Design Style Spotlight: Modern
Style Vibe: Clean, functional, balanced, simple.
Modern design focuses on simplicity, contrast, and uniqueness and can incorporate many different styles into one. Created at the Bauhaus School of Design in Germany in 1919, Modern interior design refers to the depiction of modern art movements in a space. Often confused with Contemporary design, the Modern interior design style is warmer and less stark, with furnishings that embrace natural materials and earthy colors. One of the critical ideas of the Modern design movement is “form follows function.” In other words, a furnishing or detail that doesn’t have a practical purpose needs to be removed.
Want to know which design style matches the vibe you’re going for in your space? Take our quiz to find out!
What are the Hallmarks of Modern Design?
The Modern design style showcases clean lines and minimal ornamentation while emphasizing a strategic use of space. High contrast and natural materials are also featured.
Is Modern Style For You?
This style is a perfect match for budget-conscious small space dwellers who prefer an uncluttered and fuss-free environment.
What Does a Modern Home Look Like?
Modern architectural features include asymmetry, horizontal and vertical lines vs. curves, and open spaces with plenty of large windows. Minimal ornamentation is seen in the trim and molding, and building materials are often left bare to provide their own accents.
How to Design Your Space in the Modern Style:
Color Palette
The Modern design style color palette includes neutrals, white, black, and occasional vivid pops of color.
Furniture
Sleek and minimalistic, Modern furnishings feature solid colors without prints or patterns, straight lines, and exposed legs. Reflective surfaces like chrome and glass will be seen throughout a modern space, as well as finishes in natural materials like stone, wood, and leather.
Flooring
Modern style flooring is typically lighter in color, such as a white or gray tile/laminate, but can also include natural wood floors and terrazzo. For even more details on flooring, check the handy dandy resources in The Library!
Decor
Carefully curated unique art pieces and chrome or polished steel accents are decor staples in Modern design. Also included are geometric or solid color rugs and throws and a single large centerpiece used as a focal point.
Window Treatments
Natural light is celebrated in Modern design, so windows typically are unadorned or have simple shades. By the way, DezignSpace has your back when it comes to the ins and outs of window treatments; check out Drama-free Drapery: Your Detailed Guide to Understanding Window Treatment Basics
What to AVOID When Styling a Modern Space
The Modern design style avoids clutter, knick-knacks, busy prints, ornate designs, and curves.
Is the Modern design style totally your jam? If so, then you are going to LOVE these retailers:
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International
Canada:
Europe:
There’s plenty more where that came from; why not take a peek at another design style spotlight? We think you’ll love the Design Style Spotlight: Scandinavian.
