Contemporary style just means anything that has been on trend or featured in modern homes within the past century. Contemporary and minimalism can often get muddled because the minimalist aesthetic does give off a very modern vibe, however, they are quite different. Contemporary styles are actually rather varied and depending on your taste you can find a tonne of trends, colour palettes and materials that can furnish any home beautifully! If you’re interested in exploring a contemporary style, but you’re not quite sure which one is which, here’s a brief breakdown of the most popular variants…
Industrial
The Industrial style came around at the same time as mass urbanisation, and it focuses on a clean, functional aesthetic. Industrial style homes will stick to a strict colour palette of black, grey, metallics and a warm, rustic wood tone – usually timber. Look for details such as wheels on legs, oversized lamps or clocks, exposed brick and concrete floors. This look is super edgy and urban, perfectly designed for city living! Liven the look up with a few luscious plants dotted here and there, it will ad a fresh pop of natural colour to your space.
Art Deco
Art Deco is all about intricacy and adornments! This theme is inspired by the decedent 1920s lifestyle, so the more lavish elements, the better! Mix materials to create a casual art deco atmosphere, use decorative mirrors, plush leather sofas, knitted blankets and intricate glass vases for a contemporary take on the traditional look. A few metallic finishes here and there will weave in a little luxury. This one is all about the accessories, so be sure to pick up plenty of metal, glass, wood, leather and resin pieces to add to your home.
Hamptons
The Hamptons style is all about luxe comfort and wide-open spaces. Think oversized, plush upholstered furniture, impressive windows and a light and bright colour palette. A lot of Hamptons homes opt for creams, ivories and whites with accents of sea-glass or navy, to echo the tones of the beach. Large draping curtains and coral elements will add to the expensive beachside aesthetic.
Shabby Chic
Shabby Chic is an easy, relaxed take on contemporary style! This look is about all things unfished, cosy and most importantly, white. Think clean white walls, exposed floorboards, shaggy rugs, white wrought iron and crocheted blankets. This is an easy aesthetic to achieve and it looks absolutely amazing when done right! Cream painted kitchen cabinets and even painted floors add to the style even more! Add subtle accents of muted neutrals here and there to avoid your home from looking too styled, a mauve or soft malachite would work beautifully.
Mid-Century Modern
This style of furnishing is all about clean lines, functional pieces and contrasting materials. Mid-Century Modern creates an impressive, minimal impression when you walk into the home. You’ll find that in order to achieve this look, it is best to already have a few core features such as timber floors, concrete tables or countertops and large light fixtures. Add in sculptures, oversized artworks and pops of colour on the wall for a sophisticated home.
Scandinavian Design
This widely popular aesthetic combines beauty, simplicity and functionality to create a pared-back, stylish home that works with the modern lifestyle. This tends to feature light and bright walls, lighter pines or wood tones and minimalist colour palettes. Plenty of clean, simple shapes, plants and comforting knitted accents make this style what it is today!
Ready to start styling in your favourite contemporary aesthetic? Head to your nearest Rutherford furniture store to start designing your dream home!
