Are you looking for ways to spruce up your home’s interior design? Whether you’re just starting out or have been decorating homes for years, contemporary designs offer an interesting and stylish aesthetic that can complement any existing space.
From the use of bold colors to modern furniture designs and creative artwork, there are countless ways to incorporate a contemporary look into your home–allowing for personalization and self-expression as well. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how incorporating different elements of contemporary design can help create a unique atmosphere in any room of your house. So let’s get started exploring some trendsetting ideas!
We’re sure you have heard these words many times on the numerous design shows on television or read them in design magazines. But what exactly do they mean and are these elements going to make the room cold.
Before you start reading this guide, there’s a question to answer ; What’s Contemporary Design?
Contemporary design is a decoration style that emerged after the modern style. The modern style is more inspired by the cold and minimalist style, while the contemporary style is inspired by a more warm and friendly style.
While both enjoy simplicity and simplicity, modern style has certain rules. However, there are no rules and norms in contemporary style. At the heart of this style is simplicity, clean lines and a clean image that is revealed by hiding things in storage areas.
But unlike the modern style, leather, linen, cotton and silk fabrics are used in many parts of the decorated area. Fabrics are generally preferred from geometric and striped patterns.
Contemporary style focuses on color and shape. Black, white and pastel colors are at the beginning of the main decoration colors. At the same time, contrast is at the forefront in contemporary decoration.
Contemporary Design Ideas
Let’s start with the definition:
- Clean: Not Ornate; Gracefully Spare
- Simple: Plain, Uncomplicated
Putting this into contemporary design means that typically the cabinets are free of any type of design or pattern other than occasionally using frosted or plain glass in the upper doors;
1- Cabinet hardware commonly consists of plain round knobs on the doors and a plain handle on the drawers, many times in a shiny or brushed silver finish. The countertops are one solid piece of material as opposed to tile, most often granite is used.
2- The materials are generally stainless steel although nickel and pewter are also used. The finishes can be shiny or brushed, this is really a matter of personal choice.
3- If the view from inside isn’t terribly desirable translucent glass blocks might be the answer. They are a great way to allow light into the kitchen while blocking the unwanted view. Run with the glass concept by installing glass tiles on the backsplash, this will tie in nicely with the windows by mimicking the grid of the glass blocks.
4- Other window treatments that would work for this style include; Bamboo Shades, Roman Shades, Roll-Up Shades, Wood Blinds, and Shutters. If a fabric treatment is preferred, remember to keep it simple. A simple valance in a geometric pattern or a solid color is all that’s needed.
5- What do you do if your kitchen opens directly into other living spaces within the home? You’re going to want to define the kitchen – giving it its own identity -but still, keep a flow between the other rooms. The solution would be to define the kitchen by using contemporary materials.
For example Dark stained wood on the cabinets, granite countertops, glass or frosted fronted cabinet doors, stainless steel appliances, and simple hardware for the doors.
6- Keeping the rooms connected can be accomplished simply the using the same flooring material in each area. Stainless steel appliances, fixtures – sinks, faucets – and hardware are also key elements in contemporary design. Granite countertops are another element, seen in a wide assortment of colors but typically done in black.
Working with a tight budget should not be a deterrent from redesigning your kitchen. If a complete overhaul is not in the cards try looking for other less expensive ways to achieve the look you want.
7- A couple of easy ideas for contemporary design are to repaint existing cabinets, add glass tiles to your existing backsplash, have glass inserts put into upper cabinet doors, and replace current hardware with something that has a contemporary flair.
Wall color also plays a part in this design. White or pale gray are commonly used however, neutral shades like beige and brown would also fit.
Adding Warmth
Many people have the misconception that contemporary automatically means cold. Well, any design style can appear cold without the final touch which of course are the accessories. Again, keep in mind you are going to want to keep it simple. Try to avoid using too many items which then turn into clutter and you’ve lost your original goal.
This is your chance to bring in pops of color for that feeling of warmth. Examples include but are certainly not limited to:
- Candles
- Dish Towels & Oven Mitts
- Vases & Flowers
- Spice Racks Filled With Colorful Spices
- Art Work – Hung In Groups For Maximum Effect
So how do you know if the contemporary design is for you? Look around your home even your wardrobe will give you a clue. If you like the minimal look chances are this design will fit your lifestyle perfectly.
Of course like everything else it’s not for everyone, so before you begin any redesign take the time to think it over and do your research.
Also read : Country Kitchen Decorating Ideas
Look in magazines, check out the internet sites regarding the design you are interested in so you can have your modern contemporary house. If after you’ve done all of these things you still find yourself drawn to contemporary then by all means go for it.
P.S. : You may want to visit CB2.com for contemporary home design accessories.
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