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Modern-Contemporary Design - What is it?

Writer's picture: Ahmed ChogleAhmed Chogle

24th MARCH, 2022 | FRAVASHI GAMIR


One of the more popular design themes out there, the aim of this style is to highlight shades of gray, beige and white with clean lines, clear spaces, ergonomic function and suitable storage. They focus on creating a space with no clutter and a sleek look that was popular in the 20th century.


Contemporary design on the other hand refers to a subtle sophistication in space, exploration of texture and visually crisp edges that are borderline futuristic.


It focuses on multiple textures and forms that help define a space. These two are most often fused together to create a clean and definitive interior space that perfectly balances utility and aesthetic.


With a dominating white or grey colour, the design is toned down, with colour used boldly to highlight smaller objects that create a variation as well as draw attention.






Here are some ways you can use to create your perfect modern contemporary design:



1. Texture-orientation:


Contemporary design is texture oriented. From stone masonry to wooden paneling, textures are distributed over an interior space to bring out the nature of contemporary design. Since we want to avoid complex designs, the only way to balance the flatness of the room is by introducing textures that add some contour to your design.


Textures such as fur (on carpets) and velvet (on furnishings) enhance the look of an interior by softening the visual aesthetic that psychologically and physically comforts the user. These also add some much needed busy-ness to the space, by adding the required contour.


However, overuse of textures creates a visually heavy design, something we want to avoid in contemporary

designs.

(img src: hommes studio)



2. Use simple colours:


Neutral colours are used for the majority of the surfaces in contemporary design. The walls, flooring and bigger pieces of furniture are often selected in neutral shades so that the overall look is subtle on the eye. The neutral colours may be your regular whites and beiges or may be an entire palette of earthy tones.


These can be paired with bold colours to balance the palette and create eye catching accents. The accents may include cushions, blankets, any bold wall art pieces and décor. The accent can also be an interesting blue chair in a simple white room that re-adjusts the focus of the viewer. The use of darker colours should be avoided on bigger surfaces as it creates a imbalance in the design. Work towards creating a bright and open space. (img src: elledecor)



3. Less is more:

Modern contemporary interiors aim to create a clutter-free and clean design that is simple yet elegant.

Consider the use of a furniture before introducing it into your design. Furnitures with crisp edges help create a clean and definite look and also create the illusion of a larger space. Focus on a minimalist approach opting for comfortable and cozy furniture that serves a purpose.


Avoid adding a lot of unnecessary accessories to the space along with stylish yet uncomfortable furnishings that only increase the visual weightage of the space without serving any utility purpose.


Creating a Modern Contemporary interior is all about finding the right balance in terms of colour, structure and space. Consider visualising the space and removing any elements that make the space look blunt, uncertain or loud and you are good to go!




Note: All of the above should be done keeping in mind that quality of materials used is especially important in enhancing the visual aesthetic of an interior space.

*Studio Plum Interiors is a design firm based out of Pune, Maharashtra specializing in Scandinavian and Contemporary themed interiors.




 
 
 

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