Welcome to our friendly guide on design styles! Have you ever stepped into a room and felt instantly at ease, or noticed a space that made you smile with its bold, fresh look? I have, and each experience taught me how much a room’s design can change your mood.
In this article, we’ll explore two popular design styles: modern and contemporary. Modern design comes from a specific time and is all about clean lines and simple forms. Think of it as a timeless style that focuses on minimalism and natural materials. Contemporary design, on the other hand, is ever-changing. It follows today’s trends and often surprises you with new ideas.
By reading this article, you’ll learn what makes each style unique and how you can bring these ideas into your home. Which style speaks to you? Let’s dive in and find out!
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What Is Modern Design?
Modern design began in the early 1900s when designers wanted to move away from heavy, decorative styles and create simpler, more functional spaces. This approach focuses on clean lines, minimal clutter, and the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and metal.
Famous architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe helped define this style with open, light-filled rooms that prioritize both beauty and practicality. Today, modern design continues to influence many homes, proving that a simple, uncluttered space can be both inviting and timeless.
Image by living.vista
“Modern design is all about timeless simplicity and clean lines, whereas contemporary design evolves with fresh trends to reflect the spirit of today.”
– Emily Henderson, Stylist, TV Host & Author
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Home Look More Modern
Step 1: Declutter and Simplify
Begin by removing unnecessary items from your space. A clutter-free room with clear, clean lines sets the stage for modern design. Remember, modern style is all about minimalism—less really is more!
Image by dwellmagazine
Step 2: Embrace Natural Materials and Neutral Colors
Introduce natural materials like wood and stone into your decor. Pair these with a neutral color palette—think whites, grays, and earth tones—to create a calm and cohesive look that feels both fresh and inviting.
Image by moodauthors
“Modern design favors clean lines and a neutral palette, while contemporary design pushes boundaries with vibrant accents and ever-changing elements.”
– Amber Lewis, Founder of Amber Interiors
Step 3: Choose Iconic, Streamlined Furniture
Select furniture pieces that showcase simple, sleek designs. Look for items with clean lines and minimal detailing. Iconic modern pieces not only serve a functional purpose but also add a timeless touch to your space.
Image by moodauthors
Step 4: Use Functional Lighting
Install lighting that serves both to illuminate and enhance your decor. Opt for fixtures that highlight your room’s clean design without overpowering it. The right lighting can make your space feel open and modern.
Image by claudiaalbertiniarquiteta
“For me, modern design is defined by structure and minimalism, but contemporary design thrives on innovation and unexpected details that keep a space feeling fresh.”
– Sarah Sherman Samuel, Designer
By following these four easy steps, you’ll transform your home into a modern sanctuary that balances simplicity, functionality, and style.
What Is Contemporary Design?
Contemporary design is all about what’s new and current. It’s a style that keeps changing, so it’s always up-to-date with the latest trends. Unlike modern design, which has a fixed look, contemporary design is flexible and always evolving.
You’ll see bold colors, creative shapes, and a mix of materials—sometimes natural and sometimes new or unique—to create a fresh and lively feel.
Essentially, contemporary design reflects the style of today. It’s full of energy and reflects what’s popular in the world right now.
Image by akindofhome
“The core of modern design lies in its practicality and uncluttered forms, yet contemporary design invites a playful blend of influences to suit today’s lifestyles.”
– Joanna Gaines, Co-host of HGTV’s Fixer Upper & Author
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Home Look More Contemporary
Step 1: Embrace Current Trends with Bold Accents and Innovative Designs
Start by researching current design trends through sources like design blogs, magazines, or social media. Look for bold accents that speak to today’s style—this might be a bright accent wall, a striking piece of furniture, or unique decor items that push the envelope of traditional design. Innovative designs often mix unexpected shapes or materials, giving your space a modern twist that feels fresh and current.
Image by farmtotablecreations
Step 2: Mix Materials and Textures for a Dynamic Look
Contemporary design thrives on contrast and variety. Experiment with combining different materials such as glass, metal, wood, and even fabrics. For example, pair a sleek metal coffee table with a soft, textured rug, or mix a polished stone countertop with warm wooden accents. This blend of textures not only adds visual interest but also creates a layered, dynamic feel that keeps your space engaging.
Image by shreyamagodesigns
“I view modern design as a celebration of clean, purposeful lines, while contemporary design is an evolving dialogue that marries tradition with the unexpected.”
– Nate Berkus, Celebrity Interior Designer
Step 3: Use Statement Pieces and Flexible Layouts to Keep the Space Updated
Identify one or two statement pieces that capture attention—this could be a modern sculpture, an eye-catching light fixture, or a uniquely designed sofa. These items serve as focal points that anchor the room. At the same time, opt for a flexible layout that allows for easy rearrangement. Modular furniture, open floor plans, and movable partitions help ensure that your space can evolve with changing trends and your personal needs.
Image by brabbu
Step 4: Incorporate Cutting-Edge Lighting and Art That Reflects Current Styles
Lighting is both a practical necessity and a design statement in contemporary interiors. Choose modern lighting options like LED installations, pendant lights, or sculptural lamps that create dramatic effects and highlight your space’s features. Complement your lighting with art that mirrors current aesthetics—think abstract paintings, digital prints, or even interactive installations. These elements work together to create a vibrant environment that feels both innovative and inviting.
Image by lowcountrylightingstudio
“Modern design champions simplicity and refined structure, but contemporary design is fluid—adapting cultural influences into spaces that are both stylish and inviting.”
– Bobby Berk, Designer & TV Personality
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a contemporary home that feels both modern and uniquely yours.
Comparing Modern and Contemporary Design
- Modern design is known for its neutral colors, simple shapes, and natural textures, while contemporary design often features bold colors, unique shapes, and a mix of textures.
- Modern design follows fixed principles with a focus on minimalism and timeless simplicity. In contrast, contemporary design is more flexible and changes with current trends.
“While modern design embraces minimalism and functional form, contemporary design dares to mix bold patterns and eclectic textures for a dynamic look.”
– Justina Blakeney, Designer & Founder of The Jungalow
- When it comes to space and light, modern interiors usually emphasize open, well-organized layouts and natural lighting for a calm feel. Contemporary spaces, however, might use creative lighting and playful arrangements to make a strong, current statement.
If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Home and Garden” board.
