The Best Tips for Creating a Contemporary Interior

Whether you're new to the world of interior design or a seasoned enthusiast, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between different styles and find the right decorating ideas for a contemporary interior. If you've ever wondered what makes a room "contemporary," you're not alone . And that's where we come in 😉!

This blog post is dedicated to dissecting the ins and outs of contemporary interior design. Keep reading to discover the characteristics that distinguish this style from the crowd, as well as what you can do to create this contemporary architect-designed look in your own home. We'll share our secrets with you a little further down.

I) What is contemporary interior design?

Let's talk a little about contemporary design, shall we? It's often confused with modern design or described interchangeably as such. Together, we'll examine the definition of contemporary home interiors , how they differ from modern designs, how contemporary design relates to some other styles, what truly defines it, and also what it isn't.

The dictionary defines contemporary as (1) living or occurring at the same time, or (2) belonging to or occurring in the present. In other words, "contemporary" essentially refers to things "of the moment" .

A) Contemporary interior design versus modern design?

It's interesting to note that many people use the words "modern" and "contemporary" interchangeably when referring to the terms in a design context. However, this isn't entirely accurate...

Modern design generally refers to the design of the mid-1900s. Characteristics such as natural materials, bursts of color, and low, clean lines are all part of modern decor.

However, contemporary interior design refers to a much more current style . Even designs that were contemporary in the 2000s may no longer be considered contemporary but rather vintage. In five or ten years, contemporary design will likely look and feel different than it does today. Whereas modern design has a specific look and feel, contemporary design is constantly evolving, partly due to the availability of (new) materials.

B) How does contemporary design compare to other styles?

A room or space of almost any style can incorporate contemporary elements due to the very nature of contemporaneity. That is, when the design of a space changes to accommodate the evolving preferences, tastes, and needs of the people who inhabit it, this evolution inherently creates a contemporary space.

• Contemporary & Modern : Contemporary spaces can still (and often do) incorporate modern elements. However, for these spaces to be truly contemporary, modern pieces (e.g., low sofa, shag rug) are mixed with other, non-modern elements (e.g., concrete floor,graffiti-style wall art ).

• Contemporary & Eclectic : Eclectic styles seem to inherently incorporate elements of contemporary design, simply because their penchant for mixing and matching is embraced by the world of contemporary decor. Example : combining a mid-century vintage sofa with an Ikea coffee table and a Moroccan rug.

• Contemporary & Rustic : A heavy wood design can be introduced into a contemporary design field with a few strategic inclusions, such as many straight, clean lines (which juxtapose, and highlight, the wood grain, for example) and cozy layers in neutral colors.

II) Why would you choose a charming and contemporary interior?

Contemporary style is ideal for minimalists looking to avoid complicated prints. And for those seeking to create a simple yet well-executed harmony between different elements, while focusing on the architectural features of a room.

There is joy in a beautifully furnished contemporary living room that showcases a blend of bright, modern interior design, with elements that stand alone in a sea of ​​neutrality.

Contemporary decorating style is timeless and defined by a classic approach that aims to unite a room through luxurious simplicity. It's a design movement well worth the effort and investment, as it will never go out of style and is easy to update.

Here is a quick overview of the architectural details you will want to highlight to effortlessly inject a contemporary interior design into your home, reminiscent of the interior of a contemporary architect-designed house :

• For a contemporary living room, keep the flooring simple with classic parquet and rugs with simple patterns and low-pile rugs with geometric shapes.

• Highlight your wall decorations with beautiful lighting. This lighting will also accentuate the contemporary architectural features of your room.

• A mix of metal, stone and opaque or transparent glass will allow you to achieve a chic contemporary interior.

Keep reading if you want to discover our tips!

Tip #1: Colors for contemporary home interior design

Neutral colors, as well as grey, black and white, are a signature of this design style and are used to define the identity of a room.

Consider a neutral setting as an excellent starting point for adding pops of color and a foundation for expressive artwork and more personal pieces. By choosing the right neutrals for a contemporary living room, you can introduce small pops of vibrant color that you can easily change to suit your mood.

But if you are looking to add color to an entire wall, we suggest keeping your trim, ceiling and floor lighting to stylishly complement the contemporary decor elements.

Tip #2: What furniture for a clean, contemporary interior?

