a glossier surface for the space, enhancing the attractiveness and uniqueness of the contemporary style.
Furniture
Smooth, geometrically shaped furniture or furniture designed with sharp, angular lines is most suitable for contemporary design. Additionally, minimalist designs, predominantly monochrome colors, and fabrics without lace or fringes are also among the most popular furniture choices.
Texture in Decoration
Texture in contemporary design is both easy and difficult. You might encounter plain, unpainted or unplastered walls, or exposed water pipes… However, these elements don’t detract from the space; on the contrary, they can make it much more distinctive.
Distinguish Between Contemporary Style and Modern Style
Many people tend to confuse contemporary and modern styles due to their many similarities. However, you can easily define the two styles based on the following characteristics:
Modern Style
- Timeless stability: not significantly changing with trends.
- Main color scheme: soft, bright, neutral.
- Decorative materials: often use metal, plywood, glass, or industrial materials.
- Design style: simple, clean, focusing on basic shapes and functionality.
Contemporary Style
- Constantly evolving: keeping up with trends and reflecting current aesthetics.
- Combining multiple styles: easily blending minimalist, industrial, or modern.
- Materials used: leaning towards natural wood, stone, polished metal, and other unique materials.
- Design style: flexible, creative, emphasizing lines, shapes, and empty spaces, creating a dynamic and individualistic feel.
Throughout this article, it is clear that contemporary style is not simply an interior design trend but also the “pulse” of the times. The flexibility in material combinations, the ability to constantly update to new trends, and the emphasis on clean lines have made this style a top choice for many homeowners who love modernity but still want to maintain their individuality. By understanding the characteristics and differences between contemporary and modern, you will easily choose the right style for your home, ensuring long-lasting aesthetics and maximizing practical usability.
Every style has its unique attractiveness, but contemporary style always has a door open to unlimited creativity, adaptability to any living style, and updated demands. If you are looking for a design style that is both trendy and flexible, contemporary style is a considerable option. If you also need detailed consultation on design style and sanitary ware for your living spaces, MAMMA MIA is always ready to help!
