Have you ever wondered what “modern” and “contemporary” mean in terms of design? It is a fact that we live in a hectic time and we all see how various objects change their shapes, lines and sizes and reflect the dynamics of everyday life – from our cars, the appearance of our houses, to the way we perceive our surroundings.
It is inevitable that most of us live in a “modern” way and our homes reflect the lifestyle of the time. We shall review 10 of the most important principles of contemporary home interior design that have become basic rules for designers.
1. Contemporary home interior design and modern architecture details
Architecture, just like contemporary home interior design, reflects the life trends and nowadays you will notice the big difference between “traditional” and ”modern”. Modern architecture does not feature heavy ornaments, curves, complex lines and shapes which we associate with traditional or historic buildings. Quite the opposite – straight, clean lines or pure curvilinear silhouettes are characteristic for modern buildings. Rooflines have become flatter and there is an overall idea to blend in a modern home with the surrounding nature. Windows also have become a part of this trend and contemporary homes feature huge floor to ceiling windows that allow the exterior inside the home.
2. Contemporary home interior design and natural light
Light is physiologically essential for the human existence. Natural light has a direct impact not only on the surrounding area, but also, on our health. Science has proven that people need natural light just like plants do. The importance of natural light in contemporary home interior design is another major principle of modern interior design. Large windows, skylights, floor to ceiling panorama windows not only allow nature to be a background for the interior design but let in an abundance of natural light. The separate dark rooms of the past have been transformed into light and airy rooms.
3. Airiness in the modern home interior design
Just like modern home architecture, the design of furniture reflects the spirit of time. Contemporary furniture pieces are lighter, not only in weight, but in appearance. Modern and traditional materials are combined in furniture designs which look elegant and stylish, yet they are also very functional.
4. Natural materials in modern interior and exterior design
In compliance with the growing trend for green architecture and interior design, the use of natural materials is becoming more and more popular. Organic materials find their place in modern interior and exterior design and are no longer limited to wood. Leather, cotton, wool, natural linen, slate, stone – these can be seen in patios and as decorative accents in the contemporary interior and exterior.
5. Subtle colors and color accents
Interior designers often recommend the use of subtle colors which are often called “neutral”. Such colors as gray, brown, blacks and white are the perfect base for the contemporary home interior. Neutral colors are not necessarily boring and monotonous. Flooring and furnishings in subtle colors are accented by strong accents and complemented by the metal shine of stainless steel.
6. Bare floors or modern carpets in contemporary home interior
The general concept of airiness, space and light leads to more and more minimalist interiors. The idea of “less clutter” is expressed with fantastic modern finishes like hardwood flooring, ceramic tiles, stone and marble. The coziness and comfort of modern homes features original area rugs which define and separate the different zones of the home. They are very popular for living rooms and dining rooms which are usually united by the open floor plan.
7. Open floor plan concept in modern homes
Contemporary house plans feature open, flexible floor space, which unites the living areas of the family in one “grand area”. Living room, dining room, kitchen – all of them fit into the new meaning of the definition “great room”. The zones are smoothly blended, the strict functional barriers are blurred and the space is transformed and used effectively as per the needs and activities of the inhabitants.
8. Contemporary details and accents in the modern home interior
There is no doubt that details and accents are of significant importance for every modern home interior. Spectacular lighting fixtures, glass or metal railings, modern art – all of these add to the overall vision and if you want to create a contemporary interior, you should not neglect them.
9. Modern technology in the contemporary interior design
We are all surrounded by modern technology. It has become a part of our daily life and computers, smart phones, large screen TVs have to be incorporated into the contemporary home interior design. There are many designers’ solutions that blend technology into the interior in creative ways and combine electronics with organic materials.
10. Trends in contemporary home interior design
Despite the hectic lifestyle, contemporary home interior design has one major goal – to provide a comfortable and relaxing place for us where we can live, rest and enjoy time with family and friends. Modern minimalism, artistic eclecticism, romantic shabby chic or nostalgic vintage – the design should reflect your personality.