What are the Rules of Contemporary Interior Design?
Contemporary interior design is about creating a clean, sleek, and sophisticated space that is functional and visually appealing. Unlike other design styles, contemporary interiors are not defined by any period or era. Rather, they are characterized by their creative use of color, mix of textures and materials, simple lines and simple shapes, the contrast of natural and industrial elements, and open designs. This article discusses each of these key elements in detail.Creative Use of Color in Contemporary Interior Design
When it comes to contemporary interior design, less is often more. Modern interiors are surrounded by muted neutrals, as well as white and black. These neutral colors create a perfect backdrop for bold pops of color, which are often used to add interest and depth to a space. For instance, a bright accent wall, bold artwork or a colorful rug can infuse a room with energy and personality while maintaining its sleek and sophisticated look. Another creative way of using color in contemporary interior design is through the use of monochromatic palettes. This simply means using different shades of one color throughout a room to create a harmonious, seamless look. For instance, painting the walls, ceiling, and molding a light shade of blue, then adding navy blue sofas, throw pillows, and curtains can create an effective monochromatic look that is both subtle and stylish. Key point: Creative use of color in contemporary interior design means using bold pops of color or monochromatic palettes to add interest and personality to a space while maintaining a sleek and sophisticated look.Muted Neutrals, White, and Black As the Foundation of Modern Interiors
Color is not the only important aspect of contemporary interior design; the hues you choose must also be used in the right proportions. The foundations of a modern interior are often made up of muted neutrals like grey or beige, white, and black. The reason for these choices is simple: they provide a seamless, sophisticated, and timeless base for everything else. White and black, in particular, are especially important as they can be used to create contrast, draw the eye’s focus, and highlight particular features of a space. For instance, white walls, black trim, door frames, and window frames create a classic and modern look. This foundation can then be mixed with colorful or textured accents that create a unique and personalized style. Key point: Muted neutrals, white, and black are the foundations of contemporary interior design and create a seamless, sophisticated, and timeless base for everything else.The Mixing of Textures and Materials in Contemporary Interior Design
Textures and materials play an essential role in contemporary interior design. Mixing a variety of textures and materials creates depth and interest while maintaining the clean and sleek look of the space. Organic materials like wood, stone, and leather can be in contrast with industrial materials like metal, glass, or concrete to create a perfect balance. One way to accomplish this is by incorporating natural wood accents, like a live edge wood table, or a rustic wooden wall. This contrast paired with a leather or metal sofa can create an industrial yet organic look. The same contrast can be achieved with soft and hard textures. For example, pairing a soft wool rug with a sleek glass coffee table creates an aesthetic balance and adds more dimension to the space.- Use natural wood accents, like a rustic wooden wall or a live edge wood table
- Pair organic materials, like wood, stone, and leather, with industrial materials, like metal, glass, or concrete
- Pair soft and hard textures, such as wool and glass