Less is more is the buzz in the world of modern interior design. In contemporary design, this mantra is the main theme. The exact meaning of the word ‘contemporary’ is ‘co-existing’, which is what one must have in mind while designing their home a la contemporary. Keep the design inviting simply so that the rest can co-exist.
Simplicity, textures, clean lines, subdued sophistication. The interiors of a contemporary home exhibit space more than things. Colour, space, shape are the main focus of contemporary interiors. A great design is the trademark of truly contemporary modern decor. The lines are neat, the decor is elegantly simple and the items of furniture are extremely functional. Contemporary style of décor is for those who like to be abreast of the latest styles. While a lot of people deem contemporary to be formal and barren, the emphasis really is on purity of design. Nevertheless, with the correct hues and accents, contemporary decor can be rather striking and a tad dramatic without being dark and cluttered.
Modern and Contemporary - two different ideas
As opposed to popular belief, modern and contemporary are not the same. Modern does not necessarily mean metal and glass and black chairs, although that would classify as modern. The traits would include smooth surfaces, neutral shades of gray and blue, black and white in bold. Contemporary is a milder and more diversified version. Textures and patterns are in abundance. Spaces are filled with art pieces and highlights. Colours could be bold or warm or a large spectrum of tonal shades used throughout the house. So, here’s busting the myth that these two are interchangeable. Who would want black leather sofas stuffed with embroidered and fringed throw pillows.
The theme under contemporary is less is more. Homes that befit the contemporary style are eco-friendly homes. The appliances are up to date as well as energy Efficient . The fabrics used are lightweight, with no harmful dyes or anything harmful to the environment. These are the very reasons for which one must adopt this theme of décor. Who isn’t talking about saving the planet and being human!
No frills, no fancies
The other name for contemporary decor is minimalistic. So, chances are to decorate your home in this style, you have to take away and not add. Tables would have very few if any object places on them or pieces that have a slight architectural touch. Throw all the throw pillows out. Photo frames would be metal or wood. The idea is that once you have trimmed down the room to only what is functional, add an element of surprise! Scour for that one striking piece that lends the room some pizzazz and avoids it from seeming unfeeling. Say a bright flaming red rug that has a large but quiet pattern! Contemporary swears by geometric shapes and an urban aesthetic without letting go of the comfort and coziness.
De Clutter
A contemporary sense of decor begins with a blank slate. The first step is to de-clutter. Get rid of all the decorations that you do not require. The aim is a chic, up-to-date appearance. Contemporary is clean and sharp lines and anything that disrupts these lines should be removed. To exemplify, bare hardwood floors can be brightened up with a warm, textured rug.
Colour me contemporary
Do not be conservative with colours. In traditional homes, one would normally see colour schemes that are within the same range, but with contemporary let your hair down and think wild. A room that is largely white add a splattering of oranges, pinks or blues to create an exciting look. A bold colour offers contrast and yet is symmetrical and harmonious when merged with the right lighting and furnishings. Have an accent wall, i.e. a wall that is usually painted with one vivid colour while the rest of the walls are a more muted shade. For e.g. to get the really bright look, one wall can be painted a bright yellow or red while the other walls are painted in one sedate colour. Alternatively, one wall has the superlative shade of one colour and the rest of the walls are a subdued shade of the same colour.
The great wall of contemporary
Decorate the walls with uncommon pieces. This will give the wall a textured feel. This has to be done without letting up on the sleek look. So, say you mounted plates on the wall with plate hangers that let you hang these places without using any wires. Span them out to make a sweep or place them in a tight cluster. Another interesting idea is to get swatches of textured, printed, coloured fabrics, frame it in glass and put it up.
Accessorize, Contemporize
The main aim of contemporary furniture is to be functional. No ornate chest of drawers or almirahs and bulky tables. Opt for pieces that are light-weighted, space efficient and streamlined. The typical example is the platform bed. For a dash of debonair, choose tables and chairs that are in striking geometrical shapes. The kitchens, bathrooms and other areas of a contemporary home ideally sport
energy efficient appliances. Bedding usually is of top quality material with elegant patterns. Use solid coloured sheets with a colour duvet. Contemporary is pro-environment, so, no skins or furs unless synthetic. The lines must be natural and muted so as to soften any harshness or sterile atmosphere.
So, go ahead. Make less more. Contemporize your home.