Contemporary home decor takes "stark" to a new level by pairing muted earth-tones with bold yet simple designs. Combining the neat lines and simplicity of Modern design with the comfortable sophistication of Transitional decor, this interior design scheme builds on these popular looks to deliver a streamlined room with a deliberately unified and comfortable aesthetic. Open areas play prominently in Contemporary rooms, adding careful contrast to the intentional subtlety of the furnishings.
Neutrals lay the foundation for the color palette of this design, but bold accents also play a role in Contemporary design. If walls and furniture are lighter in color, use darker decor like wall art, area rugs, and throw pillows to darken the palette. If you're working with a bold wall color, add lighter decorative elements that can balance out the look. Monochrome color schemes are a popular option for Contemporary homes, and you'll be surprised at how fun and easy it is to update your home using a variety of shades and textures of the same color.
Contemporary Design for Dining Rooms
A Contemporary dining room is both simple and sophisticated. While modest in design, this look is anything but plain. Straight-back or slightly curved armless dining chairs made from sleek dark wood lend Contemporary comfort to your dining room, especially when paired with a matching dining table.
Avoid cluttering your table with too many centerpieces or oversized displays. Earthy, hand-carved pieces made from wood or stone accentuate the sleek design, while a short square or round vase can be filled with fresh-cut flowers for a warming and vibrant touch in a stark dining area.
Too much clutter around the table can also feel chaotic, so keep furniture and decorative accents to a minimum to create a relaxing place to unwind. Large art pieces on your wall make an excellent focal point, and a unique dining table adds refined character to your design. Live edge or raw wood dining tables are an on-trend focal point, and design ideas like laminate table tops, metal bases, and Modern molded plastic details add finesse and visual interest to the room.
Contemporary Design for Living Rooms
Contemporary furniture is softer than most Modern interiors, but they often share the same smooth lines, natural materials, and upholstered surfaces. Fluidity is at the heart of Contemporary style, so look for meaningful pieces that focus on quality over quantity in your decor. Natural fibers add texture to earth-tones, and fabrics like wool, cotton, linen, jute, and silk are excellent choices. Opt for furniture that is casual yet comfortable, with curvy shapes and smooth upholstery, while avoiding pieces that are heavy and ornate. Above all, Contemporary design encourages you to think light, sustainable, and practical.
Decorative accents like a solid colored area rug or flatwoven rug made of jute bring texture and color to your living room. Round off your neatly cultivated space with warm elements like plush throw pillows in light neutral shades, curvaceous sculptures, or wall art that features rounded shapes. Soft colors and natural light also help to cultivate a warm atmosphere.