When it comes to contemporary interior design, less is always more. Choose contemporary-style furniture that remains understated, with clean, crisp, and geometric lines. Consider solid colors and finishes, natural materials, and unadorned surfaces, such as when creating a contemporary interior door .

For upholstered furniture in a contemporary living room, opt for neutral materials such as wool, cotton, linen, silk, and jute. Introduce vibrant colors with cushions to create a clean and uncluttered atmosphere.

Tip #3: What style of textiles is best for the interior design of a contemporary home?

As contemporary home interior design calls for clean lines and studied simplicity, textiles are an easy way to help you avoid a cold, contemporary style by introducing plays on texture, tone-on-tone patterns, and concise color combinations.

Keep neutrals, stripes, and geometric prints to a minimum. This will add personality and complement a well-designed contemporary living room with unexpected touches.

Tip #4: What accessories are needed for a designer & contemporary home interior?

Although furniture calls for a minimalist approach, decorative accessories offer an opportunity to be creative when looking to refresh your home in a contemporary style.

From lamps and decorative objects to works of art, the best contemporary approaches to interior design sometimes rely on the additions you bring to a room. Of course, this comes after you've acquired the furniture you want.

At Lofty Trend, we offer all kinds of canvas prints. They are all produced and shipped from Europe. In fact, we are the national champions for delivery times for this type of product. Whatever your style, you're sure to find something you love in our diverse collections. Let us introduce you to our Street Art Collection ; it will satisfy your desire for contemporary wall decor.

For contemporary living room ideas, opt for small elements that will serve as a starting point while adding depth and personality to a room.

Tip #5: What style of window is best for a contemporary luxury interior?

If you are fortunate enough to have oversized windows and breathtaking views, we suggest opting for contemporary style windows that are minimal and easily retractable to maintain a clean and impeccable appearance.

That said, sometimes the best contemporary interior design inspiration we come across is unexpected, and window treatment is a great way to bring in contrasting and luxurious elements.

You can maintain the natural look with dark-colored wooden blinds, or opt for floor-to-ceiling white curtains that will add a dramatic touch to a decidedly contemporary living room or dining room.

III) Our secrets for contemporary home interior design, room by room

Now that we've reviewed the basic elements that make contemporary interior design so appealing and timeless, here's a brief overview of approaches to easily introducing this style into your home.

A) Contemporary style kitchen

Once again, contemporary interior design is characterized by a restrained and minimalist approach that avoids clinical appearances. A palette of soothing grays, neutral colors, and whites are classic options that will stand the test of time and always look contemporary. 

Paired with traditional flooring made of natural materials, explore modern cabinetry with glossy or matte finishes for a subtle yet elegant juxtaposition. And look for storage solutions that prevent cluttering your rooms.

B) Contemporary style dining room

For this room, it's all about a substantial table, structured seating, and symmetry. Opt for an oversized table with a glass or stone top, matching chairs, and a console table to tie everything together. Note that the room above, while simple, is far from clinical thanks to just a few extra elements.

C) Contemporary style living room

Keep in mind that what makes a contemporary home memorable is its unwavering commitment to simplicity. This includes attention to lines and space, geometric shapes, and a restrained yet carefully considered color palette that is pleasing to the eye. But since your living room is often the best place to showcase your tastes and senses, add character to your most frequently used gathering space by incorporating decorative extras and artwork that will distinguish your home.

Consider expressive artwork, two-tone rugs, cushions and throws, sculpted lamps and vases for added decadence.

D) Contemporary style bedroom

For a bedroom, treat it as you would any other room in your house and opt for clean, straight lines. These will create a sense of luxury thanks to impeccable design, while adding warmth and comfort with bedding, rugs, and accessories that evoke a feeling of glamour.

Avoid trims, tassels, bed skirts and, generally speaking, anything too cute or too sexist.

E) Contemporary style bathroom

When designing a contemporary bathroom, draw inspiration from the oasis concept. Think bright, white , and light-filled. For a personal touch, we suggest choosing custom-made or unique fixtures to create a memorable impression on your guests.

Finally, you can take the style even further by creating a patio. It offers several advantages, serving as a transition between the garden and the terrace. By following our advice above, you'll achieve a classy, ​​chic, and refined interior design, especially with a contemporary interior patio.

We hope that this article has answered all your questions. You are now fully prepared to add a touch of modernity to your spaces and decorate them to reflect your style, thanks in particular to our exceptional canvas prints.

See you soon.

The Lofty Trend Team.